Any stellar performances of Irish music...

Tear's of Stone, Chieftains and many other Irish artists. It does not get any better then that. Enjoy the music.

Here's one to start you out. These gals are marvelous!

http://www.amazon.com/Greatest-Journey-Essential-Collection/dp/B001KKSDKS/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1259257984&sr=8-5

Check out Mary Coughlan. Her first album, "Tired and Emotional" is particularly good. Not sure if it's still in print.

OMG, Sinead, Haley, Celtic Women? Any true Irishman would throw himself on a spit of hot coals rather than listen to that. No more need be said of that ilk.

Go to Topic records website, go to the link for the radio program "Thistle and Shamrock" and easily educate yourself on true Irish singers.
Sinead is on vinyl,btw...only most of the early Sinead is probably not what you're looking for.
Good luck!

Mary Black
Maura O'Connell
Delores Keane
Mary Coughlan