The song Ard Tí Cuain feels nostalgic as I first heard of it through Alan Stivell’s album from the 70s. To listen to it sung with authentic spirit and beautiful vocals is a refreshing experience. It’s like seeing a piece of art in a whole new light. Of course, Brian Haitz has been stirring up the Celtic music scene with his band’s brand of Celtic fusion music. Somehow, they remind me of the Welsh band Mabon and the Scottish/Irish band Mánran with their proclivity to add different ethnic influences to their sound.
I love how the music video compliments the music. There is that Breton spirit in the percussive delivery of every instrument. So far, all the musicians have played. The lead vocal is delivered in the Sean Nos style. This song gives you the sense that you are stretched between France and Ireland. I wish for a complete album; as this unique sound will introduce the music of Luas to the world.
Danny Boy, A New and Exquisite Recording by Caitlin Grey
How do you perform and record a captivating version of a song that’s been performed by other artists throughout the ages? The answer is simple: Sing it from the heart. According to Grey, she recorded this song as an homage to her native land. You can feel the passion and longing in every syllable, from the voice starting with the song’s first line to the high note before the end.
She delivered this song in a free-flowing way, conveying strong emotion, like an operatic piece. If you are searching for a song that provides solace from all the noise and hype, then Danny Boy is the perfect song. The Celtic harp and cinematic strings add to this traditional piece’s regal beauty, creating an ideal moment of synergy where magic and epiphany collide.
The Road Back Home by Loreena McKennitt
The road back home started appearing on my feed weeks before the release. So glad to listen to it via Apple Music in Lossless Dolby Atmos. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you, as the experience is remarkable.
The album has 10 folk classic songs dusted and brought to life by McKennitt’s unique delivery. Other artists her age would show the wear and tear of time, as the human voice is subjected to age just like the rest of the human body. But with McKennitt, this has never been evident. She is like a vocal athlete, keeping her singing fit through the years. I mean, that alone is worth the commendation!
As with any album from hers, the music puts you in a kind of mood. Her’s is a distinct flavor that you are either into it or not at all.
This is a live album and all the songs are remarkably recorded showcasing her virtuosity as a live performer. This is something that studio artists would never ever reach, as performing live takes years of discipline and craft.
The Road Back Home is a satisfying journey. Perhaps your love for Celtic music has waned through the years, but this will remind you why you got into it in the first place.
Celebrating 20 Years of Celtic Woman: A Journey Through Live Irish Music and New Performers
As the enchanting melodies of Celtic Woman continue to captivate audiences worldwide, it’s hard to believe that two decades have passed since the inception of this iconic musical ensemble. Marking their 20th anniversary, Celtic Woman has become synonymous with the ethereal beauty of live Irish music, blending tradition with contemporary flair.
From their humble beginnings in 2004, Celtic Woman has evolved into a powerhouse of talent, showcasing the timeless appeal of Celtic music through a series of mesmerizing performances. The group’s ability to weave together hauntingly beautiful harmonies and instrumentals has made them a beacon in the world of Irish music, drawing fans from diverse cultural backgrounds.
In celebration of their two decades of musical excellence, Celtic Woman is set to embark on a commemorative tour featuring both familiar faces and new performers. This milestone not only pays homage to the group’s rich history but also introduces fresh voices that promise to carry the torch of Celtic musical tradition into the future.
Among the highlights of this anniversary celebration is the release of a highly anticipated live DVD, capturing the magic of Celtic Woman in a visually stunning experience. This release promises to transport fans to the heart of their spellbinding concerts, allowing them to relive the energy and emotion of each performance from the comfort of their homes.
The interview with Celtic Woman promises to delve into the intricacies of their musical journey, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and the joyous evolution that has defined their two-decade-long career. As they reflect on the past and embrace the present, Celtic Woman invites fans to join them in commemorating this milestone, ensuring that the magic of their live Irish music continues to resonate for years to come.
Their new single of ‘You Raise Me Up’ is out today here is the video !
Here is my interview with violinist Tara McNeill:
1. How does recording and performing the new Celtic Woman release feel?
It has been a very proud moment in my Celtic Woman career to be part of its 20th anniversary celebration. Sharing the stage and this recording with the original members of Celtic Woman felt both moving and empowering. I grew up admiring these women, their beautiful voices and amazing fiddle skills, and to create music together was a true honor. It felt wonderful to share beautiful new music and also to perform such stunning new arrangements of Celtic Woman’s most loved songs over its 20 years.
2. Was there a point where you felt it was a daunting task to live up to the previous glories of the group? Or was it something you think you’ve prepared yourself for?
It was of course terrifying when I first joined the group as Máiréad Nesbitt (the original fiddle player) was such an incredible performer and I worried that I couldn’t live up that. But what is wonderful about Celtic Woman is that it has always been a platform for Irish women to showcase their own unique talents. When I joined I wasn’t expected to be anyone else and we all thrive when we are allowed to be our true authentic selves. Celtic Woman is always evolving and we are grateful so many people still love our music and come to our shows after 20 years. Rather than feel daunted by previous success I feel honored to be part of such an incredible legacy and am excited to keep it alive today.
3. What can we expect from Celtic Woman this year?
This year will be one of the most exciting in Celtic Woman’s history. We are celebrating 20 years so we have to do it right! Releasing this album as a collaboration of both original and current members of Celtic Woman is something that fans have been hoping to experience for years! We know people will just love the album and the live performance DVD. We are all extremely excited for our 20th anniversary tour as we will be sharing our favorite music from Celtic Woman’s 20 years, our beautiful new music and we will be bringing lots of energy to the stage!
4. What was the most challenging aspect of the live presentation of the songs?
There were a lot of moving parts at the filming of the TV special in The Helix Dublin: choir, orchestra, 8 Celtic Woman members, new music, new choreography, new dresses! There was a lot to take in and remember but it was all worth it when we stood on that stage together. It was a moment I will treasure forever.
5. What are your preparations before going on a live performance?
We all do a lot of individual preparation learning music and songs before we even get in a room together but the fun part is when we do and it all becomes real! Before we head out on tour we will have a week of choreography where we learn our dance steps and movement on the stage with our wonderful dancers and then we have a week of rehearsals with the band and do lots of run throughs of the show. Then we have tech in our first venue of the tour where we get all our in ear monitor mixes ready for the tour. And of course we have to pack for 3 and a half months in the states at some point too!
6. Do you have message(s) for your fans?
Thank you to everyone who has supported Celtic Woman over the last 20 years. We wouldn’t be here without you. We hope you love the new album and DVD and can’t wait to see lots of you on the road soon! Check out if we’re coming to a city near you on www.celticwoman.com/tour-dates
www.celticwoman.com
There you have it folks!
The Irish Pub-A Film by Alex Fegan
Three years ago, a movie called The Irish Pub was released. This film is a documentary showcasing the pubs all over Ireland. It is an honest look while keeping it simple and relatable at the same time. This is an eye-opener for someone who loves Irish music and studies Gaeilge. Getting an in-depth look at the culture I am trying to absorb as a hobby and part of my curiosity is essential.
Here, you can see how small pubs play an important role in handing down the tradition that goes back hundreds of years. With the proliferation of technology such as flat screen TVs and loudspeakers, slipping inside a quiet pub to share a craic with the locals is a welcome respite. I’m curious if modern pubs or cafes know that people go to these places for a quiet moment or to talk to one another. But somehow, these new everyday places are loud and devoid of cultural tradition. The world can learn from The Irish Pub.
I really enjoyed this film, which is the same length as a regular movie. The film is directed by Alex Fegan. It is also available via Plex.
