Celtic

Celebrating 20 Years of Celtic Woman: A Journey Through Live Irish Music and New Performers

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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!

10 Songs and Reasons You Should be Talking About Clannad Music

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Clannad is your ear candy during the pandemic


I got my second dose of the covid vaccine today! And while I felt the relief of that, I also kept in mind that fitness is vital. That is why cycling has played a massive part in my darkest times. And when I am not pushing watts, I calm down to listen to my favorite bands in the genre.


Clannad is one band that has grown with me from my teen years up to this time. I don’t know if you are aware or agree that the band has undergone three significant musical evolution. There’s Clannad of the 70s still with their distinct sound. While other Irish bands have gone either folk, rock, or pop, this band has incorporated many styles. This is due to the many musical interests of various members. It’s Ciaran Brennan who infused the band’s rock energy and jazz sophistication. The latter is also what made their Celtic sound unique. While other bands go toward either electronic or New Age, Clannad never professes any loyalty to any genre. But of course, the record labels have to make that categorization for marketing purposes, right?


I do miss the Jazz (or smooth jazz)flavor they incorporated, starting with Anam up to Landmarks. The latter is, for me, their masterpiece album because it has all the elements that I admire in the band. These are months of introspection(Europe is approaching Autumn). It is refreshing to go back to the sounds that remind us of a far different world from today.
I have listened to some of the band member’s solo projects, like Moya Brennan’s solo albums. Their influences are evident, which is highlighted by the musicians they choose to collaborate with.


I have to say I miss hearing Pol Brennan’s soprano sax and also the input of other core band members like the Duggans.
Supposing you are introducing someone to Clannad for the first time, so where do you start? Below are my top ten picks:


1. Na Laetha Bhi (The Days that Were)-This might not be part of their more popular offerings, but this is the first song that hooked me. It’s from their 1993 album Banba. The first time I heard this was inside a record store. Everyone turned around because the sound what so different and haunting. It is further propelled by Moya Brennan’s contralto vocals.


2. Autumn Leaves Are Falling- This is taken from Landmarks. As I said, the album is a masterpiece with many excellent tracks. Yet, this one has that vibe that falls between folk and Jazz. It is also one happy tune that makes you smile at the thought of Autumn. Each instrument compliment this artfully crafted tune. It has imagery of churchyards, countryside-everything that makes Ireland fascinating.


3. Newgrange-The power of the band’s sound is its capacity to transport you. When they sing about the ancient Irish tradition, they don’t tell you. They take you there. This is what many bands lack now. I have been looking for that haunting quality in any band, but that is so rare these days.


4. The Hunter- This is another lovely song from the compilation album Past Present. By the way, that album is also a great introduction to the band’s music in the 80s era. I love the drums, the vocal layering and also the pulsing bass.


5. Forces of Nature(From Warriors of Virtue)-A beautiful song accompanying a movie that I enjoyed! This song is Clannad in the 90s.


6. A Dream In The Night-This song is from the animation The Angel and the Soldier Boy. This track is one of those tunes I love playing during the holidays.


7. In Fortunes Hand- This is a perfect song for driving. The energy is further embellished by the beautiful beats and that smooth saxophone.


8. Why Worry-This is a song I got from a smooth jazz compilation album before I got hold of Anam, where this song came from. The swaying track lulls you to daydream-which is the thing you need these days.


9. Let Me See- I haven’t seen a live version of this beautiful song anywhere. This one is an epic track that always makes me smile when I listen to it. That amazing snare drum and buoyant bass is the strength of this track. Clannad is an excellent band. Moreso because everyone brings their styles into the creative process. I hope they come up with another album like Landmarks.


10. Something to Believe In(with Bruce Hornsby)-People have probably forgotten that Moya Brennan had duets with many artists. Big names like Bono, Robert Plant, Bruce Hornsby, Paul Young, Michael McDonald, Shane MacGowan and more. She is an excellent live performer too. This song is a testament to the band’s musical range. This is a style that they might never revisit, but it is excellent that they explored this phase in their glorious musical career.

Let me know your favorite Clannad songs in the comments section below.

The Joyous Waltz by Atlas is a Sweet Gift in these Troubled Times

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The Joyous Waltz is a new track by Irish duo Atlas-both natives of Limerick. Like a perfect Cappuccino over a sumptuous meal, The Joyous Waltz sways around your mood into the day’s vibes. Amid these uncertain and chaotic times, we need a break from all the politics and economy to close our eyes and enjoy music. The world can turn and tomorrow might not come, but living in the moment is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves.
Atlas launched their name with the release of Affinity in 2016 under Ropeadope Records. The album marks their style as

IMG_2765 a crossroads between tradition and what future Irish music should sound like. The talents behind Atlas are Cillian Doheny(guitars) and Cillian King(concertina).
The Joyous Waltz boasts the simplicity of two instruments in a crystal clear production. The tune reminds me of what Paris must’ve been in the 1920s. The new recording is a combination of sophistication and folk honesty. This is what music is all about-a joyous waltz to light the darkest moments, giving hope and kindness.

 

 

CELTIC WOMAN’s ‘Ancient Land Deluxe’ Now Out!

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Global sensation Celtic Woman has just dropped Ancient Land Deluxe. This is timely, considering that the album proved to be triumphant upon its release, followed by a smashing 2019 tour. This will an amazing surprise for Celtic Woman collectors due to the extra tracks. There are 11 tracks that you’ve never heard before on the digital version of the album. There are 2 from Ancient Land CD, 5 from Ancient Land DVD and 4 four from the current album tour. This digital-only album bolted out of the gates last September 6!

All in all, you will be hearing 27 songs. That’s a total of 1 hour and 39 minutes. This is great for a long train ride or flight. I don’t mind taking this out on a slow bike ride. The songs are all feel-good and divinely orchestrated. I mean think about it. It was recorded in Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios in the UK, the summer of 2018. The sonics are superb and this is a splendid album, production-wise(even if you are not into Celtic Music). It was followed by a live concert filmed against the backdrop of the historic Johnstown Castle in County Wexford, Ireland.

My personal favorite is Mná na hÉireann (Women of Ireland). It is a perfect sofa/lounge/chill-out music over a cup of tea and a good book. Don’t miss the jaunty Ballroom of Romance and its accompanying music video. Celtic Woman is both a Celtic music and Pop phenomenon.

Listen to this: Canções De São Patrício (Saint Patrick’s Songs)

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Today, we are going to Brazil and listen to Irish songs. I can imagine that ‘buffering data’ from old computer  look from your face. How is that possible? Teleportation is not yet in the market. So how?! Well it’s easy. Just close your eyes and listen to this album. I am sure you will float too. And I can imagine that ‘buffering look’ suddenly transformed into something else. But whither you are going to throw irony this way, we can’t deny the fact that Celtic and Brazilian fusion is amazing!

I just love this guy’s music. It sounds so refreshing. It’s like letting someone wear a different pair of shoes for the occasion. So fans of Gilberto, Jobim, Nascimento and Mendes will appreciate this one. Canções De São Patrício (Saint Patrick’s Songs) is a new release from independent digital label Progshine Records.

Rafael Senra is a name you should put in your memory because I think his music deserves a lot of exposure. He is a musician, writer and cartoonist. On August 2017  he released his first album called Canções De São Patrício (Saint Patrick’s Songs). On this record Rafael took famous Celtic songs and made Portuguese versions for them. Something that, up to now, was unheard of.

Released August 9, 2017

Rafael Senra: arrangements, versions (*), compositions (bonus tracks), vocals, acoustic guitar, Melodica.

  • except on track 4, lyrcis by Cláudio Manuel da Costa – excerpts from À Lira Desprezo e À Lira Palinódia.

Recorded in March 2017, at Casa dos Senra studios (Congonhas – MG, Brazil).

Mixed by Renato Lopes and Cleiton Lupe at Ômega Studio (Congonhas – MG, Brazil) in April/May 2017

Graphic design by Rafael Senra.
Pictures by Mauro Fernandes Barros

copyright © 2017 Rafael Senra