Danú - All Things Considered (2002)

Danu is the most exciting new Irish traditional music group to emerge since Solas. Composed of 7 musicians including vocalist Cairan O'Gealbhain, the group plays stunning mix of evocative, kinetic instrumentals and stirring songs on this eclectic follow-up their critically acclaimed debut, Think Before You Think.

Danú are a resolutely acoustic yet freewheeling Irish traditional ensemble. Their arrangements are often crowned by treble fiddle lines typical of early Chieftains, but their rhythmic attack, while precisely marked, is less literal and is periodically side-swiped by playful bursts of syncopation. Lead singer Ciaran O' Gealbhain is a revelation. His vocals, whether in Irish or English, are haunted by ancient sean-nós, but also recall the Incredible String Band and the naive sophistication of Brady and Irvine's nonpareil "purple album." O' Gealbhain appears as soloist and in unison on the wistful, bouzouki-laced "Easy and Free." His approach to the giddy "Uncle Rat" is deft and childlike, but he is romance incarnate on "The Wee Lass on the Brae" and breathes serene, poetic stillness into "Idir Aird Mhor Is Eochaill." Producer Joe McKenna flawlessly captures the sonic ambiance of every tune, down to the final afterglow of living drone. --Christina Roden