The third solo album for
Iarla Ó Lionáird is a continuation of his explorations into the depths of sean nos. Probably best known as the singer for
the Afro Celt Sound System,
Ó Lionáird's solo work tends to go back to the roots of Irish music with darker sounds and sparse accompaniment. His vocals become not only the focus, but the bulk of the sound. The music is more emotional than much in the same class, often with a dark tone to match its rich timbre. Violins and fiddles don't get heard here, but the viola da gamba does. There aren't any reels, but plenty of heartbreaking balladry. Samples of nature sounds add to the mix a bit, keeping any hint of urbanity out of the picture whenever possible. The listener is meant to hear that this is an ancient music, powerful and gut-wrenching. And so the listener does. ~ Adam Greenberg