Submitted by Sandy Graham
The second offering of this five-piece Irish-American supergroup who are truly have become a phenomenon, packing out concert halls around the world with their blend of traditional influences and subtle experimentation. After the success of the first The Gloaming this now explains the attraction of sellout crowds.
Combining Irish songs, poetry and prose, the fiddles of Martin Hayes and Caoimhin Ó Raghallaigh mix well with the beautiful piano work of New York’s Thomas Bartlett, then add in the powerful vocals of Iarla Ó Lionáird.
The opening track “The Pilgrim’s Song “ is a haunting piano and vocal offering, with beautiful fiddle truly showing off the quality sound of The Gloaming.
“Fáinleog” (The Wanderer) is a faeirie like song, capturing the essence of Ireland and its people.
“The Hare” (In the Corn) has a Southern influenced to it, with sweet fiddle and gentle piano, with a well produced sound.
“Oisin’s Song” switches over to an acoustic feel, with a folky production while the vocal adds to the magic sound while “The Booley House” takes you back to the traditional slow jigs and reels sound so familiar to us all in North America.
“Repeal the Union” features the talented fiddle offerings of this group of musicians, while the piano stays behind in the background, while enhancing the music.