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Deep Dead Blue

CD review

Deep Dead Blue
By Anuna
CD. Gimell Records. 45 mins.

Some readers may remember an occasion a few years ago when the Eurovision Song Contest was held in Dublin; between the songs and the voting, a group of local artists performed a short music and dance 'number' which was considerably better than anything in the competition (wouldn't be difficult, I hear you say). It later developed into Riverdance.

The haunting choral introduction was sung on that occasion by Anuna, the choir featured on this very original and interesting CD. It is quite an unusual choir in that the director has deliberately brought together both trained and untrained voices to perform a very specific type of music.

This recording is full representation of the group's repertoire, which consists mainly of either arrangements or original compositions by the director, Michael McGlynn. In both cases, the idea has been to celebrate and revive the music, both sacred and secular, of ancient and medieval Ireland, although there are a couple of pieces which fall outside these limits.

The music is an unquestionably beautiful blend of monastic, celtic and folk influences, yet incorporating some very 20th century harmony. Celtic spirituality is, of course, very fashionable, which may or may not be a good thing. However, I found some of these pieces to be devout and reflective in a fairly positive, if undemanding, way.

The quality of the singing is excellent, and instrumental accompaniment is minimal, but very effective when used. I recommend this recording as an original and rather therapeutic piece of listening!

Simon Brennan