Karan Casey – Nine Apples of Gold (Crow Valley Music, 2023)
Karan Casey, the brilliant Irish vocalist, put together her new album “Nine Apples of Gold” in collaboration with Sean Óg Graham. Together, they have crafted an enthralling album that delves into the depths of human experience, exploring themes of well-being, solidarity in times of adversity, the transformative power of women’s advocacy, and the inevitable embrace of mortality.
“Nine Apples of Gold” also celebrates the wonders of the natural world. Specifically, Casey invites us to immerse ourselves in the enchanting melodies of the songbirds of Portglenone, while the moon illuminates our path, and amidst the tapestry of sound, we find solace in the call of the cuckoo.
Central to Casey’s vision is the unwavering empowerment of women, a profound concern that reverberates throughout the album. Indeed, she fearlessly gives voice to the unspoken.
Karan Casey has a lovely, distinct vocal style, full of charm and expression. For this musical journey, Sean Óg Graham brings forward a modern sound with Americana leanings and chamber music elements. This seems to be a trend with some Irish and British producers, who look to North America instead of their own rich folk traditions, specially Ireland.
In addition to Karan Casey’s lead vocals, “Nine Apples of Gold” features guests vocalists who add more flavor to the album, such as Niamh Dunne; Pauline Scanlon; and Ríoghnach Connolly.
The lineup includes Karan Casey on vocals and piano; Seán Óg Graham on guitar, piano, harmonium, electric guitar, bouzouki, banjo, programming, ukulele, button accordion; Niamh Dunne on fiddle, viola, lead and harmony vocals; Conor Mc Creanor on double bass, electric bass; Ashley Hoyer on mandolin; Hannah Hiemstra on drums, percussion; Kate Ellis on cello; Pauline Scanlon on lead and harmony vocals; Ríoghnach Connolly on vocals; John Mc Cullough on piano, Hammond organ, Fender Rhodes electric piano; Alex Borwick on trombone; and the charming birdsongs of the Portglenone songbirds.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.