Celtic Woman – 20th Anniversary (Manhattan Records, 2024)
The popular Celtic Woman act returns with a brand-new album, titled 20th Anniversary, to celebrate two decades of lovely music. The quartet enchants listeners yet again with their gorgeous lead and harmony vocals in Irish (Irish Gaelic) and English; exquisite arrangements and a delightful mix of contemporary Irish folk music, light classical, ethereal pieces, ballads, and Celtic airs.
Rejoining the ensemble for this momentous occasion is gifted soprano Mairéad Carlin, a former member. Alongside her are fellow soprano Muirgen O’Mahony; virtuosa Tara McNeill on fiddle and Irish harp; and the newest addition, the versatile singer and dancer Emma Warren, known for her captivating performances in Riverdance and Les Misérables.
20th Anniversary includes 18 fresh recordings, and marks Celtic Woman’s triumphant return to the studio since 2021’s Postcards From Ireland. It features revitalized renditions of beloved classics and iconic songs, some new compositions and fan favorites. Noteworthy collaborations include special appearances by singers Lisa Kelly, Méav Ní Mhaolchatha, and Chloë Agnew; as well as fiddler Máiréad Nesbitt.
My favorite tracks are the ones that lean closer to Irish traditional music: “Is Sinne Mná na hÉireann,” “Dúlamán,” “Granuaile’s Dance,” “Téir Abhaile Riú,” and “An Cailín Dearg.”
Celtic Woman features four highly talented young Irish women whose performing skills embody the essence of Irish musical heritage, seamlessly mixing centuries-old traditions with contemporary flair. Their live performances are nothing short of magical, featuring angelic voices, masterful instrumentation, and vibrant displays of Irish dance. Backed by a dynamic ensemble of top tier Irish folk musicians, including bagpipers and traditional Celtic instrumentalists, Celtic Woman transports audiences on a captivating journey through time and culture.
Musicians: Brian Byrne on piano, keyboards, whistles, and programming; Guy Rickarby on drums, percussion and bodhrán; Paul Moore on electric and upright bass; Jimmy Smyth on electric and acoustic guitar; Ewan Cowley on acoustic guitar, mandolin, and bouzouki; John Byrne on keyboards, whistle, and keyboard programming; Peter Browne on box; Darragh Murphy on uilleann pipes and whistles; Eamon Galldubh on Irish flute; Kieran Leonard on bodhrán and tom; and John Hunt on bagpipes.
In addition, the album features the Oklahoma Film Orchestra and Oklahoma Orchestra Choir.
Brian Byrne produced, arranged and orchestrated the music.
CD Track listing
Is Sinne Mná na hÉireann
Dúlamán
Rainbow
Lay Your Head Down
When You Believe
I Know My Love
Sionann (Shannon)
Cinema Paradiso
Tread Lightly
Granuaile's Dance
Danny Boy
Amazing Grace
A Stór Mo Chroí
Téir Abhaile Riú
Caledonia
An Cailín Dearg
You Raise Me Up
The Parting Glass Buy 20th Anniversary.
Author: Sonia Keller
