Danú: Buan | Album Review

Twenty years together have yet to dull Danú’s edge. In fact, the maturity of their new collection, produced by Dónal Lunny, captures what far too few traditional bands manage: the breadth of the music, from its soaring, sometimes ragged-edged heights to its most intimate moments.

At Danú's heart is singer and flute player Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, whose song choices are distilled to their essence. Her west Kerry roots shine through the belly-deep reading of Beir Mo Dhúthracht, and her possession of the Child Ballad Lord Gregory beautifully mines its deep connections with the blues.

A set featuring an original waltz and march from Oisín McAuley and Dónal Clancy is anchored by Danú's unforced, highly calibrated arrangements. Buan is a collection that invites repeated listening, without ever resorting to harried overdrive.

[ danu.net ]