Mick Hanly - Homeland: warmth, indignation and honesty shine through

Homeland has a particular resonance whenever thoughts turn to those who are far away. These days, when the pain of global migration is so evident, Mick Hanly’s concerns may seem overly parochial.

A broader focus could have added to the power of these songs, by for example, exploring the experiences of the new Irish. But considering that it is Hanly’s first studio album in 11 years, it is a thoughtful collection.

The homeland theme forms the spine extending from the title track through the emigration narratives of Patrick's Hill and We Won't Miss the Rain and more personal stories of home, such as You're a Big Girl Now.

There is also humour: the fevered pair of The Good Ship Delirious and Attention Sous go at a lick.

And though the production by old Moving Hearts comrade Eoghan O’Neill’s applies a sheen, Hanly’s warmth, indignation and honesty shine through.