For three decades, trad supergroup Danú has enchanted audiences across the globe with its vibrant and authentic sound. A dynamic blend of intricate melodies, rhythmic energy, and superb arrangement, the band’s music fuses the timeless essence of the Irish tradition with a contemporary vitality that invites listeners to experience the beauty and spirit of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
“The Pearl,” Danú’s brand new release, is a massive 30-track retrospective that honors their milestone anniversary. With selections taken from live performances made in top concert halls in the U.S., Ireland, Canada, and Europe between 2016-2024, this album makes a bold statement and is a testament to the band’s incredible chemistry and musical prowess, offering listeners a thrilling way to experience the best of their electric on-stage presence.
The members of Danú, who come from the Counties Cork, Waterford, Donegal, and Dublin, with one from Newfoundland, include Nell Ní Chróinín (vocals & tin whistle), Benny McCarthy (button accordion), Eamon Doorley (bouzouki), Oisín McAuley (fiddle), Ivan Goff (uilleann pipes, flute & whistles), Tony Byrne (guitar), and Billy Sutton (bodhrán, mandolin, backing vocals). Virtuoso players all, each absolutely shines on this album, maneuvering the group’s complex, creative arrangements with effortless skill.
The music here is sublime. For much of it, Danú digs into its finest older tracks as a way of exploring its past, and with this they breath fine new life into a catalog that really has withstood the test of time. Some of the standouts for me are “The New House / …,” which first appeared on the group’s 2015 album “Buan”; “The Cameron Highlander/ …,” from their 2000 album “Think Before You Think”; “The Poor Man’s Fortune / …” from their 2018 release “Ten Thousand Miles”; and “The Bright Lady / …,” which is found on their 2005 recording “When All Is Said and Done.” Each of these captures the band’s energy in different ways and leads listeners on a captivating tour of the band’s creative evolution.
But not every instrumental track here is the result of retrospection. For example, “The Trip To Clarina / …,” the jig/reel set that leads off the album, and “The Flight of the Earls of Ulster / …” which starts with a lovely march that’s followed by a slip jig and a reel, are both new and demonstrate the ways the band continues to expand upon its record of excellence. They’re fine new extensions of Danú’s musical legacy.
In addition to these instrumental tracks are several vocal tracks on which Ní Chróinín is absolutely spectacular. One that stands out is “Snowbird,” a song written by Prince Edward Island’s Gene MacLellan and made famous by Anne Murray, which she sings with strong conviction. Another is Ní Chróinín’s dazzlingly evocative version of “The Foggy Dew” – it’s hard to beat. I also love “Master McGrath,” another from the “Ten Thousand Miles” album, for its delivery and subject matter.
In addition, many of the songs here are sung as Gailege, including “Eochaill,” “Maidin Mhoch ar leabaigh Bhoig,” and “Na Tailliúirí.” Ní Chróinín’s artistry on these beautifully rendered tracks is a real treat, especially for those who appreciate the Irish language. Gorgeous phrasing. A few, including “Mo Ghile Mear” and “An Páistín Fionn,” include the contribution of the James Madison University Singers, with arrangement by ex-Danú member Tom Doorley, which yields a stunning effect that reveals another facet of the group’s musical vision.
“The Pearl” is an incredible collection. As a retrospective, it is a very effective and complete look at the band Danú has been for three decades. The current lineup’s exceptional musicianship is brilliantly represented, exemplifying their outstanding collective musical vision. But what brings it all together so strongly – the thing that really draws the ear – is how well this album has been produced. Although recorded live and in several different locations, the album’s mixing and presentation captures Danú’s exhilarating in-person chemistry and musical dynamic with in-studio precision. This combination of live, top tier performance and outstanding sound quality gives listeners the best of both worlds and makes this album something special, indeed. Consider “The Pearl” not only a top pick for the St. Patrick’s Day season but a calling card for the band’s highly engaging live shows – a truly outstanding must-see group if there ever was one. Very highly recommended! For more info, visit https://www.danu.net/.
