Alannah Thornburgh pays tribute to Conor Walsh with stunning rendition of 'The Front'

Marking the fifth anniversary of lauded minimalist piano composer Conor Walsh's tragic death, fellow Swinford musician Alannah Thornburgh has shared a beautiful new arrangement of his composition 'The Front'.

Conor, who died of a heart attack in 2016, at the age of just 36, released The Front EP in 2015 – after performing the acclaimed title track at Other Voices the year before.

“As a young musician, I was always a huge admirer of Conor’s work," Alannah reflects. "Growing up in Co. Mayo, Conor and I shared similar musical styles, both heavily informed by the rural landscapes and rich heritage the west of Ireland has to offer. He was a profound influence on my musical development and his words of advice and encouragement still resonate with me today. Learning ‘The Front’ was a difficult yet deeply fulfilling challenge for me, Conor made it sound so easy, which epitomises just how great of a composer he was. I hope that I have managed to do it justice.”

The track, recorded with producer Cian Hamilton in Swynnerton Lodge, Navan, received its first radio play on Sunday – premiering on KEXP's 'Pacific Notions'.

Alannah, who has established herself as one of the most remarkable talents in the Irish harp world, is also a member of Irish traditional/old-time trio Alfi. Her debut solo album, and Alfi's debut album, are both set to be released later this year.

Alannah's rendition of 'The Front' is available on streaming services now – with all profits from Bandcamp sales being donated to the Musical Youth Foundation, who aim to provide every child in Ireland with access to a musical education.

Watch Ruth Clinton's video for 'The Front' – featuring the swell of the Atlantic coastline – below: