Album Review: Alannah Thornburgh, Shapeshifter

Inspired by fairy forts and the charms of rural Ireland, Alannah Thornburgh – an award-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist – has created an extraordinary debut in Shapeshifter. Thornburgh masterfully showcases her intricate harp playing throughout, whilst also incorporating elements of jazz, folk and trad.

A recipient of the Arts Council’s Next Generation Award, Thornburgh notably curated the album by interviewing a large number of historians. Lead single ‘Chasing The Hare’ sets a dynamic tone, while ‘Away With The Fairies’ boasts a darker, more mystical feel.

Always spellbinding, Shapeshifter also features numerous bravura flourishes, allowing Thornburgh’s abilities as a multi-instrumentalist to shine.

Indeed, for fans of Irish myth and folklore, the record offers an outstanding example of how to blend trad with contemporary sensibilities.

9/10

Out now