Album Review: Clare Sands, Clare Sands

Armed with the combined powers of virtuosity, boldness, and a touch of madcap spontaneity, Clare Sands has continued to mark herself as one of Irish music’s most compellingly unique forces with each release.

Now, on her long-awaited self-titled album, she’s delving deeper into each element of her established approach, flitting organically between Irish and English as she presents a multi-faceted celebration of Ireland, encapsulating its people, its history, and its natural landscape – as well as aspects of the culture that could soon be lost, and aspects being revived by a new generation.

Even when immersed in her richly layered folk-influenced soundscapes, Sands doesn’t settle for familiar, overly-romanticised portrayals of the island, or shy away from harsh realities. The LP honours the revolutionary power of young women with an unforgettable spoken contribution from the ever-inspiring Bernadette Devlin McAliskey on ‘Focail Feasa’, leading into ‘Awe na Mná’. The star-studded guest appearances also include a stand-out collaboration with Susan O’Neill, on the unapologetically wild ‘Carry My Song’.

There’s an earnestness to Sands’ approach that marks her as somewhat of an outsider when it comes to other musicians of her generation, but that’s part of the appeal here – with her phenomenal drive and uncompromising vision ensuring that every moment on the album is imbued with the Cork artist’s fearless spirit.

Out now

8/10