Celtic Airs

THIS IS quite a progression on Dordán’s previous albums. The essential sound is still the same – violin, harp and all manner of whistles hold the melodic ground, but this time the guitar, from both Stephen Cooney and newest member Martina Goggin, is much more in evidence as a rhythm instrument. In addition, Martina handles percussion duties with some distinction, and also contributes four songs to the album.

Repertoire-wise, Dordán still rely on a mixture of traditional and baroque, but with a slight difference. Eight of the 13 tracks are composed by band members, and of those that are not, the standouts have to be their staggering version of Handel’s ‘Gigne’ and Martina’s harmony-led version of the modern emigration song, ‘Corlín Phádraic Shéamais’.

Ever since the release of their first album, I have been a Dordán fan. If perchance you haven’t heard their unique take on Irish music, this is as good a place as any to begin.