Sea-Sew

Although widely renowned as Damien Rice’s vocal foil, Lisa Hannigan’s songwriting skills were an unknown property until she released her debut album Sea-Sew, a mature and accomplished avant-folk suite that evoked Van, Joni, Laura Nyro and Tim Buckley, incorporating strains of jazz, classical, Spanish flamenco and Celtic folk. Throughout, Hannigan’s vocals were subtle and understated, perfectly framed by a cast of players that included bassist Shane Fitzsimons, cellist Vyvienne Long, drummer Tom Osander and Gavin Glass on piano. A beautiful album.

No 29 in 2009, as voted for by over 200 Irish musicians.