Solas

Amazon.com
To push his music into the vocal realm, Seamus Egan has joined three musicians from the When Juniper Sleeps project--fiddler Winifred Horan, accordionist John Williams, and guitarist John Doyle--plus singer Karan Casey to form a band called Solas. Solas, produced by Silly Wizard's Johnny Cunningham, immediately marks this American quintet as a major force in Celtic music. The dance tunes combine rhythmic verve and melodic invention, and the songs give the instruments equal footing with the vocals. Egan's special gifts have never had a better setting. --Geoffrey Himes

Solas,Solas,Shanachie,British Folk,Celtic,Celtic Folk,Celtic/Irish,European Folk,Int'l & World Music,Ireland,Irish Folk,Pop,Traditional Irish Folk,World Music

Average customer rating: The Best of All the Solas' Solas Reunion - A Great Find Incredible musicians and what a price for a DVD/CD awesome Bravo!

Reunion: A Decade of Solas Solas Manufacturer: Compass Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sé Daybreak: Fáinne an Lae Waiting for an Echo The Words That Remain In Play ASIN: B000F1HG9M Release Date: 2006-04-25

Tracks:

1. Pastures Of Plenty
2. Coconut Dog/Morning Dew
3. Silver Dagger
4. Timmy Clifford's
5. Newry Highwayman
6. Reasonland
7. Highlands Of Holland
8. Le Poules Huppees (The Crested Hens)
9. Rain And Snow
10. Black Annis
11. Who's In The What Now
12. On A Sea Of Fleur De Lis
13. Lowground
14. Beauty Spot
15. Nil Na La
16. The Flowing Bowl
17. Lament For Frankie

Customer Reviews:

The Best of All the Solas'.......2007-02-17

This CD/DVD is a joyful reunion of the current Solas members with all (?) of the past members, like Karen Casey. They sound (and look, on the DVD) like they are really having fun, playing together once more. If you know Solas, this is a memento to listen to over and over. If you don't know them, it's a fine way to start!

Solas Reunion - A Great Find.......2007-01-10

The musicianship on this album is great and the DVD is a real bonus!

Incredible musicians and what a price for a DVD/CD.......2006-09-25

You get more than 2 hours of DVD concert footage--one great tune or song after another. Wow. I'm not kidding. Wow. Driving duo guitars on one tune, then Karan Casey singing a song then the whole band rocking out on some incredible set arranged the Solas way. You really have to hear this to believe it. This is Irish music stretched into a Solas groove. There are too many highlights to name them all: 4 part female harmony on Reasonland; John Doyle rocking out; Seamus Egan playing banjo, flute, guitar; Winnifred Horan showing fiddle virtuosity on ripping jigs and reels, then making you weep on some slow tune. And the vocals of one breathtaking vocalist after another. Solas isn't just straight ahead Irish music played at breathtaking speed . . .they hit a groove and explore the territory; they cover all sorts of stuff besides Irish: Darkness Darkness by Jessie Colin Young (remember the Youngbloods?); Cold Rain and Snow (the Grateful Dead covered this trad tune on their first studio album in 1967 or something) and everything gets the Solas treatment and it works beautifully. So watch the incredible concert DVD, then pop the CD in your car or stereo or whatever it is you listen to and you will be amazed. And to think I wasn't much of a Solas fan before I saw/heard this reunion set.

awesome.......2006-08-19

I went to Ireland and was looking for some typical Irish music when I walked by Celtic Note in Dublin and heard this playing over the sound system. I immediately went in and bought myself a copy and have not been able to stop listening to it since then

Bravo!.......2006-08-05

This CD/DVD set are reflections of exactly what fans of Solas love about the group. If you like high energy Irish music you will not be disapointed!

Average customer rating: A very beautiful anthology of music. Solace This is great celtic music. The best 'new'group in years One of my top 5 favorites Awseome CD!

Solas Ronan Hardiman Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music World Dance | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Anthem The Words That Remain Michael Flatley's Feet of Flames Michael Flatley's Celtic Tiger Michael Flatley's Lord Of The Dance ASIN: B0000069D3 Release Date: 1998-03-10

Tracks:

1. Love Song
2. All The Way Back Home (LP Version)
3. Dreaming
4. Heaven
5. New Lands
6. Take Me With You
7. Angel
8. Far Away
9. Communication
10. Secret World
11. All The Way Back Home (Album Remix)

Customer Reviews:

A very beautiful anthology of music........2006-03-18

Hardiman's style is similar to Enya's with the snap and crispness lost in her latest releases such as "Amarantine." "Love Song" is the best and everything else on this CD is wonderful as well. The music stands up to repeated listening without being tiresome. In the CD liner notes is a blurb that reads, "Ireland has long been recognized as a principle source of original and innovative music." That is very true. I wonder why it took so long in getting to America. This CD is a great addition to anyone's music collection. Try out the samples to see if you don't agree.

Solace.......2005-03-09

I've had this CD for almost 6 years now and it just keeps getting better and better. All the tracks are perfect and seamlessly merge into one another. The female vocals are ethereal and the music heavenly.
This music will evoke soft emotions, induce a warm feeling, paint a surreal soundscape and make everything beautiful.
Track#3: Dreaming is awesome.

This is great celtic music. The best 'new'group in years.......2004-03-01

The lead singer has a lovely voice and the songs are done in an individual manner. so many celtic bands just play the music loud and fast and lose the beauty of the music. Solas has not done that here. The flute playing is just beautiful and I love the fiddle playing. What more can be said?

One of my top 5 favorites.......2003-11-30

This CD has the most up-lifting beat which I love. I crank up the volume and sit back and take it all in.

Awseome CD!.......2003-02-09

Great to fall asleep to, pleasant, serene and placid music. Helps the mind, body, and soul heal, relax, or be helped. You will enjoy if you like Enya.

Average customer rating: Karan carries it. Solas during their Prime! Pioneering Work! Easily accessible The Words That Remain The Best Celtic Music I've Heard

The Words That Remain Solas Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | Europe | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Sunny Spells & Scattered Showers Solas Reunion: A Decade of Solas Edge of Silence Waiting for an Echo ASIN: B00000AFPZ Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

1. Pastures Of Plenty
2. The Stride Set (Reels)
3. The Walk Up Set (Jigs)
4. The Grey Selchie
5. Song Of Choice
6. La Bruxa (Air)
7. I Am A Maid That Sleeps In Love
8. The Vega Set (Jigs)
9. Sweet Comeraghs (A Chomaraigh Aoibhinn O)
10. Sproggies Set (Reels)
11. The Beauty Spot (Reels)
12. Sraid An Chloig

Amazon.com

This recording from the Irish-American group Solas really makes the two national identities mix beautifully. They start with Woody Guthrie's "Pastures of Plenty," played as a roaring Irish ceili. Later they delve into politics, delivering a strong message over a strangely effective, upbeat musical bed in Peggy Seeger's "Song of Choice." It doesn't hurt that they invited Iris DeMent to share the vocal duties on this track, and she and Solas front singer Karen Casey give this song emotional impact. Guest input also includes banjoist Bela Fleck, some interesting bass work from Chico Huff, and a mixed bag of percussion and drums from John Anthony. But the core group is still deeply involved in the material that they have made a name with. The Irish dance sets still dominate the recording. John Doyle's guitar continues to provide a solid rhythmic bass that usually precludes the need for a drummer (even when they have one); Seamus Egan provides a broad palette of sounds on banjo, flutes, mandolin and percussion; Winifred Horan continues her notable fiddling; and Mick McAuley continues to expand his mastery of the squeezeboxes. Record number three for Solas still finds them on track, with a solid, all-acoustic lineup, a great choice of tunes, and a subtle new bi-directional course toward America and then back to Dublin. --Louis Gibson

Customer Reviews:

Karan carries it........2005-10-31

Karan Casey's voice is the main reason for buying this album. What else is there? Well, there are sets of jigs and reels that are as jiggy and reelly as you could wish for, if you like that kind of thing. Also, Iris DeMent joins Casey on "Song of Choice" and it is great to hear these two fine and distinctive voices together, even though the song itself is unremarkable. It would be wonderful to hear more of them as a duo.

The weak points are the two songs in Gaelic -- which gain nothing by being sung in the original (unless of course you speak the language) -- and the dreadful La Bruxa, a painful squeezebox effort that might earn a busker a few centimes (or Euros) outside the Paris Metro, but does not belong here. Otherwise, the musicianship is excellent throughout.

Casey's departure was her gain and the band's loss, but this album remains a must for lovers of Celtic music, and for followers of America's various folk traditions.

Solas during their Prime! Pioneering Work!.......2004-10-20

Solas has changed recently since the departure of Karen Casey. I remember the good old days when this band gave Irish Traditional Music CPR while ripping through reels and jigs. There was world percussion and there was a driven pace set by John Doyle playing fast chord configurations. Karen was singing in both Irish Gaelic and English. High energy tracks followed by hauntingly beautiful songs. What fun! Their first four albums followed this frantic pace of inspired arrangements, with a little known tribute DVD to the old crew, "Solas," filmed during a concert with a supportive audience on Saint Patrick's Day in Burlington, Vermont. I strongly recommend all of the above Solas albums and DVD. With so little Irish Traditional Music on DVD, their DVD is a little known, but a rare gem.

Easily accessible.......2004-04-19

This album is a good choice for anyone looking for uplifting music and excellent musicians.

I don't normally listen to this type of music but I found Solas to be very easily accessible.

The Words That Remain.......2004-02-26

SOLAS continues to thrill listeners like me who are looking for world music they can get next to. SOLAS offers celtic music that makes you want to dance, beat a drum and sing along to. Whether the song is traditional or contemporary, you listen with a wink and a smile!

The Best Celtic Music I've Heard.......2001-07-13

My sister knew of my passion for Celtic music and bought me this album for Christmas. The group is phenomenal and the music is lively. From folk songs to traditional jigs this album will brighten your day and lighten your heart. Some songs are English, some are in Galic and others are just instrumentals.

Average customer rating: Excellent first CD by talented musicians A First CD for Solas After Wild Acceptance in Ireland! flawless album absolute must if you like irish/scottish traditional BUY THIS CD

Solas Solas Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | Europe | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Words That Remain Sunny Spells & Scattered Showers Another Day Reunion: A Decade of Solas The Hour Before Dawn ASIN: B000000E5A Release Date: 1996-06-04

Tracks:

1. Nil Na La
2. The Flowing Bowl/Maire Breathnachs #1/The Doon/The Mason's Men
3. The White Petticoat/Stan Chapmans/The Miller's Maggot
4. I Wonder What's Keeping My True Love Tonight
5. The Yellow Tinker/Cranking Out/Master Crowleys #2
6. Crested Hens
7. Johnny's Gone For A Soldier
8. Dougie MacDonalds/Maire Breathnachs #2/The Antrim Rose/Atlantic Wave/Toss The Feathers
9. The Newry Highwayman
10. Gan Ainm/The Humours Of Whiskey/Leslie's March
11. Sliabh Geal Gcua Na Feile
12. Lament For Frankie
13. Timmy Cliffords/The Return Home/O'Ot Be Est Da Vong/John Joe Caseys

Amazon.com

To push his music into the vocal realm, Seamus Egan has joined three musicians from the When Juniper Sleeps project--fiddler Winifred Horan, accordionist John Williams, and guitarist John Doyle--plus singer Karan Casey to form a band called Solas. Solas, produced by Silly Wizard's Johnny Cunningham, immediately marks this American quintet as a major force in Celtic music. The dance tunes combine rhythmic verve and melodic invention, and the songs give the instruments equal footing with the vocals. Egan's special gifts have never had a better setting. --Geoffrey Himes

Customer Reviews:

Excellent first CD by talented musicians.......2006-08-01

This first CD by Solas is an excellent debut album for the group featuring roaring tunes and heart-warming songs, a trend that continues onto the followup album. This album has both beautiful and foot-stomping moments.

All the musicians are at the top of their form. Karan Casey brings a unique and beautiful voice. John Williams is at the top of his game on the box and is definitely the highlight of the album. John Doyle's unique guitar style is taking shape here and it's interesting to see what a delightful style he has created (listen to "In Play" by Liz Carroll and John Doyle for some of his best work). Winifred Horan is definitely an excellent fiddler (although she doesn't stand out as much as the rest of the band) and Seamus Egan is, of course, amazing on his managerie of instruments.

If you're interested at all in Irish traditional music, definitely buy this CD. You'll be captured from start to finish!

A First CD for Solas After Wild Acceptance in Ireland!.......2004-10-20

There is some type of charm that goes with a new group and a first album. Raw,young,separate, huge talents and the joy of finding each other may be what's happening. "Nil'Na Lá" jump starts the album with an invitation to "have a roll 'round th' blankets." This started Solas on a roll through their first three albums and DVD, a new following of fans and a love affair between the band and their fans. This gave traditional Irish Music CPR for many younger fans. A great way to learn Gaelic, and the lyrics are a message of hope, for "the mornin' has not come." Accordianist John Williams was with the group through this period of time, but replaced for the DVD. Vintage Solas is renewed in recognition each time new fans discover this pioneering style of arrangement of traditional music.

flawless album.......2004-08-13

Stunning flute playing, great singing, very solid fiddling and accordion playing... John Doyle's awesome, rhythmic guitar playing renders percussion and bass unnecessary. I couldn't more highly recommend this album for anyone who even kindof likes traditional Irish music.

absolute must if you like irish/scottish traditional.......2003-02-01

No idea what "music fan" from Buffalo is talking about; those criticisms sound more like a criticism of the entire genre, from someone who doesn't know the genre enough to hear the distinctions and thus thinks it all sounds the same. (Remember your parents and "that screaming on rock music that all sounds the same"?) Solas' first two CDs--this one and Sunny Spells--were the height of Irish musicianship in the late '90s, and they were widely (and rightly) acclaimed at the time as the best Irish band outside Ireland's borders, and possibly the best in the world.

I would agree that there is the occasional near-throwaway track on these first two CDs--maybe a couple of tracks per album, or in some cases, just sections of a set, not the whole set. Also, rarely, the unison is so precise it almost sounds _too_ clean, with the edges all smoothed off, almost as if it were electronically programmed and played, without the rougher quality that a traditional band usually carries with it. (My wife--a stepdance teacher--and I jokingly refer to one of those tracks as the "Dialing for Dollars" music, because it really does sound like until they get into the second piece in the set.)

But there are far more moments of exhilarating virtuosity in well-chosen pieces and well-assembled sets. During this period, Solas had an unmatched ability to update traditional music and to breathe life into it without losing its traditional character or becoming the least bit "Celtic-new-agey." To the sorrow of many musicians, that ability seems to have left them progressively in their last three efforts. But this early CD, along with Sunny Spells, should be bedrock stuff for anybody who likes Irish and Scottish trad.

BUY THIS CD.......2000-09-23

Powerful Irish group with fresh sounds that also hold to those of us who appreciate traditional sounds. A very good buy!!!

Average customer rating: Wonderfully Enchanting About the entire band... No Comparison with High Energy First 3 CDs and DVD. Good, not worst, not best Nothing but the good stuff

Another Day Solas Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: Waiting for an Echo Edge of Silence The Words That Remain Sunny Spells & Scattered Showers Solas ASIN: B0000CC4V6 Release Date: 2003-10-21

Tracks:

1. Bird In The Tree
2. Scarecrow's Dream
3. I Wandered By A Brookside
4. It's Still Raining / Carlisle Street Reels
5. Just You
6. The Highlands of Holland
7. All That You Ask Me
8. Maire Mhilis Bhrea
9. The Wiggly Jigs
10. This Love Will Carry
11. Seoladh na nGamhna
12. Another Day

Amazon.com

After dabbling with new age fusion while using tunes by Bob Dylan, Nick Drake, and Tom Waits on The Edge of Silence, the Irish-American quintet Solas steps back from that ethereal edge on Another Day, its seventh album. The evolving line-up, led by noted multi-instrumentalist Seamus Egan, emphasizes traditional Celtic music ("It's Still Raining"/"Carlisle Street Reels") and modern Celtic folk ("I Wandered By A Brookside" and "Just You") with uniformly strong results by gracefully drawing connections between the modern acoustic and traditional elements of Irish music. The band even stretches to incorporate a little bit of gypsy swing on "The Highlands of Holland," some American country music on "All That You Ask Me," and contemporary pop on "Scarecrow's Dream," which should appeal to fans of Sarah McLaughlan, whose hit "I Will Remember You" was co-written with Egan. The band continually explores different nooks and crannies of Irish music, but this evolution and versatility are so much more fulfilling than if it had just stood still. --Tad Hendrickson

Customer Reviews:

Wonderfully Enchanting.......2006-01-25

The lilting vocals coupled with the energetic instruments provide a wonderful mindscape to listen to. Seoladh Na Naamha and Maire Mhilis Bhrea enchanting and full of life and always puts me in a good mood.
On the whole, a great C.D. to add to any sort of collection you happen to have!

About the entire band..........2005-04-05

I have liked Solas since 2002, and even interviewed them last year (read it on my Web site, ScottyWZ.COM). Now, I decided to use this oppritunity to comment on the band as a whole. There have been people saying stuff like "The sound of a band going apart" and "they are getting worse with each album." I sort of agree with the latter, because they could do better. In my interview, they said that they basically play traditional Irish music and also some contemporary music. I think they need to add some more traditional Irish music into the pot. I currently have a copy of Sunny Spells and Scattered Showers (1997), The Words That Remain (1998), The Edge of Silence (2002), Another Day (2003), and Waiting for an Echo (2005). They certainly don't need to replace any members, but they do need to play some more Irish music.

No Comparison with High Energy First 3 CDs and DVD........2004-10-12

Maybe people of a different audience are hearing Solas for the first time, and there is a connection. My blessings. Seamus and Winnifred are immense musical talents and artists need to be true to their own heart. However, the new connection may also signal a connection with longtime Irish Traditional Music fans decreasing. I read the reviews,and then I listen to the music.
I don't hear John Doyle bouncing through incredible guitar chord arrangements. I don't hear Karen Casey's golden voice. The old formula that worked was high energy, snappy, toe tapping tracks followed by Karen's eyes shut, heartfelt melodies. Solas is simply a different group now after Karen and John left. The first album after the change, "Edge of Silence," seemed to signal a change of directions toward US music (Seamus now lives in the U.S.). A good comparison is "Wiggly Jigs," which would previously lead fans to expect real wiggle. Compare to the earliar "Sprogle Set." There is a real contrast between this album and their first three pioneering albums and DVD. The same energy can be heard in Liz Carrol's last two albums with John Doyle. My advice to anyone interested in hearing Solas at top form to try their early works. If the band wants to recapture its former loyal following, it needs someone bouncing to the beat and flat picking chords in fast paced arm swings like John and percussion. The old formula worked well and could work again.

Good, not worst, not best.......2004-06-03

"Another Day" sees Solas return pretty much to form after a rather wayward previous album "The Edge of Silence" where their traditional side took a backward step and the arrangements were lacklustre.

The medley of reels "Bird In The Tree" which opens this album is a real rip-snorter - full, powerful and very Irish, setting the tone for an album which grabs the attention pretty consistently, with confident arrangements and performances. Again the compositions are a mix of traditional and non-traditional, but the overall style of the playing veers more towards the traditional this time. The songs are all sweetly performed by Deidre Scanlan and include Dan Fogelberg's "Scarecrow's Dream", Kieran Goss's "All That You Ask Me", Dougie Maclean's "This Love Will Carry" and a traditional Gaelic "Maire Mhills Bhrea". The instrumentals have plenty of zip and include traditional and original tunes.

There's quite a lot to enjoy here and the sound is very rich and finely crafted, but for those demanding a more traditional, more Irish sound, go to their first three or four albums, which, despite having a rougher-edged sound, are in my opinion more involving.

Nothing but the good stuff.......2004-02-22

There's no filler here, just one great song after another. Particularly remarkable is Winifred Horan's consistently lovely fiddling -- what a beautiful, rich tone! Her song, The Highlands of Holland (good title!), has a klezmer-like sweetness and bounce that keeps me coming back to it.

Average customer rating: Eh... Better... i heart solas Thank you WUMB-Boston dear reviewer, Who CARES if they plug-in?!

Waiting for an Echo Solas Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: Local Ground Another Day The Words That Remain Reunion: A Decade of Solas When All Is Said and Done ASIN: B0006TRO6S Release Date: 2005-02-22

Tracks:

1. The Hanover Reel / John James Reel / The Copperplate
2. The Silver Dagger
3. Tom Sullivans / Micks Polka / The Newmarket Polka
4. On a Sea of Fleur de Lis
5. The Night Visit
6. The Coconut Dog / Morning Dew
7. Doireanns Waltz
8. Lowground
9. The Ballerina Jig
10. Erin
11. The Ploughman
12. Steven Campbells / The Road to Ringussoon / The Bag of Beer
13. Mi Pequena Estrella (Little Star)

Amazon.com

While Waiting For An Echo was recorded in hotel rooms, dressing rooms, and studios on two continents, the album sounds sonically cohesive with an emphasis on instrumentals. Stylistically, however, the quintet of top-flight musicians is all over the place. There's a bushel of Irish traditionals that come in shape of reels and jigs strung together (the even-keeled "Steven Campbell's/The Road Ringussoon/The Bag Of Beer" is a highlight); but the band also dives into folk-pop balladry on "The Silver Dagger" and "Erin," conjures a little country twang on "Lowground" and "On A Sea Of Fleur de Lis." A handful of guests further diversify things, but one thing about Celtic musicians is their thirst for jamming, so in way this is a more realistic look at a band than some of its Celtic music-leaning fans may be willing to allow. Nevertheless, there is enough here to keep them placated, unless you're fan of singer Patricia Scanlon, who contributions are limited to a few songs. - Tad Hendrickson

Album Description

Waiting For An Echo, Solas seventh Shanachie CD, was recorded in a number of locations including Seamus' home studio in Philadelphia and on the road in Germany. "We did what we call guerilla recording," laughs Seamus Egan. "We recorded everywhere we could, backstage at concerts, in hotel rooms and wherever it made sense using a Mac G4 and my mobile recording unit." In typical Solas fashion, the band has crafted a thrilling mix of traditional gems, jigs, polkas, reels, contemporary material and originals. Their use of counterpoint and driving syncopation pulsates throughout the CD.

Seamus Egan says, "From one project to the next, we never want to make the same record. This album is more than anything a snapshot of where we are musically. We're a band that happens to have a strong grounding in a particular tradition. But the way we look at it, that tradition allows itself to be played with a little bit; it's malleable enough and strong enough to allow that. I think it's fundamentally impossible to play music any other way than being who you are and what you are. Irish traditional music is the first music I have any memory of; for a long time, I thought it's all there was. But I never saw it as something old; it was always there in our lives, and always evolving."

Highlights on Waiting For An Echo include the Antje Duvekot song "Erin," featuring the vocals of Mick McAuley, the traditional song "The Silver Dagger" which showcases an imaginative revamped melody and altered arrangement by Winifred Horan and the Richard Shindell song "On a Sea of Fleur de Lis," featuring the angelic vocals of Deirdre Scanlan. Solas has long wanted to record this Shindell song and finally does it on Waiting For An Echo.

Also included is "The Coconut Dog Morning Dew," two reels, the first penned by Eagan and the latter a traditional number arranged by the band. "The Coconut Dog" unites Solas with renowned Spanish bagpiper Carlos Nunez who has recorded with and is currently on tour with the Chieftains. The band recently had a chance to meet up with Nunez while on tour in Germany October and November of 2004.

Customer Reviews:

Eh..........2006-08-01

This album is definitely continuing in the downswing that Solas has been experiencing in recent years. Although the number of tunes has increased including some very nice sets (which is why I'm giving it a 3 and not lower), most of the songs are just uninteresting to me.

Better..........2006-05-10

I'm a traditional Irish musician and Solas' first two albums are definitely on my top ten list and always will be. However, every time a band member swaps out and every time Seamus Egan finds a new way to over-produce traditional music, I lose a bit more interest in this band.

Unless you're looking for new-agey, rock-influenced folk music, stay away from any of their albums past Sunny Spells and Scattered Showers. Although they may be playing traditional music in a technical sense, there's so much percussion and amplified instruments on their new tracks as to make it completely buried. The same goes for Seamus Egan's recent solo work.

However, with this album it's a bit of a welcome return to form. Granted, without John Williams, Karen Casey and John Doyle, they'll never approach the great sound they had a decade ago, but at least this album has actual TUNES. There aren't many of them compared to the songs (seems to be the general trend in traditional bands trying to branch out), but at least the album isn't made up of "pieces".

I have my usual complaints about the album--it sounds over-produced, over-arranged, and over-dubbed. Win Horan still hasn't gotten past her classical past, apparently. Who uses vibrato on reels, anyway? Her playing often reminds me of classical players new to Irish music who lack the subtelty and style needed for traditional music. And it's a shame that one of this generation's most talented musicians, Seamus Egan, seems to have been stricken with chronic bad taste.

In general, if you're looking for a good intro to Irish music, don't start here. Danu, Flook, Dervish and Slide are the big names now. For solo work, check out former member John Williams' album, "Steam", and the latest from Liz Carroll and John Doyle. And don't ever get those 4 or so albums Solas recorded during their "experimental" (read: "selling out") stage. Try the first 2 and stop or you'll risk being very disappointed.

i heart solas.......2005-12-14

hi guys- i love solas and i think they are an awesomely cool group of wicked good musicans. so about this newish cd, it was good but i think some of the songs were kinda pop ish. like the ones with the guy singing it was not really what they used 2 do. i think compared to the edge of silence cd it was not as good, but edge of silence was the best.. buy it if u dont have it!!! also see this band in concert cause they r amazing!! get up and dance- it makes it way cooler!
love u guys!(solas i mean) bye-

Thank you WUMB-Boston.......2005-08-22

I say thanks to WUMB-Boston because that's how I was introduced to "Waiting for an Echo." I couldn't find the CD in Madison WI so I ordered it from Amazon. The music is beautifully unique. I can't speak to its tradition, but all the voices are rich and powerful. My favorites are On a Sea of Fleur de Lis, Silver Dgger, Erin and Lowground. There are few CDs that I consider an "investmentment," but this is one of them.

dear reviewer, Who CARES if they plug-in?!.......2005-07-03

(As regards a reviewer's objection to use of electricity)Who CARES if a guitarist uses an electric guitar once in a while? Please...! give me a break for cryin'out loud! - or a musician's creative decision or motivation to use a drum kit - so what?!These instruments are CHOSEN by and being wonderfully played by FIRST-RATE MUSICIANS! - indeed, MASTERS of their craft!I choose to give Solas respect and 'FREEDOM' (remember THAT word?) to grow, explore, expand, create, and of course, to mature.It's interesting that some music listeners are forever expecting more of the "same old thing"... from NEW cd releases!!!I applaud Solas for this extremely musical, and wonderfully creative work. It's simply great stuff!And I appreciate their apparent trust that as THEY mature, listeners will have experienced growth and maturity also.

Average customer rating: Excellent and worthy followup album to self-titled debut I agree with the reviewer in Buffalo...... A Good Companion Audio CD to go with the "Solas" DVD. Solas' second near-masterpiece--don't miss it A Gorgeous Recording

Sunny Spells & Scattered Showers Solas Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | Europe | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Words That Remain Solas Another Day The Hour Before Dawn Edge of Silence ASIN: B000000E5M Release Date: 1997-05-20

Tracks:

1. The Wind That Shakes The Barley (Song)
2. The Big Reel Of Ballynacally/The High Hill/Flash Away The Pressing Gang (Reels)
3. Aililiu Na Gamhna (Song)
4. Tom Busby's/James O'Byrne's/The Four Posts Of The Bed (Jigs)
5. Paddy Taylors/McFadden's Handsome Daughter/The Narrowback/Franks Reel/Esther's Reel (Reels)
6. The Unquiet Grave (Song)
7. The Maid On The Shore (Song)
8. Song Of The Kelpie (Air)
9. Mom's Jig/Bill Nicholson's 67th (Jigs)
10. The Primrose Lass/Molly From Longford/The Four Kisses (Reels)
11. Vanished Like The Snow (Song)
12. The Kilnamona Barndance/Give The Girl Her Fourpence/My Maryanne (Barndance, Reels)
13. Adieu Lovely Nancy (Song)

Amazon.com

Solas are based in the U.S. and are indisputably one of the best neo-trad Irish bands--from anywhere. This is an extraordinary album, which is saying plenty, as they've never made a bad one. Solas make such urgent music that every tune sounds completely new, even when heard over and over again. The virtuosity of the instrumentalists is beyond compare, and they sometimes wreak playful havoc on the straight up-and-down of Irish time signatures without compromising their sources. Singer Karan Casey offers an astonishing combination of cool-headed technique and unfettered passion--her duet with John Doyle on "The Wind That Shakes the Barley" could raise goose pimples on a two-by-four. But the fiery temperament and precise picking of Philadelphia's own Seamus Egan is why Solas can make a simple jig or reel swing within an inch of its life. Sung in Irish and English. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

Excellent and worthy followup album to self-titled debut.......2006-08-02

Sunny Spells and Scattered Showers is more of the same that can be found on their self-titled debut, but the band has obviously matured. John Williams, Winifred Horan, and Seamus Egan are all in top form. John Doyle's guitar has become more refined and he truly shines on this album, his playing transcending mere backup. Karan Casey is a delight to hear, especially on the track "Aililiu Na Gamhna".

I highly recommend this album to anyone who likes Irish traditional music. You won't be disappointed!

I agree with the reviewer in Buffalo.............2003-12-28

(except where s/he proposes there be any reason at ALL that one should listen to Barry Manilow!!!)

I'm afraid I can't recommend this CD or this band, with Karan or without. The songs and tunes DO have a dreary sameness and predictability about them. Mind you, if that one sound happens to be one you LIKE, perhaps this is just the ticket. Karan Casey does have a beautiful voice, but it's better served on her solo efforts. What I find about Solas is that they take all the lilt and joy out of the trad Irish tunes, which are primarily dance tunes and ought to sound more HAPPY. At times frenetic, at times grinding, full of perhaps nervous energy--- this is music by which to pack for a month's vacation when your plane leaves in an hour. If you want some really lilting, cheery, irresistably DANCEABLE traditional music, have a listen to Danu. If you like the heavy-on-the-strings sound, Bohola does it much better. I can also recommend both bands our friend in Buffalo mentioned, Tempest and Horslips, with the caveat that they are Celtic *rock* bands

A Good Companion Audio CD to go with the "Solas" DVD........2003-04-29

Failte! (Greetings!) This is one of my favorite Solas CD's, but I watch and listen to these songs on the "Solas" DVD more often now. The DVD has up close and personal interviews with band membmers with Karen Casey still in the group. There many distinctive qualities to the old Solas Crew. Karen Casey was is lead, excellent voice with both English and Gaelic lyrics. When she left in later years, the group lost itself for awhile. Seamus Eagan sings, plays excellent flute, plays excellent tenor banjo and excellent octave mandolin. John Doyle is the guitar back up you want if you are interested in ripping through reels, hornpipes and jigs. Horan Winifred is an all Ireland Fiddle champion. Together, they represent a 1990's era of Irish traditional music as much as Altan, the Chieftains and the Bothy Band can be given credit for eras of this unique music. Don't miss the Solas recent efforts with Liz Carroll in "Lake Effect."

Solas' second near-masterpiece--don't miss it.......2003-02-01

As with the review of Solas' debut CD, "music fan" from Buffalo could not be more off the mark. Again (this is repeating some of the review of that debut), the criticisms sound more like a criticism of the entire genre, from someone who doesn't know the genre enough to hear the distinctions and thus thinks it all sounds the same. And to describe guitarist John Doyle's playing as "the same two chords" is just mind-bogglingly inept. Ask somebody who plays guitar for an Irish band, as I do, whether Doyle is in fact playing "two chords," or whether we have a guitarist of immense subtlety and expertise, comping the melody players with interplay that is at times truly jaw-dropping, upbeating and backbeating the rhythms, inventing progressions with twists and suspensions and various inversions that make you want to go try them yourself, if you're a player. This guy is as good as it gets in this business.

As for the allegation that Solas sounds pretty much the same as lots of other traditional bands (albeit with "a little more energy"), well...again, ask some local Irish musicians you know to listen to some of the better tracks here. Try them out on "Tom Busby's et al." or "Paddy Taylor's et al." (Actually, if you want the real clincher, let 'em hear the #8 track--"Dougie MacDonald's et al"--on Solas' debut CD. That'll do it.) This is pure virtuosity.

I mean, what Solas did with "Wind that Shakes the Barley" (the first track) is worth half the price of the CD. There you have a ballad that in its original form (e.g., the Clancys' version), love its tradition as we all do, still is not the kind of thing that would draw anyone outside Irish music to an appreciation of the genre. Along comes Solas and redoes the thing entirely by reworking the melody and giving the whole thing a Galician flavor. This is a perfect example of how the early Solas was able to breathe new life into an old standard while still working within traditional lines.

As for the carping about "soft schlocky ballads": There's probably a grain of truth here for someone _outside_ the genre, because Irish and Scottish traditional songs do tend to get repetitive (lots of verses-in-a-row kinda thing). And if you're not listening to (or not interested in) the words to something like "Unquiet Grave"--if you're waiting for something "exciting" to grab you--it's really not. (On the other hand, if you listen to the words, it's one of the truly most emotional songs around, an intensely sad expression of how the pre-Christian Celtic "dead is dead" notion affects a grieving lover.) Or if you don't understand Gaelic, maybe "Aililiu na Gamhna" will be one of those tracks you click past. But then, "Maid on the Shore" and "Adieu Lovely Nancy" are very nice ballads in the traditional vein that do not require this kind of in-genre special attention. (Also, "Maid" includes an instrumental melodic line that is close to genius--a near-reversal of the melody in "Wind that Shakes the Barley," with the line spiraling wildly upward, midway through the album, helping to establish a subtle structural wholeness to the CD.)

Hey, short version is, buy it. Or listen to it somewhere and then buy it. Then write Solas, tell them we miss them, and beg them to get back to this kind of music.

A Gorgeous Recording.......2000-09-09

This is an outstanding effort, mixing textures and tempos expertly. The cover of Unquiet Grave is beautifully haunting- Karan will be sorely missed. If you like Altan, you will not go wrong with Solas. As regards the guitar comments from Buffalo: Yes, the guitar is driving and prominent, but that has always been a cornerstone of the Solas sound. The musicianship of each and every memeber is well beyond reproach, in my humble opinion. Go see them live, and you will be ready to hug the guitarist (and everyone else around) in your excitement!

Average customer rating: Excellant... Fools!!! Not for everyone, lovely to me. I love this CD! Intense and captivating!

Edge of Silence Solas Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD British Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | Europe | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Words That Remain Another Day Waiting for an Echo The Hour Before Dawn Sunny Spells & Scattered Showers ASIN: B00005UV9V Release Date: 2002-02-12

Tracks:

1. Darkness, Darkness
2. Charmy Chaplin
3. Prelude #1/Black Annis
4. Who's in The What Now
5. Dignity
6. The Poisonjester's Mask
7. Maybe In a Prayer
8. Beck Street
9. Clothes Of Sand
10. Prelude #2/Georgia Lee

Amazon.com

The band Solas is based in the U.S., but the members are mostly Irish born and all are musicians of the first rank. The leader, Seamus Egan (flutes, tin whistles, uilleann pipes, guitars, etc.), won a bevy of Irish instrumental championships before he was out of his teens, and has since composed some notable film soundtracks, including The Brothers McMullen, which yielded the hit "I Will Remember You." Not surprisingly, Solas is one Celtic band that understands the meaning of a hook. This 2002 release is a mixed bag of jazzy floor-stompers, power-pop experiments, New Age exhalations, and ethereal ballads that make the most of Deirdre Scanlan's exquisite soprano. Winifred Horan's fiddling is especially evocative--dusky toned and effortlessly inventive--and the other players are also consistently on their game. However, their contributions are mitigated by intrusive synths and overdubs, which rise to the top of the mixes with crutchlike frequency. --Christina Roden

Album Description

In this era of disposable, singles-driven albums it's refreshing to encounter an album meant to be experienced as a whole rather than as a mere collection of tracks. Solas, already acclaimed by many as the most exciting Irish traditional group in the world, has broken new ground with their fifth album, The Edge Of Silence. They interpret a wide range of material in surprising ways; songs by contemporary artists are given a Celtic tinge, making explicit their connections with the deep, ultimately Celtic roots of American music. The Edge Of Silence is a moody, noir-ish song cycle with a cinematic feel. Solas weaves together a fascinating body of material including songs by Bob Dylan (the obscure gem "Dignity"), Tom Waits, Nick Drake and Jesse Colin Young of The Youngbloods. Also part of the mix are two striking songs by extraordinary new songwriting talent Antje Duvekot, as well as traditionally-rooted original compositions. It all adds up to a seamless and powerful evoking of elemental life forces--love, death, and the unquenchable human spirit.

The Edge Of Silence is produced by Grammy-winning producer Neil Dorfsman and Solas' leader Seamus Egan. Dorfsman has produced artists such as Sting, Mark Knopfler, Dire Straits, Bruce Hornsby and Paul McCartney.

Customer Reviews:

Excellant..........2005-03-17

I don't know what those other reviewers are thinking. This is a good CD. its has a lot of heart and some of the songs can at times bring tears to my eyes. I espcially love Prelude 2 and Cloths of Sand. Again, not quite sure what those other people who are condeming this CD were expecting.

Fools!!!.......2005-03-03

Anyone who listens to this album and cannot hear the amazing talent Solas brings to the Celtic table is a fool! This album is a spectacular example of trad/mod enfusion. Deidre's voice is simple, pure and effortless. Win's fiddle is raw and beautiful. Micks fingers are on fire on button and key. And the diversity of the talented Seamus Egan makes for a power house band - sounds strange to use that term with a celtic band but it works for Irish rockers like the Cranberries as well. I am a particular fan of Solas' interp of Bob Dylans Dignity, their version far surpasses the origional. If you are a fan of Celtic music in the slightest, listen to Solas. Check them out at www.Solasmusic.com too! Drop Deidre an email while your there, she loves a fan!

Not for everyone, lovely to me........2005-02-02

OK. Let's get something straight here--this album is not for everyone (notice the header). It's not even for everyone who loves Scots-Irish traditional music. Not that anything is.

For instance: If you want some pretty traditional purely accoustic music, this is not for you. Go seek Solas' earlier works--Sunny Days and Scattered Showers, for instance. Solas have for a while been undergoing a transition process and this appears to be the latest incarnation of that. It's not traditional by any stretch of the imagination. It attempts (and succeeds, i believe) to fulfill the promise made by so many bands over the years but so rarely kept - a mature union of rock and Scots-Irish traditional music. It borrows tunes from modern songwriters like Bob Dylan and Tom Waits and makes them sound very contemporary yet very much a part of the old tradition, like a new song turned into an old song masquerading as a new song. Think fiddles and accordians and electric guitars and synthesizers. Think Riverdance with PMS. Think Wolfstone.

Similarly, if you're really into upbeat music, i wouldn't look for it here. This album...well, it's not exactly "Black as the Night are my Roses", but it's certainly not cheery. The general mood is more like those days when you stand by the window, watching the twilight deepen and feeling inexplicably pensive. Black Annis touches on concerns about child abuse. Dignity and The Poison Jester's Mask feel like sharp commentaries on modern culture. Darkness, Darkness is an ode to oblivion. The instrumentals, while full of Solas' usual bounce and whirl, are almost entirely in minor keys.

If you have a deep appreciation for both rock and Scots-Irish traditional, however, you'll probably find something here to stir your soul. I could laud the musical talents of these folks, but the genius of the band is that Winifred Horan and Seamus Egan found a way to surround themselves with friendly performers as talented as they are; the result is a tight, seamless, take-no-prisoners sort of corporate sound. Beck Street drives forward like a mad dash through the narrowest city alleyways. Who's in the What Now has a synchopated grace that keeps me perpetually off balance. Georgia Lee is stunning in its simplicity. And Darkness, Darkness...let's face it--the Youngbloods never had it so good.

My best advice is to listen to at least one clip of instrumental and at least one clip of vocal music from this album, if you can--you'll know from that if you like it. This is the kind of work most fans of Scots-Irish traditional either love or hate; it's too bold a step to be in between.

I love this CD!.......2004-07-01

A friend of mine is a somewhat-rabid Solas fan, and I finally decided to listen to soundclips of the group's music. Am I ever glad I did. "The Edge of Silence" is absolutely beautiful, a fusion of Celtic and modern music I haven't heard anywhere else (no doubt it exists, but...), and Dierdre Scanlan's voice is lovely. The album includes a few instrumental tracks--2, 4, 7, and 8--and although I enjoyed those I liked the other songs a bit better.

Intense and captivating!.......2004-01-01

There is definitely an edge to this album, as well as a sense of understated silence that speaks volumes. Here, Solas takes a decidedly modern approach to their material, to the point I wouldn't be inclined to categorize much of it as "Celtic" at all. However, whereas "mainstreaming" has been tried by other Celtic groups with less than impressive results, Solas succeeds wonderfully! Originally touted as an example of new "traditional" group, they find a truly convincing and distinctive voice in this more contemporary venue as well. Gripping, emotive and distinctive, their music here truly shines! About half of the tracks on "The Edge of Silence" were written by group members (multi-instrumentalist Sean Egan, fiddler Winifred Horan and accordion player McAuley), while two songs are by guest vocalist Antje Duvekot and the others are well-chosen selections by the likes of Bob Dylan and Jessie Collin Young. Standout pieces include "Who's in the What Now" and "Beck Street", with their a-rhythmic, world-beat styles; the songs "Black Annis" and "Dignity", deceptively pretty tune-wise but with sobering lyrics; and the very cool and engaging interpretations of "Darkness, Darkness" and "Clothes of Sand". All in all, a super job! I can't wait to hear what this inventive and progressive group comes up with next! Try their earlier albums and compare. For more innovative Celtic music with a modern flair, check out the work of the Scottish group "Skyedance" too.

Average customer rating: A nice sampling of the many moods of Solas Very good musicians, but this leaves me cold Full of the spirit of Ireland Competent but Dull Solas out do themselves this time

The Hour Before Dawn Solas Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music Irish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Celtic Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | Europe | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Celtic | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Words That Remain Edge of Silence Sunny Spells & Scattered Showers Another Day Solas ASIN: B00004Y9VH Release Date: 2000-10-10

Tracks:

1. Bheadh Buachaillin Deas Ag Sile
2. Granny Quinn's/The Lilac Reel/Sporting Pat
3. Last Of The Great Whales
4. A Little Child
5. A Miner's Life
6. What's Up With Win/Sonny Brogan's/Cahal's Jig
7. When My Love And I Parted
8. Homeless
9. Boy/Girl Tune
10. Bruach Na Carraige Baine
11. Bonnie Mae
12. The New Custom House/The Flavor Of The Month/The Tinkers Daughter/Dogs Among The Bushes/Pinch Of Snu
13. I Will Remember You

Amazon.com

Solas have become one of the world's most exciting Celtic bands by combining a respect for tradition with an adventurous musical spirit. On their fourth CD, The Hour Before Dawn, they gently stretch the boundaries of Irish music by adding new instrumental textures and more sophisticated harmonies. Led by Seamus Egan's flute and banjo, the band whips through the sets of dance tunes with authority and style. John Doyle continues to expand the vocabulary of Irish rhythm guitar while laying down a solid beat that lets the melodies of fiddler Winifred Horan and accordionist Mick McAuley soar. But as good as the instrumentals are, the songs with vocals are where Solas truly shine. The band's new lead singer, Dierdre Scanlan, has replaced Karan Casey, who left to pursue a solo career. Scanlan is equally adept on ancient ballads like "When My Love and I Parted," where she is accompanied only by Horan's violin, and contemporary songs like "I Will Remember You," which Egan cowrote with Sarah McLachlan. She has an earthy voice that reminds us that despite the band's instrumental prowess, the roots of Irish music are in song. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

A nice sampling of the many moods of Solas.......2004-01-01

From rousing sets of traditional dances to wistful laments and jazzed-up folk songs, Solas offers pleasant listening all around on this album. There is a light, gentle, intimate quality to their presentation and choice of material, not to mention a subtle intricacy in their arrangements. Traditional Celtic motifs are deftly interwoven with elements of folk, jazz, rock and pop, resulting in delightful little musical twists all throughout the album that are unexpected but somehow seem utterly right. Solas features Winifred Horan on fiddle, Seamus Egan on a plethora of instruments including flutes and guitars, Mick McAuley on accordion, guitarist John Doyle, and the clear, clean, honest lead vocals of Dierdre Scanlan. My favorite track on "The Hour Before Dawn" is the extremely haunting and poignant "Homeless", but the exotic "Boy/Girl Tune" is quite cool too, "A Miner's Life" is well-put and the traditional dance sets on tracks 2 and 6 are lively and fun. The spare, intriguing harmonies on "When My Love and I Parted" and "A Little Child" deserve mention too--not what I'd expected to find on a Celtic album, but very nice all the same and good example of how well this group combines diverse musical elements with seamless elegance. To experience an edgier, more intense side of this band, try their subsequent release, "The Edge of Silence". If you enjoy the musical stylings of Solas, you may also like the American folk group Trapezoid, in such albums as "Moon Run" and "Remembered Ways", or the work of fellow Celtic artists Silly Wizard, embodying the style of a decade or so earlier but with a similarly gentle sense of grace and soulfulness.

Very good musicians, but this leaves me cold.......2003-01-17

Let me preface this by saying I am a big fan of traditional Irish music, and a huge fan of Dervish, Trian, Liz Carroll, Bothy Band, Kevin Burke, Andy Irvine, etc. This is the first Solas CD I have bought, and will probably be the last. Although generally very competently played, the music just doesn't speak to me. I agree with the some of the other reviews to that effect that this Solas recording is too highly orchestrated, and not very traditional (though I don't mind that, per se). In my opinion "Last of the Great Whales" has some of the lamest and simple-minded lyrics I've ever heard. Though she has a very pleasing voice, Ms. Scanlon's rendition of it just fails to move me whatsoever (lacking in musicality, I believe one reviewer said). In my book her renditions just don't compare to Mary Black, Susan McKeown, or Karan Casey, though they are pleasant enough. The fiddle playing on "A Little Child" reminds me more of a classical violinist playing Irish music....very good tone, but too much vibrato, and too orchestrated with multiple violin tracks sounding like the London Philharmonic (e.g. When My Love & I Parted). On the positive side, there is some excellent guitar, flute, and button accordian playing on here (e.g. Cahil's Jig). It's as if the band is trying too hard to distance themselves from the many other traditional Irish groups, with the result that the arrangements are overly complex, and the material just isn't that interesting.

Full of the spirit of Ireland.......2002-12-06

Ranging from lively jigs and reels ("Granny Quinn's/The Lilac Reel") to the dreamy ("A Little Child") to the plaintive ("Last of the Great Whales"), with crystal-clear vocals and particularly good accompaniment, this group of five (three men, two women) is another I had never heard before buying the CD under consideration, so I can't compare it to their earlier outings, as others have done. But I don't need to hear them to know I'd like to. Though not (yet) my favorite Irish group, this one will definitely join my permanent collection.

Competent but Dull.......2002-03-08

A lot of people rave about this group and I tried real hard to like this by giving it repeated listenings but, I'm sorry, it just doesn't grow on me. A couple of the other reviewers of Solas' works have hit the nail on the head. This is a group of very competent musicians who perform flawless, note-for-note perfect renditions of traditional Irish songs with a few originals thrown in for good measure. They have a female singer with a beautiful voice perfectly suited to this type of music. So what's the problem? It's all a bit bland and boring. The performances are very smooth and polished, the production is cotton-candy-soft, and the musicians sound like they are sleepwalking; there is a total lack of energy, intensity, and passion in their playing. The musicians themselves sound like they're bored and just going through the motions, so why should the listener get excited? And it's all so nondistinctive; I've heard this all before. You can turn on National Public Radio on any Sunday afternoon and here numerous other groups that sound just like this. I much prefer groups who put their own stamp on songs and do something at least a little bit different with them. Even their softness and fluffiness aren't distinctive. I would only recommend this if you are looking for music to soothe you and relax you after a stressful day at work; this it will surely do.

Solas out do themselves this time.......2001-05-23

If this is your first time listening to Solas or if like me, you are a seasoned listener, you will love this album. Since 1996, Solas have been maturing as a band with each album and this is the culmination of both their tiredless efforts towards perfection and their coming of age. The firepower has not died but has become more and more intricate and complex. John Doyle continues to be a major driving force behind the music with his note perfect rhythms and unique style of playing. He is without doubt possibly the best traditional guitarist the world of trad music has ever seen. He lifts every tune to amazing peaks without once crossing the boundary into being over bearing.

Along with the firepower, you also have the delicate touch only Solas can add to the haunting slow airs and traditional songs. Where can Solas go from here? It really is hard to say but they certainly will remain in the annals of history long after their time for being the fore runners in merging the new with the old traditional styles without ever once losing respect for the core of the Tradition of the music. Bravo!! if this is the hour before dawn for solas, I can't wait to see what the dawn itself will be like!!

Average customer rating:

Literes: Júpiter y Semele Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Domenico Scarlatti | Scarlatti, Domenico | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00009YWA7 Release Date: 2003-10-14

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