Star quality is a rare phenomenon - a bewitching magnetism impossible to define, yet when present, we recognize it instantly. Singer and traditional musician Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh possesses that level of magic, mesmerizing audiences world-wide since she joined forces with scintillating Irish music ambassadors Danú in 2003. Daybreak: fáinne an lae" is an exciting and eclectic 12-track collection which showcases Muireann's sparkling vocal talent, along with her consummate artistry on both flute and whistle. Most of all, it casts light on her intuitive ability to research and tastefully select from both the traditional and contemporary music repertory, re-interpreting and delivering her chosen songs and tunes with heart-warming eloquence.Contemporary compositions from Richard Thompson ("Persuasion") and Gerry O'Beirne ("Western Highway") flow seamlessly into traditional songs such as "Free and Easy" (learned from the singing of Róisín White), "Slán le Máigh", "Banks of the Nile," and a heartfelt rendition of "The Parting Glass."
Musicians making guest appearances on Daybreak include Danú colleagues Oisín McAuley and Eamon Doorley; guitarists Gerry O'Beirne, John Doyle, Tony Byrne, and Shane McGowan; Scottish singer Julie Fowlis; and percussionist Billy Mag Flohinn.
Nic Amhlaoibh first came to many people's attention when she joined Danu, one of the finest Irish traditional bands to emerge over the past decade (two of her band-mates sit in on this album.) Her flawless alto, with its wide range and elegant phrasing, made a strong impression then and judging by the present release, her contradictory yet seamless blend of the earthy and angelic, the sacred and profane, has continued to deepen, mature and evolve. Whether essaying Gaelic-language tunes from the Celtic canon or the type of crowd-pleasing folk-pop typical of the versatile Black sisters, she exudes the sure-footed, relaxed command of a singer approaching her prime, an engaging mixture of charisma and sensitivity. Ranging from Richard Thompson's loss-haunted "Persuasion" to the heartbreaking "Immigrant's Farewell" to "Free And Easy," a road tune about blithe irresponsibility, her interpretations hit the mark every time without drawing too much attention to themselves. When such a degree of taste and generosity are combined with a glorious vocal instrument, it's a pleasure to just fall back and let the lady do what she does so well. --Christina Roden
