Gráinne Holland – Teanga na nGael

West Belfast’s Gráinne Holland bursts on to the scene with this impressive debut recording, boasting confident, avant-garde interpretations of largely traditional Gaelic songs, with a full-bodied voice that instils a rich vibrancy, and broad appeal.

Opening with the rhythmic cadence of “A Bhean Údaí Thall,” Gráinne’s perfectly poised vocal stamps a commanding authority on the melody, accompanied by sprightly guitar and uillean pipes, infused with contemporary nuances courtesy of a prominent rhythm section. The more measured “Slóite na bhFiann” follows, with a deliciously sultry, jazz-soaked makeover with piano, saxophone and cello combining to provide a sumptuous backdrop for Gráinne’s assured vocal.

“Uiseag Bheag Ruaidh” is a showcase for the striking range of Gráinne’s voice, portraying tender warmth, though boasting more in the way of determined strength than fragility, and a powerful resonance that sets your emotions on tenterhooks; here, one is also afforded the opportunity to enjoy Tony Byrne’s fluid and intricate guitar playing. Singing with the utmost composure over the haunting drones of the uillean pipes on “Báta an tSíl,” Gráinne soothes the listener with the utter tranquillity and effortlessness of her voice, creating a celestial ambience.

The unique, beautiful rhythms of the Gaelic language rise to the fore on two tracks: “Seanduine Dóite” and “Dónal na Gréine.” The former offers a rolling cadence, with a distinctively Irish lilt to the vocal, whilst the latter is sung at a lively tempo, ever gathering pace as it nears its boisterous dénouement.

The triumph of this album ultimately stems from Gráinne’s vocals, though the bold arrangements and accompanying musicians add much to distinguish from more traditional offerings, showing that traditional Gaelic song can occupy a genuinely contemporary position on the musical spectrum, whilst remaining firmly in touch with its much revered origins.

Mike Wilson

Artist Web link: http://grainneholland.com/