The Gloaming
Irish folk musicians mix nearly as frequently as jazz musicians. So it should come as no surprise that New York’s versatile pianist Thomas Bartlett (a.k.a. Doveman), acoustic rhythm guitarist Dennis Cahill, traditional fiddle master Martin Hayes, hardanger violinist Caoimhin Ó Raghallaigh, and Afro Celt Sound System singer Iarla Ó Lionaird have come together. Like ACSS, The Gloaming are very much about creating a transcendent new fusion, although this time it\'s Celtic music blended with modern classical music. The results are nicely mannered, in the same vein as Clannad or Loreena McKennitt but without the mystical overtones. Those looking for the fiery musicianship of Hayes\' and Cahill\'s duo work should turn to the stripped-down “The Sailor’s Bonnet” or the epic “Opening Set,” with Bartlett in particular adding nice colors to the tapestry. Those seeking vocal tunes can check out tracks like “Song 44” and the romantic “The Necklace of Wrens.” Woven through all of this is a stunning sense of musicality and musicianship.
The Gloaming’s second album is a tour de force of this unique and fascinating combination. Although the lyrics are entirely…
The Gloaming’s second album is a tour de force of this unique and fascinating combination. Although the lyrics are entirely…
Those of you who take your music recommendations from Ireland's Prime Minister will be one step ahead of the rest of us on this one. Irish-A...
Those of you who take your music recommendations from Ireland's Prime Minister will be one step ahead of the rest of us on this one. Irish-A...
This five-piece Irish-American supergroup mix Celtic influences with modern sounds to create a unique, compelling sound, writes <strong>Robin Denselow</strong>
This five-piece Irish-American supergroup mix Celtic influences with modern sounds to create a unique, compelling sound, writes <strong>Robin Denselow</strong>
Musically, lyrically, dramatically, on every count this debut album from The Gloaming is exceptional. Four-fifths of the group - Clare fiddle player Martin Hayes, Chicago guitarist Dennis Cahill, the Cúil Aodha sean nós singer Iarla Ó Lionaird and Dublin-born hardanger player Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh - are all well-known figures within traditional Irish music. It's The Gloaming's fifth member, New York-based pianist (and album producer) Thomas Bartlett, whose harmonic, rhythmic and textural effects serve to paint this music on a wider, more expansive canvas.
Musically, lyrically, dramatically, on every count this debut album from The Gloaming is exceptional. Four-fifths of the group - Clare fiddle player Martin Hayes, Chicago guitarist Dennis Cahill, the Cúil Aodha sean nós singer Iarla Ó Lionaird and Dublin-born hardanger player Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh - are all well-known figures within traditional Irish music. It's The Gloaming's fifth member, New York-based pianist (and album producer) Thomas Bartlett, whose harmonic, rhythmic and textural effects serve to paint this music on a wider, more expansive canvas.