Davoc Rynne

The Humours of Ennistymon, Independent Release ***

The Humours of Ennistymon, Independent Release ***

Technology and technical virtuosity have conspired to raise the bar in the world of traditional music. Sometimes, though, it pays to expose the raw edges so that the spirit and zest of the music’s roots shine through. The pulse of this debut album from Clare whistle player Davoc Rynne beats heartily against a backdrop charged with conviviality and camaraderie. Recorded in an afternoon, it’s a celebration with family and friends, as Rynne’s extended family pitch the toss with equal glee. And so his wife, Anne Rynne, features along with his brothers-in-law Christy Moore and Luka Bloom, and nephew Conor Byrne. The bare- boned bounties are many: from the opening reel, The Piper’s Despair to the clean, spare lines of Davoc’s slow air on solo whistle, Aisling Geal. Moments such as these are best seized just as they are. irishcountryantiques. com

Siobhán Long

Siobhán Long

Siobhán Long, a contributor to The Irish Times, writes about traditional music and the wider arts