Latest CD releases reviewed

SKARA BRAE
Skara Brae Gael Linn
****

With three decades tucked under a band's belt, undoubtedly there are things they'd change, given half a chance. This re-release of the 1971 sparkling début from Skara Brae, featuring the sublime harmonies of Micheál, Tríona and Maighread Ní Domhnaill alongside guitarist Dáithí Sproule, is twice distinguished: for its bareboned production and for its capturing of a foursome embarking on careers of individual and collective magnificence. Tríona's, Micheál's and Maighread's vocal harmonies shimmy with a brilliant translucence on Bánchnoic Éireann Ó and An Saighdiúir Tréigthe, whispering of the transcendence which they would reach later, both with The Bothy Band and individually. At times you yearn for the mics to be pushed closer to the vocalists, but it's the sepia tones of the collection that underline its mould-breaking essence. Still a peerless gathering. www.gaellinn.com

Siobhán Long