Clannad
Another compilation from Clannad has been released this week. Essential Clannad is a double disc set that features liner notes written by Black 47’s Larry Kirwan. He rightly points out that the Clannad sound that feels so ancient is really only three decades old.

The masterful weaving of ABBA-esque pop harmonies, Gaelic language and atmospherics as thick as the fog that envelopes the n56 leading up to their native Gweedore made a revolutionary sound that is commonplace today in the sounds of Celtic Woman, Ashley Davis and other Celtic chanteuses. 

The collection includes 30 songs and all the hits, but unlike other compilations this one comes with the promise of new material from the band this September! 
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The band recorded a performance at Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin on January 29 that will air on stations like WLIW/21 on St. Patrick’s Day (check local stations for public television. The show will be aired on public television stations across the country throughout March.)

The show will include an exclusive advance offer for the DVD and CD of the Christ Church concert and will also offer the chance to purchase an exclusive three-CD collection of songs featured in the show including “Harry's Game,” “Newgrange,” “In a Lifetime,” “I Will Find You” and “Dulaman.”

Special featured guests are Brian Kennedy and Anuna. Check out www.clannad.ie for more information. 

Here's a video from Clannad: