Recorded amidst the rugged beauty of County Donegal at Stiúidió na Mara, Donegal captures the essence of the region that has inspired Altan from the very beginning.
In traditional Irish music, Altan stands as a beacon of authenticity and brilliance, channeling the soul of their native County Donegal onto the global stage for over three decades. On their latest album, Donegal, Altan once again mesmerizes audiences with a heartfelt homage to their roots, celebrating the rich tapestry of Donegal's musical heritage, its stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.
The genesis of the band can be traced back to the serendipitous meeting between Belfast-born flute player Frankie Kennedy and the talented fiddler and vocalist Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh in the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht. United by their passion for Donegal's unique musical repertoire, their partnership blossomed into marriage and a shared mission to introduce the world to the enchanting sounds of their homeland.
On the new album, Altan's unmistakable sound is beautifully encapsulated, weaving together Irish-language ballads and dynamic twin-fiddling that have become synonymous with the band. Through ten captivating tracks, listeners are transported to a bygone era in rural Ireland, where the music echoes the rhythm of life itself while seamlessly bridging the gap between past traditions and modern sensibilities.
Joining Kennedy and Ní Mhaonaigh on this journey is Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, whose ethereal vocals breathe life into songs like "Liostáil mé le Sáirsint" and "The Barley and the Rye." Alongside her, Clare Friel adds her own remarkable voice and fiery twin fiddle playing, infusing tracks like "Faoiseamh a Geheobhadsa" with an irresistible energy.
Accordionist Martin Tourish's masterful compositions, such as "The House of Baoithín," pay homage to the ancient roots of Donegal's musical tradition, while the seamless collaboration of Dáithí Sproule, Mark Kelly, and Ciarán Curran completes Altan's musical tribute. Special guests like Jim Higgins, Steve Cooney, and Graham Henderson further enrich the album, adding layers of depth and texture to Altan's evocative sound.
With Donegal, Altan reaffirms their status as custodians of Ireland's cultural legacy, honoring the region's musical heritage while enchanting audiences around the globe with their timeless melodies and infectious rhythms.