Search - Moya Brennan :: Signature

I loved her back when she was Maire Brennan

R. Kyle | USA | 03/28/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

""Harry's Game" was my first exposure to Clannad, but not my last. I've followed Moya Brennan's career from Clannad to her first solo CDs under the name Maire and now Moya, which is a more phonetic spelling of her Irish name.



"Signature" is a slightly different sound for Moya. It's less layered atmospheric with a stronger pop rhythm than her earlier slower folk music works. Vocals are still the signature chantlike beauty with an accompanying underpinning of Irish harp, bodhran, flutes, and uillean pipes. What I like better is the sound is engineered so the vocals are clearer and up-front of the orchestration.



If you're expecting Jimi Hendrix' rock standard from the opening title, "Purple Haze," you'll be disappointed. Moya's "Purple Haze" is a strong opener that will conjure up images of the Irish landscape.



"Hear my Prayer" is a reflection of Moya's faith and a rededication:



Angels walk with me

Guard me to the waters edge

Wash away my doubts, my fear

Lord, strengthen me and bring me back to you



Fans of her Gaelic singing will be disappointed there's only one non-English song, "Pill a Run O". But do no not despair, this one very spare song with just Moya, light strings, and the Irish harp is possibly one of the most beautiful I've ever heard her sing.



"Signature" is a great introduction to Moya's sound if you're more a fan of pop than folk. If like me, you've loved Moya since Clannad, it's still a good addition to your music collection, particularly if you want a mix that spotlights Moya's amazing, hauntingly beautiful voice.

"