by Catherine L. Tully

Artist: Sarah Dinan
Album: From the Ashes
Year produced: 2004

There is nothing like a deep woman's voice--especially when they are singing Celtic music. Sarah Dinan's purrs through many of the selections on From the Ashes, sometimes soothing, sometimes haunting, but always beautiful.

The first track on the album, however, has Dinan singing in a chirpy, birdlike way. She can do this too, but you would never believe that she is an alto. She reveals this in the second track, which is accompanied by her band members.

Track three, May Morning Dew finds Dinan going solo, sans music, which I always love and this time is no exception. She holds her own, and held my attention as well. I relished it, not knowing that there was more of this to come.

Track four is playful, and she uses her voice almost as if it were an instrument itself. It is followed by Black is the Colour, which is a soft, dreamy tune which highlights Dinan's range and vocal skill. She shows that she can demonstrate her talent without beating you over the head with it. It whispers to you.

The next track, When You and I Were True, perks up a bit and has a nice, smooth feel to it, just as track eight, An Paistin Fionn. But the real star of the album is sandwiched in-between these two songs.

The Hero's Return (The Belfast Song) has only voice, although this time it is in harmony, and its tone is serious, not dreamy. It takes a lot to bring a tear to my eye musically, but this song did just that.

Track nine, She Moved Through the Fair was just plain fun and it was one of those tunes that you keep with you for a while. Starts out slow and builds up momentum as it goes--leaving you waiting for what is next.

The album closes with Flower of Magherally 'O (Radio Edit) which finishes things off nicely. I must say, it is a compilation of songs that is well worth a listen. If you are a fan of a strong, deep, Celtic voice, this album is for you.

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Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer specializing in the arts. She has written for Dance Teacher Magazine, Classical Singer and Dance Spirit among others, and reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her at www.freelance-zone.com.

Labels: cd_review_2005

Posted by Marc Gunn, Thursday, July 07, 2005.
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