Mixed Groups - Anuna: Anuna (2005)

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Anuna: Anuna (2005)

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This CD is a re-release of Anuna's debut album of 1995. The pieces selected for the '95 recording do not reflect the variety later Anuna discs do. It consists of arrangements based upon Medieval Latin text fragments, traditional Irish folk songs and 19th century poetry set in elaborate and elegant choral arrangements by composer (and the group's driving force) Michael McGlynn. These choices reflect McGlynn's interest in bringing ancient Irish music to the attention of young singers. This new version of the debut album has three additional pieces: "Kells," "Hymn to the Virgin," and "The Dawn," all written later for the film celebrating the Book of Kells, called "The Work of Angels." Especially notable cuts on the album include: "Media Vita, a 10th century chant with especially effective drone; "Silent, O Moyle," a beautiful melody set to poetry by Ireland's quintessential poet, Thomas Moore; "Fionnghuala," in a style called "Scottish mouth music;" "The Blue Bird" (compare with The Cambridge Singers' version, available at A-cappella.com, on the CD "There is Sweet Music,") and "The First Day," a startingly lovely piece, with a tin whistle beginning and end, a beautiful solo by Kim Lynch, and perfect droning background.

McGlynn and Anuna were the first group to create the category of music in which they continue to excel. Call it 'New Age Celtic,' call it 'Classical Crossover Celtic,' call it what you will, but you must call it beautiful. (36:37 2005)

Song List:
Media Vita (arr. Michael McGlynn)
Crist and St. Marie (arr. M. McGlynn)
Invocation (M. McGlynn)
The Raid (M. McGlynn)
Suantrai, Trad'l. Scottish (arr. M. McGlynn)
Kells (M. McGlynn)
Sanctus (M. McGlynn)
Cormacus Scripsit (M. McGlynn)
Si Do Mhaimaeo (arr. M. McGlynn)
Silent, O Moyle (arr. M. McGlynn)
The First Day (arr. M. McGlynn)
Jerusalem (arr. M. McGlynn)
Fionnghuala (arr. M. McGlynn)
The Blue Bird, C. V. Stanford (arr. M. McGlynn)
Faigh An Gleas (arr. M. McGlynn)
Pater Noster (M. McGlynn)
Hymn to the Virgin (M. McGlynn)
The Dawn (M. McGlynn