Gatehouse

Meaning ‘New Beginnings’, Tús Nua are an aptly named quartet, as they step onto the traditional scene for the first time together. Their debut, Gatehouse, takes the listener on a journey through the musical traditions of North Connaught, with nods to influences from further afield in Ireland. The group prove across this debut album that traditional folk music can and will be kept alive through its passing between people, places and generations.

All-Ireland winner Rachel Garvey's sweetly honest vocal opens the album with ‘Spailpín Fánach’, setting a tone of authenticity that underpins the entire work. Her elegant performance of ballad ‘Dobbyn's Flowery Vale’ is a highlight, sung in English yet retaining the traditional sound of Irish folk singing. Their shining star, however, is John McEvoy, whose virtuosic fiddling, experience and compositional talent are invaluable. The musical connection between McEvoy and flute player John Wynne is clear, having previously released a duet album together, Pride of the West. Their complementary playing is heard most beautifully on ‘The Girls from the Gatehouse/James Murray's/The Laughing Spoons’ (accompanied by Jacinta McEvoy's capable guitar), and on the lively trio of reels that close this pleasingly authentic album.