Hydra

Inspired by the Greek island of Hydra, and by living in a remote village in the Austrian Alps, Irish traditional singer and musician Nuala Kennedy and long-time collaborator Dublin/New York singer Eamon O’Leary serve up a beautifully atmospheric, effortlessly beguiling new release. Hydra mainly consists of traditional songs, such as a fine interpretation of ‘The Dark-Eyed Sailor’, and traditional jigs and reels, all delivered with the cool clear vocals and flute of Kennedy accompanied by the gentle guitar of O’Leary. Special guests such as Will Oldham, Cathal McConnell and Anaïs Mitchell feature on final track ‘Liffeyside’, but the sublime, effortless duet of Kennedy and O’Leary is the real draw here. It’s an evocative, leisurely listen with a beguiling bohemian vibe. Adding to the atmosphere is the fact the album was recorded on Hydra, live in the old carpet factory which looks over the port. A finely curated collection beautifully performed.