Search - Anuna :: Essential Anuna

Amazing...

Shannon | Virginia | 06/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an amazing cd on the sole fact...if youve never listened to Anuna,this showcases the 'Best of...' them.It gives you a touch of both Michael and John McGlynn's knack for choral arrangements and directing.



I have been following this group since I was 11 years old (I am now 21 years old.) I cant fathom any other group keeping my attention for so long.



And why?



Because Michael's arrangements surpass time.He doesnt follow any strict rules of how choirs should sound and shouldnt sound...he pushes the line and arranges in such a way,that most logical directors would get flustered over.It makes sense and it sounds good yet strays from the path and norm of conventional choirs.Somehow Michael has mastered making his singers sound seamless...the men and women harmonize and sound as one.Something I have never heard a choir do,and know how hard it is to achieve something as that...being involved in classical choirs for 5 years+.



Ireland has a wealth of writers,poets,dancers, and musicians.I dont know how this country churns them out,but nonetheless Anuna is proof that theres something in the water.



Another point to be made...is where the material is found.Michael combs through libraries,anicent texts,church music,etc.Reading his linear notes for songs...you feel like you're getting the untold history lesson of cultures long forgotten and an Ireland you wont see on St.Patrick's Day.



I had the chance this past March to attend Anuna's second tour of the U.S. in NY at a pub (the most unlikely place to see a choir,but I wouldnt have changed it.) I had waited for 10 years to see this,and it was worth the wait and more.The first two songs,I didnt breathe...I sat there,watching the singers proceed throughout the pub and I sat there with my eyes shut at times not exhaling until they took stage.The stage presence of the group was extraordinary.Being so use to performing in a choir where we had sheet music in our hands and the director standing in front of us...to actually see peoples' faces light up and see how much they thoroughly enjoyed singing (and at times singing in their own native tongue as Anuna showcases alongside Latin and English.)was such a blessing! John McGlynn led the choir,and taking some very funny introductions to songs and making the audience feel like it was more at a concert in their living room amongst family than at a pub.



This is an amazing cd if you havent checked out Anuna before..you get a sample of everything.Try out the tracks...August,Deep Dead Blue,Kyrie,and Blackthorn.A few of my faves!"

Absolutely spellbinding

Dance enthusiast | Vancouver, Canada | 03/09/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I was captivated when I first heard this, and it is now one of my favourite CDs. Anuna sound is so pure, so still. I don't have any other Anuna CDs, but I can say that each song on this album is a jewel."

Wonderful Anuna

Trey's Grammy | Beaufort, S.C. | 09/30/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is marvelous Celtic Music. It is haunting and beautiful.It is a mix of classic and new music written and performed by the most beautiful voices. This is a CD that can be enjoyed all year long."