Customer Reviews

Landing Step

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

We discovered Gráda in a live performance at FitzGeralds in Berwyn, IL on Valentine's Day 2004. A group of us went at the spur-of-the-moment because we had out-of-town guests who wanted to hear some live music. We knew only to expect a five-member group from Dublin. Our small group ended up being half the audience, and it felt like such a thrill to have this outstanding group almost all to ourselves! Their performance was spirited, technically demanding, and yet seemingly effortless. They have a full, rich, well-balanced sound, and their compositions are nicely arranged. Gráda moved effortlessly between original compositions with influences from New Zealand and more traditional Breton selections. As the band took the stage, we knew with the first song we were in for a treat. We immediately grabbed the cell phones and started calling friends to come join us and hear this amazing group. In the end, our only disappointment was our with ourselves; we were unable to augment the audience due to the holiday and lateness of the hour. Give Gráda a listen, I'm sure you'll be glad you did. And if you see them in person, tell them we sent ya!

Grada is a great new band out of Dublin. I had the opportunity to see them perform on their last U.S. tour. I was impressed by their wonderful vocals and innovative instrumentals. I especially liked their use of Balkan beats. The instrumentation (flute, guitar, drum and fiddle) is pleasing to hear and their lead singer has a wonderful voice.

I've been a fan of Celtic music for many years. I remember the excitement I felt the first time I heard Planxty. I couldn't believe Irish music could sound that good (I thought it all sounded like the Clancy's and Dubliner's singing at a pub). I had the same thrill when I heard Grada. They are not a Planxty clone. Much of the music is original and their arrangements are unique (and their lead singer is female).

But once again I feel like a door has opened into a new sound and new direction. This group deserves support. I want them to prosper because I look forward to the joy they will bring in the future.

The flutes on this CD are wonderfull. I listen to this CD all of the time. It's a good CD for any mood.

I'm a totally addicted luxury fiber Spinner - & tho I'm not so crazy about the vocal tracks - the instrumentals are simply HYPNOTIC for any Spinner's Wheel or hand-spindling! It's part of my everyday play lists! Wonderful soothing muse-ic!

Grada pays a lot of respect to their ancient musical roots in this album, but they're not afraid to experiment with them either. A number of the tracks are flute and violin reels that bounce, lilt and play off each other, but the rest of the tracks are modern covers of folk rock done in an Irish style. The entire album is highly recommended, especially for those fond of the famous front room at "The Burren." The first track, "Tread Softly," is one of their most simple, but still elegant, vocal numbers. If you're looking for more Irish lilt and `The-world's-a-bit-gray-te'day' edge, don't be shy about checking the rest of the album.

I watched them play in Sydney this year, but even though I love this album, there's nothing like listening to them live. Anne-Marie has an absolutely beautiful voice and the musicians really build up excitement and warmth when they play.
My favourite songs on the album would have to be Tread softly and Seven of Eight. Great album, been listening to it non-stop.