Customer Reviews

Omnis

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

 

 

This was the very first CD I ever owned by Anuna, and, as such, it occupies a very important place in my personal collection.
The music of Anuna defies description, but perhaps it is best to say that it explores the realm which William Butler Yeats referred to as the "in between places".

The music on this CD is very harmonically complex--especially the tracks composed by director Michael McGlynn. McGlynn writes in a style that is both old (modal and medieval) and new (tone clusters a la Ligeti and colorful chromatic harmonies) and, as the choir sings a cappella (or with minimal accompaniment), the strength of his composition, arranging AND directing really shines through. Expect to hear some Irish-sounding pieces ("Mermaid" and "Ardaigh Cuan") and some breathtaking church pieces ("Agnus Dei", "Tenebrae I" and "Maria Matrem Virginem")
The jewel of this CD is "The Flower of Maherally", sung by Michael himself. With his willowy, sweet tenor voice, this song never fails to move me to tears.

Enjoy!

As a huge fan of the "Invocation" CD, I felt slightly disappointed with the work on "Omnis". Although the music still maintains it's almost unnaturally perfect choral work, I was immediately struck by how much less warmth this album had. Different recording space? Different recording engineer? In any case, I found the difference extremely noticeable. And the music compositions themselves seem to take on the genre of medieval latin pslams, rather than the celtic works of "Invocation". Don't get me wrong, "Omnis" is still a work of amazing proportions. "Ave Generosa" at first disturbed me for it's chaotic nature. But after a few listens, it has become one of my favorites on the album. Kudos again to Michael McGlynn. I only wish he had recorded this album under the exact same circumstances as he did on "Invocation". Then, even my desire for pure celtic sensibilities may have been quenched.

Anuna, the Celtic a capella chorale directed by Michael McGlynn has released a superb album which further strengthens and deepens the power of their catalog. For a group with three CDs to their name (not counting their overseas releases and early demo tapes), they have already amassed an impressive body of work. The clarity of both individual and group vocals still rings true, with musical accompaniment skillfully enhancing the voices as was done in the past. There are a number of highlights to be found on this release: "Dulaman" energetically describes an Irish slice-of-life of workers and seaweed(!); "The Mermaid" musically recounts the sorrowful Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale; The medley of "Ave Generosa/O Viridissima" is profoundly moving. Many other bright spots can be found on this CD. The only cautionary word I can give regarding this release is that it tends at times to revisit old territory. "Dulaman" reminds a listener of "Hin Barra" from their INVOCATION release, or of the Bothy Band arrangement from their debut. Savvy listeners familiar with Anuna's style and song list will find other such similarities. I wish that OMNIS was a little more like INVOCATION, (their second release) which was broader both in scope and in musical color, traveling through light and dark spectra in surprising, graceful ways. Be assured that my negative thoughts on the CD are very minor ones, and should not dissuade Anuna fans both old and new from adding OMNIS to their collections.

I believe that this CD portays many of the characteristics that are required for a contemporary Irish band based in Dublin. I also believe that Michael McGlynn is a fantastic writer of music. Most of his songs are very moving and sound beeautiful as well. Any award that could be given this band and CD would not do them justice. This is possibly the most beautiful example of singing that I have heard in a long time. Each piece has a different voice and feeling which one can rarely find in the current world. I think that more people should appreciate how beautiful this group works together in their music. If you don't get this CD, you should regret it.

For beginners, this is a great album. It has sacred latin choral music, traditional celtic music, slow love songs, and upbeat adventures; basically everything Anuna does well. Anuna as a group relishes the individual quality of the voices of its members (who change from year to year as singers come and go) but also blends those voices together well. Salve Rex Gloriae, Gaudete, and Dulaman are triumphant, fast moving songs that really get your heart pumping. Beati Quorum Via and Maria Matrem Virginem are the sacred musings of the female choir, transporting you to a cathedral with stained glass. The Flower of Maherally and Roisin Dubh are two sweet love songs, with the lovely tenor voice of the diretor/writer/producer type figure Michael McGlynn soloing. This is a great Anuna starter album.

This album is more somber overall than Invocation, but it still has the lush harmonies and creative twists to medieval polyphony that are a hallmark of Anuna. Many of the tracks are focused on medieval hymns and chants, as evidenced on "Maria Matrem Virginem". However, there are some nice secular, Irish gems hidden in here, like "The Flower of Maherally" and "Dulaman". Those looking for a rich alto, with a sound like the taste of tawny port, will love Miriam Blennerhassett on "Agnus Dei". I highly recommend this CD to those who love lush melodies and harmonies.