Réalta

Clear Skies

Réalta Music

THE second album from Northern Irish quintet Réalta shows the maturity and togetherness of a now well-travelled ensemble while still bursting with the youthful, barnstorming spirit that won them a Danny Award at Celtic Connections in 2012.

Comprising a frontline of twin uilleann pipes (alternating with whistles and flute), accompanied essentially by guitar, double bass and bodhran, they continue in the tradition of the Bothy Band and Lúnasa, adding touches of their own to Asturian and Breton music as well as Irish tunes both old and new. Their atmospheric take on Paddy Ryan’s Dream underlines their ability to play with measured imagination as well as fire, and songs in English and Gaelic from bassist and assorted frets player Dermot Mulholland and guitarist-pianist Deirdre Galway add character and charm alongside the sheer soulful passion and expressive vigour of Conor Lamb and Aaron O’ Hagan’s piping.

Slow air Úr-Chnoc Chéin Mhic Cáinte is a particular, blue note-rich treat but the high standard is consistent across all eleven tracks.

Rob Adams