FourWinds

FOURWINDS’ eponymous album released in 2016 featuring Caroline Keane, Robbie Walsh, Tom Delany, Daoiri Farrell, Joanna Hyde and Paddy Kiernan.

FOURWINDS, an Irish traditional music group, made their mark with the release of their debut album, FourWinds (2015).

The album captures the essence of modern traditional Irish music, showcasing a blend of energetic tunes and emotive ballads. The four-member band, consisting of Daoirí Farrell (vocals, bouzouki), Tom Delany (uilleann pipes, whistles), Robbie Walsh (bodhrán, percussions), and Caroline Keane (concertina), brings together a rich array of musical backgrounds and experiences. Their synergy as a group is evident throughout the album, as they seamlessly weave together classic Irish melodies with fresh, contemporary arrangements.

The album features a mix of instrumental sets and traditional songs, offering listeners a well-rounded experience of Irish folk music. Tunes such as “The Three Little Drummers” and “Trim The Velvet” are lively instrumental medleys that highlight the technical prowess of the band. Daoirí Farrell’s powerful voice stands out in tracks like “Farewell to The Gold” and “The Rollicking Boys Around Tandragee,” where his emotive storytelling brings new life to age-old ballads.

One of the standout features of the album is its attention to detail in both the arrangements and the musicianship. The band’s ability to strike a balance between staying true to traditional Irish music and infusing it with their unique styles makes FOURWINDS a compelling listen for both purists and newcomers to the genre. The album is a promising introduction to the band and a testament to the ongoing evolution of traditional Irish music.