Lisa Hannigan with Stargaze – Live In Dublin
Hannigan's typically sparse and ethereal folk compositions into a sonic panorama that is nothing short of alchemic.
Once in a while, an album arrives that reminds us of the unique and powerful sense of a musical performance captured live. The golden age of 'live' albums probably ended in the 80's as video arrived - first VHS, then DVD and Blu Ray. Now we have downloading and streaming. Yet somehow Live in Dublin manages to shine brightly like a captured constellation, deservedly demanding our constant and returning attention.
Irish songwriter Lisa Hannigan first came to our attention providing backing vocals on Damien Rice's first two albums. She has since released three collections of her own material, including the Mercury Prize nominated debut, Sea Sew.
Anyone who remembers the wonderful David Bowie Prom at the Royal Albert Hall in 2016 will recall 'stargaze', the classical collective led by André de Ridder. They provided the orchestral accompaniment to guest artists like Anna Calvi, Amanda Palmer and John Cale in that stunning tribute to the late Thin White Duke.
In this latest project, de Ridder's cinematic and expansive arrangements transform Hannigan's typically sparse and ethereal folk compositions into a sonic panorama that is nothing short of alchemic. Prayer For The Dying is just one of fourteen tracks that has the hairs on the back of my neck rising in awe and appreciation, proof that the live album is, indeed, alive and well.
Pure magic.
9/10.
