Taking the softly softly approach towards re-entering the fray of live gigging in Ireland, Cran's inaugural concert of their current Irish tour was a low-key if generally zestful and humorous affair. The trio (Ronan Browne, uilleann pipes, Desi Wilkinson, flute, and Sean Corcoran, bouzouki/ singer) took no time at all to highlight the ironic fact that their totally acoustic, nomicrophones set was sponsored by ESB - as is the Irish tour in its entirety. Ronan Browne even dedicated the (presumably!) fictional Humours of Poolbeg to the company.

This light-hearted attitude belied the intrinsic seriousness behind a solid portion of the group's material. Songs such as Eireann Gra Mo Chroi and Coleraine Town showcased the suitably mournful side of Cran. Adroit melancholic tunes adrift on an air of unease and loneliness, they were perfectly counterpointed by an expansive, expertly played selection of reels, jigs and tunes.

With no amplification whatsoever, it was at times difficult to hear the between-song-patter amidst the creaking of chairs and discrete bouts of coughing. The flipside was that it was a pleasure to have to listen to the nuances of the instruments for a change. The only plugged-in hum was that of the kettle being boiled for the interval coffee break.

Cran continue their Irish tour with performances at The Shebeen, Cahirciveen, Friday, and Bantry House, Saturday. To book phone 01-6719429