Naomh Gobnait Independent release ***

Cór Cúil Aodha have long been a consistent presence in churches and at key traditional music gatherings, but this is their first recording in a quarter of a century. Founded by Seán Ó Riada 50 years ago, and under the baton of his son Peadar since 1971, this all-male choir has brought a celebratory community singing style to bear on a mix of liturgical music, much of it traditional. Peadar Ó Riada composed and arranged most of the music, and a standout is the closing Moladh Go Mór, based on the work of the late poet and stonemason from Cúl Aodha, Séamus Mór Ó Muimhneacháin. At its heart is a tangible sense of solidarity, the adult and child male voices coalescing in shapes which are robust and ragged-edged, celebrating the rustic rather than the refined elements of liturgical singing. peadaroriada.ie