Danú

Danú is an acclaimed Irish traditional music group based in An Rinn (Ring), Co. Waterford. Formed in the mid-1990s, the group is named after the Celtic goddess Danu and is known for its energetic performances, innovative arrangements, and strong loyalty to the Irish traditional music heritage. Despite their deep respect for tradition, Danú brings a fresh, inspiring approach to their music, blending sean nós and folk traditions with virtuosic instrumental arrangements.

Band Members and Instruments

Danú features seven talented musicians from various counties across Ireland:

• Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh: Lead singer (English and Irish) and flute/whistle player.
• Tom Doorley: Flute player and frequent spokesperson for the band.
• Dónal Clancy: Guitarist and founding member; also toured with Solas and Liam Clancy.
• Oisín McAuley: Fiddle player (also performs on four- and five-string fiddles).
• Éamon Doorley: Bouzouki and fiddle player; known for his emphasis on countermelody.
• Donnchadh Gough: Bodhrán and uilleann pipes player.
• Benny McCarthy: Accordion (button box) player.

Key Features of Danú's Style

Songs and Singing

• Fusion of Sean Nós and Folk Traditions:
  • Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh's singing often begins in the sean nós style (free rhythm, ornamentation) and transitions into contemporary folk with steady metres.
  • Example: "Molly Na gCuach Ní Chuilleanáin" from the album Seanchas (2010).
  • Starts with a free metre and accordion drone.
  • Develops into a gentle 6/8 metre with guitar and backing vocals.
• Variation Across Performances:
  • In live renditions, Muireann sometimes sings the entire song in fixed metres accompanied only by bodhrán, highlighting the flexibility and improvisation of sean nós traditions.
• Other Song Examples:
  • "The County Down" (Tommy Sands): A contemporary folk song with a blend of sean nós ornamentation and folk accompaniment.
  • "An Seanduine" (When All is Said and Done, 2005): Alternates time signatures (6/8 and 9/8) to adapt the traditional free metre to a more folk-like steady pulse.
  • "The Boys of Barr na Sráide": A gentle ballad featuring fingerpicked guitar accompaniment.
  • "An Spealadóir": A lively 6/8 song, often included in a jig set.

Instrumental Accompaniment

• Main Instruments: Guitar and bouzouki provide harmonic support, while melodic instruments (flute, fiddle, accordion) add colour and texture through harmonies and countermelodies.
• Dynamic Development:
  • Instrumentation builds and evolves throughout songs, adding interest and intensity.
  • Parallel 3rds and 6ths, countermelodies, and instrumental breaks enhance variety.

Instrumental Highlights

Danú is also celebrated for its vivacious instrumental sets, which feature clever structure, contrasting keys, and rhythmic energy.

"Are You Ready Yet" (Think Before You Think album):

• A medley of four reels: Are You Ready Yet? / The Tailor's Thimble / Donoghue's Reel / I'm Ready Now!
• Features:
  • Starts with open 5ths on bouzouki under a flute solo.
  • Builds intensity through tempo changes, key shifts, and rhythmic variations.
  • Ends with all instruments playing together at breakneck speed, creating the classic Danú sound.

"Garech's Wedding":

• A medley of four contrasting tunes: Garech's Wedding (slip jig) / Reel Gan Ainm / The Moving Bog / Cliffs of Glen ColmCille.
• Features:
  • Begins with a slip jig, transitioning into three reels in different keys for increased lift and excitement.

Other Notable Instrumentals:

• "Kerry Tunes" (Polkas): Polished accompaniment and variations bring energy to simple polkas.
• "Jackie Coleman's" and "Seán sa Cheo" (whistle tunes): Exemplify Danú's top-tier playing, high speed, and interesting instrumental combinations.

Awards and Recognition

• In 2004, Danú won the BBC 2 Folk Award for "Best Group."
• At the same awards, their recording of "The County Down" (Tommy Sands) won "Best Song."
• Danú's albums have received critical acclaim for their creativity and energy, making their live performances a unique and unforgettable experience.

Exam Tips

• Describe Their Style: Emphasize the group's blending of sean nós, folk, and instrumental virtuosity.
• Use Examples: Reference tracks like "Molly Na gCuach Ní Chuilleanáin," "The County Down," and instrumental medleys like **"**Are You Ready Yet."
• Highlight Instrumental Techniques: Discuss their dynamic use of harmony, countermelody, and variation.
• Mention Awards: Include their BBC 2 Folk Award achievements to demonstrate their significance in the Irish music scene. Danú exemplifies the vibrant spirit of Irish traditional music, balancing respect for heritage with innovative performance practices. Their music continues to inspire audiences worldwide.