Maire Brennan - Authentic Classics: Perfect Time

Reviewed by Adrian Cherrill

First of all, it has to be said that this album appears to be no different from the original 1998 release (it's not even a remastered version) apart from the addition of a cardboard slip case, so the cynical view is that it's a little difficult to see the point of it. But that can't take away from the fact that what was the third solo offering from the voice of Clannad is a perfect example of it's Celtic genre, and the one where she finally sang openly of her faith. Mixing elements of original Clannad (including Moya's fine harp playing), that ethereal vocal much popularised by Moya's sister Enya, and adding other elements such as a church choir, this is a nicely balanced, gentle album with plenty of depth in the music and lyrics to keep you interested. The Gaelic language songs all stand out (especially "Song Of David", with the aforementioned choir), but in truth there isn't a bad song on here. The production does sound a little dated now, but that can't take away from what is a fine album. If you haven't got it yet, go get it now!