Soundtrack, minus the film

Issue 

Soundtrack, minus the film

The Secret of Roan Inish
Music by Mason Daring
Distributed by Larrikin Entertainment
Reviewed by Bernie Brian

I'm not sure whether it is an advantage or a disadvantage not to have seen a film before you review its soundtrack. At the time of writing, The Secret of Roan Inish had not arrived in Darwin. Mystical stories of Ireland's west coast don't appeal to the large cinema chains as much as comic book ghosts, men dressed as bats and Mel Gibson. No doubt, however, it will be pleasing to the composer that his music is being reviewed with a mind uncluttered by celluloid images.

Roan Inish is a pleasurable album. Massachusetts-based composer Mason Daring has written the soundtrack to many other films and has revealed a remarkable versatility in music styles, from jazz to zydeco. This time he ventures into traditional Irish music with its atmospheric flutes, the rhythmic beat of the goat-skinned bodhran, uplifting tin whistles and reeling flutes.

Roan Inish is a tale of a rural people's relationship with the land and sea. Many of the tracks easily conjure up images of misty lakes and mountains and an island sitting on the crest of an Atlantic wave. Lovers of the haunting sounds of the Uillean pipes and the watery sounds of the Irish harp will not be disappointed. And for those who like a rollicking reel, there are at least two on the album. As for the film, if it's anything like the soundtrack, it must be worth seeing.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.