Whisper to the Wild Water

by William Ruhlmann Máire Brennan sets a series of prayers in English and Gaelic to music on her second album for the religious label Word. The musical style is informed by Celtic music and hymns, but also uses elements of rock, as Brennan sings with considerable echo, sometimes suggesting the round tones of Judy Collins. The massed backup vocals with their ethereal sound often recall the work of Brennan's sister Enya, though her songs are more focused. The tone of generalized religious devotion in the lyrics and Brennan's angelic singing sometimes make the music sound like it comes from centuries ago, despite the occasional electric instrumentation and 1990s production values.