Ireland: 5 Poems / We'Ll To the Woods No More / Sea Fever / Santa Chiara

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of John Ireland's "Ireland: 5 Poems / We'll To the Woods No More / Sea Fever / Santa Chiara," a captivating collection of songs that showcases the composer's profound musicality and poetic sensibility. Released on Naxos in 2008, this album spans a little over an hour and features a diverse array of compositions that highlight Ireland's mastery of vocal and piano music.

The album opens with "Great Things" and "3 Songs," a trio of pieces that immediately draw you in with their lyrical beauty and emotional depth. Ireland's settings of poems by A.E. Housman, including the evocative "We'll to the Woods No More," are particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his ability to translate the essence of poetry into music. The three-part cycle "Marigold" is another standout, offering a rich and nuanced exploration of youth, longing, and reflection.

Sea Fever, a well-known piece, is a stirring vocal work that captures the essence of the sea with its undulating melodies and rhythmic vitality. "Santa Chiara," a lesser-known gem, adds a touch of historical intrigue to the collection, while the "5 Poems" cycle offers a poignant meditation on love, loss, and memory.

Throughout the album, Ireland's compositions reveal a deep connection to the text, whether he is setting the words of Housman, Yeats, or other poets. His music is both intimate and expansive, capable of conveying the most delicate emotions as well as the grand sweep of human experience. The performances on this album are equally compelling, with the artists bringing a sense of immediacy and authenticity to each piece.

Whether you are a longtime fan of John Ireland or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. It is a testament to the enduring power of song and a celebration of one of the most distinctive voices in British music.