What makes Silver Sea by Méav Ní Mhaolchatha notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its rich arrangements and vocal performances, contributing to Méav's reputation as a leading figure in modern Irish music. It also helped further popularize traditional Irish songs among global audiences, bridging cultural divides through music. Silver Sea is Méav Ní Mhaolchatha's second solo album, following her debut in 2006. By this point, she had established herself in the contemporary Irish music scene, showcasing her distinctive vocal style and deep connection to Ireland's musical heritage.

How many songs are on Silver Sea?

Silver Sea has 13 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Silver Sea

Méav Ní Mhaolchatha · 2011

45 min · 13 tracks · music of Ireland

A haunting blend of traditional Irish melodies and contemporary arrangements that evoke the spirit of the sea.

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Top tracks — play these first

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You Brought Me Up — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its lush instrumentation and heartfelt delivery, encapsulating the themes of love and longing that permeate the collection.
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Morning in Béarra — This song showcases Méav's ability to weave storytelling into her music, painting vivid images of the Irish landscape while highlighting her ethereal vocal quality.
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The Waves of Tory — With its rhythmic pulse and evocative lyrics, this track captures the essence of maritime life and reflects Méav's skill in merging traditional themes with contemporary soundscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional and contemporary styles effectively, showcasing strong vocals and arrangements.

What we noticed

Many songs utilize a call-and-response structure, allowing Méav's voice to interact dynamically with instrumental backing.
The last three tracks shift in tempo and mood, creating a reflective conclusion that contrasts with the more upbeat earlier pieces.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 You Brought Me Up 4:38
2 The Wicked Sister 3:07
3 Morning in Béarra 3:33
4 Full Fathom Five 2:16
5 The Waves of Tory 3:36
6 A Maid in Bedlam 2:26
7 The Cradles 2:47
8 Newry Boat-Song 3:27
9 Martha’s Harbour 2:52
10 The Dark-Haired Girl 2:49
11 Port na bPúcaí 5:30
12 Silent O Moyle 2:51
13 Youkali Tango 5:09

What to play next

Listen next

The Calling

2013

Go back to

Celtic Dreams

2006

Full Méav Ní Mhaolchatha discography Artists like Méav Ní Mhaolchatha

music of Ireland

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata