Clannad Live review by Ryan Beardsley. Photos by Kevin O’Sullivan
It’s rare that an act knows when it’s going to be the last time, but tonight that was the case for Clannad in West London, and talk about leaving the stage with no regrets, what a show, what an honour.
The first half of the show was dedicated to the 40th anniversary of Bafta Award winning record Legend, the soundtrack to Robin of Sherwood, a cult tv show that was sadly before this writer’s time.
Clannad were introduced by the two actors who played the titular character including Sean Connery’s son (who knew?) and through their skilled playing, recreated Sherwood Forest inside the Royal Albert Hall. Robin (The Hooded Man) gets a rousing rendition before the audience are treated to favourites from the much lauded soundtrack.
In the second half we’re treated to a selection of the band’s greatest hits. Caislean Óir and Níl Sé Ina Lá still sound etheral and suitably epic in the perfect setting of the Royal Albert Hall. In A Lifetime sees Moya Brennan lament that young Dublin based singer Bono was sadly unable to make it tonight to sing his part, it probably would have been unfair to overshadow the band’s last night with a superstar cameo.
The band, led by Moya, Pol and Ciaran Brennan are clearly delighted to be up on stage again and at times seem overwhelmed by the occasion, the fact that this will be the last time they all play together clearly hits home as we get closer to the end, and it’s obvious they didn’t want the night to end, just like all of those in attendance.
Photo Copyright © Kevin O’Sullivan
Collectively the musicians are a marvel, special shout out to saxophonist Mel Collins as well as new additions to the family name with a nephew and a niece on guitar and keyboards, it’s great that they’re keeping it in the family.
The Theme From Harry’s Game transports the whole of the RAH back to 1970s Belfast and Troubles strewn Northern ireland, Moya Brennan’s marvellous voice has never sounded so otherworldly and you could hear a pin drop throughout.
The night reaches a crescendo with a raucous Teidhir Abhaile Riú which has everyone on their feet dancing, clapping and singing along, clinging on to this last performance for as long as the band will allow. Just when we thought it was all said and done, the Brennans saddle back for one final performance of Dúlamán that has the Royal Albert Hall shaking as everyone inside these hallowed walls is aware they’re witnessing history.
A genuine honour and privilege to see the final performance of one of Ireland’s finest bands, let’s hope they enjoy their well earned retirement.
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