Pauline Scanlon

Red Colour Sun

2005-01-20

Early prediction: Pauline Scanlon will be a strong contender for Best New Worldbeat artist for the 2005 Jammies.

This 24-year-old Irish girl, discovered by Sharon Shannon, has a gorgeous voice and has put together an album of diverse songs that’s sure to impress. Scanlon grew up in County Kerry, steeping herself in the traditional music of her native land, as well as contemporary folk and rock. Her musical world broadened while living and working (and singing) in Europe and Australia. Back in Ireland, she was invited to tour with Sharon Shannon and appeared on Shannon’s 2003 release Libertango.

On Red Coulour Sun, Scanlon sings some traditional songs, some more contemporary Irish folk, and covers Pete Seeger, Don McLean, and Willie Nelson. Some songs are arranged with full backing band; others with minimal instrumental accompaniment or a capella. This promising debut suggests that Scanlon has the talent to stand among the best-known of Ireland’s female singers.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #World

  • reviewed 10/2009

    FORRO IN THE DARK
    Light a Candle

  • reviewed 10/2011

    NATACHA ATLAS
    Mounqaliba-Rising: The Remixes

  • reviewed 08/2016

    The Get Right Band
    Who's In Charge

  • reviewed 07/2004

    Miriam Makeba
    Reflections

  • reviewed 05/2007

    BALKAN BEATBOX
    NuMed

  • reviewed 12/2006

    RAHIM ALHAJ
    When the Soul is Settled: Music of Iraq

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.