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.

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Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

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