Cu Dubh

“Order of the Owl” is the first release by the Celtic band Cu Dubh. It is likely to be different than anything you’ve ever heard. Think of it as a sort of “dreamscape”, transporting you into a realm of ancient sounds and music. Moody, interesting and edgy, this CD is a great pick for those who are in the market for a journey, not just a song or two to tap the feet along with. This is a whole other kind of experience.

It’s a bit difficult to try and nail down this musical compilation for a review. As you listen, you’ll hear highland bagpipes ring out with clarity, almost like they are crying out in the darkness to be heard. In addition, you’ll also hear the heartbeat of the music reflected in the sounds of drums from all over the world. I kept feeling “wilderness” throughout the album. A sense that the music was almost primal in nature. It was really amazing.

I have to say that I was moved by this CD. “Order of the Owl” is definitely not your typical Celtic fare, but in this case, that isn’t a critique. In fact, I found the ancient sentiment that this album was laced with hypnotic and attractive all at the same time. It was beautiful, strong, and if I dare say this–very manly, without being aggressive. Almost a “warrior” vibe. The thread of it all got me and held my interest throughout.

All in all? I have to say that this was a very cool CD.

Artist: Cu Dubh
Album: Order of the Owl

Hometown: North Quincy, MA
Similar Artists: Albannach, Clann An Drumma, Wicked Tinkers, Corvus Corax, Wolgemut, Master Blasters, Victoria Police, Dead Can Dance

Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. - Celtic MP3's

““an amazing pipe and drum group called Cu Dubh , a group specializing in World/ Celtic music, based out of Quincy, MA. Was a perfect fit to the night. Unbelievably powerful and infectious and intense sounds of thundering drums and dual bagpipes, the crowd at church could not help themselves but cling to each other in a wave of what looked like a hundred drunk people trying to dance like Irish step dancers. Everyone laughing and helping keep each other up as the crowd bounced, fell and shouted along to the music. Not a frown in the room, a very happy place. Every person within earshot was dancing. What better way to enjoy the holiday?!” - Krista Jane -Ryans Smashing Life ”

- KristaJane

““an amazing pipe and drum group called Cu Dubh , a group specializing in World/ Celtic music, based out of Quincy, MA. Was a perfect fit to the night. Unbelievably powerful and infectious and intense sounds of thundering drums and dual bagpipes, the crowd at church could not help themselves but cling to each other in a wave of what looked like a hundred drunk people trying to dance like Irish step dancers. Everyone laughing and helping keep each other up as the crowd bounced, fell and shouted along to the music. Not a frown in the room, a very happy place. Every person within earshot was dancing. What better way to enjoy the holiday?!” - Krista Jane -Ryans Smashing Life ”

- KristaJane