CARA DILLON

But for many years now, she has lived in Devon with her husband Sam Lakeman, musician, composer and producer. So it's in the south-west of England that she pursues a quiet career, which nonetheless sees her touring all over the UK and Ireland.

The periods of lockdown were an opportunity for her to reflect on her past, her family, her childhood dreams - in a word, her identity. This introspection and reflection began to fuel her creativity. She began to write poems and songs. These texts she now presents on her new album Coming Home.
Writing these songs was like a revelation for Cara. She realized that she was capable of writing. This album, the first to contain entirely original lyrics, reveals a singer with a sensitive personality who explores themes of family, cultural identity and everyday life.
The album is a harmonious blend of poetry and song, offering a glimpse into Cara's world and her personal memories, particularly of her hometown and the people who have meant so much to her: Coming Home, Inishowen.

The album opens with Clear the Path, a lyric that reflects on the influence of those who came before us. It's hard to resist the sensitivity of the song Daughter, a vibrant cry of love to his daughter, who is joined on backing vocals by one of his brothers. Then there's The Well, Mysteries and Carrageen Moss, all beautiful, sensitive lyrics.
And all this is supported by the superb music composed by Sam to enhance his partner's lyrics. The album features a host of first-rate musicians: Scottish musician Duncan Chisholm, flutist Michael McGoldrick and cellist Caroline Lavelle, while Sam plays piano, guitar and percussion.
If I add that at the same time C. Dillon has published a collection of poems and songs of the same name as the album, you'll know the essentials. Cara Dillon is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic singers on the Irish scene.

Charcoal CHARCD012 – www.caradillon.co.uk