Deiseal

Based in Dublin, Eire, the folk trio Deiseal—whose name translates from Gaelic as “following the sun”—brought together low-whistle player Cormac Breatnach, bouzouki specialist Niall O’Callanain and bassist Paul O’Driscoll. Their sound drew equally from jazz, African traditions and Irish music. Prior to forming the group, Breatnach had already become a familiar presence on Irish radio and television, having performed alongside Donal Lunny, the Celtic Orchestra and the ensemble Meristem. O’Callanain, who attended school with Breatnach, likewise appeared in Meristem; beyond that collaboration he produced Lorraine Jordan’s album Grazy Guessing Games, authored a bouzouki method book and worked in ensembles directed by both Lunny and James Last.

Recorded toward the end of 1992 for the band’s German tour, The Long Long Note showcased a carefully crafted blend of traditional material and original pieces. Despite containing no fiddle, the album received Germany’s Golden Fiddle Award for best folk recording.