New Music – Rónán Ó Snodaigh and Myles O’Reilly – Níl Aon Easpa Orm

A second album from the duo of Rónán Ó Snodaigh and Myles O’Reilly, which I wasn’t really expecting, is due to be released on July 28th! They’ve just released the first single off the album called “Níl Aon Easpa Orm” (I have no want), the video featuring the dancer Mufutau Yusuf, who has been featured many times on the site. Hard for us to resist.

You can check it out below, along with some words from Rónán and Myles…

Musicians Rónán Ó Snodaigh (Kíla) and Myles O’Reilly are proud to announce the release of their second album ‘The Beautiful Road’, a soulful blend of folk, traditional, and ambient crossover, to be released via Claddagh Records on July 28th.

Today, they share the first song ‘Níl Aon Easpa Orm’, along with an enchanting video created by Myles, assisted by artificial intelligence.

To create the film, Rónán, Myles, and dancer Mufutau Yusuf, ventured to the sacred hills of Loughcrew, Co. Meath, a location adorned with ancient Neolithic and megalithic burial tombs and monuments. For centuries, this site served as the final resting place for esteemed figures of the Stone Age and Bronze Age, including kings, queens, druids, and other significant individuals. At Loughcrew, seasonal ceremonies and celebrations took place, symbolically connecting the living with the mystical realm known as the Otherworld.

Myles explains:

“In our video, Rónán and Mufutau embody this tradition, visiting the Otherworld to dance together and pay homage to our ancestors, just as it had been practiced for thousands of years in this sacred place. From the hill’s summit, we witnessed a panoramic 360-degree view of the entire island, evoking a sensation of flight akin to the take-off of an airplane.

As an observer, I noticed Rónán and Mufutau gracefully assuming bird-like shapes and movements, reminiscent of the heavens above, and thought it was a good opportunity to use AI as a tool in post-production. It is fascinating to witness the development and discussions surrounding Artificial Intelligence these days. I believe I have found, and stand by, a positive representation of what it has to offer.”

Rónán adds:

“It strikes me that many newcomers in Ireland may not be aware of the sacred or spiritual aspects of the landscape here. I believe it’s crucial for people to visit these places and establish a deeper connection with the spirits of the land. Such experiences can ground them and alleviate their uncertainties. Often, individuals from diverse backgrounds may feel hesitant or unsure in unfamiliar surroundings. However, by immersing themselves in these locations, they can become part of the profound conversation that defines our identity as Gael and as the people of these islands. This discussion transcends superficial differences like skin colour or tribal affiliations—it is a deeply meaningful endeavour.

Artists and those who have contemplated these matters have the opportunity to showcase these places and extend invitations to others to engage in the active spirituality they offer. It is our responsibility to guide people to these sites, to share knowledge about nearby holy wells and sacred spots. This engagement can provide them with an anchor, a connection to the authentic essence of the country. Through our video and the carefully chosen imagery, we aspire to convey these profound ideas more powerfully than words alone can express. Our aim is to diminish the sense of walking on eggshells and foster a stronger sense of belonging and connection.”

Rónán Ó Snodaigh and Myles O’Reilly :: Níl Aon Easpa Orm