Dee Armstrong is stepping into the limelight with her eagerly awaited debut solo album, "Deichtine's Daughter." Due out Feb 28 in Ireland and Mar 28 in the UK, the record is a brilliant amalgamation of heritage, narrative, and innovation that envelopes people in a personal journey.
With Kíla, Dee Armstrong is best known for her electrifying performances and multi-instrumental versatility that leaves a trail of sounds and textures in its wake. Still, she has long been a vital creative force in Ireland's music scene. With "Deichtine's Daughter," she offers an album of original works, an elaborate tapestry of fiddle, viola, hammered dulcimer, banjo, and tuned percussion. The album is the work of a creator whose reach and influence go far beyond the stage.
The "Deichtine's Daughter," is also inspired by a mythological figure. The Deichtine mother of Cú Chulainn reconsiders an alternate world: What if she had a daughter? What battles would she fight? What stories would she tell? Keeping this vision in the forefront, Armstrong creates a soundscape where time loops and rushes, marrying traditional Irish roots to contemporary textures.
It consists mainly of original compositions, with select traditional tunes included. Notable highlights include "Birch Wind," a breathtaking boat ride that reflects the essence of the wild and evolution. "The Prince of Laughter is a collaboration with Bobby Lee that mixes evocative storytelling with Armstrong's signature string arrangements. "You Do" and "Frailach" are classic, traditional songs treated to new, gnarly arrangements.
The Armstrong blood runs deep in music, and "Deichtine's Daughter" is a testament to the living tradition. Pat & Ciaran's sons Diarmuid (5-string banjo) and Lughaidh (electric guitar) round out the ensemble, making this album a touching family effort. Joining them are Ronan Ó Snodaigh (bodhrán), Peter Browne (accordion), and Rick Epping (harmonica).
Armstrong has expressed Kíla's visual world through set design and album artwork for a long time. This commitment to embracing big-picture thinking can be seen in the stunning Deichtine's Daughter tour poster designed by the renowned Paul Holbrook-Phillips of True Simultaneous Milk. Modeled after mythology, fire, and movement, the artwork reflects the commanding nature of Armstrong's music and the excitement it brings to those who listen.
Recorded in the intimate confines of Armstrong's house in Boihy, County Leitrim, and engineered by Mark Gavin, the music wears its authenticity and warmth on its sleeve. Mixed by Anthony Gibney and Armstrong herself, the production finds a seamless balance between raw traditional elements and polished modern arrangements.
Armstrong has left an indelible mark on Irish music and storytelling, from crafting the soundtracks to award-winning films like The Secret of Kells and Wolfwalkers. Now, with "Deichtine's Daughter," she takes center stage, presenting an album at once a homage to tradition and a headlong thing. "Deichtine's Daughter" will be released on all major streaming platforms. Fans can pre-save the album and find exclusive behind-the-scenes content through Dee Armstrong's official channels.
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