This is a first listen to a track from the new flute album by Carlow flute player Ciarán Somers called 'Now'. His flute playing has been described as a remarkable blend of strong, robust and woody tone combined with an electrifying rhythmic energy.

He is well known and respected as a solo performer and for his work with the group ‘Pipers Union’ with David Power and Dónal Clancy. In 2009, along with fiddler Dave Sheridan and Breton Guitarist, Nicolas Queménér, he released the album ‘Faoi Bhláth’ to critical acclaim.

This track from his new album includes the tunes Kiss the Maid behind the Barrel and The Strawberry Blossom. He associates the first reel with Sligo and the rich flute playing tradition there. He has been playing 'The Strawberry Blossom' on the pipes for years and says that it is certainly related to the more commonly played 'Boys of Ballinahinch'.

The album was recorded in Brittany in north-west France, and has just been independently released.  He is expertly accompanied by Nicolas Queménér on guitar. It features 14 tracks on a range of wooden flutes in different keys and includes both Irish traditional and Breton music.

The album is currently available directly from Ciarán’s website and will be available from specialist traditional music stores.The website also contains listings and biographical information.

Ciarán is currently working on two other recordings, the first with Pipers Union and a collaborative work featuring the musical traditions of Brittany France and Quebec Canada – ‘COEFF 4’

Visit www.ciaransomers.com