Là Nua
Just For taste

THE REVIEW

The Là Nua are a young group from Campania, formed in 2011 and coming together as a real project in 2013. The three members Gabriele Ivo Moscaritolo (accordion and tin whistles), Giuseppe De Gregorio (percussion and guitar), and Francesco Brusco (guitar and bouzouki) immediately directed their research towards the rediscovery of the great musical tradition of Irish folk. The term Là Nua in Gaelic means “a new day” and is indicative of their sources of inspiration. Thus, in 2013 they released their first album, consisting essentially of reinterpretations of traditional Irish melodies, although there were 2 original compositions. The album was self-produced and promoted with a long tour that took them to play in their musical homeland of choice, Ireland. They were indeed guests of the prestigious “John Dwyer Trad Weekend” in Waterford, sharing the stage with the well-known Dervish. Meanwhile, the musicians continue to play, increasingly maturing an original style that led to the recording in 2014 of their new album titled “Just For Taste,” recently released by Rox Records of Milan.

In this new album, the influences become more varied: there is always a strong component of Celtic music in their sound; however, references to the Balkan, Breton, and Manouche traditions can be noted. Everything is reinterpreted in a more personal and less literal way compared to the debut album. “Just For Taste” is a fresh album that does not bore and demonstrates the great cohesion achieved by Là Nua. From the first tracks “The Gipsy Reel” and “Tuar Mor,” it is clear that the love for Ireland is more alive than ever. The choice to use acoustic instrumentation undoubtedly gives a particular purity and charm to the music of Là Nua. In “Moninsko Horo,” the great heritage of Balkan music is reread. “Slidin’ At Mulberry Close” is another return to Irish myths. “The Hag At The Churn” and “Farewell To Erin” are also very beautiful, showing an original folk approach due to the Mediterranean origins of the members.

“Just For Taste” is an album full of passion and a desire to play, which I highly recommend to lovers of Celtic music. Those who love Ireland and folk music in general will not be disappointed.