• Record Label: Vanguard
  • Release Date: Oct 8, 2002
Metascore
65

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 11
  2. Negative: 1 out of 11
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    83
    This set combines gorgeous traditional songs and top players with some powerful singing. [11 Oct 2002, p.82]
  2. For those infatuated with her magical voice, this album of work doesn't disappoint.
  3. One of her finest albums to date.
  4. Throughout Sean-Nos Nua the production treats O'Connor's voice like a canvas on which to paint vivid images. At times the result is distracting, with far too much slapback, but it also scores on songs like "Molly Malone," where vocal and instrumental textures together trace the tale through poignant light and ominous shadow.
  5. 80
    Sean-Nós Nua takes a few songs to find its footing, but then it towers with her best.
  6. Her most rapturous work in a decade.
  7. Mojo
    70
    Nothing sounds quite as expected. [Nov 2002, p.108]
  8. O'Connor sounds very relaxed, and ultimately humbled by the ancient material. She resists the temptation to use her vocal tics and affectations; for the most part, she sings the words with a straightforward clarity and reverence.
  9. Blender
    60
    Her haunting voice is perfect for these downcast dirges. [#11, p.139]
  10. Q Magazine
    40
    The results, while respectfully chocolate box pretty, make Enya seem like a bomb-making radical. [Nov 2002, p.109]
  11. Uncut
    20
    A sentimental indulgence destined for a theme-pub half-life. [Nov 2002, p.114]
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 1 out of 8
  1. MikeC
    Nov 17, 2006
    10
    Such Beauty, compassion in her voice. It makes me want to cry and laugh with happiness and sadness all at once.
  2. jyo_tirmayad
    Sep 2, 2006
    8
    This is THE album that Sinead O'connor has waited to make all of her life. It is meaningful and beautiful at the same time. Well, done, This is THE album that Sinead O'connor has waited to make all of her life. It is meaningful and beautiful at the same time. Well, done, Ms. O'Connor. Full Review »
  3. KimB
    May 1, 2006
    9
    I`m ashamed to say that i didn`t hear this album before today. I have always respected and admired Sinéad for her talent and her I`m ashamed to say that i didn`t hear this album before today. I have always respected and admired Sinéad for her talent and her outspokeness. This album is truly a gem, So well produced and put together and her voice is as usual nothing short of spectacular. Full Review »