Published on Dec 28, 2004
Music is the means we use to salve a battered heart, energize a
weary spirit, provide support for our beliefs, or express our anger
and frustration. Music often speaks when we cannot find the words.
When I am stressed from the storms of everyday
struggles-just-to-survive, I often find myself turning to music for
relief.
Now, some music buffs may find Enya syrupy and sickening sweet,
but for me she is an artist who provides respite to soothe my tired
soul. Classified as a “New Age” artist, she has established a
channel through which she expresses her appreciation for her Irish
heritage and her love of musical chords.
Born in 1961, as Eithne Ni’ Bhraona’in (Gaelic), Enya was raised
amongst other talented family members. The siblings’ musical
activities nourished and broadened her abilities into the
fine-tuned machine it is today. She relies on the Irish Gaelic
(Gaeilge) as her first language, and her lyrics are frequently in
that tongue.
She has been called a chanteuse, but I believe that detracts
from the import and beauty of her music. This ethereal-voiced woman
with her delicate, otherwordly features exposes your emotions and
then encourages you to move on and live again.
With her classical background she is a self-proclaimed
perfectionist and finds the writing of songs difficult. This is
never exhibited in the end result. A wonderful example of that is
“How Can I Keep From Singing.” It is a lyrical piece; the euphonic
nature is in total sychronization with the soft musical undertones.
One of the things I particularly like about Enya’s music is that
most often her incantations create the tune itself.
“Ebudae” is a much shorter selection but is rhythmically strong.
It has a more forceful timbre and takes on a life of its own. I
think special note should be made of Roma Ryan’s deftness in
writing lyrics that correlate perfectly to Enya’s vocal range. She
uses Enya’s melodic capabilities to their full potential.
I am a simple girl and I like simple things; Enya is
uncomplicated but in no way simplistic. She has the voice and face
of an angel. She makes things, although not perfect, at least
peaceful once again.