Muireann sings and plays beautifully on this album as she does every time she performs regardless of whether she is in the studio, at a pub or on the concert stage. It's wonderful to listen to.

Muireann takes the listener to a place where just these melodies and songs are suited for and that is The Small Hours. It is a simple joy to go there.

With the opening words and melody of Western Highway it is impossible not to be taken in by the story and where it leads you. And that would be the same place that Muireann loves to be... The sea. And how can one not want to jog along and live a life of Free and Easy!
Every track on this album is simply a gift from the talented and beautiful Muireann.

This tour de force compilation is nothing short of musical brilliance. In Thar Toinn, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh allows her voice to be carried along and supported by virtuosic musicians through subtle yet intricate arrangements. This could not be seen more in the final song performed by Muireann and her husband, Billy Mag Floinn, who plays the transcendent sounding yaybahar. The duo sets the mood perfectly for the final cut of the collection, the mystical song Port na bPucal.