We are honored to print here the beautiful lyrics to Knocknashee.
This is a modern day Sean Nós creation, if you will, which returns Anthony to his roots: the old style music of Ireland ~ Sean Nós ~ the ancient music to which no one alive today can do justice like Anthony Kearns.
Anthony has been intrigued by this piece since composer Brendan Graham sent it to him nearly a year before recording it on The Irish Tenors newest CD Ireland, released February 23, 2010. Anthony feels "so fortunate to sing this very special song."
It is an incredible piece for Anthony to record ... in the tradition of the old style music, Sean Nós. The very soft orchestration is the perfect accompaniment for Anthony's interpretation of it.
With sincere thanks to Brendan Graham and Neil Martin for their kind assistance and permission to post these lyrics on Anthony's Official Website.
Knocknashee
Music by: Neil Martin
Words by: Brendan Graham
The winter now is here,
And the year steals so swift away,
Just like a thief in the night,
Who comes but to flee:
The berries are full bright,
And the small birds sing out to me,
Oh but the cold wind blows hard ...
Over Knocknashee.
By summer’s radiant star,
And by love’s own sweetest decree,
None but the harsh moon,
Could steal your beauty from me:
Came autumn’s falling leaves,
And love’s wild uncertainty,
When, like a vision, you flitted ...
From Knocknashee.
I turned from God,
I spurned all religion,
And somehow you came,
Between heaven and me;
Oh how glad I would trade my very soul,
My dear Saviour never to see,
For to gain you I’d lose,
All eternity.
But once when passion's worn,
Never more will it return ...
Love loses fashion,
Like some old tired melody:
The heart that gives too free,
Will sorely rejected be -
Oh how I loved you and lost you ...
In ... Knocknashee
And I will go down -
Go down to the dark wood,
And find that sweet hollow,
Where once you lay with me:
And I will face that final place,
Where the heart will not weary be,
And I will sleep the long sleep now ...
In ... Knocknashee.
© Peermusic, [UK] Ltd.
© Anthony Kearns, March 17, 2002-2009, All Rights Reserved, All Copyright Laws Apply...lynnco.lc
