Talented artist to perform ode to western islands in Mayo arts centre
Naomi Berrill, the internationally acclaimed cellist, composer, and singer from County Galway, now based in Florence Italy, is thrilled to announce her Spring 2024 tour across Ireland.
The tour celebrates the release of her latest album, Inish, a deeply evocative collection inspired by the islands of Inishark and Inishbofin off Ireland’s west coast.
Alongside the tour announcement, Naomi has released a captivating video for her song "Best Alone", offering an intimate glimpse into the haunting beauty and stories behind her music.
The song "Best Alone" reflects on the last 23 inhabitants of Inishark, who were evacuated in October 1960 after years of isolation and hardship. Berrill’s lyrics and melodies embody the island itself, personified as a wistful figure both at peace in its solitude and yearning for the echoes of its lively past.
Samples of traditional Irish folk music, including Andrew Murry’s rendition of The Sally Gardens, are woven into the composition, grounding it in Ireland’s rich cultural history.
The accompanying video, shot by Buúlabosca Films, features aerial views of the desolate yet breathtaking Inishark, where nature has reclaimed the land.
The video captures the essence of the island’s beauty and melancholy, mirroring the song’s emotion. It was filmed during Naomi’s brief yet profound visit to Inishark, where she and producer Lorenzo Pellegrini recorded soundscapes for the album, incorporating seascapes, birdsong, and the voices of local islanders.
"Inish is my ode to the islands of Inishark and Inishbofin," Naomi explains. "It tells the stories of the people who lived there—their courage, their struggles, and their deep connection to the land and sea. Through this music, I hope to bring these stories to life, sharing the beauty and extremes of island existence with audiences."
Naomi will be joined on tour by Italian multi-instrumentalists Lorenzo Pellegrini and Andrea Beninati.
Together, the trio’s performances will blend folk, classical, and jazz influences, creating a contemporary sound that’s both ethereal and powerful.
"I am so excited to return to Ireland and present this project in its entirety," Naomi adds. "Performing with Lorenzo and Andrea brings a new vitality to my music, and I hope audiences across Ireland will feel the magic we’ve worked to create."
The Inish Ireland tour follows the successful release of the album in Italy through Casa Musicale Sonzogno in October 2023.
Inish was featured on RTÉ Radio 1's recommended listening list and includes standout tracks such as "Sea Warrior," a tribute to Grace O’Malley, and "Best Alone."
Inish is Naomi Berrill’s fourth album and represents the start of her collaboration with Pellegrini and Beninati. Together, they have created a bold and innovative sound palette, blending Naomi’s experimental cello techniques with vibrant production.
Tickets available to purchase via this link.