Omnia – Naked Harp

[schema type=”review” name=”Omnia – Naked Harp” description=”Label: Pagan Scum Records” author=”Basak Günel” pubdate=”2015-11-27″ ]

Omnia is a Dutch pagan/folk band. They are known for their crazy and hippie attitude as well as their protests against today’s system so they are actually more than just a band; they take the concept of ‘paganism’ quite seriously and this is also reflected in the music. At this point, I want to quote the statement in the band’s Facebook page: “OMNIA brings a musical message of respect for nature, personal liberty and freedom of thought and expression for all. In the words of Steve Sic (the one and only Pope of Paganism): “Nothing is sacred, only nature!”
The band is back with an interesting record called “Naked Harp”.

At first listen, you might get confused because although this is an Omnia record, all of the songs are composed and performed by the vocalist/founder/multi-instrumentalist of the band Jenny. In this aspect, this is a different Omnia record. The cover artwork is designed by the famous artist Victoria Frances, which makes the record more unique.  Another interesting aspect is the fact that the record reflects that feminine energy. Those who know the band know that they empower women and feminine energy and I think this is one of the (many) attractive facts about the record.

While listening to the record, we hear a smooth, natural and ‘naked’ side of Omnia. Most of the songs are instrumental and we only hear the harp and in some songs, the beautiful vocals of Jenny. This makes the record ‘easy-listening’  and also a perfect one for this season! The songs are also great for meditation or be one with the nature, which Omnia does really well!

Throughout the album, there are some songs that stand out and also some familiar melodies – from the band’s career as well as some known songs-. “The Flutterby Set” reminded me of Faun’s “The Butterfly” (from their album, “Eden”) and “Planxty Irwin” took me to my childhood as I remember this song from my childhood toys! Furthermore, “Love Birds” show us the romantic side of the record and “Omnia Medley” features parts from Omnia songs I Don’t Speak Human/Alive/Black House/Etrezomp-Ni Kelted/An Dro. A funny song, probably, is “Jenny’s Tits” as it’s one of the most ‘joyful’ songs and I wondered what Jenny thought when composing the song… probably not much! All in all, let’s not forget that the record is called ‘Naked Harp’!

Enough with the highlights though.. There are plenty of songs to be discovered and I leave the rest to the listeners.. “Naked Harp” is not super special but definitely recommended to the lovers of Omnia and pagan/folk/instrumental/harp lovers! It’s a different Omnia for sure!

Tracklist: 01. One Morning in May 02. The Flutterby Set 03. Eleanor Plunkett 04. The Fairy Queen 05. Dil Gaya 06. Bridget Cruise 07. Jenny’s Tits 08. Planxty Irwin 09. Love Birds 10. En Avant Blonde 11. Omnia Medley 12. Anam Cara 13. Uvil Uvil 14. Luna 15. O’Carolan’s Dream

Links:
Omnia Facebook
Omnia Official