Band of Brothers

by Rebecca Bermingham

www.myspace.com/thekanyutree/photos

“There are so many familiar faces tonight. Thanks to everyone who supported us, we wouldn’t be here without you”; a warm appreciation from front man Shane Cluskey at The Kanyu Tree's launch of their first album, People Street. The four brothers, Oisín, Daniel, Shane and Ruairí were welcomed home after a summer of astounding success with a gig at their musical core, the Róisín Dubh. The boys have been immersed in the festival scene performing to thousands at Oxegen, Electric Picnic, Sea Sessions, Castlepalooza and Indiependence. At long last, they returned home to the West. The album, released September 30th, was recorded between Galway and London with Ali Shaheed Muhammad from A tribe Called Quest as co-producer. It has invoked even more curiosity in this soon-to-be-the-next-big-thing band.

The Salthill siblings, who signed to Sony Music earlier this year, have rapidly grown in popularity over the last 12 months. Originally a three piece by the name The Cheerfuls, youngest of the brothers, Ruairí, joined forces to create the full union. After just a few months, the original line-up grew tired of their name and exercised their innovative flare and came up with The Kanyu Tree. Tree stands for the family connection while Kanyu represents the time they spent in Japan as young children meaning membership. The bands originality and creativity stretches far beyond the name as People Street is quickly gaining reputable status.

Friday night saw a rousing crowd in the Róisín Dubh, a venue that encapsulates the Galway music scene and also The Kanyu Tree’s development. The boys have graced the stage of the Róisín for years and have a well-established fan base, even with the barmen. One commented, “They have a good vibe and a good following”. The atmosphere at the gig was a mix of vibrancy and dynamism but also a sense of comfort and ease. Family, friends and fans of The Kanyu Tree ardently supported the group. Each brother got his own cheers, fox whistles and name screamed throughout the night. This, teamed with the incredible stage presence made for a truly wonderful performance.

The relationship between the brothers on stage was endearing. They exude professionalism, fun, style and individuality all at the same time. The eye contact between the four throughout the night showed the groups unique gel. The gig thrived on audience interaction as the boys best known tunes pumped from the speakers. Their first single Radio, along with Congratulations and their new song Slow were among the favourites. The crowd animatedly chorused the lyrics.

It is difficult to find a comparison to the sound of The Kanyu Tree. But, is that not the sign of something special? They have created something totally new and original in the Irish music landscape. The Police, Prince, The Bee Gees and Fleetwood Mac are just some of the inspirations the group have noted, listening to them in their childhood. Their oeuvre speaks for itself, proudly representing Galway’s long history with the arts. The group has produced a one of a kind first record with consistent originality between tracks and a strong sense of longevity.

http://www.meg.ie/the-kanyu-tree-at-roisin-dubh/