The Hour Before Dawn

Need a break from paint-by-numbers pop and rock? Look no further than "The Hour Before Dawn," the fourth recording by premier Irish band Solts. As on its previous efforts, the U.S.-based band deftly blends traditional Irish sounds with accessible pop elements. This set shows the act reinvigorated by the presence of new lead singer Deirdre Scanlan, who replaces Karan Casey (currently exploring her options as a solo artist). Scanlan has a rich alto vocal range that she puts to fine use on such gems as the lilting "Last Of The Great Whales" and "When My Love And I Parted." Adding spice to the collection is a handful of fun instrumentals, most notably the jig "What's Up With Win/Sonny's Brogan/Cahal's Jig," which is so festive that you will not be able to sit still. The set's best bet for a much-deserved mainstream crossover is a sweet rendition of Sarah McLachlan's "I Will Remember You," which begs for the attention of AC radio programmers. It's the perfect entree into an album that is endlessly entertaining and refreshing.