In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Moya Brennan — the unmistakable voice of Clannad, often hailed as the First Lady of Celtic Music.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Clannad’s landmark 1985 album Macalla — a record that bridged ancient Celtic roots with modern pop and ambient textures. Produced by Steve Nye (Japan, David Sylvian) and recorded across Dublin, Surrey, and Switzerland, Macalla captured the moment when Irish music stepped confidently onto the global stage — featuring the iconic duet with Bono, In a Lifetime.
In this conversation, Moya looks back on the creative and spiritual journey behind Macalla — from the evolving sound that carried Clannad from Donegal’s Irish-speaking Gaeltacht region to worldwide acclaim, to the energy of recording during a golden era for Irish music, with U2 at Live Aid and the world discovering Celtic voices anew. She recalls the “lightning in a bottle” studio sessions with Bono — moments that still feel charged with energy — and explores the deeper sense of faith, family, and identity that continues to echo through her work.
“If Macalla helps someone feel something, even for a moment — that’s what it was meant for.” – Moya Brennan
Moya also reflects on Clannad’s role in reshaping how Irish music was seen around the world, and the blending of Gaelic language and modern production that became their signature sound. She discusses how her collaborations have taken her voice from folk stages to global dance floors — most famously with Chicane on Saltwater — and the enduring power of songs such as Closer to Your Heart, Buachaill Ón Éirne, Caisleán Óir, Almost Seems (Too Late to Turn), The Wild Cry, and Journey’s End to connect generations.
Listen to the full episode and join Moya Brennan as she reflects on 40 years of Macalla — the memories, the music, and the lasting echo of Clannad’s legacy.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
Macalla 40th Anniversary Edition
The 40th Anniversary Edition of Clannad’s classic album Macalla has arrived — newly remastered and beautifully expanded to celebrate this landmark release.
The audio has been completely remastered by Phil Kincaid at AIR Studios, with Clannad’s own Pól Brennan overseeing the process to ensure the music’s original spirit shines through.
This special edition also features previously unseen photographs by Anton Corbijn, capturing the band’s iconic visual era, along with a new in-depth interview by Daryl Easlea offering fresh insight into one of Clannad’s most defining works. The anniversary edition is available now via the official Clannad store.
“After all these years, I still love my voice — it’s mine, and it carries every story we’ve lived.” – Moya Brennan
About The XS Noize Podcast
With over 250 episodes to its name, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, and Michael Head — among many more.
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