This 1997 album from the Canadian singer-songwriter blends Celtic folks music with influences from world music traditions, that includes devices such because the hurdy-gurdy, oud, and bouzouki alongside extra typical Western instrumentation. The album’s distinctive sound creates a mystical and evocative ambiance, explored by way of songs like “The Mummers’ Dance,” which turned a global hit, and “Marco Polo,” which tells of the explorer’s travels.
The album represents a major second in McKennitt’s profession, solidifying her signature fashion and broadening her worldwide enchantment. It achieved business success, reaching excessive positions on varied charts worldwide and incomes a number of certifications. The album’s enduring recognition highlights its creative benefit and its capability to resonate with a various viewers taken with exploring musical traditions past typical genres. The themes of exploration, each geographical and religious, woven by way of the album contribute to its lasting influence.