Ireland, although an ancient nation, celebrated the 100th year of its declaration as a republic in 2016. 100 years ago it was a colony of the British empire but a small group of patriots changed all of that. They were artists and poets and they gave us our 'Declaration of Independence', the Easter Proclamation; and who were executed for their ideals. This collection of songs and music from the pens of the leaders of the Easter Rising, Patrick Pearse, James Connolly, and Joseph Plunkett, -Visionaries 1916- is a powerful collection of syncopating rhythms and diva-esque ballads containing the riveting lyrics of Ireland's most inspiring patriots -the artists who led the 1916 Easter Rising. Featuring Altan's Martin Tourish, Daire Bracken (Slide and Danú), Éamonn Galldubh (riverdance), and the multiple all Ireland champion voice of Íde Nic Mhathúna, Visionaries 1916 is composed of tightly formed sets and explosive melodies complimented by deep and beautiful ballads and sean-nós pieces. Featuring an instrumental lineup of Uillean pipes, sax, fiddle, guitar, bodhrán, accordion, and voice, the lyrics are always central but are supported with tight melodic arrangements. Traditional Irish with an emphasis on inventive arrangements and strong lyrics. Lorcán Mac Mathúna reveals the musical influence that touched on the lives of the most inspiring Irish people of the 20th century; and on the centenary of their 'Great Rebellion' uncovers the Sean-nós of Pearse, the perfect meter of Plunkett, and the balladry of Connolly. Accompanied by revelatory texts and biographical archive imagery this special landmark album reveals the artistic minds and creative genius of the leaders of the Easter Rising.