Reviving life in music

Australian duo Dead Can Dance have ended a long silence by recording their new album Anastasis in Ireland, says Ed Power

DEAD CAN DANCE singer Lisa Gerrard says “there is something very powerful about growing up in an Irish household. Something that says you can be as sophisticated as the Queen of England, even if you are from a very poor background. It’s a quality that comes through strongly in our work.”

Gerrard, the female half of the cult goth-pop duo (Brendan Perry is the male half), is haunting and banshee-like on albums. In person, she is a flinty Australian direct from central casting. She has a hearty laugh, swears, and greets with a fierce bear hug.