Although not purely a concept album like Book of Kells, this album has several themes upon which much of the material is based. The title track is based around words from Psalm 139 and was written at a time when the band was searching for the way forward after the departure of founder member David Fitzgerald.
Dave purchased Celtic Fire, a book that amongst other things contains the story of St Brendan and the voyage he reputedly made across the Atlantic ocean in the 6th century with 14 monks in a coracle.
Dave Bainbridge and the other members of the band soon became fascinated by this epic story of faith and obedience to God, and how it seemed to tie in with the band's thinking at that time. The amazing thing was that Joanne's song Beyond these Shores (which had been written three months previously and already been chosen as the next album's title) seemed to fit Brendan's story exactly. It could have almost been part of Brendan's Prayer on the Mountain (also found in the Celtic Fire book). Some lines from this beautiful prose were later adapted by Jo and used in the lyrics for the song Edge of the World.
REVIEWS
''Their music seems to draw from the collective memories of an entire race of people 'Beyond Theses Shores' is all that and more. It is a modern day masterpiece.'' (Bob Darden, Billboard - USA)
"A rock band full of imagination a band which is continuing to grow day by day." (Marquee Magazine - Japan)
"Combining Celtic and spiritual themes and motifs with 70's jazz/rock and progressive elements, Iona have arrived at a personal sound that finds them east of Clannad/All About Eve and west of Genesis / Moving Hearts Superb." John O'Regan, Rock'n'Reel
"The latest release shows a higher degree of maturity. Joanne Hogg is as powerful as ever. Anyone who enjoyed The Book of Kells should be delighted with this one... highly recommended" Expose Magazine, USA
"It's rare that a record has its eyes set clearly - and literally - on heaven." Q Magazine
"Moody haunting originals that capture the band's roots in Celtic Christian mysticism vie with dramatic, atmospheric instrumentals a beguiling, unforgettable tale of quest and fulfilment." Billboard
