chat home > christy chat


CHRISTY CHAT ARCHIVE

 

April 7th 2008 Whelan's Dublin

Last played here twice before with Jim Page and Donal Lunny.  Played another night with Andy Irvine and Donal Lunny.  Been to many gigs here over the years and nearly always enjoyed myself.  Amongst many gigs I remember Bert Jansch and Jacqui Mc Shee, Norma Waterson and Martin Carthy, The Handsomes, John Prine, all at Whelan's over the years.  It has long been a mainstay of roots music and has just undergone an overhaul.  It now has two venues and dressing rooms and the new policy seems to be music comes first.  Good luck to Leagues O'Toole and Derek Nally and all concerned. Dublin needs this venue.

Our set was:
1.Yellow Furze Woman
2. Magic nights in The Lobby Bar
3. Companeros
4. Allende
5. McIlhatton
6. CoCo Moon
7. Go Move Shift
8. Beeswing
9. Cry Like A Man
10. Stitch in Time
11. Little Musgrave
12. Lawless
13. Hiroshima Nagasaki Russian Roulette
14. Pity The Poor Immigrant
15. Shovel
16. Aisling
17. Two Conneeleys
18. Smoke and strong Whiskey
19. Anne Lovett
20. Hattie Carroll
21  Biko Drum
22. Delerium Tremens
23. Cliffs of Dooneen
24. No Time for Love
25. Ride On.

Next up was two nights in the INEC Theatre in Killarney.  I have always loved this town.  It was rain swept, windy and soggy but once the lights went down we all forgot about the weather for two hours.  Took a trip down The Black Valley, then sat in the car park of Kate Kearneys and watched the capers and antics as the world passed by.  Washed the feet at Torc, ran from the midgies up Mangerton - no sign of Bill Cullen who may be selling apples on the moon.
Then it was a midnight flit on up past Ladies View and over the top on down into Kenmare.  Passed through there at midnight Saturday and it was Puck Fair.  Back up the mountains and through the tunnels over the top for a first glimpse of Bantry Bay with the lights of Whiddy Island guiding me down towards Glengariff.

We played two nights in Dzogchen Beara, the Buddhist Centre located outside Castletownbere high above The Atlantic Ocean. These were fundraisers for the hospice being built, under the spiritual guidance of Sogyal Rinpoche, by the community who live and work in this very special place.  We performed there with no PA which was challenging at first.  Forty years of singing through microphones changes a singer's technique.  It took a while to adjust and to project out to the back of the room.  Matt from the Centre suggested that if I sang the songs The Dalai Lama would take care of the rest.  We had a most memorable visit to this Holy place.
The moon was high was we took our leave to head across Bantry Bay towards the Sheep's Head.  We set up camp high above Ahakista in anticipation of our next gig in St.James's Church just outside Durrus. The lovely chapel was built in 1745 and we had a grand night there with the kind permission of Rev.Paul Willoughby who was delighted to welcome the nearby parishioners of Ahakista as Declan and myself gave it our best shot (and…. there were cushions on the pews).
                           
Finally on to Belfast where I pen these words. We returned here yesterday.  It was a beautiful day.  Sun shone down as The Belfast City Marathon ran all around the place.  It was a happy and bright town yesterday as we made our way to The Waterfront Theatre.  It was the 27th Anniversary of Bobby Sands passing.  His son was at last night's concert.

We played;
After The Deluge
Natives
Back Home in Derry
The Time has Come
McIllhatton (for Gerard Sands)
Missing You
Quiet Desperation
Merseyside
Quinte Brigada
Contender
Metropolitan Avenue
Biko Drum
On The Bridge
Brown Eyes
Sacco and Vanzetti
I Will
Shovel
Minds Locked shut
Beeswing
As I Roved Out
Only our Rivers run free
Ordinary man
Stitch in Time
Joxer
Chicago
Black is the Colour
Lisdoonvarna
Cliffs of Dooneen
Ride On............................a quiet half hour with friends in The Green Room and we were ready for the scratcher......
 
After three more gigs here in Belfast we will move on to Holland and Scotland. We will do a one off gig in The Tripod, Harcourt St. Dublin in mid June - see gig page.   I will sing with three of my favourite singers when Declan and I will be joined by Damien Dempsey, Jinx Lennon and Paula Flynn.  We will be singin' the heads off one another.
 
Talk soon.........
 


6th May 2008


 

Ballinasloe Co Galway 12 March '08

Lately we tend to arrive the day before a gig that we may re-connect, reconvene, rehearse - get the feel of the vibe, the rumble of the buzz of a town. Declan and I live at different ends of the Island so we seldom get to play between gigs. We need this night-before to lay the foundation.... Last played here in late 80s. Remember a gig here in the late 70s in a pub called The Log Cabin.  I was given the use of the parlour room above the premises to prepare myself for the gig. There was an ancient grandfather clock thwacking away.  I was working on Johnny Duhan's song "El Salvador" and ever since I have always associated this song with the rhythm of that old clock.

There is conflicting news on the shop. My sister, Anne Rynne, has been "minding" the shop since its inception.  She has now moved on to fresh challenges and we have decided to close down that end of the site.  However we have also decided to crossover to a digital shop.  It is our hope and intention to make the work available for downloads.  Over the next period we will be setting up systems.  It is my wish to make the entire back catalogue available, then perhaps to follow on with other miscellaneous recordings from the archives.  I would like to thank Anne for her input and attention to detail these past years.  Many of you have commented favourably upon the service that she dispensed so efficiently and all the good juju she created.....Thanks Sis...  Grá Mór....

There is a discussion site at 4711ers.org. I have been visiting it of late and it may be of interest to some of you.  A right shower of headbangers congregate there and chaw the fat. They seem like a friendly bunch, weird and wired betimes but thats why I like them. Join in and get the numbers up.

The recording news is scant. Little to report - lots of rehearsals and a modicum of progress.

TG4 (our Irish Language television station) will transmit a film on St.Patrick's night at 10.15pm. It has been gleaned and woven from the 2006 DVD of The Point, Dublin and also contains some new footage.  Maurice Linnane, who directed the original, has re-edited the various strands and come up with a grand bit of work.....Hope ye like it.

Some gig news and some recently confirmed dates.  We have added Tilburg at the end of May after The Carré in Amsterdam. Scotland is shaping up well at the beginning of June.  We are playing the Tripod, Dublin in Mid-June.  It will be a stand up gig with some guests singers I love to hear and always wanted to sing with....The Marquee in Cork on June 28th.....The Electric Picnic, Stradbally, Co.Laois on August 28th...Limerick Concert Hall on Sept 26,27.........Possibly Leeds in October but cannot confirm yet, Liverpool Oct 18,19...Barry,Wales Oct 21 and Aberystwyth Oct 22nd.....We are planning some Ulster gigs in November one of which will be for PIPS......PIPS are a suicide counselling organisation and this concert will be a profile and fundraising event and will take place in The Opera House Belfast, details to follow shortly.....We plan to return to London next Spring and play close to the river at low tide...

Just back up after the Ballinasloe breakfast and spotted a few early 4711ers arriving...Primula was making his way through a Full Irish...

Its time to change the strings.......

 
 

 

March 6th 2008

Jimmy Faulkner has passed away. I first met him in 1974. I had just left Planxty and Nicky Ryan suggested I hook up with Jimmy-he felt that we could play some tunes together. From the very start it  worked. I sang songs and Jimmy sat in and played sublimely.In both life and music he was a sensitive and compassionate man.He had a great laugh and loved the bit of banter. Between 1974 and 2002 we played in many line ups and on numerous stages.I have many musical memories, a long solo he played in Stuttgart on "Lakes of Pontchartrain"--- his bottle neck playing on "Galtee Mountain Boy"---  then when we played with Declan McNelis, Kevin Burke and Robbie Brennan and we all had a narrow escape when the van crashed on the way home from Scariff in 1976 -- The National, Kilburn where the crowd were wild and rauceous but Jimmy and me we won them over -- one night in The London Palladium when Jimmy was just playing like never before,his notes soared and his guitar and himself were one.

Jimmy played with so many, Red Peters Floating Dublin Blues Band, Finbar Fury, Mick Hanly, Mary Coughlan, Ronnie Drew, Louis Stewart, Don Baker, Martin O'Connor, Freddie White, Jimmy McCarthy, Jim Page,... just a few names that spring to mind in a moments reflection..there were 100s more besides.... He hailed originally from South Circular Road where he grew up near Dolphins Barn. Jimmy was loved and will be missed by many but most of all by his loving wife Pauline, their son Jamel, their daughter Catherine, his Father and Sisters, extended family and friends

It was a privilege in my life to have known and played with such a beautiful man.

 

 

January 24th 2008


Bertigrad, Bognia

Come all you loyal listeners and here we go again.  Another page turned upon this wonderful journey.  The annual hometown soiree has come and gone.  8 nights in Black Lagoon where listeners came to hear the covers and originals, old and new, trad and folk, whatever your having yourself and make mine a double.  It finished last Thursday on a high for us.  From start to final encore the songs just flowed like porter from a barrel as we sailed away.  We had young wans dolled up to the nines at their first gig, lipper and cleavage to bate the band, dashing young blades killed trying to look at the stage, wise old sages who'd heard it all before and drifters in from Bray to check on the progress of the next box set.  Folkies from the 4 corners gathered in the name of song some of whom would listen to anything we chose to sing whilst others came only to hear the one they came to hear.  Up came a note to me announcing that in our midst was one ANNE KELLY who had come down from the Wicklow Mountains and travelled into Vicar Street to celebrate her 96th birthday with a blast of old songs.  I do not know the Lady nor did we meet but her presence in the room brought a grand air of celebration to the proceedings.  We rendered "Ride On" to her and the congregation sang along with joyful devotion if somewhat out of tune towards the front (the panting young blades again).
Knackered I was after it all.  It's a young mans game, all this cavorting and throwing shapes and grimacing and trying to get it all to sound right.  But come the night when it all sounds right, then it makes a bit of sense.
Another surprise recording last week.  U2 pulled a song together and called in myself, Damien Dempsey and Shane to sing the verses alongside Bono. "Heres to you Ronnie Drew" was written and recorded to express to Ronnie the great well of love that exists for him on The Island as he struggles on with illness. He is delighted with the song and we all hope there will be healing balm within. Fair play to Bono and Edge and Simon Carmody and John Reynolds who produced and all the lads and lassies who thronged in to express their love for Ronser. The Dubliners, Kila, Sinéad, Paul Brady were all there and many more besides.
                                                      
For 40 years there was always confusion about the 2 Joe Dolans. It lasted right to the end when they passed away within a fortnight of each other. Mullingar Joe Dolan was a household name and the country mourned him.  "Our" Joe Dolan was an entirely different kettle of conundrums.  He played in the original Sweeney's Men with Johnny Moynihan and Andy Irvine.  I never got to hear this line up for Joe had departed before the first album was recorded.  I got to know him later on.  We sang and drank and roared and laughed. I once recorded two of his songs, The Foxy Devil and The Trip to Jerusalem. He painted too and I once opened an exhibition of his paintings in Longford town and there was long night after.  We had lost contact this past 20 years but I'll not forget "our"Joe. He was a quare one fol de dee get outa dat. (If anyone knows of any original Sweeney's recordings I'd love to hear them.)

Another comrade bit the dust when Pa Tunney passed away a few weeks back. Pa played a big part in the Anti-Nuclear Festivals at Carnsore Point 30 years ago.  He was there from the beginning lending his enthusiasm and expertise towards getting the sites together.  He was part of the core collective that did the real hard work whilst others of us spouted the polemic or sang and twanged their banjos! (I won't say which division I was in). A great lover and listener of music, Pa and I worked together for a time in the 70s when the pair of us did some hard travellin' in the old Peugeot 404 diesel (she never saw as much as a drop of the red).  He has left his loving family and gone to a quieter corner where, come the hour, they will all embrace again.
 
All sorts of palavar planned for this year.   Lots of low key stuff and maybe even a bit of collaboration.  Have commenced and jettisoned 2 recording bouts recently. Like Scallywag says-what sounds great at 4 in the morning can be soured by the light of day.  Not to worry.  Theres too many albums comin' out these days.  Some get the guitar on Monday and have the first cd out by Wednesday evening.  Would yiz not give it a year or two.....Then again there is not as much time left these days and my own first effort was no great shakes.
                            
A request for "Veronica" brought the song back and we played it twice recently. After a 4 year gap it sounds to have gained different perspective.  A few recent calls for "Farmer Michael Hayes" has me wrestling with the old blackguard once again.  We looked at it during the Planxty rehearsals but were unable to carry it through to the cut.  Don't be surprised if he leps out from behind some bush one of these nights.  Musgrave is in and out these days.  He needs rare air in which to breathe. A call too for "Me and The Rose" has me thinking.  May be worth a birl.
                   
Catch Jinx Lennon if you can.  He plays Sugar Club Dublin on Thursday February 7th with his sidekick, the wonderful Paula Flynn.  Check out his album "Know your Station Gouger Nation!!!" ...... "City of Styrofoam cups" is worth a listen. Support on the night is Capt Moonlight (hurler extraordinaire).  Check Jinx's website for further details.  If you like your ballads sweet and sugar-coated this gig may not be for you.
                                                                                             
Happy listening in '08.  By all means down load to your hearts content, ipod your head to infinity, you got the right to megabyte but at the end of the day we gotta KEEP IT LIVE.  Lets get off our arses and flock to the kips where the sweet music is being played.  Have you got your LedZepp TKTS for Whelans tkts yet? Finbarr tells me there are still a few left, and remember- this is Listen to Luka week....
Ride On....
The image

 

7th December 2007

Back from the UK we recommenced home gigs with 2 nights in Tullamore. Good to be back there after a 4 year absence. Always been a town for gigs going way back to The Harriers and subsequently The Bridge. It takes a while to get back on track after a stint abroad. Across the water we've been playing large Concert Halls and modern Theatres. The Sage on Tyneside and The Bridgewater in Manchester are as good as any venues in the world and it is a privilege to play them. However it is always gratifying to get back to the local gigs on the home front. Whilst some of the halls might not have state-of-the-art facilities they more then make up for it with atmosphere and enthusiasm. Something I learned many years ago is that every venue, great or small, is somebody's Carnegie Hall.
                                                                                                
Quite a few old songs have appeared back in the set. Some have been rested for many's the year and have gained a fresh sparkle when taken out and polished up. Van Diemens Land, Dalesmans Litany, Welcome Cabaret, John of Dreams. Aisling, Faithful Departed, Well Below The Valley and Sweet Thames have all got a run out of late and a few others are jostling for position in the set. I look back sometimes and reflect upon the sheer drudgery of being nailed to an identical set night after night. I can recall times just having the bare set. An encore, if forthcoming, would necessitate repeating a number. This might not bother some but I cherish the freedom Declan and I currently enjoy, being able to ramble off in any direction that takes our fancy. Occasionally it can cause confusion and I have found myself, at times, at the end of some ancient verse with no idea of what comes next. It feels like teetering at the edge of a cliff, usually I am saved by audient prompt or Declan will lepp in with a fill of notes. It seldom falls totally asunder but even then, better that we keep it real, flaws and warts and all. We were not cut out for the fake tan, bleached teeth dance to the DAT routine
                                        
We have started on an album. Just putting in the foundations at the moment, no release date yet, it will take as long as it takes.
                                                   
Next year is shaping up. So far the following gigs are in place:
 
January 2, 3, 5, 6, 15, 16 Vicar St. Dublin
February 22, 23 Westport, Co.Mayo
March 13, 14 Ballinasloe, Co. Galway
March 19, 20 Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford
April 11, 12 Killarney, Co. Kerry.
May 5, 6, 19, 20 Belfast, Co Antrim.
May 28, 29 Carré, Amsterdam
June 1 Edinburgh
June 2 Glasgow
June 4 Aberdeen
June 5 Inverness
June 7 Barrowland
October 18, 19 Liverpool

These are confirmed dates for 2008. (Further details in gig section of home page)
We also hope to play Mullingar, Cork, London, Laois and Dublin in the latter part of the year.
 
That's it for now,
Sing a song for Christmas
                                                                                                 
The image

 

13th November 2007

Oct 28th
After 4 days in Londing we are about to strike camp and roll on down to Brighton (Hove actually) where we hope to rattle the cobwebs in The Old Dome and take in a few draughts of sea air. Great few days in the Capitol. Got down to Putney yesterday for a few hours with Oliver Cromwell and a fine rendition of Pilgrims Progress in St. Mary's Church at Putney Bridge. Met Mr. Tony Rohr (who got all the laughs) and his bevy of beautiful daughters. Loitered around The Tate (ancient), considered Stamford Bridge but resisted.
 

Nov 4th
Back home recuperating, recharging the voice box. Putting up a couple of reviews and a pair of set lists. We had a good trip so far, none of the gigs were total pearls. The 2nd London gig was slightly difficult but most enjoyable. They are beginning to morph into a single entity but I still recall bits and pieces clearly. The josh in Cardiff was more vindaloo then josh as was Heath on the security gate, as unwelcoming a gent as we have ever encountered. The poor lad was having a Guantanamo day. Brighton was lovely and meeting Bethan was a highlight of the tour. She gave me a helping hand with Joxer. The Pembroke crossing was a pleasant change. Caught 4 hours kip before Rosslare and then slept all the way home missing the new Gorey bypass.
   

Nov 12th
Half time in the UK tour is whizzing past, went to West Clare for 2 days to meet my recording counsellor who had some stern words to say to me as he steered me onto to a course of action with regard to the nature and direction of the next album. I have been dithering around. Twice I've cancelled recording time as my confidence waned .It was different before, soon as I'd get 12 songs I'd make an album......its all so touchy feely now, will it hang together ,agh me bollo, record the hoorin thing and get on with your life,(but "will Larry play it", "I'm not hearing the hook")
                                                                                          

Gigs confirmed in Westport, Ballinasloe and Enniscorthy, details are on the gig page. Belfast is almost sorted out and we will be announced in the next week. Preparing now for the second sector of mammoth UK tour.

Talk soon

The image
 

 

24th October 2007

Rolled into Bristol Mon evening giving us 24 hours to acclimatise before stepping onto The Colston Hall stage. It's always a good town for re-connection. The River walks. The boats, buskers, autumn leaves, skateboarders, lurchers and the Bristol brogue all make it a soft landing. Met a young busker from Oz whose only instrument was a cardboard box which he rhythmed with a pair of weathered twigs. He was homesick, lost and forlorn but his rhythm was as beautiful as his cup was empty. His voice and music stayed with me all day. He will never know it but I played the gig for him last night and I hope he manages to get back to his home place someday.

It's a grand venue, a happening place with a never-ending array of acts coming and going and leaving their echoes behind. The 2 nights preceding were KT Tunstall and Richard Thompson and it seems to run 7nights a week full on. Yet for our stay it was our space and the staff and crew showed respect and co-operation to every aspect of our production, full marks all round. On the wall of the dressing room it read;
1952 ………. Danny Kay
1962 ………. Cliff Richard & the Shadows
1969 ………. Led Zeppelin
1975 ………. Black Sabbath
1987 ………. Guns 'N Roses
2003 ………. Wynton Marsalis

I think we can assume that The Ghost of Colston Hall has seen it all!

Becoming aware lately that the number of gigs left to do is rapidly diminishing. It could be 1 or 10 or 100 but it probably won't be a 1000! Never had these thoughts before. It's not a negative feeling but rather a determination to make the best of it while it lasts. Heading out to centre stage last night with Declan was just a feel- good situation. I never aspired to any of this. Major venues, road crew, agents promoters, dressing rooms, hotels and then get paid as well..........40 years ago I travelled around, just me and my old Yamaha FG180 and if I got a good kip and enough to get me on to the next folk club I was made up.

I'm here in Birmingham today, chilling out and preparing for a show in The Symphony Hall, the city's premier venue. When I first came here was 1967 it was to play in Michael Hipkiss's folk club "The Skillet Pot" which ran every Sunday night in a pub called "The Old Contemptible". In this town I met and played with Ian and Lorna Campbell,(stayed with Dave and Winnie), John Swift, Tommy Dempsey, The Munstermen, Brian Patten, Bob Cooney to name but a few. Nor is tonight's gig any different, neither more nor less important, just another night on this grand tour, sharing the songs with those who, like myself, take something from them.

That's it for today, Let the Music keep your spirits high says Jackson

Christy.

 

13th September 2007

I saw Brian Wilson singing Good Vibrations last night and it reminded me of my time working at the EMI pressing plant in Hayes, Middlesex one summer 40 years ago. It was a hot, sweaty (but union) job where the hours were as long as you could manage, and the wages were very good if you were pressing well. Our line pressed nothing else for about 6 weeks around the clock 7 days a week.
                                         
Had a great night in The White House, Kilcrohane, Sheepshead last Sat. The gig was Jeff Martin's and Zoë played support. I played half a dozen songs with Jeff and Wayne Sheehy whom I last met in The Andersonstown Leisure Centre 4 years ago when I gigged with Damien Dempsey.
                     
Visited Dzogchen Beara Buddhist Centre on The Beara Peninsula. They are building a Hospice there and I hope to play a gig to support this very special project. Also went out to Allihies and walked through the trees and up around the old copper mines.
                                                                                                     
Visited the Horse fair in Bantry last Sunday and sat on the wall observing the comings and goings. Nothing much has changed since the Fair of Spancillhill. This was a quiet Fair when compared to Puck or Ballinasloe but for the casual observer it was a treat.
                                 
Did a grand few gigs over the summer. Played with Steve Cooney at Bantry House and we were joined by Martin Hayes and Denis Cahill. Got to hear some wonderful and exciting music too. I recommend The Masters of Tradition Festival which takes place in Bantry every August but only to those of you who enjoy intense listening with no distractions. That's all that is on offer, pure music played with focus and passion.
                                                                                             
Played a concert with Mark Edwards who spoke about his book of photographs based on Dylan's Hard Rain. It was part of West Cork Sustainability Festival which was in its 2nd year.
                                                                                                             
Tom Munnelly passed recently. He devoted his life to the collection of songs and folklore. His legacy enriches our heritage. I first met Tom and Annette in the mid 60's and always enjoyed their company. He collected over 20,000 songs many of which would have been lost forever without his intervention. Without Tom I would not have had access to the songs of John Reilly. There will be some great sessions when himself and Frank Harte meet in The Cosy Snug.

Various plans taking shape, more news soon,
                                                                                                               
Had 2 good nights in De Barras, Clonakilty, too.
                                                  
Whallup...
          

Link to the Masters of Tradition site               

 

15th August, 2007

Greetings from The Butt End of Bognia. I will come back on line in due course. In the meantime I send you all best wishes. Chase your dreams, only then might then they come through


 

7th July 2007

Friends, Listeners and Competitioners

Before even contemplating a new chat I thought it best to have a final word about the Desert Island Disc Debate/Debacle/Debunk/DeBarra.  In my innocence, in a moment of madness I threw out the idea for sport and didn't we have some...here is my end of the story and I am sticking to it...

Felicity Lott........ Ave Maria  (by whoever)

Myself ............... Stitch in Time

Paul Anka...........Lonely Boy

Clancys..............Brennan on the Moor

Luke Kelly...........Joe Hill

Ewan Mccoll.......Joy of Living

Planxty...............Táimse im Codladh

John Reilly...........Raggle

Since boyhood I have known 3 Ave Marias.  I have never known which was which and wrongly assumed it was Mozart's. (Before this debate takes off again - I accept the possibility that Mozart had no Ave Maria, nor do I give a flying fiddlers).

I am happy to have awarded the Prize to John from Liverpool.  However, as Chris D insists that Eileen in Boston is the actual winner I will see to it that, "in fairness", she gets a (slightly) better prize. That is that, (Mail me Eileen and we can get things rolling). Chris D. has been very diligent that the right thing be done and I applaud his efforts to keep the boat on course.

In retro I should have taken 10 seconds to think it out but that's not my style.  Often I have to "open mouth, change foot".  It is unlikely that I will change at this stage. Despite all the ructions, multi-entries, skin and hair, GBH, slander, libel, jealousy, guilt, guile, (NOT YOU!) it was great crack and we must do it again.  I have been on to Kirsty Young asking may I return next year and we'll all go to a different Island.

The (super) prize recipients must sign a confidentiality clause as to the nature of their windfall. The last thing we need is an outbreak of petulance, jealousy or heartbreak.

Lets get back to normal now....A chat will follow shortly.  (After the Marquee in Cork where I am sandwiched between Elton John and Duran Duran with Antony and The Johnsons bringing up the rear. Shame we're not all on the same night. Oh The Crack would be 90 on The Isle of Man.  I last shared a bill with Elton back in '69.  The Krumlin Festival was one of the greatest disasters in the history of Music Festivals.  Anyone remember it?)

                                                                                                              
Ora Pro Nobis.......

                     
          






                                                                    

 

June 2nd 2007

Royal Spa Hotel  Lisdoonvarna  Co Clare
 
Back once again in the West Clare village that has been a touchstone of my singing life since I first arrived here in 1965.  Back then I was a junior bank clerk manning the monthly sub-office for The National Bank.  The following year I got a real job and I've never worn a suit, collar nor tie since.
                                                                                                       
My first visit to The Royal Spa Hotel was with Moving Hearts back in 1981.  Paddy Doherty had just taken it over and booked us to play in "The Hall".  It was a wild night.  Moving Hearts had the energy of a 747 taking off for Boston as we thundered on the stage.  I do believe we blew some slates off the old place that night, I definitely saw stars from my sleeping bag.  Since those heady days Paddy, with his sister Anne and the family have nurtured the Hotel back to what it is today.  The small number of rooms cosy, the food is excellent and the staff could not be more welcoming. Then there is "The Hall".  It's a perfect venue for an intimate gig.  Since that first night in 1981 I have played The Hall frequently.  It has been the ideal nursery for many projects.  New ideas have been rehearsed there and the audience has always been prepared to listen.   Planxty regrouped there as did many other outfits over the years.  Rehearsals take place in The De Valera Room where "The Long Fellow" would dine when visiting West Clare at election time.  (Check out The Lisdoonvarna Cafe...top scran).

Last week we rolled into town again to rehearse with Martin Leahy and James O'Sullivan,The Cork Rhythm Section.  We played, ate and played some more for 3 days and then, after the dinner, we played a couple of shows and had ourselves a right good time.  Friday morning I was slipping across the road for a newspaper when I found myself surrounded by a gaggle of 4711'ers who gave me the low down on the line up.  It was a lovely moment and we swapped tales and requests. I met people whom I had only known as names on this site.  (Are there any svelte 4711rs?) Really enjoyed playing with Martin and James. I had not performed with Bass and Drums since 1983.  Hopefully we'll get to play again before too long.
                                                                                                                     
The proposed visit to Barrowland, Glasgow in the Autumn has been cancelled.  We will come back to the old venue as soon as possible.  Various difficulties arose with scheduling and it became apparent that it would be best left until another time.
                                                                                                                                                                                                         Great reports on the Tribute to Mícheal Ó Domhnaill gig last week. A host of musicians came from all corners of the globe to honour their departed comrade.  The Bothy Band played our music like no other ensemble before or since.  Mícheal's guitar technique was a vital element in their unique sound.  From what I have heard Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill played a stormer right through the night.  It is wonderful to hear that she is back in top form.  I was unable to make it back in time to catch the gig but Davy Meade did the sound out-front so I got a great run down on the event. It was a night to cherish by all accounts.  I am sorry that I missed it.
                                                
I spent a couple of days in London recently recording Desert Island discs which will be transmitted on BBC Radio 4 on Sun June 17th at 11.15 a.m. and on Fri June 22 at 9.00 a.m. I note that a few have tried to guess what music I might have chosen.  Way off beam! The format is conversation interspersed with 8 music choices.  I was asked to sing one song live.  It was 9 in the morning and the voice was husky.
New competition.  Outstanding prize for whoever comes up with the best forecast for music chosen.  (Must be in before June 17th!)

The proposed Kingdom tour has bitten the dust. Those Kingdom halls are difficult to access. We hope to play somewhere down there this year and will announce details as soon as we can. 
Belfast seems to be coming together. A new venue too - (for me that is).  Again we will let you know asap. 
We will do a second show in Galway City on Sat 30th June in the wonderful BlackBox. 
We will shortly announce Autumn dates for Drumshambo in  Co.Leitrim, Clifden Co.Galway and winter dates for Belfast and Dublin. The U.K.gigs in Oct-Nov are shaping up well.  We are hoping to do a Welsh Tour in ' 08.
                                                         
The Royal versus The Jacks was a mighty tussle.  It brought back memories of those fantastic 4 games in '92 all of which I was privileged to see.....Graham Geraghty was canvassing The Boys in Blue....

Saw the Joe Strummer movie which I recommend.  Looking forward to films on Scott Walker and Edith Piaf.
                                                                                                     
See you at some auld kip along the way..…………...


 

1st May 2007


Just home from 5 days in the city of Derry. We played  4 concerts in The Millennium Forum,  a relatively new venue in the heart of the City. It is getting on for 40 years since I first played Derry and it has changed enormously. I visited the newly opened Free Derry Museum in The Bogside which I recommend to anyone in the vicinity. Walked the walls repeatedly where you can get a great view of the city, eavesdrop upon other wall walkers,  watch youngsters coorting and playing,  exercise the body and take in the Derry air. On Sat.afternoon  I came across 3 Lambeg Drummers (and their roadies) by an Orange Hall that overlooks The Bogside.I have never heard louder drums.Hearing them in the City centre on a beautiful Spring afternoon was certainly disturbing my peace and, in other circumstances, would be a frightening experience. It was difficult to place the racket in any context. They certainly did not appear to be drumming for pleasure.There were half a dozen armed police standing around.Maybe this was coincidental but they were the only armed police I saw all week.This interlude was but a slight blip in what was a memorable trip for all of us.Thanks be to all involved , particularly the thousands who came to hear the songs, to the staff of The Forum and all at Aiken promotions.

Next gig up is a return to the Town of my boyhood years.I am really looking forward to this one which is a fundraiser for The Michael Garry Centre in Newbridge which caters for Homeless people in Kildare.The concert was first suggested by Annie Morris of the centre.Her input has been enormous in seeing the project through. Our principal sponsor is Tommy Tougher who weighed in to cover all production costs.(Tommy and I went to National School together in the 50s) so 100% of the ticket money raised goes to the centre. Patrick Farrell solicitors made a generous donation, Top 20 Newbridge handled the Ticket sales free of charge. Finally Ryston Social  Club have provided the venue and Sandy O'Neill has given full support.It really is a return to my roots for I played in the fields around here in the 50s. Played Juvenile and minor football for Moorefield in the old "Ropes Field", learned to swim in "The Strand" below the venue and played Pitch and Putt on the course that surrounds it. Gathered mushrooms and conkers ,played cards,fantasized as the girls swam, rehearsed nearby in Lunnys house.........

TG4 and Hummingbird will record a TV special in the Autumn. I was asked to pick  my favourite venue.I did not have to think too long....Barrowland in the East End of Glasgow.We will travel back over in early Autumn to do a one off show. Soon as it is finalised we will let you know. Those who were at the last gig and 4711ers will get first crack at the tickets.Dont even consider coming unless you are ready to sing. It is a stand up gig, no frills or fancy rest rooms, just plenty of atmosphere and good vibes in an old dancehall in a great city.

We will do 2 gigs in The Hall,Royal Spa,Lisdoonvarna in late May..Again 4711 will get the first choice.The announcement will follow shortly.(no point in ringing before then)We will  play Carlow on the 6th June,tickets are now available ,see gig page."Follow me up"

Wrestling at the moment with various ideas for a studio album.Can not pin it down.I have one set of songs emerging that might work but my confidence in this project ebbs and flows.There are two other projects yapping at my heels.One is attractive but also retrospective ( there has been a bit of retro these past few years).The other would be a departure in one way, a harp -back in another.Hopefully a clear picture will emerge and I will have something new to offer in due course.The writing is painfully slow. Wally and I completed Barrowland and are currently involved in a brace of other songs. Speaking of songs, Thanks to all of you who have sent me songs. It is not possible for me to respond or to review  most unsolicited material. There are only so many hours in the day. I do not even get to listen to all the music that is sent to me.I came back from a recent trip to Scotland with almost 30 cds and there was another bagful waiting in the post.I get to hear as many as I can and sometimes I  respond (if I have something positive to say)...that said I do try and listen. In the past I have been sent some wonderful songs. Both in the post and to stage doors...."Ordinary Man", "Away You Broken Heart"," Does This train stop on Merseyside" are three that spring to mind,

Thank you.....

The Derry Set Lists:

                                                                   
Friday
 Saturday Monday
 Tuesday
1.Back home in Derry
2.Biko Drum
3.Yellow Furze Woman
4.Beeswing
5.Missing you
6.Barrowlands
7.Chicago
8.Hiroshima
9.Motherland
10.McIlhatton
11.Immigrant
12.Stitch
13.Delerium Tremens
14.Natives
15.Matty
16.Corrina(Declan)
17.Lawless
18.Two Conneeleys
19.Brigada
20.Minds Locked shut
21.Bright Blue rose
22.Smoke&Whisky
23.Victor Jara
24.Shovel
25.Only Our Rivers.
26. North and south
27.Flickering
28.Ride on		 1.How long
2.Smoke&whisky
3.Barrowlands
4.North and south
5.This is the day
6.Scapegoats
7.Missing You
8.Immigrant
9.Matty
10.Hiroshima
11.Merseyside
12.McIlhatton
13.Time has Come
14.Faithful Departed
15.Contender
16.Corrina (Declan)
17.Little Musgrave
18.Ordinary man
19.Biko Drum
20.Brigada
21.Ride On
22.Back Home in Derry
23.One Last cold Kiss
24.Minds Locked Shut
25.Black is the Colour		 1.Smoke&Whisky
2.How Long
3.McIlhatton.
4.Allende
5.Beeswing   
6.Missing You
7.Scapegoats
8.Barrowlands
9.Biko Drum
10.Magic nights
11.Flickering Light
12.North and South
13.Shovel
14.Minds Locked Shut
15.John Hurt (Declan)
16.Brigada
17.Stitch
18.Little Musgrave
19.Pontchartrain
20.Joxer
21.Natives
22.No Time For Love
23.Motherland
24.Back Home in derry
25.Time Has come		 1.Yellow Furze Woman
2.North and South
3.Hiroshima
4.Chicago
5.Beeswing
6.Missing you
7.Scapegoats
8.Smoke&Whisky
9.Immigrant
10.Matty
11.Only our Rivers
12.No Time for Love
13.McIlhatton
14.John Hurt (Declan)
15.Flickering Light
16.Stitch
17.Delerium Tremens
18.Back home in derry
19.Ride on
20.Hattie Carroll
21.Natives
22.Minds Locked Shut
23.Black Is the Colour
24.Joxer
25.Voyage
26. Brigada


There were many requests that I could not fit in. On one of the nights I  tried to manoeuvre Nancy Spain into the set ( I had received a special request). Mostly  the songs  flow effortlessly .As I get towards the end of a song the next one begins to emerge,to suggest itself.When that does not happen I will refer to the "menu".If that fails I will sometimes ask Declan or the audience.Mostly though the set just flows.
 
Saw a classic film .........".The Lives of Others ".....A story of lives in East Berlin under the Stasi. I recommend this, it is compelling viewing, beautiful and ugly,sad and funny,frightening and comforting.It is currently showing in The IFI in Dublin but surely will travel to a picture hse nr you soon.
 
The Handsome Family were wonderful in Whelans last night. A Full house who came to listen and were not disappointed

Talk Soon...


 

17th April 2007

Dear 4711,

Scotland was memorable. That's all I can remember. The 5 gigs were the sweetest. We gallivanted around Scotia, sang and played the living daylights out of the songs, got encored, fed, feted and fussed-over to the highest degree. Saw football, parks, art galleries, chapatti halls, The Clyde banks, Leith and Arbroath.  It is dark and lonely work but someone has to do it. Chatted and reminisced with Archie Fisher and Ian Anderson on BBC Scotland. We played live on Archie's show. Chatted on Ian's and played some favourites. Sang our new mega hit single Barrowland on the 6 o'clock news on Holy Thursday (God forgive them). Each gig was special. Aberdeen kicked it off and the Hall was old and atmospheric. I met with Joey Donohoe whom I last met in 1963 when myself and Meg McGowan were getting the bus to Paddington outside Con Cummins pub down the bottom -of -the- town of Newbridge. I also met Peter Mitchell who booked me to play at Thurso Folk Festival in 1971. I have no recollection of this but he assures me that I did a fine set. I do recall an earlier gig  in the Nuclear Power Station Folk Club in Dounreay, near Thurso circa 1968.That's when my hair began to fall out. Then on to Perth. First gig there since 40 years so I did not worry about the set being stale. What lovely venues you have over there. The Perth concert hall was splendid and the Rogan Josh was fairly good too. On down past Stirling castle and into Glasgow singing Nancy Whiskey and Quare Bungle Rye. A good walk around the town and hooked up with some reprobates. There is talk of returning for a one off in Barrowland this year. I have been asked to film a gig in my favourite venue. Sure where else would we do it?
 
As we boarded the ferry in Stranraer I got the terrible news that my good friend Tony Ryan had passed on in Waterford. I met Tony 12 years ago when he invited me and Mick Devine to his home to watch an FA cup final. We were gigging in the Forum, Waterford and we had nowhere to watch the game (it was in the pre-Sky era) we became good butties. Tony and his family came to many gigs. He was a great music man with broad tastes, Dylan, Peter Green and ourselves being amongst them. He was laid to rest on a beautiful day last Thursday; the old graveyard was thronged with those who had come to bid their auld pal adieu. I'm going to miss his banter. He was too young to leave.

My brother Luka Bloom has just arrived home from a trip to Australia. His gigs went very well and he loves playing in that great country. My nephew Gavin Moore is down there presently singing his heart out and working on his tan. Catch him if you can and tell him I was asking for him.

Back to Derry this week for 4 gigs. Look forward to that. It's been a while.
                                                                       ...........................................................................................................................................................
 
Here is the story..........  Back in the 70's and 80's I visited the H Blocks in The Maze Cellular at Long Kesh. I always travelled from the Falls Rd. with the families of Republican Prisoners. I have many vivid memories of these visits. The journeys were made in a Transit Van that had seen better days, it was rickety and well past its best. I came up with a project that would raise funds for the purchase of a new vehicle.

Over two days in 1983 I recorded 12 songs. Donal Lunny produced and played as did many other musicians. All gave their services freely. When the work was mixed and mastered I called the collection "The Spirit of Freedom". One thousand cassettes were produced and delivered to the Prisoners Dependents Office in Belfast. Over the following months these were sold and, in due course, a vehicle was purchased. I thought that was the end of that.

A year later I got a call from Clive Hudson of WEA Records. With a copy of the cassette in his hand he informed me that, under terms of contract, the project was the property of WEA. They sequestered the songs and put them out as a regular WEA album. They also altered the artwork. It had never been my intent at any time to have these recordings presented as a studio album.
24 years on and the whole exercise has been repeated. With no consultation or notification, this collection of songs has once again been re-released as an album. I do not even know the name of the (Warner's) subsidiary responsible. No one has taken the trouble to inform me.

I write this as an insight into the history of the project. I have no regrets about the original fund raising concept but I find the behaviour of Warner's absolutely galling. The manner in which they have treated my work is, at least, irresponsible. Some reviewers have incorrectly (but understandably) assumed "The Spirit of Freedom" to be an album that I released. It is not so.

…………………………………………………………………………………….......……………………………

We are currently rehearsing towards making some new noise, perhaps a studio album in 12 months or so. Planning a possible "Best of Box Set" CD to coincide with the English (plus Cardiff) tour in autumn. Dates are up on the gig page. We will play The Midlands Festival at the end of July (Belvedere House, near Mullingar, Co.Westmeath.) Finalising some dates around Ireland at the moment which will be posted over the next few weeks. The  "Coming to some auld hall near you" tour continues........Myself and The Doctor are enjoying the current gigs. Delighted to be returning to within The Ramparts of Derry as Newbridge beckons, Athlone shimmers and our huge European Tour draws ever closer ...sin a bfhuil mo éistóirí, mar a deirtear san "Bog of Allen" Gaeltacht, Home of The Peat Fáinne.
Whallup...


 

8th March 2007


Dear Listeners...

All is well and too because,  looking forward to the new Ry Cooder, Murrayfield, Trim next week and the dinner today. (Sheep's eyes, mashed mangles, chopped straws and buttermilk).

On the back of Adam's Vicar St. review comes a journal of Maryline's trip from Chile (Both available here). Over the years I have read 100's of reviews, good and bad, written by professional music critics. They are just a part of what we do, they are part of the business - they seldom have soul.  But these pieces were both written by devoted listeners who came to hear and then chose to write. I really did enjoy being transported back to those nights and being reminded of what went down. Some of you may think it odd that I post these essays. I do it because I enjoy the insights they give. There is an element of fun and they also give those of you who can't get to the gigs a taste of what we are doing.

We will Play The Black Box Galway on June 29th (now on sale). We play a concert for  The Michael Gorry Centre (Kildare Homeless) at Ryston Newbridge on May 2nd.Tickets will go on sale on Thursday, March 29th but not before (details will be announced soon).

The diary is almost finished for '07; we may add another 10-12 gigs and that will be it. (Belfast for certain). As many of you ask, I should say at this point that there are no plans to play either USA or Australia. I love both these countries, have great memories and friends on both continents but the fact is I just don't feel up to it.( I wont expand on this)

My Brother Luka Bloom is currently on tour in Australia and his gigs are going very well. He is in Melbourne tonight. My nephew Gavin Moore is also playing in Oz and having the "Life of Reilly".
(Click here for Gavin Moore Website)
(Click here for Luka Boom Website)

So it's back out on the road for us. After 2 months in winter quarters we are raring to go. The vehicles have been checked for oil and the fan belts tightened. Davy has laundered the popshields, Geoff has greased the faders and polished the jels. Johnny has the Taks serviced and Dikon has the howlaround on order. Paddy is in Scotland doing some advance scouting while Mick is having voice lessons and will commence backing vocals at a kip near you soon. We start back in Trim Co. Meath. Never played there before. The Royal County is always special as it was the birthplace of my Mother... Nancy Power of The Yellow Furze......

Talk soon,  





 

2nd March 2007

A few  words in memory of Jim Aiken, now at rest in Jonesboro, Co Armagh.
 
I first met Jim Aiken in 1972 when he booked Planxty to play in The Carlton Cinema on O'Connell St in Dublin. We had a memorable night which coincided with the launch of the first Planxty album. (Jim often reminisced in later days about how our backstage rider was 2 dozen stout!)

Over the following 35 years I have done Jim Aiken gigs North and South, hundreds of them. The Ulster Hall, Beechmount and Andytown, The Waterfront, Newry. We even played Craigavon one night but that story is for another day. His gigs always had a particular stamp on them. At some point of the day Jim would make an appearance, it might be before the sound check or long after the final curtain, but He would show his face and, over a mug of tea, would thank the act for "the business".

Whether You were No1 in the world charts or on Your first tour He would look after us all equally. He had great insights into artists and acts. He knew too what was required to make a gig really happen and always took good care of the crews and backstage personnel. I suspect Jim would have preferred to be with his mates in the canteen but He would linger in The Greenroom telling the stars what they needed to hear. On many occasions he offered me advice and pointed me in the right direction. We had disagreements too, but they never lasted beyond the day.

Last time I spoke to Jim was Backstage at The Silverbridge GAA club, near his home place in Co. Armagh. He loved to bring a gig with full production values into the heart of the country. It could have been Carnegie Hall or Sydney Opera House but it would not have meant as much to Jim, (Or to me). His Son Peter Aiken carries on the tradition and upholds the high standards that Jim always insisted upon.
                           
To Mrs. Aiken and all the family I offer my sympathy......Thanks for all those great nights Jim..... Catch up with you later.......

________________________________________________________________

Young Adam from Wicklow posted his review of a recent gig (an Aiken Promotion!) We have included it in the Review section at the home page.  

Thats it for now.
Talk soon.
Christy.

See the Review here >>

 ________________________________________________________________

 

20th February 2007

Dear Listener
A greeting on this grand Spring day, Old Brigid is delivering the goods in these parts. As I scribble, there is growth in The Bogs and Songbirds are tuning up their whistles. It's a busy enough time as  our Circus prepares to break camp and head back down the blue tar road.

We have been in the studio for a grand bit of work. We have mixed 6 live tracks. Butterfly and Beeswing from The Black Box in Galway. Peace in the Valley from Vicar St.Dublin, 16 Jolly Ravers from Limerick Concert Hall, Magic Nights from The Savoy in Cork and Burning Times from The Electric Ballroom, Camden Town, London. We also recorded BARROWLAND. These 7 tracks will be released by SonyBmg in April as part of an "extended edition " of Burning Times.

We will play The Marquee in Cork on July 7th and it goes on sale this week. You should also know know that there will be some gigs in Kerry in June, these will be announced shortly. There will be a gig in Newbridge in early May. (This will be for The Michael Gorry Centre for The Homeless) Details will be announced on the gig page shortly. There are a number of other gigs in place and details can be found on the gig page.

Hamburg, Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Brussels are warming up nicely in May. I have been invited in for Desert Island discs on the way home from Brussels. There is talk of doing something for TG4 (our Irish Language TV Channel) later in the year. I hope it happens for I like the channel a lot (serious weather forecast vibe)

We hit Scotland in April where I look forward to reuniting with The Barrowland Choir. After the last show there myself and Wally Page wrote:
 
There's an easy place down Gallowgate to the Eastend of Glasgow
Its a ballroom of remembrance and a disco
where the shooting stars light up the fresco
where the last ones and the lovers go.....to carry on
 
We sang about the Nicky Tams in the back room of The Scotia
we drank sweet wines and called for neon pints of Fidel Castro
til it was time to fly to Dreamland
out of Bairds,up the stairs to hell or to heaven we go
 
Come all you Dreamers hear the sound of The Barras calling
come all you dreamers to Barrowland
Hear Mags McIvor and the ghost of The GayBirds callin
Come all you dreamers to Barrowland
 
The Lassies of The Broomielaw in their Cuban heels are dancin
here comes Our Lady of The Clyde and there goes Jinky Johnston
they've come to rock and roll at the church of Céilí
to waltz beneath the carousel of healing
to jitterbug and boogie the night away
 
Wally also wrote a grand melody and I look forward particularly to givin this a birl beneath the carousel of healing.....
 
Went to hear my old comrades in Moving Hearts at work in Dublin last week. Albert Niland opened up with a fine set. It was strange to see the band come out having walked out with them so often. It was the original band minus Declan Sinnott, Brian Calnan and myself, Plus Anto Drennan,Noel Eccles,Graham Henderson and Kevin Glackin. We really enjoyed ourselves and met up with many friends from those heady nights in the Baggot.(There were a few shouts for Danny and The Valtones.) I particularly enjoyed  The Category,McBrides,Lake of Shadows and The Downtown. Keith Donald was on fire and refloated the Titanic with a blistering solo.Donal Lunny was steering the ship, as always, with a steady hand and a big heart. Eoghan O'Neill and Matt Kelleghan nailed their colours to the mast.Davy Spillane appeared to be having enormous trouble with his pipes but his low whistle was enchanting.Norman Verso delivered a great mix to the room. A great night........Talk again soon
 
 
          

 

17th January 2007

Best wishes to you 4711 listeners, I hope the coming year brings all you need and most of what you wish.  Thank you for all your posts, good wishes, comments and suggestions.

            
We are planning a facelift for the home page and a few alterations - bear with us while it takes place.

                       
Declan and I finished our year with some grand gigs at Vicar St. in Dublin.  It was a pleasure to meet up with some of you who had traveled, from as far afield as Chile, Australia, Germany, Holland, USA, Italy, Japan and, of course, Spink.  Not to forget Inchicore, Moorefield (and Sarsfield, Rathfield, Liffeyside, Blacktrench, Pollardstown, Páirc Mhuire, Backadebarracks and Brownstown), Sallynoggin, Ballinteer and Lar who came all the way from Blackrock having dispelled with a spate of Limo duties.  Jim, Ang and Deirdre seemed omni present whilst Maryline and Brian were not too far behind.

                                                                   
Just heard that The Point DVD was the No 1 music DVD in Bognia last year, ye left a host of megastars floundering in the wake as ye flocked to support your ageing balladeers.  We sometimes maintain that such things don't matter and, of course, they dont'nt.  Me and the Doctor are above all that!  We played a couple of new songs, "Does this train stop on Merseyside?" from Ian Prowse and the Liverpool band "Amsterdam" sent by Andy Glover in a Liverpool compilation gifted at The Phil gig.  We are currently recording a new song "Barrowlands" which will be available (I hope) to download.  It will also feature, as an extra track, on a re-issue of Burning Times (by SonyBmg UK)  which will  include live-takes of six of the songs from that album.

                              
We will shortly add Kilkenny and Trim (Co.Meath) to the Castlebar gig at the end of March.  Later on we hope to play, Cork, Tralee, Galway, Drumshambo, Ballybofey, Newbridge.  All these dates will be added to those already up on the gig page as soon as we have the relevant details.  There may be some solo gigs from both Declan and myself.  Again they will be posted here as soon as possible.

                                                          
Moving Hearts are to perform two gigs in Vicar St. Dublin next month.  They will play music from "The Storm" album. Both Declan and I look forward to hearing The Hearts again and wish them every success with the re-union.
                                                
I enjoy your guestbook contributions, I will respond as often as I can.  If you are likely to be offended by not getting a response ...reconsider your options....in the meantime, best wishes to all who sail here.........

 

Saturday 18 November 2006

Greetings from The Banks of The Thames

Having a good visit, Liverpool and Hackney could not have gone better..............The "Jools" made for an interesting days work with a great variety of music played. Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens), Razorlight, The Magic Numbers, Gotan Project and Mika were the other players.  Yusuf is back after a 28-year lay off, must be challenging after such a lengthy break. He has a new album but is unsure about doing live shows.  Next morning I had an early start in to Broadcasting House. Along with 3 other guests we spoke on Midweek with Libby Purvis.  A genial host she made it very easy for her guests to say their bit.  My way was paved when Libby played a verse or two of Motherland from Burning Times.... It was compelling to hear the story of Peter Shaw who spoke of his experiences while being kidnapped.  I am currently reading his account in "Hole,Kidnapped in Georgia"(Accent Press)...........
On up to Liverpool then, as we travelled out of London we happened upon many memorial services, it being Remembrance Day.  I thought to sing "All for the Roses" which we did later in The Philharmonic Hall in dear old Liverpool town.  This was my 5th concert there in 3 years.  The first of which was after a gap of 14 years.  There is a vital enthusiasm for the songs in Liverpool and the people who run the Phil are great hosts who believe that all forms of music should be respected.  We drove back to London after the gig.  Got back to my room 16 hours after departing.  A great days work.  Later that day we made our way to The Hackney Empire where Hoffman, the stage manager, welcomed us warmly.  After a lively souncheck we cleared the room for there was a great crowd gathering.  Gave "On the Mainland" its first airing in 12 years.  Hoffman told me that Lee Scratch Perry and myself have both mentioned the venue in song. Good company indeed.
                                                                                                     
Next up is Camden Town. The Electric Ballroom has a great ring to it.  Getting a bit of serious training in to be fit and able.  Walked the Thames Walk today.  Past the Eye and Tate Modern, some good buskers under the arches, got a few 2nd hand books, an armful of DVDs and a serious Rogan that should sustain me for whatever the Electric Ballroom throws up.  If it goes well enough we might even plug in and spark up for the Electric Picnic.

One of my brothers (in-law) is Davoc Rynne from Miltown-Malbay Co Clare (but formerly of Downings, Prosperous, Co. Kildare). I first met him at the music in 1964, we rustled and dossed through haybarns and sheebeens, across bogs and furniture auctions.  His late father always maintained that I led him astray but thats not even the half of it. His family has been immersed in Literary and Cultural achievements going way back.  Davoc is a fine flute player but also writes in a style that I like. He came to the Barrowlands gig last year and wrote a grand piece (see review section on homepage).  When he told me he was coming to Silverbridge last month I asked him to write a piece about it which follows below.  The visit to Silverbridge was very special.  In a way it reminded me of an Island gig - like Sherkin Island many years ago when every Islander came to hear the songs.   Of course all the dogs came along too and they had their own gig outside the hall.  There was a distinct sense of community in the GAA hall on those Silverbridge Nights, the memory still lingers, I will always remember.....

                                                                                                                                                                      SINGER AT WORK – NOT "ON HOLD"!

It was 4.30pm when the Flying Enterprise pulled into the Railway station in Dundalk.  This was our fourth train of the day and our sixth railway station.  But no doubt about it – this old Victorian railway station was the finest, with it's spectacular cast-iron columns and canopies with original waiting rooms, ticket offices, it even has a well stocked museum.  In fact since leaving the town of Ennis five hours previously – no hassles no problems.  With great difficulty we will forgive Irish Rail for charging us €17.50 for two beers and two sandwiches.  Why?  Well the stories are long and the sentiments run deep.  The sheer magic of trains and railroads is very special.  Childhood holiday memories merge with long rattling journeys across merry ol' England.  Poker games in carriages on trains with no toilets.  "Leg of a duck leg of a duck leg of a duck" as the mighty steel wheels run over the rail joints. Telegraph poles laden with multitudes of pottery insulators, smoke, steam, soot and smells fly by the windows.  Puffing and hissing and clackety clack as it goes over metal bridges and clunkety clunk as we go under bridges and into tunnels.  As Willy Nelson sings "the sons of the engineers ride their father's magic carpets made of steel".  Has it all changed beyond belief?  Is the romance gone forever?  Well, yes and no.  No hissing and puffing fire
engines, smoke or steam.  No water towers, signal boxes, flags, whistles or uniforms.  Now I have to be careful – I did see a guard in Limerick Junction with a rolled up green flag – but alas, he didn't use it!  Now the train rides silent and smoothly.  Poor old "leg of a duck" is gone forever, it seems that it was simple to get rid of him!  They figured out that the rails could be just welded together.  No need for joints anymore.  I miss them!  But yes yes to the toilets that work and the trains that run on time.  "Are you right there Michael are you right, do you think that we'll be home before the night".  When Percy French wrote this song about the West Clare Railway, I don't think he was driven by romance.  Indeed the Railway Company sued him – I wonder did they win?  But I digress.

We are on our way to a Christy gig.  We taxi to the Park Inn out the Armagh Road.  We are allocated our room – big, minimalist and adequate.  We could be anywhere from Arizona to Shanghai.  The carpets, walls, bed quilts, menus and pictures are all designed with coloured cubes.  We are well squared out – but we have a comfortable room within sight of the Cooley Mountains on one side, the wee North everywhere else.  We are as happy as larks!
But hey – we must get going.  This hotel is in cyberspace – we must meet the people especially across the border.  We must drink pints and talk.

"When first the border started and 'twas seen that smuggling paid
King George he ordered out his men to try and stop the trade
'But don't', says he, 'pass Silverbridge, lest ye not be seen again
For there's not a cop could ever stop the Boys from Crossmaglen"

Mark drives the taxi – he's from the Falls Road in Belfast.  He explains how you tell where the border begins by the surface of the road.  He is homesick.  There are tough men in Crossmaglen  - he likes them.  He shows us the monument near Silverbridge dedicated to the ten Hunger Strikers.  We talk about the troubles.  "What do you think of the support and attitudes of the people down south?"  There was a sigh and a long answer – "Ever since the British imposed border was marked out by the Boundary Commission in the 1920s, the people of the Free State washed their hands of it, they stood by and did absolutely nothing.  No governments or groups did anything to relieve the stress and pain of the people trapped in a …….. "But but wait a minute" I protested, "We had to get on with it, raise families, pay our way.  We had a sort of freedom and we had no British troops on the streets.  We had lives to live".  He sighs again, "If my neighbour, friend or relative was in trouble I would give him a dig out".  We had no answer to that.  Case closed.

In jig time we arrived at the Silverbridge Resource Centre and GAA Club – a huge place that appears to be in the middle of nowhere.  We are an hour early – doors open at 7pm.  "Do ye know it is a dry gig?"  Indeed we do!  Which reminds me of a local song, the last verse which goes: 
"So all you bred tea-totallers, if sober you may be
Be careful of your company and mind what happened to me
It wasn't the boys from Shercock or the lads from Ballybay
But the dealin' men from Crossmaglen put the whiskey in me tay"

Mark drops us at Garveys down the road from the club.  The young barman pulls us two great pints.  Sitting next to us is a local man originally from Askeaton in County Limerick.  We ask him is he going to the gig up the road.  What gig?  This is not the answer we expected.  A picture of Michael Collins throwing a sliotar into a hurling match is on the wall in front of us.  A framed Proclamation hangs on the opposite wall.  Another punter hears our accents and gives us a huge Mile Failte.  We talk GAA – at least Turlough does – I get lost after the first sentence!  I butt in and ask about British Army helicopters using the Crossmaglen GAA pitch as a base.  He looks at me strangely – "but sure that was about 12 years ago"!  Oops – how we forget.  This young man was probably not even born when the infamous "Beware – Sniper at work" was in action.  Later I am told that the sign is still there but with the words "on hold" added.  A man down the bar, who up till now has been very quiet, buys us pints.  We drink to his health – sláinte.  He overhears we are staying in a posh hotel in Dundalk.  "Ach ye could have stayed with me – I have four rooms to spare"!  Big hearted generous people.
 
There are a dozen park attendants, the door is now open and there is a fast moving queue.  We are in a mighty big hall that is filling rapidly.  Right on time our two boys enter from stage left and Christy without a word goes straight into it with "Viva La Quinte Brigada".  Now this of all songs is a gigantic epic – it deserves and demands the best of attention.  God I wish he had started on something lighter – Janey Mack Alive we have only just sat down!!  Ten glorious songs later we get "The City of Chicago".  Christy gives a great boost to the then "very young Kevin Barry Moore for all his musical talent and genius".  The same Luka inspired Christy to sit down and start composing his own songs he tells us, as he gives us two of them.  "On the Bridge", is a simple and short but very poignant song about the scandalous abuse of Irish women prisoners of war.  Next we have "The Wise and Holy Woman" – Christy's mother Nancy is here along with "the bounty we gain from nature's abundance" to the sheer magic of calling on the stars "to shine a light please shine a light on me".  Now Christy himself is quoted as saying "it never did too well on the high stage", but hold on a minute Christyboy, musicians and singers are only messengers from a higher authority!  With the "clear water, fresh air that we breathe and the wonders of the world" yes, yes let the light shine on us.
McIlhatton.  Happy go lucky times with a 'divil a care' in the world.  We drank it together - Christy and I - way back then.  We saw the salmon in the bog and the dogs had run away even before we had started.  If you say the goat collapsed I believe you, but I didn't even see him.  Hey Bobby Sands – yourself and Christy make a great team. 
Richard Thompson penned a beauty with Beeswing. Everything here is superb.  The music and sentiments ebb and flow together.  Free spirits galore and we all aspire to that.  We are smitten with grief for the man who attempts to woo her with his hearth, babies on the rug and his couple of acres.  "Even a gypsy's caravan was too much like settlin' down".  What was she like?!  "As fine as a beeswing". 

The audience is never sure whether to laugh or cry at Stitch in Time. This is a huge important song.  Hard hitting in every sense of the word.  Needles and thread, rolling pins and frying pans – simple domestic tools brilliantly used as weapons of punishment.  If a drunken abusive husband ever had the tiniest nightmare that this might happen to him when he wakes………………..!! 

The most extraordinary thing about Don't Forget your Shovel is that it has survived.  6,559 Paddies diggin' their way back to Annascaul is far far removed from the Ireland of today.  Now we have 49,000 Poles diggin' their way back to Khodawa!!!  And who was Enoch Powell anyway?  Who knows, who cares.  Maybe this is the whole point.  This song is a reminder/historical document of the bad ol' days of the 1980s – long may it remain intact.
 
Where do we leave the great Wexford man Declan with the classic St Louis Blues?  First recorded over 88 years ago – it is steeped in history.  Her man has walked out on her "Ma man's got a heart like a rock cast in de sea".  Declan sure can sing and play de blues!  His mighty skills on the guitar come shining through.  He puts us in an entirely different mood after Christy's songs.  This is good, it allows us to listen differently and it acts as an interlude. 

Over two and a half hours and twenty eight songs later and I have only talked about a handful of them! 

I leave as the encore begins.  The huge bar on the other end of the building is all geared up.  I walk in and I'm the only one there.  "Is it over?"  "Very nearly – he's into the encore".  Five people attend me and as quickly leave to start prepping for the invasion.  I am told there are 820 fans inside.  Suddenly everyone of them mill into the bar!  It rapidly fills up with the chattering masses.  In one minute all available space has run out.  Chairs by the dozen are brought from the main hall.  The place is abuzz, everybody high and as yet not a drink in them!  Most of people I overheard were first timers.  Old veterans in their mid 30s talk of seeing him four years ago.  Wonder what that makes me!!!!  A very very very old fan!!

Why does Christy change guitars at least half a dozen times throughout the gig?  I used to think he was moody about the instrument or maybe he wanted to change to a different colour!  Or was he bored with one and wanted to try another?  No – the answer is quite simple – he's not able to tune it!!!  As a would-be musician this fascinates me.  I play me whistle away but have a terrible ear.  I get fed up with musicians who spend all night tuning.  Give us an A they seem to say all night.  No jigs or reels, just an oul' A that blasts away!  And they are always right and I am always flat!  So gather around me would-be musicians with poor ears.  Christy Moore has five hundred plus songs – is an accomplished singer and musician, has been on the road for over 30 years – but he cannot tune his guitar!! 
We head backstage.  Mick, Paddy, Jim Aiken and the lads are there amidst a hive of activity.  Lots of fans and lots of people 'minding' Christy.  No sign of Declan – he's the wise boy and has gone off for a bite to eat.  We join him.  Later we have a 'set list' conversation.  Christy says Mick always does them.  "You mean Mick decides what songs are to be sung and you read them off the floor"!!  "Nooooooooo, he writes them down as I sing them".  All news to me and fascinating.  "The two of you can run a real tight gig but in actual fact ye are winging it all the time"!  "Correct".  I dig a bit deeper. "Declan, how can you tell what he's about and where he is going?" Declan puts his hands in the air – so it's magic!  Only someone with Declan's genius could bring the magic to life!
We talked about the importance of the songs.  There was a story in ancient Ireland about enemy torture.  The unfortunate victim was deprived of music, water and food – in that order!  "We have ways and means of making you talk".  But it does go to show how music/song was so important to our ancestors.  One of the messages in the CM guest book online describes a song that had a special meaning to the writer but adds to the sentence – "but sure it's only a song"!  And Christy's lyrical response – "ONLY a song!! What divine pastures you must dwell upon"!  Songs and music are never ONLY!
www.irelandcountryantiques.com

 

November 2006

Dear Listeners and Readers

Thanks to those of you who are always prepared to help others find records and films of songs.  The network that has formed is part of what I hoped the site would achieve.

Heading over to London next week for three gigs and a gallop up to Liverpool.  You might like to know that we are doing "Later with Jools", BBC 2, on Friday, November 17th. Also "Midweek" at 9-10 a.m on Wednesday, November 8th at BBC Radio 4.  When we return to Ireland we are scheduled to play "The Tubridy Show" show on Saturday December 2nd on RTE 1 TV 9.30 pm-ish.

I will write soon again

 

Friday 6th October '06 The Góilín Singers Club

For many years I have been an (very) occasional visitor to the Góilín Singers Club.  I recall four different venues since my first visit.  It is unique, in that it is run by singers who share a deep love for singing and for songs - they are the primary purpose.  The listening is intense and the fare is very varied.  All manner of singing and songs are tolerated but the emphasis is very much on what might be loosely described as Folksongs, be they Traditional, Sean Nós, Ballads old and new in English and Irish.  There is a small network of similar gatherings around the country, each remaining autonomous but they seem to support each other to foster and further a mutual love of songs.

                                           
The format of the Góilín is a weekly singaround with as many as is possible getting an opportunity to sing.  Occasionally a guest will be invited to sing a set of songs.  There is no stage, nor is there amplification.  Yet no matter how quietly the song be sung it will be heard for the room has great acoustics.  The publican would appear to have great regard for the ethos of the club.  Well able to serve the drink (and Tea - God save us) without disrupting the listeners.  Despite the restrained atmosphere I describe, the fun element of songs is well to the fore and never forgotten.  Instruments are not particularly welcome but, occasionally, a blind eye might be turned to an errant guest who needs their soother.
The proceedings are marked by the ringing of a sweet bell and order for the singer is the order of the day. There is no cover charge but a collection is made to cover expenses - the recommended contribution being 3 euro.  (I have started writing a song called "The Box Dodgers" or "Auld Dodge The Box").

On the night in question the following songs were heard:


Its a Fine Flower The Lily...........Colin Batho

Mourne Maggie.........................Barry Gleeson

Drumsna Bachelors....................Roisín Gaffney  (also sang Bridget;s pill)

Bonnie Lass O'Morning................Mary Canniffe

Isolde's Chapel..........................Jerry O'Reilly (a song for Frank Harte written by Pat Burke)

Tiochfaidh an tSamraidh..............Maire Ní Cronáin

My Old Man...............................Andrew Clarke

Galtee Mt.Boy/Kit Conway............Manus O'Riordan

The Auld Thrashing Machine........ Johnny Collins

No More Fishing..........................Tom Crean

The Life of a Man........................Luke Cheevers

Amhrán Muinish...........................Míchéal MacRaghnall

The Sands of San Miguel...............Tony Canniffe

Doctor Crematorium......................Anne Buckley

Back Home in Derry.......................Diarmuid Breathnach (with a new original air)

Margaret Burke Sheridan................Pat Burke

The Note that Lingers....................Robert Kelly (written by Colum Sands)

Reconciliation.............................. Colin Batho (written by Ron Kavana)

 

I was the guest on the night and I sang

 

The well below the Valley

Middle of the Island

O My lovely Young One

The 2 Conneeleys

Quinte Brigada

Smoke and Strong whiskey

St Brendans Voyage

Magic Nights

Stitch in time

Burning Times

 

Three hours later we went down the stairs sated in song after a memorable gathering.
We'll be back soon.

 

 

 


 

3 October 2006

The Planxty Book is out.  Leagues O'Toole has done the work and Hodder Headline (Ireland) has published.  Titled THE HUMOURS OF PLANXTY it traces the emergence of our band from the Boglands of Kildare, how the strands of music emerged, how they came together and journeyed on.  As a band member I am extremely partisan, however, I recommend this book to anyone with even a slight interest in our music. (I have no financial interest in the book so I feel it is in order for me to review it here).  The story traces back to our times growing up and our influences.  Once the band has formed it develops into a history of the music we recorded over 10 years on 6 albums.  Leagues went to great lengths to get it right.  Sadly, one key component is missing.  One vital cog in the Planxty wheel denied Leagues the use of some brilliant insights and stories. For whatever reason the wonderful interview was quashed.  (We still love you).
 
Just back from 3 nights in the Black Box in Galway.  It has always been special playing in this city.  From the first visit to The Hangar in 1972 through The Cellar, St.Mary's Hall, Bridie Hogans, UCG, Cotters of Inverin, Teac Furbo, The Castle, O'Connors Salthill, Radisson, Leisureland, The Savoy, (tell me the others), Great Sth, The Crane, this venue beats them all.  Great room and people. There were some serious long haul listeners.  Fintan came from N.S.W. with his two beautiful daughters.  They now hold the record for long hauling a gig of mine.  Brendan came from Philadelphia and Pete Galligan all the way from Clarinbridge.  Others too from UK, Germany and Italy.  The NSW mad-hatters presented me with a silver shovel backstage.  Night 2 was very different – a long set.  I got lost in the time and the songs.  Declan is really hitting the spot these nights.  I am feeling that all these gigs are so precious.  Don't know how many more there will be.  Grappelli went on 'til he was 83, McColl was 74, Keith Richards is 103. I simply cherish these events.  That people come to hear Declan and I play these songs is a great privilege for me, that I still have the good health to do it and a great team around us to keep the show moving.

Dates announced for Vicar Street, Scotland, Derry and Belfast soon to be added.  Liverpool and London looking good for November, almost sold out I believe.   Looks like we will play "Jools" during that stint.   I will continue to respond to guest book queries when I can.  I notice some of you come on with queries that are already answered in the gig section at the home page.
Working on a recording for 4711 and also I am encouraging Declan to record his own work. He might consider a live cd of the songs he does at our current gigs.
Maryline coming to a gig! ..........

Talk soon .....

 

Cork, New York, Dundalk, Gortahork and Glenamaddy.......

The last solo shows were in The Abbey in Chicago back in 1997.  Recently I have had a yearning to try it all again.  The obvious place for me to do this was The Hall, Lisdoonvarna.  This venue is part of a small hotel, The Royal Spa, which is run by the Doherty family.  I first played there with Moving Hearts in 1981 and again with Planxty in 2003.  I have performed solo there on countless occasions and the vibe has always been good.  As I went out on night one I was extremely nervous.  As I began I felt very exposed without that blanket of music that Declan has been weaving around the songs.  There came a turning point as I began to find my "solo" feet. 


Night two I was in better shape and I was able to get much deeper into the performance. The songs began to flow. The palaver came together. For the first time in many years I played the same guitar all night.  The audience participation was sympatico and beautiful, you're singing was restrained and some gorgeous harmonies emerged from the room. (There was one lewdermawn constantly getting ahead with the lyric but no harm was done). 

With these two gigs under my belt I now feel that I can do the occasional solo gigs. The main thrust of the work will continue, for the time being, to be with Declan Sinnott.

The sets were:

Monday 28th August 2006  Tuesday 29th August 2006  The Adelphi Folk Club Leeds Bridge 1969

1. Nancy Spain
2. Sacco and Vanzetti
3. Hattie Carroll
4. Yellow Triangle
5. The Well Below The Valley
6. Raggle Taggle Gypsy
7. Johnny Connors
8. The Gander
9. North and South
10.Tyrone Boys
11. Natives
12. Chicago
13. The Dalesmans Litany
14. Companeros
15. Back Home in Derry
16. Ordinary Man
17. Go Move Shift
18. Cliffs of Dooneen
19. Beeswing
20. Lisdoonvarna
21. Casey
22. January Man
23. Flickering Light
24. Black is the Colour
25. Missing You
26. Quiet Desperation
27. Voyage
28. Knock Airport
29. Continental Céilí
30. Smoke and strong Whisky
31. Quinte Brigada
32. Sonny's Dream





Ride On

 1. 16 Jolly Ravers
2. Mullaghmore
3. Two Conneeleys
4. Brendan's Voyage
5. This is the day
6. Changes
7. Victor Jara
8. Sacco and Vanzetti
9. They never came home
10. McIlhatton
11. Continental Céilí
12. Magic nights
13. Missing You
14. Scapegoats (In memory of Richard McIlkenny)
15. Lawless
16. Companeros (we put Fidel in the white light)
17. Stitch in Time
18. Pontchartrain
19. Shovel
20. Beeswing
21. Flickering Light
22. Burning Times
23. Chicago
24. Joxer
25. North and South
26. Middle of the Island
27.The Well Below The Valley
28. Raggle Taggle Gypsy
29. Sullivan's John (for The Pecker Dunne)
30. How Long
31. Lisdoonvarna 

1. James Larkin
2. Galway Races
3. As I roved out
4. Come By The Hill
5. Follow me up to Carlow
6. Travelling People
7. Mary From Dungloe
8. The Curragh Of Kildare
9. Seth Davy
10.The Galtee Mountain Boy
11.The Spainish Lady
12.The Little Beggarman
13.Rocky Road to Dublin
14.Enniskillen Dragoon
(60 minutes, very drunk towards the end – 24 years old and out of control. Not this singer's favourite cassette).

 

Thursday 17th August 2006

Come gather round me listeners and a story I will tell -               
Our tour of Wexford, Cork and Clonakilty went well last week. Three diverse gigs, each with its own special conditions and circumstances.  The Wexford gig in the Old Dun Mhuire hall was run by Frank Sinnott who, as well as being Declan's brother, has a great handle on how a gig should be run in that beautiful and ancient town.  As we arrived there were plenty of lads fishing at the seafront with plenty of lassies watching them.  Holidays were in full swing and the streets were jammed with motor homes, choc ices and bare mid riffs.  We had Pierce Turner in for the gig so a hurried rehearsal of "Musha God Help Her" was ordered.  Also present was Evan Keville, who is my No 1 listener.


Then to The Savoy in Cork and a stand-up gig for the Simon Community.  The stand-up gig has a great energy about it.  Beforehand a 15 minute film on Cork Simon Community helped focus all our minds on the night's purpose.  We kicked off with "Motherland" and straightaway the songs became imbued the spirit of the event.  I went into "Missing You" and lost my way in the second verse whereupon the Langer Horde took it up and sang powerfully saving the day, Declan and I just played along for the rest of the song.  That gig is over now but Simon is still there in Cork - every hour of every day volunteering to assist those of us who have lost the compass.

On to West Cork - the Hall in Clonakilty for a gig put on by De Barras, one of the best Music venues in Bognia.  I've played De Barras every year (almost) for the past 20 years.  This time Bobby Blackwell thought it would be interesting to try a concert and he surely put on a right one.  They turned the Community Hall into the Sydney Opera house for the night and it proved to be a great idea.  Declan and I hit a purple patch that night and I look forward to hearing the tapes.  The one sad note on the tour occurred in Clonakilty. Many overseas listeners were en route to Cork when events took a bad turn in British Airspace.  With all the confusion and cancellation of flights about 40 people did not make it to Clon.  Bobby told me of people from Britain, Germany, USA, Holland and Italy who got caught up in the misfortune.  My heart goes out to you.

We have put up dates on the gig page for Limerick, Newry, Dungannon, Enniskillen, London, Galway, Liverpool.  We will shortly announce Dublin, Belfast, Derry, Amsterdam, Belgium, Glasgow, Perth and Aberdeen.  We are hoping to play Killorglin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Paris and Switzerland.

I will try and make a live gig recording available to 4711.  I greatly appreciate the efforts you take to come to the gigs and the long journeys many of you make.

Ride On


                                                                

 


 

31 July 2006

Dear Readers, Listeners, Travellers, Homebirds (and all the rest)
                                                                                                       Recently, on Ben Larkin's discussion site, I read where someone wrote that he could not understand why I would record Bob Dylan's "Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll".  Elsewhere I once read a savage attack on THE FACT that I had recorded a Morrissey song.  I find it interesting that such attitudes exist within people who profess to be followers of music.  In the first instance I consider Bob Dylan to be the greatest songwriter in my lifetime.  There is only one writer standing in Dylan's field. Singing "Hattie Carroll" is a great privilege for me, to have access to such writing, to sing of such recent injustice in a song that contains, for me, references to stuff that is happening around me every day of my life here in Ireland.  Dylan, more than any other, writes about this world of ours and how we live on it.  I will always be learning a Bob Dylan song.  There is nothing to understand.  I record songs because I love to sing them and people want to hear them. What about the songs of John Reilly, The Music of O'Carolan, The old reels (and new) that are played every minute of every day in some corner of the world.  There are fiddle players all over the world playing "Paddy Canny's Reel" tonight. Thankfully Paddy is down in Tulla Co.Clare still playing the beautiful music himself, 60 years after he wrote that piece.