Hi christy,Sad news for the loss of Anthony foley,Great loss to Thomond park and munster,just been reading about his sons tribute to his dad at the young age of 11,I lost my dad when i was 15,Let the muisic keep our spirits high Christy,Crouch,Touch,Pause,Engage.
Christy's reply
Had the great pleasure of meeting Anthony on 3 occasions when I sang for the Ireland Squad. His sudden premature passing touched the entire nation here and the news shocked the Rugby community in far off places . My heart goes out to his Wife and Sons,to all his Family. I too lost my Father when I was 11. Sixty years later I still cherish his memory with love , still mourn his loss.
“Axel” will be long remembered.
I hope you’re keeping well! Sorry I didn’t reply sooner…things have been sorta mad here ?
Do you happen to know Brendan Larrissey and/or Martin Hayes? They were both fiddle teachers of mine…Brendan more so when I lived in Galway.
Yeah, you were spot on about my surname except in America, my mom had it as ‘Rhae’. Silly question, but it’s been hard for me to find resources…do you know where the surname ‘Hiatt’ comes from? Apparently my great grandda was straight off the boat but I’m having a difficult time tracking it down. I want my child to know her Irish roots….God bless!!
Hi hope you have a look Christy. I have a dream to sing a few songs with you! What a dream. I am from the Curragh but now live in UK. Been to see you a few times. I sing folk song in some session over here and most of them have been done by you one time or another. Love your style Mr Moore keep up the good work. Murt Walsh
Christy's reply
good man Murt….manys the good session we had in The Curragh…Good Fridays and Christmas Days.. drink could be obtained in the Sergeants Mess if a fellow had the right connections ( Ballad singing was an asset…not sure which Barracks..Connolly, Ceannt, McDermot,Pearse or Plunkett…sang in Concerts as a boy Soprano..concerts run by Mick Sheehan in The Sands Picture House…Mick was a good Army Man ( but not on The Curragh)… also sang in the small hall opposite Reggie Darlings Barber Shop where Marie Slowey used to run concerts…have always wanted to play there again but that dream is not forthcoming…still love visiting The Plains, wandering into The Camp, reliving old memories…keep singing Murt
“From The Rising Sun in Brownstown to The Blue Lagoon in Sligo Town,
Ballymurphy and The Bogside, Ballinamore Ballinalee and Ballinasloe”
A great night indeed and a few too many refreshments after the show! Nothing a walk around bundoran on a perfect morning couldnt’ fix.
Im always equipped with device, it was more discretion… I’m sure you were ready for the road at that stage.
No not a Leitrim McGowan, Derry man outside Ballykelly(McGowans of Dunbrock House).
Anyway thanks for a brillant night and im sure il get that picture one day!
Niall
Christy's reply
I always ask..my best butty growing up was Pat (Paul) McGowan who’s Father Joe was of Leitrim stock…..
Thanks for a brillant night from start to finish in Bundoran.. Love your version of pair of brown eyes and sad to hear that Shane McGowan is not well..
I came upon the whirlwind that was yourself and Dec making a swift exit down the stairs after the gig, guitar in each hand, adequately disguised, but not well enough for this keen eye! A part of me regretting not attempting to stop the steam train for a quick picture.. Ah well, il get you another time! – Niall
Christy's reply
I spotted you at the bottom of the stairs as you exited the jax…… we were not so much disguised as dressed to face the night..you were in your shirtsleeves heading for refreshments….I was very relieved you did not stop us…was it discretion or lack of device?….anyway Niall, twas a great night..are you a Leitrim McGowan ?
Dear Christy,
Thank you very much for “Gortatagort” and the two Magic Nights in Bundoran and Ballina! We enjoyed so much your excellent selection of songs, very good to hear again some of the rare gems.
Talking about the old songs we were discussing if we maybe could encourage you to give the “Ballad of Nuke Power” a revival in Wexford. We both love your version together with Jimmy Faulkner on yellow disc of your Box Set. It is such a mighty song and we always think of it when we catch sight of Carnsore Point at our arrival and departure by boat.
Looking forward to our third gig on Thursday.
Best wishes, Traudel and Horst
Christy's reply
T & H….first of all,thank you for the gift of cake…we cut it up in the crew room and everyone took a slice home…a bit like the last verse of Lord Baker !
Lovely too to see my dear old friend Jimmy Faulkner remembered here. The recording you mention brings back many memories of my time playing with Jimmy.
Not so sure about reviving the song..it has long since passed from the repertoire and I simply will not have time to resurrect it this coming week..it was written by Jim “Doc”Whelan and shared with me at the first Carnsore Point Anti-Nuclear festival in the late 70’s.
Looking forward to the Spiegeltent in Declan’s home town…always a good gig town as far back as I can recall
Agh Christy, Declan, Jimmy what a session last night in Ballina, Christy I could not have picked the play list any better myself, Chicago, Contender, to start is all off, with a bit of Planxty , Moving Hearts, nice bit of the Bodhran too . Declan was electric on that guitar, wishing his solo would never end. Thanks again it was mighty, hoping to see you again soon …. (remember where you come from….up the Dubs) J
Thanks for a great gig last night in Ballina. I loved your political song. Declan was on top form, i thought he was going to break out in to a bit of Guns n Roses towards then end.
Best wishes
Jojo
Christy's reply
JoJo….we departed Ballina sated and satisfied…I was still buzzin as we crossed The Liffey….got home at 3am,put the kettle on,watched the Munster Match, then M.O.T.D. then decided I might as well have the breakfast, here I am at 11.38 am Sun Morn still buzzed up after last nights fun…. its time to hit the scratcher, turn on Marian, take a chill pill,send up a few zeds…zzzzzzzz
Great show up in the great Northern! What an opening number. Great to see Mr Sinnot busting out a few solos on the auld telecaster during the show as well. Thank you for the years of dedication and passion to the industry and here’s to many more to come!
Christy's reply
Cd3r……’twas a scorcher up there in beautiful Bundoran…such a funky gig room plus the old style grandeur of the hotel…Dr Sinnott has been raising temperatures at recent gigs,he’s been choppin out riffs to beat the band, but we’re keepin it tight
Thank you Christy for another wonderful gig last night. Always love to hear Poor Immigrant by the new Nobel Laureate- he still hasn’t made the Faber Book of Irish Verse though so you’re ahead of him there. Loved Lingo Politico too – nice one. Hoping to see the new Ken Loach movie I, Daniel Blake in the next week or two. Reflection of the tough times those on benefits face these days – think there’s a sad song in there some day. Good luck for Ballina tonight. Keep well.
Christy's reply
Hey Johnny Boy…going to see the new Ken Loach on Sunday…long may he create and direct his “pictures”…..
“I Pity The Poor Immigrant” may be my favourite Dylan Song, and him using a grand old Irish tune..same air as “Homes of Donegal”, “Tramps and Hawkers”, “90 MIles to Dublin”…
rumour has it that his mothers people came from Swatragh
Hi Christy, Thank you for a lovely gig in Bundoran earlier. There was a good crowd in tonight and you would know by the vibe that they enjoyed every minute of it. Great set “They Never Came Home” still gets me after all these years, no change as far as our leaders are concerned either, they continue to shed crocodile tears (Oblivious)…Bundoran itself had its own tragic fire in The Central Hotel , I’m sure you remember. There was 10 fatalities that night back in 1980 I think it was. It was a very sad time and I was reminded tonight of those people when you sang the Stardust song. It’s amazing where the songs can take us. Some good laughs tonight as well with “Amsterdam” and “Joxer” …”Lisdoon” getting the early run out had Marty and meself reaching for our coats thinking it was home time. Good to hear “Yellow Triangle” as well. I have to confess that like John Mc I have been straying away from home as well of late (other gigs) and was feeling almost unfaithful before tonight ..LOL ! managed to catch Luka & Anne in Derry as well last weekend, excellent stuff and also got along to Ralph Mc Tell a few nights before at The Hawks Well in Sligo, first time to see him ..brilliant songster and storyteller and not a bad songwriter either. I’m sure you and he have crossed paths many’s the time over the years. Great to see Declan & Jimmy in good form as well tonight, and always nice to catch up with the rest of the gang as well. My beloved Liverpool going alright so far this season, heading over on Tuesday for the Spurs game got a ticket for the new stand so have to check it out – In Klopp We Trust. Good luck in Ballina and hope to catch up again soon…Goodnight from The Hills…. Love & Respect Martin Mac
Christy's reply
indeed I too recalled the Central tragedy as we remembered The Stardust…the way the song was requested left little option but to sing it…every now and then a request comes on the air and I sense that I must give it a try…I struggled with the chords of Stardust last night but Declan followed me all the way….I thought of all the good people I met in Artane .. how they stood with me when Butterly sought to ban the song before Judge Murphy in the High Court of Ireland….
have a good trip to Anfield…..where another shrine exists,another tragedy remembered, another place where good people had to stand steadfast for decades to honour the memory of children dishonoured and castigated by corrupt State,Police and Media ……Artane and Anfield
That was a great “front Row” last night…young Stephen Murphy,the Leitrim Poet,was sitting amongst ye with his wife …check his videos out on YouTube….catch him if you can
An absolutely amazing show in Bundoran tonight . From The City of Chicago to No time for Love, was perfection….. two Hours just flew by. They Never Came Home…..out of the blue and perfect. Loved “Billy Grey ” too. Always a pleasure to see ye in The Hills.
I hate politicians too….
Christy's reply
True Love Knows No Season….what a gathering in Bundoran…the songsters sure thronged The Hall last night…”in cars, buses, vans and trains.In the punishing heat,the snow and rain”….
“Politico Lingo” is a funky song to sing..from Pat Quinn of Inis Iarr ( hes on YouTube) where he also performs his lovesong to Angelina ….and another song that describes different qualities that exist in various strains of the glorious potato
I’m hoping to record “Politico Lingo” next week…..maybe Larry Gogan will give it a spin
Hello christy.
Jesus ya played well in the first half last Sunday in St conleths ya were looking good in the first half but as the commutators say “it’s a game for two halves” and by Jayis we roasted ya in the second half!!
Some nice footballers from sarsfields coming through again, hopefully be as good as the rubber, boiler, nuxer or early and help kildare to see another lenister. Ya know we only won 3 lenisters in about 60 odd years! At least our singers aren’t under achievers….
Not long now for the home gigs and we all welcome you home again we are very privileged to have you as our biggest son of the town back once again.. fair play to you..
Christy's reply
great night in Bundoran tonight….people in from every corner of Ulster., from The Kingdom and The Banks of The Rhine…
I had a good walk around Droichead Nua on Thursday …some talk of County Final but its not as dominant a topic as it might have been 50 years ago….I did’nt make the game…got caught up in Baile Átha Cliath and failed to make the pitch…
yes ,lets hope The Lilys bloom again…The Intermediate Womens team have set the standard with their great victory in Croke Park…its time for the Flourbags to stop hiding in the Shortgrass
I thought I was walking down the Strand til someone pointed out that I was on “The Linear”….I was passing the “deep end” when a voice came from a loudspeaker and frightened the shite out of me….and then told me to pick up me shite and bring it home with me…..bring back the Town Commissioners
Ryston looked good in the Winter Sun….the old Par 3 looked inviting..some fit lookin fellas comin out of the Gym…
Hi Christy,
Lovely to read about all of the Music in the extended family and to see that its moving down through the next generation…….On reading it, the thought has just struck me, have you considered getting all of you together on the one Stage for a show or shows ?
Enjoy Bundoran….I love that walk by the Sea around the Great Northern; good for clearing the Head.
CM ( 71 )
How are things back home there. ?
We’re out here in portugal enjoying some real sunshine. There’s jacuzzi s swimming pools, beaches ,hawkers ,turk is h baths, saunas,millions of steps,seagulls,sailboats, pirates, outhouses,poorhouse s
Cats and more cats dogs ,an irish speaking morocon ,an english speaking chilian,restaurants people trying to herd you in to eat, suncream,icecream,aloe cream, irish bars, English bars, more steps and hills and iced tea.
A great word for people trying to sell stuff.. I learnt here is “amanha”. Which Means ill be back tomorrow .but I won’t!
I enjoyed reading about all those people in your family playing music.
That song “where the praties grow ”
I know a funny type of it I heard from a cork man.did you ever hear it?
“Her hair was like an old matress
Her eyes were navy blue
She hadn’t had a tooth in her head
since the year of fourty two.
She also had a wooden leg,
But how was I to know?
For I met her in the garden
where the praties grow.”
CS (12) RS (16)
PS nothing beats a good feed of potatoes at home.
And ca sheen bay muscles on a big tide
Christy's reply
CS agus RS agus an clann go léir..
you have the makings of a song there..”The Trip to Portugal”
you can take all the Cordon Beau, Haute Cuisine,Fine Dining,Fancy Restaraunts and not one of ’em could produce anything like the dinners I so loved back in the 1950s….Floury Spuds, Home churned butter, chopped cabbage and slices of home cured Bacon….sitting there in the middle of my Granny, Grand-Aunt Nan, Grand-Uncle Frank, Jimmy and Gary ( all mentioned in “Where I come from”)..they also did something Ive never witnessed anywhere else..the soup would come after the dinner…then strong tea and curny cake..after which the two women would lean into the open hearth fire and spark up their Gold Flake
Great to see that so many gigs are sold out these days – people still know good music when they hear it. Was lucky enough to hear Ralph McTell, Anne Rynne and Luka at gigs in Derry last weekend – couple of really wonderful gigs. Making the cross border trip to Bundoran tomorrow night before the Brexiteers shut the gates on us. Looking forward to a good night in the land of O’Donnell. Safe travels to you and the crew.
Christy's reply
Anne Rynne causing nice ripples with her debut album of the same name….our second sister,Anne has been singing all her life.When we were kids in Newbridge she always had a natural aptitude for harmony…at a young age she started her family with Davoc Rynne and devoted herself to family life….at the early age of 60 plus she has thrown herself back into singing and recently released her debut album….
our Brother Luka was on Imeall ( TG4) last week and also played a stormer at Whelan’s (Dublin) the other night where he was joined by The Cahill Sisters from Newbridge.He’s off to Germany next week for a lengthy tour.His recent album “Frugalisto” has been receiving good reviews and (long overdue)airplay.
Our Brother in law Peter Byrne is about to release his debut album. He sings with Conor O’Mahoney and they make a lovely and unique sound….
Lots of music happening in the family… Our son Andy will join me in Vicar ST this Christmas when we play 4 gigs there…nephew Gavin Moore plays in Monks Lane, Timoleague, Co Cork (in the Restaraunt he runs with his new Bride Michelle)..Nephew Davóg Rynne gigs in France and plays some home gigs next month…nephew Conor Byrne plays Flute (and Uileann Pipes) and also runs Festivals and gigs at many venues…Nephews Tom Barry and Robbie Moore also play music and write songs,..Davoc Rynne plays at The Cliffs of Moher and has an album “The Humours of Ennistymon”, our sister Eilish has recently started singing again so its fair to say that music runs through the family….
the spirits of our mother, (Neans De Paor 1915-1992 …Yellow Furze Woman) and of our Father Andy Moore (1915-1956)still reverberate. Oct 8th this year marked the 60th Anniversary of Daddy’s passing….I remember it like it was yesterday…Daddy used to sing….
” Have you ever been in love me boys or have you felt the pain
I’d rather be in Jail me boys then be in love again.
The girl I loved was beautiful I’ll have you all to know,
that I met her in The Garden where The Praties grow”
Thanks for Lily Christy which I picked up at the lovely Bridgewater Hall gig the other day. Listening to the Tuam Beat made me dig out Padraiig’ CD sounds which has some great songs on it and an evocative piece on the sleeve.
“After the city we took to the roads and headed West. We passed smaller and smaller towns. There was little traffic, no pylons or poles, no white lines, and then the road just ended. We walked the land and marvelled.
We heard an unknown secret music, soft as a fragrance, like the glimpse of some fleet-footed animal, wild, pure and beautiful. We followed”. Thanks for keeping the spirits high.
I’ve been doing some family homework lately and wondered if you remembered my Grandfather, Paddy O’Neill and Grandmother Mary O’Neill – of O’Neills at Milltown (Now the Milltown Inn)? I’ve heard many, many stories of you playing there from my mother (Majella).
Christy's reply
When I was a small boy that pub and grocery was run by the Cribbens Family. My Father’s people,the Dowlings,dwelt about 2 miles away at the end of Barronstown lane and bought provisions from Harry and Mrs Cribbens . I remember Paddy and Mary fondly. (Would I be right in saying that your Grandmother Mary was from across The Hill of Allen and was a “Fitzgerald of The Forge”. I recall going there with “Sonny” Slattery when the workhorse was being re-shod)…I often dropped in to “O’Neills” for a bottle of stout and ,in a later life, played 2 gigs there in the 70s.One of those gigs was a fund raiser for the Irish anti-Nuclear Movement.That gig was run by the late Pa Tunney,then a resident of Mylerstown…I visit Milltown regularly…its a changed place now with that very busy road but the old graveyard still offers tranquility to those paying respect to loved ones departed.
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Hi Christy, Hope all well? To cut the old story short, I was at Christ’s College, Liverpool, when you came over as Planxty around 1972/3, and a lad called Eamonn O’Neal booked you. Eamonn some years later interviewed you a few times for the Radio in Manchester. Eamonn and I started a band called Curragh in 1980, inspired by you guys, and although Eamonn left fairly soon to pursue other things, Curragh and then The Curragh Sons have been playing ever since, across the UK, Ireland and Europe. We’ve had a few near misses, and supported everyone from The Wolfetones and Stockton’s Wing, to good old Daniel and Big Tom, and many more in-between. We’ve probably done 2,000 gigs, still love it, still live it, and off to play the Dubliner in Oslo for four nights in a couple of weeks. Anyway, I’ve often thought of sending you one of our songs but, have never got around to it, until now. We were over in Kinvara for the annual Cruinni na Mbad boat festival, which we’ve played many times. It’s a wonderful spectacle to see all the old Galway Hookers coming into the Bay, some of them have been in the same family for five generations. I wrote a song for the festival this year to commemorate the loss of one Johnny MacDonagh who drowned when the Hooker McHugh went down in 2009. His brother Josie was a saved. I was booked to appear on a few radio shows before the Festival and thought I should run the song by the brother an family before they heard it out the blue. I drove across from Derbyshire to Carna and had an amazing meeting, very emotional but thankfully they loved the song, and many of the family came to Kinvara to hear us sing the song live. The whole thing was just an amazing experience you couldn’t buy. I’d be very grateful if I could run the song by you, just in case you would like to cover it. With all best wishes Sean PS You can get it here I think but not sure whether it will work on this medium https://paulhighamseanwood.bandcamp.com Be great to hear from you sean.wood@talk21.com 077361 75866
Hi christy,Sad news for the loss of Anthony foley,Great loss to Thomond park and munster,just been reading about his sons tribute to his dad at the young age of 11,I lost my dad when i was 15,Let the muisic keep our spirits high Christy,Crouch,Touch,Pause,Engage.
Had the great pleasure of meeting Anthony on 3 occasions when I sang for the Ireland Squad. His sudden premature passing touched the entire nation here and the news shocked the Rugby community in far off places . My heart goes out to his Wife and Sons,to all his Family. I too lost my Father when I was 11. Sixty years later I still cherish his memory with love , still mourn his loss.
“Axel” will be long remembered.
Hiya Christy,
I hope you’re keeping well! Sorry I didn’t reply sooner…things have been sorta mad here ?
Do you happen to know Brendan Larrissey and/or Martin Hayes? They were both fiddle teachers of mine…Brendan more so when I lived in Galway.
Yeah, you were spot on about my surname except in America, my mom had it as ‘Rhae’. Silly question, but it’s been hard for me to find resources…do you know where the surname ‘Hiatt’ comes from? Apparently my great grandda was straight off the boat but I’m having a difficult time tracking it down. I want my child to know her Irish roots….God bless!!
best to you too
Hi hope you have a look Christy. I have a dream to sing a few songs with you! What a dream. I am from the Curragh but now live in UK. Been to see you a few times. I sing folk song in some session over here and most of them have been done by you one time or another. Love your style Mr Moore keep up the good work. Murt Walsh
good man Murt….manys the good session we had in The Curragh…Good Fridays and Christmas Days.. drink could be obtained in the Sergeants Mess if a fellow had the right connections ( Ballad singing was an asset…not sure which Barracks..Connolly, Ceannt, McDermot,Pearse or Plunkett…sang in Concerts as a boy Soprano..concerts run by Mick Sheehan in The Sands Picture House…Mick was a good Army Man ( but not on The Curragh)… also sang in the small hall opposite Reggie Darlings Barber Shop where Marie Slowey used to run concerts…have always wanted to play there again but that dream is not forthcoming…still love visiting The Plains, wandering into The Camp, reliving old memories…keep singing Murt
“From The Rising Sun in Brownstown to The Blue Lagoon in Sligo Town,
Ballymurphy and The Bogside, Ballinamore Ballinalee and Ballinasloe”
A great night indeed and a few too many refreshments after the show! Nothing a walk around bundoran on a perfect morning couldnt’ fix.
Im always equipped with device, it was more discretion… I’m sure you were ready for the road at that stage.
No not a Leitrim McGowan, Derry man outside Ballykelly(McGowans of Dunbrock House).
Anyway thanks for a brillant night and im sure il get that picture one day!
Niall
I always ask..my best butty growing up was Pat (Paul) McGowan who’s Father Joe was of Leitrim stock…..
Christy,
Thanks for a brillant night from start to finish in Bundoran.. Love your version of pair of brown eyes and sad to hear that Shane McGowan is not well..
I came upon the whirlwind that was yourself and Dec making a swift exit down the stairs after the gig, guitar in each hand, adequately disguised, but not well enough for this keen eye! A part of me regretting not attempting to stop the steam train for a quick picture.. Ah well, il get you another time! – Niall
I spotted you at the bottom of the stairs as you exited the jax…… we were not so much disguised as dressed to face the night..you were in your shirtsleeves heading for refreshments….I was very relieved you did not stop us…was it discretion or lack of device?….anyway Niall, twas a great night..are you a Leitrim McGowan ?
Dear Christy,
Thank you very much for “Gortatagort” and the two Magic Nights in Bundoran and Ballina! We enjoyed so much your excellent selection of songs, very good to hear again some of the rare gems.
Talking about the old songs we were discussing if we maybe could encourage you to give the “Ballad of Nuke Power” a revival in Wexford. We both love your version together with Jimmy Faulkner on yellow disc of your Box Set. It is such a mighty song and we always think of it when we catch sight of Carnsore Point at our arrival and departure by boat.
Looking forward to our third gig on Thursday.
Best wishes, Traudel and Horst
T & H….first of all,thank you for the gift of cake…we cut it up in the crew room and everyone took a slice home…a bit like the last verse of Lord Baker !
Lovely too to see my dear old friend Jimmy Faulkner remembered here. The recording you mention brings back many memories of my time playing with Jimmy.
Not so sure about reviving the song..it has long since passed from the repertoire and I simply will not have time to resurrect it this coming week..it was written by Jim “Doc”Whelan and shared with me at the first Carnsore Point Anti-Nuclear festival in the late 70’s.
Looking forward to the Spiegeltent in Declan’s home town…always a good gig town as far back as I can recall
Agh Christy, Declan, Jimmy what a session last night in Ballina, Christy I could not have picked the play list any better myself, Chicago, Contender, to start is all off, with a bit of Planxty , Moving Hearts, nice bit of the Bodhran too . Declan was electric on that guitar, wishing his solo would never end. Thanks again it was mighty, hoping to see you again soon …. (remember where you come from….up the Dubs) J
Hi Christy
Thanks for a great gig last night in Ballina. I loved your political song. Declan was on top form, i thought he was going to break out in to a bit of Guns n Roses towards then end.
Best wishes
Jojo
JoJo….we departed Ballina sated and satisfied…I was still buzzin as we crossed The Liffey….got home at 3am,put the kettle on,watched the Munster Match, then M.O.T.D. then decided I might as well have the breakfast, here I am at 11.38 am Sun Morn still buzzed up after last nights fun…. its time to hit the scratcher, turn on Marian, take a chill pill,send up a few zeds…zzzzzzzz
Great show up in the great Northern! What an opening number. Great to see Mr Sinnot busting out a few solos on the auld telecaster during the show as well. Thank you for the years of dedication and passion to the industry and here’s to many more to come!
Cd3r……’twas a scorcher up there in beautiful Bundoran…such a funky gig room plus the old style grandeur of the hotel…Dr Sinnott has been raising temperatures at recent gigs,he’s been choppin out riffs to beat the band, but we’re keepin it tight
Thank you Christy for another wonderful gig last night. Always love to hear Poor Immigrant by the new Nobel Laureate- he still hasn’t made the Faber Book of Irish Verse though so you’re ahead of him there. Loved Lingo Politico too – nice one. Hoping to see the new Ken Loach movie I, Daniel Blake in the next week or two. Reflection of the tough times those on benefits face these days – think there’s a sad song in there some day. Good luck for Ballina tonight. Keep well.
Hey Johnny Boy…going to see the new Ken Loach on Sunday…long may he create and direct his “pictures”…..
“I Pity The Poor Immigrant” may be my favourite Dylan Song, and him using a grand old Irish tune..same air as “Homes of Donegal”, “Tramps and Hawkers”, “90 MIles to Dublin”…
rumour has it that his mothers people came from Swatragh
Hi Christy, Thank you for a lovely gig in Bundoran earlier. There was a good crowd in tonight and you would know by the vibe that they enjoyed every minute of it. Great set “They Never Came Home” still gets me after all these years, no change as far as our leaders are concerned either, they continue to shed crocodile tears (Oblivious)…Bundoran itself had its own tragic fire in The Central Hotel , I’m sure you remember. There was 10 fatalities that night back in 1980 I think it was. It was a very sad time and I was reminded tonight of those people when you sang the Stardust song. It’s amazing where the songs can take us. Some good laughs tonight as well with “Amsterdam” and “Joxer” …”Lisdoon” getting the early run out had Marty and meself reaching for our coats thinking it was home time. Good to hear “Yellow Triangle” as well. I have to confess that like John Mc I have been straying away from home as well of late (other gigs) and was feeling almost unfaithful before tonight ..LOL ! managed to catch Luka & Anne in Derry as well last weekend, excellent stuff and also got along to Ralph Mc Tell a few nights before at The Hawks Well in Sligo, first time to see him ..brilliant songster and storyteller and not a bad songwriter either. I’m sure you and he have crossed paths many’s the time over the years. Great to see Declan & Jimmy in good form as well tonight, and always nice to catch up with the rest of the gang as well. My beloved Liverpool going alright so far this season, heading over on Tuesday for the Spurs game got a ticket for the new stand so have to check it out – In Klopp We Trust. Good luck in Ballina and hope to catch up again soon…Goodnight from The Hills…. Love & Respect Martin Mac
indeed I too recalled the Central tragedy as we remembered The Stardust…the way the song was requested left little option but to sing it…every now and then a request comes on the air and I sense that I must give it a try…I struggled with the chords of Stardust last night but Declan followed me all the way….I thought of all the good people I met in Artane .. how they stood with me when Butterly sought to ban the song before Judge Murphy in the High Court of Ireland….
have a good trip to Anfield…..where another shrine exists,another tragedy remembered, another place where good people had to stand steadfast for decades to honour the memory of children dishonoured and castigated by corrupt State,Police and Media ……Artane and Anfield
That was a great “front Row” last night…young Stephen Murphy,the Leitrim Poet,was sitting amongst ye with his wife …check his videos out on YouTube….catch him if you can
An absolutely amazing show in Bundoran tonight . From The City of Chicago to No time for Love, was perfection….. two Hours just flew by. They Never Came Home…..out of the blue and perfect. Loved “Billy Grey ” too. Always a pleasure to see ye in The Hills.
I hate politicians too….
True Love Knows No Season….what a gathering in Bundoran…the songsters sure thronged The Hall last night…”in cars, buses, vans and trains.In the punishing heat,the snow and rain”….
“Politico Lingo” is a funky song to sing..from Pat Quinn of Inis Iarr ( hes on YouTube) where he also performs his lovesong to Angelina ….and another song that describes different qualities that exist in various strains of the glorious potato
I’m hoping to record “Politico Lingo” next week…..maybe Larry Gogan will give it a spin
Hello christy.
Jesus ya played well in the first half last Sunday in St conleths ya were looking good in the first half but as the commutators say “it’s a game for two halves” and by Jayis we roasted ya in the second half!!
Some nice footballers from sarsfields coming through again, hopefully be as good as the rubber, boiler, nuxer or early and help kildare to see another lenister. Ya know we only won 3 lenisters in about 60 odd years! At least our singers aren’t under achievers….
Not long now for the home gigs and we all welcome you home again we are very privileged to have you as our biggest son of the town back once again.. fair play to you..
great night in Bundoran tonight….people in from every corner of Ulster., from The Kingdom and The Banks of The Rhine…
I had a good walk around Droichead Nua on Thursday …some talk of County Final but its not as dominant a topic as it might have been 50 years ago….I did’nt make the game…got caught up in Baile Átha Cliath and failed to make the pitch…
yes ,lets hope The Lilys bloom again…The Intermediate Womens team have set the standard with their great victory in Croke Park…its time for the Flourbags to stop hiding in the Shortgrass
I thought I was walking down the Strand til someone pointed out that I was on “The Linear”….I was passing the “deep end” when a voice came from a loudspeaker and frightened the shite out of me….and then told me to pick up me shite and bring it home with me…..bring back the Town Commissioners
Ryston looked good in the Winter Sun….the old Par 3 looked inviting..some fit lookin fellas comin out of the Gym…
Hi Christy,
Lovely to read about all of the Music in the extended family and to see that its moving down through the next generation…….On reading it, the thought has just struck me, have you considered getting all of you together on the one Stage for a show or shows ?
Enjoy Bundoran….I love that walk by the Sea around the Great Northern; good for clearing the Head.
best Regards,
Patsy
CM ( 71 )
How are things back home there. ?
We’re out here in portugal enjoying some real sunshine. There’s jacuzzi s swimming pools, beaches ,hawkers ,turk is h baths, saunas,millions of steps,seagulls,sailboats, pirates, outhouses,poorhouse s
Cats and more cats dogs ,an irish speaking morocon ,an english speaking chilian,restaurants people trying to herd you in to eat, suncream,icecream,aloe cream, irish bars, English bars, more steps and hills and iced tea.
A great word for people trying to sell stuff.. I learnt here is “amanha”. Which Means ill be back tomorrow .but I won’t!
I enjoyed reading about all those people in your family playing music.
That song “where the praties grow ”
I know a funny type of it I heard from a cork man.did you ever hear it?
“Her hair was like an old matress
Her eyes were navy blue
She hadn’t had a tooth in her head
since the year of fourty two.
She also had a wooden leg,
But how was I to know?
For I met her in the garden
where the praties grow.”
CS (12) RS (16)
PS nothing beats a good feed of potatoes at home.
And ca sheen bay muscles on a big tide
CS agus RS agus an clann go léir..
you have the makings of a song there..”The Trip to Portugal”
you can take all the Cordon Beau, Haute Cuisine,Fine Dining,Fancy Restaraunts and not one of ’em could produce anything like the dinners I so loved back in the 1950s….Floury Spuds, Home churned butter, chopped cabbage and slices of home cured Bacon….sitting there in the middle of my Granny, Grand-Aunt Nan, Grand-Uncle Frank, Jimmy and Gary ( all mentioned in “Where I come from”)..they also did something Ive never witnessed anywhere else..the soup would come after the dinner…then strong tea and curny cake..after which the two women would lean into the open hearth fire and spark up their Gold Flake
Great to see that so many gigs are sold out these days – people still know good music when they hear it. Was lucky enough to hear Ralph McTell, Anne Rynne and Luka at gigs in Derry last weekend – couple of really wonderful gigs. Making the cross border trip to Bundoran tomorrow night before the Brexiteers shut the gates on us. Looking forward to a good night in the land of O’Donnell. Safe travels to you and the crew.
Anne Rynne causing nice ripples with her debut album of the same name….our second sister,Anne has been singing all her life.When we were kids in Newbridge she always had a natural aptitude for harmony…at a young age she started her family with Davoc Rynne and devoted herself to family life….at the early age of 60 plus she has thrown herself back into singing and recently released her debut album….
our Brother Luka was on Imeall ( TG4) last week and also played a stormer at Whelan’s (Dublin) the other night where he was joined by The Cahill Sisters from Newbridge.He’s off to Germany next week for a lengthy tour.His recent album “Frugalisto” has been receiving good reviews and (long overdue)airplay.
Our Brother in law Peter Byrne is about to release his debut album. He sings with Conor O’Mahoney and they make a lovely and unique sound….
Lots of music happening in the family… Our son Andy will join me in Vicar ST this Christmas when we play 4 gigs there…nephew Gavin Moore plays in Monks Lane, Timoleague, Co Cork (in the Restaraunt he runs with his new Bride Michelle)..Nephew Davóg Rynne gigs in France and plays some home gigs next month…nephew Conor Byrne plays Flute (and Uileann Pipes) and also runs Festivals and gigs at many venues…Nephews Tom Barry and Robbie Moore also play music and write songs,..Davoc Rynne plays at The Cliffs of Moher and has an album “The Humours of Ennistymon”, our sister Eilish has recently started singing again so its fair to say that music runs through the family….
the spirits of our mother, (Neans De Paor 1915-1992 …Yellow Furze Woman) and of our Father Andy Moore (1915-1956)still reverberate. Oct 8th this year marked the 60th Anniversary of Daddy’s passing….I remember it like it was yesterday…Daddy used to sing….
” Have you ever been in love me boys or have you felt the pain
I’d rather be in Jail me boys then be in love again.
The girl I loved was beautiful I’ll have you all to know,
that I met her in The Garden where The Praties grow”
Thanks for Lily Christy which I picked up at the lovely Bridgewater Hall gig the other day. Listening to the Tuam Beat made me dig out Padraiig’ CD sounds which has some great songs on it and an evocative piece on the sleeve.
“After the city we took to the roads and headed West. We passed smaller and smaller towns. There was little traffic, no pylons or poles, no white lines, and then the road just ended. We walked the land and marvelled.
We heard an unknown secret music, soft as a fragrance, like the glimpse of some fleet-footed animal, wild, pure and beautiful. We followed”. Thanks for keeping the spirits high.
“Aint that sumpin” (Zimmy)
Christy, a chara,
That other thing today arrived from you this morning. A lovely gesture. I hope you enjoyed the Portlaoise recording.
Slan go fóill, a chara, agus go raibh míle maith agat – Johnny.
sound Johnny, glad to have it
Hi Christy,
I’ve been doing some family homework lately and wondered if you remembered my Grandfather, Paddy O’Neill and Grandmother Mary O’Neill – of O’Neills at Milltown (Now the Milltown Inn)? I’ve heard many, many stories of you playing there from my mother (Majella).
When I was a small boy that pub and grocery was run by the Cribbens Family. My Father’s people,the Dowlings,dwelt about 2 miles away at the end of Barronstown lane and bought provisions from Harry and Mrs Cribbens . I remember Paddy and Mary fondly. (Would I be right in saying that your Grandmother Mary was from across The Hill of Allen and was a “Fitzgerald of The Forge”. I recall going there with “Sonny” Slattery when the workhorse was being re-shod)…I often dropped in to “O’Neills” for a bottle of stout and ,in a later life, played 2 gigs there in the 70s.One of those gigs was a fund raiser for the Irish anti-Nuclear Movement.That gig was run by the late Pa Tunney,then a resident of Mylerstown…I visit Milltown regularly…its a changed place now with that very busy road but the old graveyard still offers tranquility to those paying respect to loved ones departed.
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Hi Christy, Hope all well? To cut the old story short, I was at Christ’s College, Liverpool, when you came over as Planxty around 1972/3, and a lad called Eamonn O’Neal booked you. Eamonn some years later interviewed you a few times for the Radio in Manchester. Eamonn and I started a band called Curragh in 1980, inspired by you guys, and although Eamonn left fairly soon to pursue other things, Curragh and then The Curragh Sons have been playing ever since, across the UK, Ireland and Europe. We’ve had a few near misses, and supported everyone from The Wolfetones and Stockton’s Wing, to good old Daniel and Big Tom, and many more in-between. We’ve probably done 2,000 gigs, still love it, still live it, and off to play the Dubliner in Oslo for four nights in a couple of weeks. Anyway, I’ve often thought of sending you one of our songs but, have never got around to it, until now. We were over in Kinvara for the annual Cruinni na Mbad boat festival, which we’ve played many times. It’s a wonderful spectacle to see all the old Galway Hookers coming into the Bay, some of them have been in the same family for five generations. I wrote a song for the festival this year to commemorate the loss of one Johnny MacDonagh who drowned when the Hooker McHugh went down in 2009. His brother Josie was a saved. I was booked to appear on a few radio shows before the Festival and thought I should run the song by the brother an family before they heard it out the blue. I drove across from Derbyshire to Carna and had an amazing meeting, very emotional but thankfully they loved the song, and many of the family came to Kinvara to hear us sing the song live. The whole thing was just an amazing experience you couldn’t buy. I’d be very grateful if I could run the song by you, just in case you would like to cover it. With all best wishes Sean PS You can get it here I think but not sure whether it will work on this medium https://paulhighamseanwood.bandcamp.com Be great to hear from you sean.wood@talk21.com 077361 75866