Hi Christy hope all is well hope you and band have a mighty night tonight and to all the faithful followers face the puck out
Christy's reply
Iggy B…..5 days out of Ireland and I feel like I’ve been away for a month…how are ye all keeping…is Peter Casey Taoiseach yet ?….have ye sorted out the traffic in Galway yet..I hear they are building a new ring road…hope it does not interfere with the beautiful architecture around The Harbour….any word on The Euro 2020 ?
I heard they are thinking of moving it to Loughrea…keep in touch Iggy..tell Johnny and Sean Keane I was askin for them…its hot and sweaty here in Barrowland tonight…the queue has started for the front row…Jerseys from every corner…one lad has a Hurl with him…best to your Family
Hiya Christy, so excited to see you tonight with my sister in law Noelle and soon to be stepmum, Maddie. Were at your amazing gig last year in the Southbank Centre but there is no better venue than the Barrowlands. Can’t wait to join the atmosphere and hoping you’ll play Beeswing as it’s such a unique song! Thank you so much for sharing your amazing music with us all and looking forward to what we know will be a special night. X
Christy's reply
Just arrived in to this venue..it never changes, even when empty it retains character and atmosphere in its dark and famous hall…..hope you three have a good one tonight..we are poised and ready to go
I just wanted to thank you Christy for giving us such a magical night in Edinburgh this week. My pal Neil’s son Ben gave him the tickets for his birthday and presents just don’t come any more better. It was obvious as soon as you came on stage that there was an immediate and wonderful connection between you and the audience. I honestly can’t remember the songs sounding better and the musicianship of Declan, Jimmy and Cathal was also sublime. What came across so clearly again was how much pleasure you and the lads get in sharing your special gifts and talents with the audience to give us all an evening to treasure.
You spoke about your first visit to Auld Reekie around 1967 and I couldn’t help but wonder what you would have said if somone had told you then that over 50 years later you would be selling out a large theatre in that same city and still be in great voice! Many thanks again for a wonderful evening and for continuing to inspire us on a daily basis through your music and humanity. Best wishes to you all for another special gig in the East End of Glasgow tonight. The dreamers and the ghosts of the GayBirds will be in for another fantastic evening.
Christy's reply
Twas our pleasure Kevin, thanks for listening and for reaching out…if tonight goes as well Edinburgh, that’ll do me..
when I landed here 52 years ago I’d driven up from Manchester . My very first vehicle was a Blue 1956 VW Beetle, cost me £50…I had a Yamaha FG180 Guitar, a sleeping bag and a wee basket of songs..that was just about my lot …..
the world has changed since then but the job remains the same..get to the city, find the gig and sing the songs….these days there are 11 of us involved, a truck and two vans, numerous instruments, no sleeping bags, big venues, but the songs still carry us all along…..
Christmas morning excitement has arrived, tonights the night!!! Two cousins in tow tonight too! If the wind takes you, I’d love to hear No time for love.
Hope yourself and the lads enjoy the gig!
Aisling
Christy's reply
Fair enough….I think we might have to lash out the full version tonight…
Hey Christy. Hope you’re well. As excited as ever for tomorrow night. Just a small request for Galtee Mountain Boy on the night if you can squeee it in. For no other reason than me and my mates get more excited each time we hear you doing it live! Knock them dead. Cheers Brian Casey
Christy's reply
Thats a good enough reason for me Brian
If the gap opens, I’ll be in there like a light
Hi Christy myself and Marianne are flying up from London tomorrow and we are bringing our son who has autism – he’ll be wearing his ear defenders but I know he’ll take it all in . It’s been a journey and a strange one at that ….. many moons ago my parents had taken me to the meeting of the waters in Avoca and we met Luke Kelly ….. scorn not the simplicity was sang ( maybe he saw my golden hair ) … it never left me and when James came along with his golden hair it was like a prophecy had come full circle … I know it’s not one of yours and putting together any set takes months… but it would fulfill something if we heard it from you ……. we’ll be roaring along whatever …. you have a gift and we appreciate it
Love
Gary and Marianne and James
Christy's reply
Luke Kelly in Avoca….a truly rare occasion, what a chance meeting…hope U3 have a good one tonight…I never attended a gig with both my parents….
“Scorn Not ” is a big song, …Luke’s version is probably definitive….
Hello Christy boy, the countdown is on, seems like ages since we walked up that shabby staircase to hell or heaven. Hope Declan has got his Rory fingers on as you know how we love those sweet notes. Your voice will surely echo in that darkest of chambers and brighten up the night, the crowd will be there, the crowd are always there, the 12th man singing along to every word and taking you to places you deserve to be. Its been a tough year Christy, lost me old Da 2 months ago but he’s never left me, im now in a good place. Anyway cant wait, no requests just belt it out your one in a million my friend. slainte
Christy's reply
Hi Gerry…sorry to read of your loss…. you wrote “but he’s never left me”……. some of us know what you mean….
our Da left us 62 years ago and never a day passes without my thinking of him…
Rory been knocking about these past few nights..hopefully he’ll turn up tonight
Hows Christy?
Ya know if your not meant to be some where and by chance you end up there, either by faith, believe, or even by pure stubbornness but something like a magnet has you drawn to a place?? I do believe in magic and I think it was pure magic that has myself and my brother in law from Newbridge to be on a flight out of Belfast tomorrow and in Glasgow for no other reason bar to sing our hearts out!!!.
As faith had it Kevin the brother in law put out a noble call to see if there was a couple tickets knocking around as we have had a very difficult time the last while and low and behold 2 tickets popped up from a person called Joe.
As it also happened by pure magic I was working in Dublin that day and I wasn’t more than a 100 yards away from Joe.
I met Joe we spoke about your music and I thanked him for the tickets and he thanked me for making good use of them.
And as I walked away and looked across the road I realised where I was, I was directly across the road from the stardust in artane and i paused for a minute in respect of the victims.
It was your song that educate me about that
tragedy and have since read many article’s about it. I do hope the families get their justice sooner than later..
So away with myself two barrowland tickets and a “internal British” flight too get there tomorrow but there is no stopping us now!!!!.
I’m off to pack my tooth brush into my arse pocket because I’m not letting micheal o Leary charge me for it!! And I’ll be see you and the lads underneath the carousel of healing!!
Enjoy yourself and up kildare!!
Christy's reply
Hey there Sarchfield,
You remind me of the night I was walkin down the backstreet mindin me own business….I was headin down to Mrs Dunnes for a sixpenny bag of chips ….I met Billy Parkinson ( another Son of Sar even tho he lived up our end of town) He was after winning a right few bob on the geegees…He invited me into Joe O’Rourkes for a few scoops, there we met up with Mixer Reid and Harry Fay. As Billy was “carrying” we decided to move with him up to McCabe’s where Tom might give us a lock-in. One thing led to another and before we knew it we were exiting McCabe’s in tiredness and confusion….a few devout stragglers heading down to 7am Mass in the Parish,the four of us blinking mesmerised in the drunk morning Sun…Thank God that chapter is done… sadly all them good buttys gone….heres hoping we all have a good one tonight….safe journey Mo Cara
Glad to hear you’re enjoying the Scottish tour – it’s the highlight of my year every 18 months to have you here and immerse myself in the live experiences.
Very much enjoyed Glasgow round 1 and bringing my parents along to see you; was lovely to see my mum light up listening to your music. Particularly to hear her song “The Voyage” live. You can’t buy moments and memories like that. Interesting that a fellow gig-goer mentioned missing some of the chat – I thought the sound seemed a bit…”faraway” (while still being a generally excellent gig and experience) – wasn’t sure if it was the new mic set up, but noticed the sound was excellent last night in Edinburgh so couldn’t have been that.
The energy in Edinburgh was absolutely electric – you all seemed to find your groove immediately and just took off one one of those magical, untouchable gigs. It was a chance for me to introduce my boyfriend Stephen to your live gigs and he was thoroughly impressed with everything he saw. We agreed the impromptu reel was something else – I hope you revisit this tomorrow night.
On that note…very very excited indeed for the Barrowlands gig; Stephen has dipped his toe in and now it’s time for the top dale!! Do you ever play “First Time Ever” live? I’ve never in all the many gigs I’ve seen you, so probably not. I played the Vicar St version to Stephen as the most mesmerising version of the most beautiful love song I’ve ever heard and it’s our song now. It’s not very “Barrowlandsy” so probably not the best chance to suggest it, but I guess slim chance is better than none! We’ll have an amazing time regardless, as the gigs are always magical and there are countless gems among the set each time.
See you tomorrow for the next trip to Dreamland!
Christy's reply
Susie, Thank you for your feedback and support.
Its Barrowland time again….once every 18 months I wake to the prospect….its 32 years since my first gig here, I was playing Solo. In more recent years the venue has become very special to all our Band and Crew. Its a gig like no other. Its rough,its tough and its challenging, but its also uplifting,inspiring,affectionate, fulfilling,loving,wild and wonderful….not everyone gets it, it aint everyones cup of tea…..but I’m on a Desert Island with Kirsty….she tells me I’m allowed to play one more gig….
“Beam me up to Barrowland Scotty”
I have a rough idea of what I’ll open with tonight, a settling down interlude, but once we get going anything can happen….I’ve noted your “First Time Ever”, it would really work if the air was right…its such a special song, unlike most songs it cant be simply dropped into the set…..but we never know whats gonna happen…….( glad you like the Vicar St version…the air was right that night )
The new Mic works very well for me…gives me freedom of movement….
Hey Christy, making the trip to Glasgow from Hebburn in South Tyneside to see you tomorrow. My late dad Kevin was your biggest fan and we were brought up listening to your beautiful tunes!
He told us the tale of collecting you from Central Station to take you to the Doonans.
We played the voyage as they carried him from church to his resting place. This was his and mams ‘song’.
See you tomorrow…cant wait!
Bernadette and Catherine xx
Hi Christy, myself and my girlfriend are making the trip across from Kildare to Glasgow for the Barrowlands gig tomorrow. We have had the pleasure of seeing you four times in the past year (Sligo, Laois, Dublin and Dungarvan) each time unique. Having lived in Glasgow in 2011 it’s great to be returning to experience the atmosphere of one of your infamous gigs at the Barras. Looking forward to hopefully hearing ‘Black is the Colour’ at some stage and your new tune ‘sail on jimmy’, it’s a belter. Nár lagaí Dia thú!
Paddy and Marion.
Christy's reply
Ceart go leor a Phádraic….beimíd rockin the joint amárach…Lilys abú
Hope to make it to the Barras. …… if the latest storm doesn’t ground our flight…… Ger not a happy flier at the best of times .!! The guest book is flying. … the gigs must be hitting the heights
What kind of chocolate ???
Christy's reply
I’m with Ger on that one Marty…gimme the auld Ferry any day of the week….Belfast to Cairnryan to Glasgow 4 hours…..Aero with Nuts
love to all in Scotland for the Barras gig, performers , attendees, organisers etc..
He’s back on Irish soil…for next Friday, 9th Nov, the bauld WALLY PAGE will be playing The Annesley House on North Strand Road. Along with Johnny Mulhearn and the band..Hey Paddy, Hey Paddy..
Christy's reply
Biko returned last night and Smoke the night before…great to hear that the good Companeros are heading once more to the North Strand…
“you could ate your fry off the back of her neck”
Christy
Great gig at the Festival Theatre last night. First time for me and a recent convert. What was the name of the song you sang solo about the battered wife?
Is it on an album?
Christy's reply
Thanks Panner,
Its on the 2001 album “This is The Day” ..an accompanied version…it was written by Mike Waterson of Hull in Yorkshire…I first heard it on a Martin Carthy album…I sang it unaccompanied some years ago on “Desert Island Discs” which can be found on the BBC archive….
I believe it was based upon a newspaper report of a court case…..
Really really looking forward to hearing “the sound of the Barras humming” again tomorrow night. A shout out to Chris & Karen would be very much appreciated!
Would love to hear Beeswing or Weila Waile (your version of the song was playing when our daughter, Ciara, entered the world almost 7 years ago – the (Scottish) midwives didn’t know what to make of it!) Not heard you sing it live before, so not sure if you still do it.
Karen
Christy's reply
Hey Karen,
I’ve never gigged “Weela Waile,” not even once….but I’ve always been interested in it..its a curious dark bloody song…I recorded it in the garden shed in 1999 and thats how it ended up on The Box Set 1964-2004…
“Beeswing” is almost ever present in the set and hopefully we’ll run it out to ye all tomorrow night…
Shout outs are becoming a problem…so many requests, so little time….. whispers of favouritism, suspicion of bribes, ( bars of chocolates, free chips, tips for horses, wedding invites, tickets to football games, apple tarts, free reiki, use of helicopters, ( Innishvickallaune)….
Dear Christy,
So beautiful to read your Scottish tour is going very well …
Almost one week ago we drove through Dumfries and Galloway and coincidentally passed “Beeswing” – isn’t it amazing there’s a village in Scotland with just that name!! This happened on our long journey back after four wonderful weeks on our beloved Island …
Now we have gradually settled down and it’s about time to thank you for the magic Saturday night in Bundoran. (Sorry for late response) Again we enjoyed your gig very much and we were so lucky to catch you a third time durig our stay. Also many thanks to Hilary for her great help.
MÍLE MAITH AGAT for welcoming us with “Motherland”! Ilove this marvellous song. And as well a huge DANKESCHOEN for the lovely Bday card with good wishes from yourself, Declan, Jimmy and your fabulous Crew!
ENJOY Barrowland tomorrow and safe journey home!
Traudel
Christy's reply
Keep coming back…. always good to see ye, to hear from you….. Sail On Traudel
Hi Christy,
Sweet performance in Edinburgh last night – thank you very much. It is tough to know how you will four will improve upon it – though, I am certain that you’ll try. Thanks for the mention, it came as a shock.
Hearing Chicago again reminded me of hearing Luca in a small night club (Fly by Night) in Fremantle, two years ago. Similarly, he sang it superbly. In jest, he kidded us that you stole that number from him!
Take Care and enjoy the rest of the tour.
Peter
Christy's reply
Morra Peter,
that old Fly By Night in Fremantle is a favoured gig for many,myself and Luka included….
while I’m here in Scotland,my good Brother Luka, is treading the boards in Belgium and Holland…..
our Families and Siblings keeping the home fires burning as we head on down our varied routes towards gigs yet to come….
we strive, never to stray,too far from ancient Boglands
Christy – just wanted to say thanks for an absolutely fabulous night last night in Edinburgh. You gave a shout out to my two wee boys – Corran, 7 & Senan, 5 – towards the end when doing ‘requests’. It was their first ever gig – I’m a v proud dad to have you as their first gig.
They were chuffed to get City of Chigago early (or Hills of Donegal as they call it).
Wonderful to see and hear you again – you’re a legend.
Take care, and look forward to the next time.
Slainte.
Christy's reply
Morra Dessie,
It warms an aging heart to think of Corran and Senan coming to their first gig…thanks for sharing
Hi All. Really amazing gigs, such great welcome as ye arrive on stage and then such high energy, non stop singing and playing and reciting and fun !! it augurs well for Sat night in the East End of Glasgow. The new song is settling in well, it tells a story which needs to be told. A film has been released this week about Rolls Royce workers from East Kilbride refusing to work on planes from Chile during the reign of Pinochet, and the power of solidarity,here is a list of all screenings https://naepasaran.com/upcoming-screenings/ Beir bua. H
Christy's reply
Thanks for that Hilary…gonna try and catch this film… good info….must try and push for an Irish screening..
these trips to Scotland are a vital part of my work schedule…. there is a connection here with the work that is unique…its hard to define precisely, I believe its a combination of;
Love
the exiled diaspora ( both forced and chosen)
political and cultural history
the welcome, and the rejection,
Churches and Religions
Football
Music
Hate.
Its been a long learning process for me..from my first visit back in 1967 to last night in Edinburgh….so much has happened here…Hamish Imlach carried me across the border and gave me shelter…Owen Hand took me into his home… I began to hear so many vital voices and players, Archie Fisher, John Martyn, Matt McGinn, Arthur Johnston, Barbara Dickson, Paddie Bell, The McCalmans, Aly Bain, Mike Whellans,Mick Broderick, Jimmy Hutchinson, Bert Jansch, Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty, Tam Harvey,Jean Redpath, Jeannie Robertson,Davey Johnson, Jimmie McBeath,
I know I know, I’m a hoor for the nostalgia of it all, forever looking back….but thats where it all started for me, this work that continues had its apprenticeship listening to all these practitioners of whatever this is…I took a wee bit from each and every one….Ewan MacColl, Dave Goulder, Danny Kyle,The Corries, Robin & Jimmy,Josh McCrae., Shaggis,.Alex Cambell…we all shared that space, those wee drams, them pints o heavy, carlsberg specials, magic pills, potions and powders, some of us still live to tell the tale….
its all here in the mix…all we need are listeners, to power us up, to carry us along…
then its back across the water, back to another story
From your comeback gig in the Traverse just after New Year quite a few years back, via a set in the Lyceum when they had the stage set covered with a curtain, you have provided some magical nights in Edinburgh in various venues over the years. But last night went to a level I have never seen you reach on this side of the water. The venue suits you, the 4 of you seem to bring out the best in each other and after a few personally difficult months when we lost too many loved ones it was lovely to lose ourselves in the magic for 2 hours. Roll on Christmas at home and Vicar Street on 3 January when maybe you might slip in The Contender. Thanks again to all of you, band and audience, for a wonderful night.
Christy's reply
Thanks for sharing Yamoe..its uplifting to wake up to such a good reflection upon last night’s gig…. we were truly spent after…but contentedly so… we barely spoke over supper, slept soundly after,
I’ve wrestling a bit with The Contender….such a beautiful song from our JImmy MacCarthy
Hi Christy hope all is well hope you and band have a mighty night tonight and to all the faithful followers face the puck out
Iggy B…..5 days out of Ireland and I feel like I’ve been away for a month…how are ye all keeping…is Peter Casey Taoiseach yet ?….have ye sorted out the traffic in Galway yet..I hear they are building a new ring road…hope it does not interfere with the beautiful architecture around The Harbour….any word on The Euro 2020 ?
I heard they are thinking of moving it to Loughrea…keep in touch Iggy..tell Johnny and Sean Keane I was askin for them…its hot and sweaty here in Barrowland tonight…the queue has started for the front row…Jerseys from every corner…one lad has a Hurl with him…best to your Family
Hiya Christy, so excited to see you tonight with my sister in law Noelle and soon to be stepmum, Maddie. Were at your amazing gig last year in the Southbank Centre but there is no better venue than the Barrowlands. Can’t wait to join the atmosphere and hoping you’ll play Beeswing as it’s such a unique song! Thank you so much for sharing your amazing music with us all and looking forward to what we know will be a special night. X
Just arrived in to this venue..it never changes, even when empty it retains character and atmosphere in its dark and famous hall…..hope you three have a good one tonight..we are poised and ready to go
I just wanted to thank you Christy for giving us such a magical night in Edinburgh this week. My pal Neil’s son Ben gave him the tickets for his birthday and presents just don’t come any more better. It was obvious as soon as you came on stage that there was an immediate and wonderful connection between you and the audience. I honestly can’t remember the songs sounding better and the musicianship of Declan, Jimmy and Cathal was also sublime. What came across so clearly again was how much pleasure you and the lads get in sharing your special gifts and talents with the audience to give us all an evening to treasure.
You spoke about your first visit to Auld Reekie around 1967 and I couldn’t help but wonder what you would have said if somone had told you then that over 50 years later you would be selling out a large theatre in that same city and still be in great voice! Many thanks again for a wonderful evening and for continuing to inspire us on a daily basis through your music and humanity. Best wishes to you all for another special gig in the East End of Glasgow tonight. The dreamers and the ghosts of the GayBirds will be in for another fantastic evening.
Twas our pleasure Kevin, thanks for listening and for reaching out…if tonight goes as well Edinburgh, that’ll do me..
when I landed here 52 years ago I’d driven up from Manchester . My very first vehicle was a Blue 1956 VW Beetle, cost me £50…I had a Yamaha FG180 Guitar, a sleeping bag and a wee basket of songs..that was just about my lot …..
the world has changed since then but the job remains the same..get to the city, find the gig and sing the songs….these days there are 11 of us involved, a truck and two vans, numerous instruments, no sleeping bags, big venues, but the songs still carry us all along…..
Sail On Kevin
Christmas morning excitement has arrived, tonights the night!!! Two cousins in tow tonight too! If the wind takes you, I’d love to hear No time for love.
Hope yourself and the lads enjoy the gig!
Aisling
Fair enough….I think we might have to lash out the full version tonight…
Hey Christy. Hope you’re well. As excited as ever for tomorrow night. Just a small request for Galtee Mountain Boy on the night if you can squeee it in. For no other reason than me and my mates get more excited each time we hear you doing it live! Knock them dead. Cheers Brian Casey
Thats a good enough reason for me Brian
If the gap opens, I’ll be in there like a light
Hi Christy myself and Marianne are flying up from London tomorrow and we are bringing our son who has autism – he’ll be wearing his ear defenders but I know he’ll take it all in . It’s been a journey and a strange one at that ….. many moons ago my parents had taken me to the meeting of the waters in Avoca and we met Luke Kelly ….. scorn not the simplicity was sang ( maybe he saw my golden hair ) … it never left me and when James came along with his golden hair it was like a prophecy had come full circle … I know it’s not one of yours and putting together any set takes months… but it would fulfill something if we heard it from you ……. we’ll be roaring along whatever …. you have a gift and we appreciate it
Love
Gary and Marianne and James
Luke Kelly in Avoca….a truly rare occasion, what a chance meeting…hope U3 have a good one tonight…I never attended a gig with both my parents….
“Scorn Not ” is a big song, …Luke’s version is probably definitive….
“SAIL ON JAMES” x
Hello Christy boy, the countdown is on, seems like ages since we walked up that shabby staircase to hell or heaven. Hope Declan has got his Rory fingers on as you know how we love those sweet notes. Your voice will surely echo in that darkest of chambers and brighten up the night, the crowd will be there, the crowd are always there, the 12th man singing along to every word and taking you to places you deserve to be. Its been a tough year Christy, lost me old Da 2 months ago but he’s never left me, im now in a good place. Anyway cant wait, no requests just belt it out your one in a million my friend. slainte
Hi Gerry…sorry to read of your loss…. you wrote “but he’s never left me”……. some of us know what you mean….
our Da left us 62 years ago and never a day passes without my thinking of him…
Rory been knocking about these past few nights..hopefully he’ll turn up tonight
Hows Christy?
Ya know if your not meant to be some where and by chance you end up there, either by faith, believe, or even by pure stubbornness but something like a magnet has you drawn to a place?? I do believe in magic and I think it was pure magic that has myself and my brother in law from Newbridge to be on a flight out of Belfast tomorrow and in Glasgow for no other reason bar to sing our hearts out!!!.
As faith had it Kevin the brother in law put out a noble call to see if there was a couple tickets knocking around as we have had a very difficult time the last while and low and behold 2 tickets popped up from a person called Joe.
As it also happened by pure magic I was working in Dublin that day and I wasn’t more than a 100 yards away from Joe.
I met Joe we spoke about your music and I thanked him for the tickets and he thanked me for making good use of them.
And as I walked away and looked across the road I realised where I was, I was directly across the road from the stardust in artane and i paused for a minute in respect of the victims.
It was your song that educate me about that
tragedy and have since read many article’s about it. I do hope the families get their justice sooner than later..
So away with myself two barrowland tickets and a “internal British” flight too get there tomorrow but there is no stopping us now!!!!.
I’m off to pack my tooth brush into my arse pocket because I’m not letting micheal o Leary charge me for it!! And I’ll be see you and the lads underneath the carousel of healing!!
Enjoy yourself and up kildare!!
Hey there Sarchfield,
You remind me of the night I was walkin down the backstreet mindin me own business….I was headin down to Mrs Dunnes for a sixpenny bag of chips ….I met Billy Parkinson ( another Son of Sar even tho he lived up our end of town) He was after winning a right few bob on the geegees…He invited me into Joe O’Rourkes for a few scoops, there we met up with Mixer Reid and Harry Fay. As Billy was “carrying” we decided to move with him up to McCabe’s where Tom might give us a lock-in. One thing led to another and before we knew it we were exiting McCabe’s in tiredness and confusion….a few devout stragglers heading down to 7am Mass in the Parish,the four of us blinking mesmerised in the drunk morning Sun…Thank God that chapter is done… sadly all them good buttys gone….heres hoping we all have a good one tonight….safe journey Mo Cara
Glad to hear you’re enjoying the Scottish tour – it’s the highlight of my year every 18 months to have you here and immerse myself in the live experiences.
Very much enjoyed Glasgow round 1 and bringing my parents along to see you; was lovely to see my mum light up listening to your music. Particularly to hear her song “The Voyage” live. You can’t buy moments and memories like that. Interesting that a fellow gig-goer mentioned missing some of the chat – I thought the sound seemed a bit…”faraway” (while still being a generally excellent gig and experience) – wasn’t sure if it was the new mic set up, but noticed the sound was excellent last night in Edinburgh so couldn’t have been that.
The energy in Edinburgh was absolutely electric – you all seemed to find your groove immediately and just took off one one of those magical, untouchable gigs. It was a chance for me to introduce my boyfriend Stephen to your live gigs and he was thoroughly impressed with everything he saw. We agreed the impromptu reel was something else – I hope you revisit this tomorrow night.
On that note…very very excited indeed for the Barrowlands gig; Stephen has dipped his toe in and now it’s time for the top dale!! Do you ever play “First Time Ever” live? I’ve never in all the many gigs I’ve seen you, so probably not. I played the Vicar St version to Stephen as the most mesmerising version of the most beautiful love song I’ve ever heard and it’s our song now. It’s not very “Barrowlandsy” so probably not the best chance to suggest it, but I guess slim chance is better than none! We’ll have an amazing time regardless, as the gigs are always magical and there are countless gems among the set each time.
See you tomorrow for the next trip to Dreamland!
Susie, Thank you for your feedback and support.
Its Barrowland time again….once every 18 months I wake to the prospect….its 32 years since my first gig here, I was playing Solo. In more recent years the venue has become very special to all our Band and Crew. Its a gig like no other. Its rough,its tough and its challenging, but its also uplifting,inspiring,affectionate, fulfilling,loving,wild and wonderful….not everyone gets it, it aint everyones cup of tea…..but I’m on a Desert Island with Kirsty….she tells me I’m allowed to play one more gig….
“Beam me up to Barrowland Scotty”
I have a rough idea of what I’ll open with tonight, a settling down interlude, but once we get going anything can happen….I’ve noted your “First Time Ever”, it would really work if the air was right…its such a special song, unlike most songs it cant be simply dropped into the set…..but we never know whats gonna happen…….( glad you like the Vicar St version…the air was right that night )
The new Mic works very well for me…gives me freedom of movement….
Hey Christy, making the trip to Glasgow from Hebburn in South Tyneside to see you tomorrow. My late dad Kevin was your biggest fan and we were brought up listening to your beautiful tunes!
He told us the tale of collecting you from Central Station to take you to the Doonans.
We played the voyage as they carried him from church to his resting place. This was his and mams ‘song’.
See you tomorrow…cant wait!
Bernadette and Catherine xx
Safe journey to you both….wear your Doc Martens
Hi Christy, myself and my girlfriend are making the trip across from Kildare to Glasgow for the Barrowlands gig tomorrow. We have had the pleasure of seeing you four times in the past year (Sligo, Laois, Dublin and Dungarvan) each time unique. Having lived in Glasgow in 2011 it’s great to be returning to experience the atmosphere of one of your infamous gigs at the Barras. Looking forward to hopefully hearing ‘Black is the Colour’ at some stage and your new tune ‘sail on jimmy’, it’s a belter. Nár lagaí Dia thú!
Paddy and Marion.
Ceart go leor a Phádraic….beimíd rockin the joint amárach…Lilys abú
Hope to make it to the Barras. …… if the latest storm doesn’t ground our flight…… Ger not a happy flier at the best of times .!! The guest book is flying. … the gigs must be hitting the heights
What kind of chocolate ???
I’m with Ger on that one Marty…gimme the auld Ferry any day of the week….Belfast to Cairnryan to Glasgow 4 hours…..Aero with Nuts
love to all in Scotland for the Barras gig, performers , attendees, organisers etc..
He’s back on Irish soil…for next Friday, 9th Nov, the bauld WALLY PAGE will be playing The Annesley House on North Strand Road. Along with Johnny Mulhearn and the band..Hey Paddy, Hey Paddy..
Biko returned last night and Smoke the night before…great to hear that the good Companeros are heading once more to the North Strand…
“you could ate your fry off the back of her neck”
Christy
Great gig at the Festival Theatre last night. First time for me and a recent convert. What was the name of the song you sang solo about the battered wife?
Is it on an album?
Thanks Panner,
Its on the 2001 album “This is The Day” ..an accompanied version…it was written by Mike Waterson of Hull in Yorkshire…I first heard it on a Martin Carthy album…I sang it unaccompanied some years ago on “Desert Island Discs” which can be found on the BBC archive….
I believe it was based upon a newspaper report of a court case…..
Hey Christy!
Really really looking forward to hearing “the sound of the Barras humming” again tomorrow night. A shout out to Chris & Karen would be very much appreciated!
Would love to hear Beeswing or Weila Waile (your version of the song was playing when our daughter, Ciara, entered the world almost 7 years ago – the (Scottish) midwives didn’t know what to make of it!) Not heard you sing it live before, so not sure if you still do it.
Karen
Hey Karen,
I’ve never gigged “Weela Waile,” not even once….but I’ve always been interested in it..its a curious dark bloody song…I recorded it in the garden shed in 1999 and thats how it ended up on The Box Set 1964-2004…
“Beeswing” is almost ever present in the set and hopefully we’ll run it out to ye all tomorrow night…
Shout outs are becoming a problem…so many requests, so little time….. whispers of favouritism, suspicion of bribes, ( bars of chocolates, free chips, tips for horses, wedding invites, tickets to football games, apple tarts, free reiki, use of helicopters, ( Innishvickallaune)….
Dear Christy,
So beautiful to read your Scottish tour is going very well …
Almost one week ago we drove through Dumfries and Galloway and coincidentally passed “Beeswing” – isn’t it amazing there’s a village in Scotland with just that name!! This happened on our long journey back after four wonderful weeks on our beloved Island …
Now we have gradually settled down and it’s about time to thank you for the magic Saturday night in Bundoran. (Sorry for late response) Again we enjoyed your gig very much and we were so lucky to catch you a third time durig our stay. Also many thanks to Hilary for her great help.
MÍLE MAITH AGAT for welcoming us with “Motherland”! Ilove this marvellous song. And as well a huge DANKESCHOEN for the lovely Bday card with good wishes from yourself, Declan, Jimmy and your fabulous Crew!
ENJOY Barrowland tomorrow and safe journey home!
Traudel
Keep coming back…. always good to see ye, to hear from you….. Sail On Traudel
Hi Christy,
Sweet performance in Edinburgh last night – thank you very much. It is tough to know how you will four will improve upon it – though, I am certain that you’ll try. Thanks for the mention, it came as a shock.
Hearing Chicago again reminded me of hearing Luca in a small night club (Fly by Night) in Fremantle, two years ago. Similarly, he sang it superbly. In jest, he kidded us that you stole that number from him!
Take Care and enjoy the rest of the tour.
Peter
Morra Peter,
that old Fly By Night in Fremantle is a favoured gig for many,myself and Luka included….
while I’m here in Scotland,my good Brother Luka, is treading the boards in Belgium and Holland…..
our Families and Siblings keeping the home fires burning as we head on down our varied routes towards gigs yet to come….
we strive, never to stray,too far from ancient Boglands
Christy – just wanted to say thanks for an absolutely fabulous night last night in Edinburgh. You gave a shout out to my two wee boys – Corran, 7 & Senan, 5 – towards the end when doing ‘requests’. It was their first ever gig – I’m a v proud dad to have you as their first gig.
They were chuffed to get City of Chigago early (or Hills of Donegal as they call it).
Wonderful to see and hear you again – you’re a legend.
Take care, and look forward to the next time.
Slainte.
Morra Dessie,
It warms an aging heart to think of Corran and Senan coming to their first gig…thanks for sharing
Hi All. Really amazing gigs, such great welcome as ye arrive on stage and then such high energy, non stop singing and playing and reciting and fun !! it augurs well for Sat night in the East End of Glasgow. The new song is settling in well, it tells a story which needs to be told. A film has been released this week about Rolls Royce workers from East Kilbride refusing to work on planes from Chile during the reign of Pinochet, and the power of solidarity,here is a list of all screenings https://naepasaran.com/upcoming-screenings/ Beir bua. H
Thanks for that Hilary…gonna try and catch this film… good info….must try and push for an Irish screening..
these trips to Scotland are a vital part of my work schedule…. there is a connection here with the work that is unique…its hard to define precisely, I believe its a combination of;
Love
the exiled diaspora ( both forced and chosen)
political and cultural history
the welcome, and the rejection,
Churches and Religions
Football
Music
Hate.
Its been a long learning process for me..from my first visit back in 1967 to last night in Edinburgh….so much has happened here…Hamish Imlach carried me across the border and gave me shelter…Owen Hand took me into his home… I began to hear so many vital voices and players, Archie Fisher, John Martyn, Matt McGinn, Arthur Johnston, Barbara Dickson, Paddie Bell, The McCalmans, Aly Bain, Mike Whellans,Mick Broderick, Jimmy Hutchinson, Bert Jansch, Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty, Tam Harvey,Jean Redpath, Jeannie Robertson,Davey Johnson, Jimmie McBeath,
I know I know, I’m a hoor for the nostalgia of it all, forever looking back….but thats where it all started for me, this work that continues had its apprenticeship listening to all these practitioners of whatever this is…I took a wee bit from each and every one….Ewan MacColl, Dave Goulder, Danny Kyle,The Corries, Robin & Jimmy,Josh McCrae., Shaggis,.Alex Cambell…we all shared that space, those wee drams, them pints o heavy, carlsberg specials, magic pills, potions and powders, some of us still live to tell the tale….
its all here in the mix…all we need are listeners, to power us up, to carry us along…
then its back across the water, back to another story
From your comeback gig in the Traverse just after New Year quite a few years back, via a set in the Lyceum when they had the stage set covered with a curtain, you have provided some magical nights in Edinburgh in various venues over the years. But last night went to a level I have never seen you reach on this side of the water. The venue suits you, the 4 of you seem to bring out the best in each other and after a few personally difficult months when we lost too many loved ones it was lovely to lose ourselves in the magic for 2 hours. Roll on Christmas at home and Vicar Street on 3 January when maybe you might slip in The Contender. Thanks again to all of you, band and audience, for a wonderful night.
Thanks for sharing Yamoe..its uplifting to wake up to such a good reflection upon last night’s gig…. we were truly spent after…but contentedly so… we barely spoke over supper, slept soundly after,
I’ve wrestling a bit with The Contender….such a beautiful song from our JImmy MacCarthy