Just read your reply to my comment of over a week ago about ‘Ride On’ rights. Had I read the sleeve notes of course I could have saved us both the time. However I am so glad I did make contact with you and that you found the time to respond. Your one of the few in this respect big fella!
I will follow up your advice to contact Jimmy MacCarthy and wonder if he is related to Adrien who runs ‘THE’ Bar down in Castletownbere – all to be found out
Re ‘Parkie’: your paths have crossed, but many years ago now. He was in a band called the ‘Hawkin Lads’ and they supported you at a gig in Manchester sometime in the 70’s and before that at an Open Mic night up at Colne ‘Muni’. . He now runs the Clitheroe Ukulele Orchestra and makes ‘Basement Tapes’. He will be over the moon that you remembered him.
Finally, have to applaud your bottle for ‘staying out’ at Mixenden. That was some place back in the 60’s and 70’s and I imagine it – and the people there – left a lasting impression. They certainly did with me at a memorable Saturday night dance in the old church hall in the early 60’s!
Mr Harding will be interested we have made contact and we regularly (used to) play in session with him ‘over the border’ in God’s Country – and vice versa.
Re the piper in the Blind Piper. His name is ‘Wally’. As for his last name I don’t know but he features on this clip: https://blindpiperpub.ie/live-music-3/ Your paths may well have crossed with his also.
Looking forward to the concert on the 19th. I have my front row seat booked and my dog – Robson – is really exited about attending his first concert with me. I’ll do my best to keep him quite!
Keep on Keeping on, and on, and on, Christy
Sliante
Papa Burke
Hi C, my CD of choice yesterday was Unfinished Revolution, it always reminds me of the infamous saying by De Valera about women being ” the boldest and most unmanageable revolutionaries ” I think its a very pro woman album between the title track and Derby Day and perhaps the presence of Anne, Eilish and Terry also add to the vibe. The news of the new releases is very exciting, wishing you well with the work. Beir bua agus beannacht go deo. H
Christy's reply
I loved playing with Des Moore…it was brief but it was beautiful…..always a buzz when the old work is referenced….I have good memories of those sessions…thanks….it was great to get singing with my Siblings..our Mother,Nancy Power,also attended the studio one day..I’d hoped she too would sing but,on the day, she preferred to listen….if memory serves we were all in the old Lansdowne Studio..I think there may be a photo in the book “One Voice”
Not a bad start to the day…enjoying Gav McCabe (thanks to Dylan W),mulling over a trip to Germany (via Pat-the EU impresario),now planning some weekend youtube/online events to mark John Peel’s 81st birthday…good vibes and info via http://www.johnpeelcentre.com .
Keep the Atkin ringing out.The recording news is great – Atkin in the studio as well ? Really looking forward to news and releases.
Have a great day.
Dave
Christy's reply
Whallup Dave….I lived in Moss Side, Cheetham Hill, Fallowfield,Bury and Rochdale….I used to Go, Move, Shift back then….my very last job was in John Lewis …they still have my cards
How’s ye Christy, I’m sure you’ve your hands full just now, maybe this is something you could bookmark for later, but a pal from Bray (currently in Scotland) is quietly throwing out some substantial work. A spoken word album & a music album worth your time if you’ve got it. Good luck on the streaming debut 👍
Thanks Dylan,
Its great the way you champion your companeros
I appreciate that
I hope you are havin a good day
Thank you for introducing me to the works of Gavin McCabe
I’m at the “Yellow Pages”
I’m doing the road from Cork to a little place called Parkbridge in south-west Wicklow next week. We’ve had the best nights in the world in that little place over the years, we all remember both the Saturday in October in 1963 and the great accordion player Joe Burke. I’ve been following your music since my teen years and I’d love to play a tune on the concertina with you for once. So get in touch if you think I could call in.
All the best,
Patrick Egan
Christy's reply
Nights with Joe Burke always bring back such happy memories….his long slender fingers coaxing the most beautiful music ….I’ve heard him in Dublin, Slough,London,Galway, Roscommon and God only knows where else….. there is a mighty session with himself and Anne along with Frankie Gavin on Youtube
I’m singing at local Devotions that night Patrick but thank you for the invite
Hi Christy,
What a marvellous array of interesting chat , and efforts, the 4711ers provide. Fair play to you all.
Anyway there will be Record Store Day on saturday in uk but in ireland i think it is postponed. I fancy a red vinyl Rum Sodomy and the Lash ,but there are plenty of enticing releases of all types , and yet rummaging through Oxfam’s LPs can as easily find a once loved, slightly scratched , gem like the Clancy’s and Tommy Mackem ‘the boys wont leave the girls alone’ that i had found and bought to whirl on the turntable recently, for £3, a 58 year old bargain.
I remember downstairs Freebird in Dub, a wee one on a corner in Wexford, that great one in Derry,but Ripping in Edinburgh and Spence’s in Hawick both now closed sadly, a great social loss is the record shop, so i hope the ones still going on both sides of the sea get well supported for the respective RSD events.
I think on my CM vinyl offerings they have so much character and depth, and hark back to a house we rented at Ballymoney in co Wexford for 2 summers about 1994 and 5, one year walking to the pub to watch ireland in the world cup , but the other when my eldest, Hamish, went to a circus near Arklow and got a clown face painted, and to gorge on Smoke and Strong Whisky LP that the owner had left in the house, i can picture it now as though it were yesterday putting it on the turntable in the old fashioned room, faint sun coming through the window from the sheltered garden and the music in the peacefulness…the joys.
Rory
Christy's reply
Way back I’d always land home with a bunch of albums….then it was cassettes and, later again, CDs…never engaged with the cartridges….
cassettes were favourite road companions for years…
back in the 60s I knew a man who had a gadget for playing 45″s in his Austin Van…I remember a trip up The Nire Valley to Melody’s Pub in Ballmacarberry and Hughie loadin in the Singles….
Two great stadium buzzes…..I was in Parkhead one day and “Quinte Brigada”was played over the Tannoy
I was in Croke Park one day scanning The Cusack Stand from The Hogan Stand at half time thru my binox….there sat a youth wearing a Smoke & Strong Whiskey T Shirt and him chewing on one of the “last few choc ices”
Rebecca respect! To go head to head with cherry pickers and drills, personalise your listeners, and form an intimate listening group, well done. And so it will be in the CoachHaus Rheinbach some day. I fancy Dave as the opening act. As Christy isn’t keen on the journeys here any more, understandably, you folks can bring his spirit over.
A wee tip for Mannion 1994. Maybe you have noticed that Christy is doing an exclusive concert, live-streamed from the mighty Dublin National Concert Hall. It will be streamed to Australia, at 20:00, AEST, on 20th Sept. Tickets very reasonably priced. Wouldn’t that be a mighty 30th bday gift for your fella! Both of you, cuddled up with a fine Australian bottle, for probably about 2 hours of Christy. Magic.
And another one bites the dust, the Hog joining the Rug in the afterword, well cushioned no doubt by mighty pensions. The Guardian online today reported it brilliantly…. Left no wriggle room for liars and cheats.
Roll on 19th!
Mind yourself, and keep her lit!
Christy's reply
Thanks Pat….
“In an authentic Irisch Pub down Gooter Strasse
two sham chuckies medicatin on the Gin” (Work in progress since 1989)
Hi Christy
Myself and my boyfriend reside in Melbourne Australia almost 3 years now.
We were due to fly home this August as a celebration for my boyfriends 30th & had tickets booked for your gig which was in leisureland Galway. Were both massive fans and often listen to your music when traveling around and on a daily basis, as we are both working from home for a number of months now due to COVID. Its Marcus 30th soon, and I would be ever so grateful if you could please record a video wishing him a happy birthday – it would make his celebration.
Christy's reply
My old Nokia does not permit….phone calls and texts are my limit
Good luck with your plans – and,fair play to Rebecca for taking on and beating the challenges. Still playing at home,but monitoring the gig opportunities.
Trying not to ‘think on being idle’.
Have a good day
Dave
Christy's reply
Here comes another Friday…Thanks Be….I’ve not pulled back the curtains nor opened the shutters yet….we live in hope….September Man is drawing near
Hello Christy,
So I played at the open mic at the grove last night. It’s a lovely old pub, full of nooks and crannies, over towered by huge modern office blocks.
We were outside with a little stage set up in front of the pub. Right next door were some guys working on the outside of a building with a massive cherry picker and drill. Ubers and police cars too.
Anyway, none of the other stuff mattered, the people were friendly, there were around 30 of us. They said it was the first time they’d ever had a harp. I saw the guy in charge photographing me while I was on stage.
I went on 4th. We could do 3 songs but I decided to do Musgrave and January Man, so I just did 2.
Most other people weren’t doing folk, the guy before me read a buddhist sermon.
There was lots of noise from the cherry picker so I told everyone to come nearer, and they did.
I disappeared inside myself and it all flowed. I loved it.
Rebecca
Christy's reply
Schleppin to Leeds from The Fax with a Harp on your back was a daunting task…..but you made it to The Grove…..I’m happy to read that it went well for you…thanks for sharing
I’m glad you’re back at HQ ok.Bantry sounds wonderful.
Great history linked to ‘The Guardian’,and its post Peterloo origins…long may it remain a thorn in the side of grifters and snake oil sellers ,who masquerade as ‘leaders’ (I’ve got Richard Thompson’s ‘New St George’ in my head now…)
They would have been rare old times when your in law family worked as printers (Withy Grove,nr Manchester city centre,I think) late night/early morning pubs/cafes (Land o’cakes,was the ‘local’,I think)and plenty of tales to tell.All printed in East London now.
Finding the Guardian ‘comments’ section has been a godsend,ranting after some online pieces…Brexit/Covid and some more positive,such as directing folks to your lockdown sessions and some recent Victor Jara info. Marina Hyde is also a must read.Her cutting edge is a work of art…
Great to know that the Atkin is in full flow – and an ace project as a target.You’ll be flying for the NCH. Enjoy the day…
Home from a weekend break and catching up on the sad Bantry news…gutted about your gig -for all involved in what sounds like a brilliant,well established festival.
I don’t know the Irish politicians mentioned in posts,but certainly recognise their type…a collective noun for them might be a US style ‘johnson;but ‘a Zanzinger’ works well…here,the unelected leader did a huge amount of damage too.
Good luck for everything planned,safe home and I’m looking forward to news after Rebecca’s big night…good luck wherever gigs can be held !
Keep well
Dave
Christy's reply
where would we be without The (Manchester) Guardian….its like the “last man standing”….let us be grateful for its continuing existence in a world increasingly dominated by lying sleazebags and ruthless fake-news mongers…
I must declare an interest….my late Auntie Kathleen was married to Francis Knowles of your Parish….Francis,and all his Brothers,were Newspaper printers until Thompson House went the same way as Fleet Street….dont know where The Guardian is printed these days but,on the back of this exchange,I’m gonna subscribe today…..
We still have some fine Journalists here in Ireland…Thanks Be….without them we’d have been in the dark regarding last week’s debacle in Clifden….
We are back at base after a great week in Bantry….sadly the Masters of Tradition Festival was torn asunder by the pandamentalists..to make matters worse, beautiful Bantry was torn asunder by floods as we were leaving……It is a beautiful Town and we will return again asap….it lies at the core of three beautiful Peninsulas….The Mizen, The Sheepshead and THe Beara Peninsulas…..birthplaces aside,it is our favourite spot in Ireland….we have visited there every year since 1990…
The Atkin is sounding sweet these days….I’m working towards a streamed (solo) gig from the National Concert Hall on September 19th….Universal Records are releasing a double album & DVD called “The Early Years” in October….I’ve also commenced work on a new studio album for Columbia Records which is scheduled for 2021 release……that cancelled Bantry gig was to have been my first gig since March but I’m striving to keep busy…
I hope you are playing plenty..that you too will soon find an outlet for your need to play “live”
I am so sorry about what happened to your gig, Christy. Billy O’ Hanluain’s words say it all. I was reading up on Donie Cassidy, a man of enormous wealth who thought, back in recession-hit 2010, that 65,000 euro wasn’t enough of a salary for Seanad members. His 2007 Hot Press interview contains many gems and gives insights into the man, if that’s needed. He quotes his father who advised him to leave the Oireachtas with his reputation intact, and his last words in the interview are, “And I like the odd game of golf.” Jesus wept. Something I didn’t know is that he and Pete St.John wrote the awful “Arise and Follow Charlie.” I hope Pete has regrets.
I think what Lou Reed said about politicians in the song “Strawman” back in the eighties never loses its relevance: “Does anyone need yet another politician caught with his pants down and money sticking in his ho*e?”
I agree with what Mary said about you performing up north. Your loyalty is greatly appreciated. Thanks for the Mary contact information.
Christy's reply
Cassidy has long since been a dark horse….a user and music abuser….one of those show-business back-room-boys who dedicated their dark arts to the cause of one Charles J. Haughey….many of the charlatans of that era passed now but Cassidy still lingers…viewed by some as an “elderly statesman”,by others as dodgy dealer with his snout forever in the trough…..
Hello Christy,
I hope things are going ok in beautiful Bantry. Its somewhere I’d love to visit someday.
I’m all planned for the grove open mic session on Wednesday. If its fine we’ll be outside and no worries about numbers. If it’s rainy there’s a restriction on numbers inside. I hope it’s fine. It would be a shame to waste all these nerves.
Inchicore wake got me wondering if I’ve picked up any other less well known songs on my ramblings.
Here’s a list, they all look equal to me, but I’m pretty new to this. Are there any unusual ones here? It would be lovely to sing some less well known ones for people. 😊
All spruced up and ready to go:
Ride on
Spancil hill
So do I
Reel in the flickering light
Bright blue rose
Beeswing
Raggle taggle
Motherland
Lagan love
January man
Lightening bird wind river man
Rosalita and Jack campbell
Johnny Jump up
The first time ever I saw your face
Dalesman’s litany
Lullaby of London
Musgrave
Mandolin mountain
Gortatagort
Mcilhatton. (possibly)
Polishing and buffing:
16 fishermen
Winking from the sweetie jar:
Inchicore wake
North and South of the river
Natives
Missing you (probably impossible)
St Brendan’s voyage
John o’dreams
Quiet desperation
Thankyou for the days
Shine on you crazy diamond
Ruby walsh
Listen
Tippin it up to Nancy
There are loads of others I’d like to get my hands on but they feel out of my league for now.
Rebecca
Christy's reply
Thats some list you got going there Rebecca,
I often encounter songs I’d like to sing only to find that they are “out of my league”….we gotta keep searching
lots of “unusual” songs still linger in the old collections…in the Libraries,in Cecil Sharp House….I’ve always been drawn to the old singers (I’m one myself now )…loved hearing Fred Jordan, Bert Lloyd,Jeannie Robertson,Ewan McColl, Packie Manus Byrne, Jimmy McBeath, “Old”Davy Johnson, “Young”Bob Davenport,
the most unusual songs are the one we have yet to write
Absolutely give it a birl! It’s right up your street. Jesus and Jesse would be in mighty fine company with and Jack and Rosalita. If you don’t I’ll tell me Ma. Le grá Mary
PS hope Pat makes it to Bantry
From Bantry Bay up to Derry Quay and from Galway to Dublin town…love this Couny Down song.
Christy's reply
Fair Play Mary…your post convinced me to get that old song from the archive and dust it down…I dont think I’ve sung it once since recording it 40 years ago ….its sounding good here in Bantry this morning…Brian Moore’s humour,observation and creativity still shines thru the morning mist thats blowing down from Hungry Hill on the Beara Peninsula
As I’m sitting all alone in the gloaming
It might have been but yesterday
That we watched the fisher sails all homing
Till the little herring fleet at anchor lay
Then the fisher girls with baskets swinging
Came running down the old stone way
Every lassie to her sailor lad was singing
A welcome back to Bantry Bay
Christy's reply
I’ll never forget the night I sang with The Count in Con Cummins Bar near Coffey’s Clock…..he bought me a glass of Brandy and told me to stick at it
Hi Christy, thanks for asking, my 80yo parents are worried, 2 cases in our supermarket here, back into the bunker we go, but the Clifden banjoree got me thinking…
Pompous and arrogant
Oblivious to the suffering
Lying to save their lizard skin
Idiotic beyond caring
Totally without shame
I can’t breathe
Corona is for the proles attitude
I hate politicians
Apologise late rather than act
Never to be trusted
Suffocate lyrics…he’d give his kingdom for a drink he would.
Stay safe, Rory
Christy's reply
“the good old days
were the days
when we did’nt talk about
the good old days”……. (Turlough McGowan…in Floods’s Bar circa 1959)
or
“porter is the divvil
when it gets in on you”…..
…Thank God we’re not fond of it” (Same man, same year, but in The Arch Bar)
Thanks for posting Billy O Hanluain’s words definitely worth reprinting. I have just followed him on Twitter – he’s a great poet too. Check out his poem An Lár. Any joy with Jesus and Jesse? I couldn’t find lyrics so listened to the song in order to jot them down. Happy to send.
Christy's reply
Just listened to it again after 30 years….I’d forgotten the way it went..maybe give it a birl again….remember sweet Cormac
Well done. A kick in the teeth for the yellow tie blue shirt brigade…. I will write to von der Leyen from here….
Please God the music will raise our spirits again, and I would love to get to Bantry in 2021.
Christy's reply
there is a grand soft rain falling gently on Bantry tonight
Hi Christy
Just read your reply to my comment of over a week ago about ‘Ride On’ rights. Had I read the sleeve notes of course I could have saved us both the time. However I am so glad I did make contact with you and that you found the time to respond. Your one of the few in this respect big fella!
I will follow up your advice to contact Jimmy MacCarthy and wonder if he is related to Adrien who runs ‘THE’ Bar down in Castletownbere – all to be found out
Re ‘Parkie’: your paths have crossed, but many years ago now. He was in a band called the ‘Hawkin Lads’ and they supported you at a gig in Manchester sometime in the 70’s and before that at an Open Mic night up at Colne ‘Muni’. . He now runs the Clitheroe Ukulele Orchestra and makes ‘Basement Tapes’. He will be over the moon that you remembered him.
Finally, have to applaud your bottle for ‘staying out’ at Mixenden. That was some place back in the 60’s and 70’s and I imagine it – and the people there – left a lasting impression. They certainly did with me at a memorable Saturday night dance in the old church hall in the early 60’s!
Mr Harding will be interested we have made contact and we regularly (used to) play in session with him ‘over the border’ in God’s Country – and vice versa.
Re the piper in the Blind Piper. His name is ‘Wally’. As for his last name I don’t know but he features on this clip: https://blindpiperpub.ie/live-music-3/ Your paths may well have crossed with his also.
Looking forward to the concert on the 19th. I have my front row seat booked and my dog – Robson – is really exited about attending his first concert with me. I’ll do my best to keep him quite!
Keep on Keeping on, and on, and on, Christy
Sliante
Papa Burke
Hi C, my CD of choice yesterday was Unfinished Revolution, it always reminds me of the infamous saying by De Valera about women being ” the boldest and most unmanageable revolutionaries ” I think its a very pro woman album between the title track and Derby Day and perhaps the presence of Anne, Eilish and Terry also add to the vibe. The news of the new releases is very exciting, wishing you well with the work. Beir bua agus beannacht go deo. H
I loved playing with Des Moore…it was brief but it was beautiful…..always a buzz when the old work is referenced….I have good memories of those sessions…thanks….it was great to get singing with my Siblings..our Mother,Nancy Power,also attended the studio one day..I’d hoped she too would sing but,on the day, she preferred to listen….if memory serves we were all in the old Lansdowne Studio..I think there may be a photo in the book “One Voice”
Mornin’ Christy
Not a bad start to the day…enjoying Gav McCabe (thanks to Dylan W),mulling over a trip to Germany (via Pat-the EU impresario),now planning some weekend youtube/online events to mark John Peel’s 81st birthday…good vibes and info via http://www.johnpeelcentre.com .
Keep the Atkin ringing out.The recording news is great – Atkin in the studio as well ? Really looking forward to news and releases.
Have a great day.
Dave
Whallup Dave….I lived in Moss Side, Cheetham Hill, Fallowfield,Bury and Rochdale….I used to Go, Move, Shift back then….my very last job was in John Lewis …they still have my cards
How’s ye Christy, I’m sure you’ve your hands full just now, maybe this is something you could bookmark for later, but a pal from Bray (currently in Scotland) is quietly throwing out some substantial work. A spoken word album & a music album worth your time if you’ve got it. Good luck on the streaming debut 👍
https://gavmccabe.bandcamp.com/
Thanks Dylan,
Its great the way you champion your companeros
I appreciate that
I hope you are havin a good day
Thank you for introducing me to the works of Gavin McCabe
I’m at the “Yellow Pages”
Hello Christy,
I’m doing the road from Cork to a little place called Parkbridge in south-west Wicklow next week. We’ve had the best nights in the world in that little place over the years, we all remember both the Saturday in October in 1963 and the great accordion player Joe Burke. I’ve been following your music since my teen years and I’d love to play a tune on the concertina with you for once. So get in touch if you think I could call in.
All the best,
Patrick Egan
Nights with Joe Burke always bring back such happy memories….his long slender fingers coaxing the most beautiful music ….I’ve heard him in Dublin, Slough,London,Galway, Roscommon and God only knows where else….. there is a mighty session with himself and Anne along with Frankie Gavin on Youtube
I’m singing at local Devotions that night Patrick but thank you for the invite
Hi Christy,
What a marvellous array of interesting chat , and efforts, the 4711ers provide. Fair play to you all.
Anyway there will be Record Store Day on saturday in uk but in ireland i think it is postponed. I fancy a red vinyl Rum Sodomy and the Lash ,but there are plenty of enticing releases of all types , and yet rummaging through Oxfam’s LPs can as easily find a once loved, slightly scratched , gem like the Clancy’s and Tommy Mackem ‘the boys wont leave the girls alone’ that i had found and bought to whirl on the turntable recently, for £3, a 58 year old bargain.
I remember downstairs Freebird in Dub, a wee one on a corner in Wexford, that great one in Derry,but Ripping in Edinburgh and Spence’s in Hawick both now closed sadly, a great social loss is the record shop, so i hope the ones still going on both sides of the sea get well supported for the respective RSD events.
I think on my CM vinyl offerings they have so much character and depth, and hark back to a house we rented at Ballymoney in co Wexford for 2 summers about 1994 and 5, one year walking to the pub to watch ireland in the world cup , but the other when my eldest, Hamish, went to a circus near Arklow and got a clown face painted, and to gorge on Smoke and Strong Whisky LP that the owner had left in the house, i can picture it now as though it were yesterday putting it on the turntable in the old fashioned room, faint sun coming through the window from the sheltered garden and the music in the peacefulness…the joys.
Rory
Way back I’d always land home with a bunch of albums….then it was cassettes and, later again, CDs…never engaged with the cartridges….
cassettes were favourite road companions for years…
back in the 60s I knew a man who had a gadget for playing 45″s in his Austin Van…I remember a trip up The Nire Valley to Melody’s Pub in Ballmacarberry and Hughie loadin in the Singles….
Two great stadium buzzes…..I was in Parkhead one day and “Quinte Brigada”was played over the Tannoy
I was in Croke Park one day scanning The Cusack Stand from The Hogan Stand at half time thru my binox….there sat a youth wearing a Smoke & Strong Whiskey T Shirt and him chewing on one of the “last few choc ices”
Rebecca respect! To go head to head with cherry pickers and drills, personalise your listeners, and form an intimate listening group, well done. And so it will be in the CoachHaus Rheinbach some day. I fancy Dave as the opening act. As Christy isn’t keen on the journeys here any more, understandably, you folks can bring his spirit over.
A wee tip for Mannion 1994. Maybe you have noticed that Christy is doing an exclusive concert, live-streamed from the mighty Dublin National Concert Hall. It will be streamed to Australia, at 20:00, AEST, on 20th Sept. Tickets very reasonably priced. Wouldn’t that be a mighty 30th bday gift for your fella! Both of you, cuddled up with a fine Australian bottle, for probably about 2 hours of Christy. Magic.
And another one bites the dust, the Hog joining the Rug in the afterword, well cushioned no doubt by mighty pensions. The Guardian online today reported it brilliantly…. Left no wriggle room for liars and cheats.
Roll on 19th!
Mind yourself, and keep her lit!
Thanks Pat….
“In an authentic Irisch Pub down Gooter Strasse
two sham chuckies medicatin on the Gin” (Work in progress since 1989)
Hi Christy
Myself and my boyfriend reside in Melbourne Australia almost 3 years now.
We were due to fly home this August as a celebration for my boyfriends 30th & had tickets booked for your gig which was in leisureland Galway. Were both massive fans and often listen to your music when traveling around and on a daily basis, as we are both working from home for a number of months now due to COVID. Its Marcus 30th soon, and I would be ever so grateful if you could please record a video wishing him a happy birthday – it would make his celebration.
My old Nokia does not permit….phone calls and texts are my limit
Hi Christy
Good luck with your plans – and,fair play to Rebecca for taking on and beating the challenges. Still playing at home,but monitoring the gig opportunities.
Trying not to ‘think on being idle’.
Have a good day
Dave
Here comes another Friday…Thanks Be….I’ve not pulled back the curtains nor opened the shutters yet….we live in hope….September Man is drawing near
Hello Christy,
So I played at the open mic at the grove last night. It’s a lovely old pub, full of nooks and crannies, over towered by huge modern office blocks.
We were outside with a little stage set up in front of the pub. Right next door were some guys working on the outside of a building with a massive cherry picker and drill. Ubers and police cars too.
Anyway, none of the other stuff mattered, the people were friendly, there were around 30 of us. They said it was the first time they’d ever had a harp. I saw the guy in charge photographing me while I was on stage.
I went on 4th. We could do 3 songs but I decided to do Musgrave and January Man, so I just did 2.
Most other people weren’t doing folk, the guy before me read a buddhist sermon.
There was lots of noise from the cherry picker so I told everyone to come nearer, and they did.
I disappeared inside myself and it all flowed. I loved it.
Rebecca
Schleppin to Leeds from The Fax with a Harp on your back was a daunting task…..but you made it to The Grove…..I’m happy to read that it went well for you…thanks for sharing
‘while they flash their teeth and wave
the other hand is being paid’
‘the new St George’ – Richard Thompson -written when he was c 20 – half a century ago… D
powerful
Mornin’ Christy
I’m glad you’re back at HQ ok.Bantry sounds wonderful.
Great history linked to ‘The Guardian’,and its post Peterloo origins…long may it remain a thorn in the side of grifters and snake oil sellers ,who masquerade as ‘leaders’ (I’ve got Richard Thompson’s ‘New St George’ in my head now…)
They would have been rare old times when your in law family worked as printers (Withy Grove,nr Manchester city centre,I think) late night/early morning pubs/cafes (Land o’cakes,was the ‘local’,I think)and plenty of tales to tell.All printed in East London now.
Finding the Guardian ‘comments’ section has been a godsend,ranting after some online pieces…Brexit/Covid and some more positive,such as directing folks to your lockdown sessions and some recent Victor Jara info. Marina Hyde is also a must read.Her cutting edge is a work of art…
Great to know that the Atkin is in full flow – and an ace project as a target.You’ll be flying for the NCH. Enjoy the day…
Dave
Hi Christy
Home from a weekend break and catching up on the sad Bantry news…gutted about your gig -for all involved in what sounds like a brilliant,well established festival.
I don’t know the Irish politicians mentioned in posts,but certainly recognise their type…a collective noun for them might be a US style ‘johnson;but ‘a Zanzinger’ works well…here,the unelected leader did a huge amount of damage too.
Good luck for everything planned,safe home and I’m looking forward to news after Rebecca’s big night…good luck wherever gigs can be held !
Keep well
Dave
where would we be without The (Manchester) Guardian….its like the “last man standing”….let us be grateful for its continuing existence in a world increasingly dominated by lying sleazebags and ruthless fake-news mongers…
I must declare an interest….my late Auntie Kathleen was married to Francis Knowles of your Parish….Francis,and all his Brothers,were Newspaper printers until Thompson House went the same way as Fleet Street….dont know where The Guardian is printed these days but,on the back of this exchange,I’m gonna subscribe today…..
We still have some fine Journalists here in Ireland…Thanks Be….without them we’d have been in the dark regarding last week’s debacle in Clifden….
We are back at base after a great week in Bantry….sadly the Masters of Tradition Festival was torn asunder by the pandamentalists..to make matters worse, beautiful Bantry was torn asunder by floods as we were leaving……It is a beautiful Town and we will return again asap….it lies at the core of three beautiful Peninsulas….The Mizen, The Sheepshead and THe Beara Peninsulas…..birthplaces aside,it is our favourite spot in Ireland….we have visited there every year since 1990…
The Atkin is sounding sweet these days….I’m working towards a streamed (solo) gig from the National Concert Hall on September 19th….Universal Records are releasing a double album & DVD called “The Early Years” in October….I’ve also commenced work on a new studio album for Columbia Records which is scheduled for 2021 release……that cancelled Bantry gig was to have been my first gig since March but I’m striving to keep busy…
I hope you are playing plenty..that you too will soon find an outlet for your need to play “live”
KEEP MUSIC LIVE
I am so sorry about what happened to your gig, Christy. Billy O’ Hanluain’s words say it all. I was reading up on Donie Cassidy, a man of enormous wealth who thought, back in recession-hit 2010, that 65,000 euro wasn’t enough of a salary for Seanad members. His 2007 Hot Press interview contains many gems and gives insights into the man, if that’s needed. He quotes his father who advised him to leave the Oireachtas with his reputation intact, and his last words in the interview are, “And I like the odd game of golf.” Jesus wept. Something I didn’t know is that he and Pete St.John wrote the awful “Arise and Follow Charlie.” I hope Pete has regrets.
I think what Lou Reed said about politicians in the song “Strawman” back in the eighties never loses its relevance: “Does anyone need yet another politician caught with his pants down and money sticking in his ho*e?”
I agree with what Mary said about you performing up north. Your loyalty is greatly appreciated. Thanks for the Mary contact information.
Cassidy has long since been a dark horse….a user and music abuser….one of those show-business back-room-boys who dedicated their dark arts to the cause of one Charles J. Haughey….many of the charlatans of that era passed now but Cassidy still lingers…viewed by some as an “elderly statesman”,by others as dodgy dealer with his snout forever in the trough…..
Hello Christy,
I hope things are going ok in beautiful Bantry. Its somewhere I’d love to visit someday.
I’m all planned for the grove open mic session on Wednesday. If its fine we’ll be outside and no worries about numbers. If it’s rainy there’s a restriction on numbers inside. I hope it’s fine. It would be a shame to waste all these nerves.
Inchicore wake got me wondering if I’ve picked up any other less well known songs on my ramblings.
Here’s a list, they all look equal to me, but I’m pretty new to this. Are there any unusual ones here? It would be lovely to sing some less well known ones for people. 😊
All spruced up and ready to go:
Ride on
Spancil hill
So do I
Reel in the flickering light
Bright blue rose
Beeswing
Raggle taggle
Motherland
Lagan love
January man
Lightening bird wind river man
Rosalita and Jack campbell
Johnny Jump up
The first time ever I saw your face
Dalesman’s litany
Lullaby of London
Musgrave
Mandolin mountain
Gortatagort
Mcilhatton. (possibly)
Polishing and buffing:
16 fishermen
Winking from the sweetie jar:
Inchicore wake
North and South of the river
Natives
Missing you (probably impossible)
St Brendan’s voyage
John o’dreams
Quiet desperation
Thankyou for the days
Shine on you crazy diamond
Ruby walsh
Listen
Tippin it up to Nancy
There are loads of others I’d like to get my hands on but they feel out of my league for now.
Rebecca
Thats some list you got going there Rebecca,
I often encounter songs I’d like to sing only to find that they are “out of my league”….we gotta keep searching
lots of “unusual” songs still linger in the old collections…in the Libraries,in Cecil Sharp House….I’ve always been drawn to the old singers (I’m one myself now )…loved hearing Fred Jordan, Bert Lloyd,Jeannie Robertson,Ewan McColl, Packie Manus Byrne, Jimmy McBeath, “Old”Davy Johnson, “Young”Bob Davenport,
the most unusual songs are the one we have yet to write
Absolutely give it a birl! It’s right up your street. Jesus and Jesse would be in mighty fine company with and Jack and Rosalita. If you don’t I’ll tell me Ma. Le grá Mary
PS hope Pat makes it to Bantry
From Bantry Bay up to Derry Quay and from Galway to Dublin town…love this Couny Down song.
Fair Play Mary…your post convinced me to get that old song from the archive and dust it down…I dont think I’ve sung it once since recording it 40 years ago ….its sounding good here in Bantry this morning…Brian Moore’s humour,observation and creativity still shines thru the morning mist thats blowing down from Hungry Hill on the Beara Peninsula
As the Papal Count once had it –
As I’m sitting all alone in the gloaming
It might have been but yesterday
That we watched the fisher sails all homing
Till the little herring fleet at anchor lay
Then the fisher girls with baskets swinging
Came running down the old stone way
Every lassie to her sailor lad was singing
A welcome back to Bantry Bay
I’ll never forget the night I sang with The Count in Con Cummins Bar near Coffey’s Clock…..he bought me a glass of Brandy and told me to stick at it
Hi Christy, thanks for asking, my 80yo parents are worried, 2 cases in our supermarket here, back into the bunker we go, but the Clifden banjoree got me thinking…
Pompous and arrogant
Oblivious to the suffering
Lying to save their lizard skin
Idiotic beyond caring
Totally without shame
I can’t breathe
Corona is for the proles attitude
I hate politicians
Apologise late rather than act
Never to be trusted
Suffocate lyrics…he’d give his kingdom for a drink he would.
Stay safe, Rory
“the good old days
were the days
when we did’nt talk about
the good old days”……. (Turlough McGowan…in Floods’s Bar circa 1959)
or
“porter is the divvil
when it gets in on you”…..
…Thank God we’re not fond of it” (Same man, same year, but in The Arch Bar)
Thanks for posting Billy O Hanluain’s words definitely worth reprinting. I have just followed him on Twitter – he’s a great poet too. Check out his poem An Lár. Any joy with Jesus and Jesse? I couldn’t find lyrics so listened to the song in order to jot them down. Happy to send.
Just listened to it again after 30 years….I’d forgotten the way it went..maybe give it a birl again….remember sweet Cormac
Well done. A kick in the teeth for the yellow tie blue shirt brigade…. I will write to von der Leyen from here….
Please God the music will raise our spirits again, and I would love to get to Bantry in 2021.
there is a grand soft rain falling gently on Bantry tonight