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The Elders:Have a Taste of Irish Americana

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What happens when an Irishman with the love of all things American meets a bunch of  Americans who love everything Irish? Well you get a band called The Elders. Fronted by Ian Byrne from County Wicklow Ireland, the Elders is composed of guys who are seasoned already before recording together.

If you are curious as to how The Elders  sounds like, then check out the official MySpace page. The music reminds me a bit of Traffic , Hothouse Flowers and The Pogues. I could not help but get goosebumps with The Lock of the Irish . It’s a tribute to St. Patrick and what makes Ireland what it is now. I think Ian Byrne gives you a glimpse into Irish history in this five-minute song.

Overall, the band is something  not to be missed. Quirky stage performance, excellent vocal and instrumental arrangements go hand in hand. And yes ,a slice of Americana thrown in the mix…which would make any Spin Doctors fan smile.

P.S.

Big thanks to Christi Broersma for introducing me to this American based Celtic band!

Celticlounge.com (Celtic Music’s answer to Facebook and MySpace)

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I was reading Hot Press Magazine on-line and I could not find anything I really like. Searched around and found out about celticlounge.com.  It is a Celtic music fan’s facebook for lack of better term. There you can meet friends of the same persuasion and if you are a band then you can also promote your band’s music. I looked around and then I tried to register. It’s  user friendly and doesn’t have a lot of distraction. The colors are warm. The site is launched by Black 47’s Larry Kirwan and Irish Voice columnist Mike Farragher.

Yn Chruinnaght ,The Manx National Festival July 11-19

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Never Mind the Bocs

Never Mind the Bocs

If you are travelling to the Isle of Man this July then something awaits you.Yn Chruinnaght (meaning ‘the gathering’)  has been held in its original form in 1924. Manx is another Celtic language just like Welsh and Gaelic and it is spoken widely in this island. Since this is to celebrate the Isle of Man’s relationship to the rest of the Seven Celtic Nations then we will be expecting visiting artists . The Isles of Man has its own unique tradition. While still being Celtic, its music, language and art are different from the rest . That is why this gathering is one of a kind because this will showcase the brand of music from that island which is really beautiful.

Ireland’s Music Awards ( August 1st 2009)

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Welcome to Ireland’s Music Awards

The inaugural and exclusive awards event for Irish Traditional, Folk & Celtic Music, “Ireland’s Music Awards”, is set to take place on Saturday August 1st 2009 at the Royal Theatre Castlebar as part of The World Fleadh festival.

Yes guys you’ve heard it right. One of the most prestigious awards in Ireland is going to take place and your vote is very important. I already made my vote but I won’t tell 😉

Lots of important names will be there including Daniel Dempsey and The High Kings. I will be focusing on this even in the coming weeks.

Don’t forger to click the link/banner above to be directed to the website..

The Bodhran: The Heart of Celtic Music

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ist2_4236704-traditional-irish-scene-with-bodhran-drum-on-wooden-bar-counterWe know that sound. A low ominous thumping recalling to mind ancient warfare and celebration. The Bodhran is known as the heart of Celtic music. For what is Celtic music without it? There is something about its geometry that is aesthetically pleasing. And the way it is played is like no other. Here are some good links on how one learns to play the Bodhran. These are guides to walk you through.

A Beginner’s Guide to Bodhran

Playing the Bodhran

Introduction to the Bodhran

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