Latha Math

Ryan Murphy: About Techniques and Styles(Interview)

/ mrbaxteria2008 / 2 Comments

Also in this edition: The Bombadils, Ewan McClennan and Hot Releases.

From Cara & Old Blind Dogs Tour

From Cara & Old Blind Dogs Tour

Between Cara and Manran, between countries, Ryan Murphy takes time to share his musical news and the love of piping.

Our next guest isn’t new to this place. He’s been here before contributing his ideas about piping. Ryan Murphy is a musician with skill of the high order and musical commitments form both ends. But these don’t hinder his generosity to share his time with music enthusiasts. He lives in Limerick Ireland, a place famous for boasting talents like The Cranberries, Aphex twin and TV presenter Terry Wogan. If you are a film enthusiast then you might have seen Alan Parker’s Hollywood adaptation of Angela’s Ashes starring Robert Carlyle and Emily Watson, set in the same city.

Ryan Murphy is part of the Irish groups Cara and Ealu. I got myself a copy of Cara’s album “Long Distance Love’ which is now part of my recommended albums to have. They won the Irish Music Award for Top Group and Best New Irish Artist. There is a track in  Long Distance Love called “Rain.” The song is originally by Patty Griffin but Cara added freshness to the track. Jeana Leslie heard the song from the TV series Bones. It inspired her and the band  to cover the song in their own amazing style. Ryan Murphy played the uilleann pipes in the song. I was surprised how he managed to make it sound  like a saxophone. It also proves that this instrument has a lot of expressive potential.

Ealu are a band that try to bridge the gap between Jazz and Traditional Irish music. “Escape” is an album of fresh approach to playing traditional instruments and melodies. The album stays with you because of its unique sound and. Here is a link to an album review I did when Escape came out: http://celticmusicfan.com/2012/02/19/escape-by-ealu/

The review has four sample tracks for you to listen.

As of this writing Ryan Murphy is now part of Manran. Manran made a great impression to Celtic music fans late last year when they released they Latha Math which shot into the UK top 40.

Apart from his piping skills he has this great sense of humor. He is any Celtic music fan’s best pal.

How is Ryan Murphy doing these days in terms of piping?

I am playing a lot between university and the gigs with the bands, lots of new challenges consistently presenting themselves which is great. Long story short the piping is going very well at the moment.

How’s touring with the bands for you this holiday?

Well I just got home from a tour with my new band ‘Mànran’ and I’m flying out to Germany later on today to link up with ‘Cara’. Touring over the holiday season can be stressful in the airports and not getting to have a proper ‘holiday season’ but the gigs have been and will be super. The audiences seem really loose this time of year which makes the gigs absolutely magic.

What can we expect from Cara next year?

Well we’re currently putting together a new album which will be released later this year. Some of the new material is very exciting, so I’m looking forward to getting into the studio and testing some of sets and songs live.

 I love ” Rain” from Long Distance Love and you play the uilleann pipes like no other…you even make it sound like a saxophone. How did you achieve this technique?

Well… I’m not sure actually. I’ve been playing and listening to saxophone and jazz music a lot since I was about sixteen, so I imagine that over the last number of years some of the techniques and styles crept into my piping.

Do you have solo projects on the side?

At the moment I have no solo project on the side. The bands just keep me too busy at the moment to even think about it. It will happen someday but right now it’s just not the time.

Please complete this sentence: If I am not playing music ..

I am studying to finish my degree in the University of Limerick. Right now there is very little time for anything else.

Let’s say the show is about to start and you are about to play, what is the this thing that you do to yourself to keep you balanced and give your best performance all throughout the show?

A good game of fruit ninja on the iPhone will sort the nerves out in no time.

More info about Ryan Murphy:

http://manran.co.uk/wp/

http://www.cara-music.com/

http://www.ealumusic.com/

http://www.myspace.com/ealumusic

https://twitter.com/ealumusic

http://www.myspace.com/ryanmurphyealu

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ealu/48183…

http://facebook.com/ryanmurphymusic

Videos:

Cara, live at Ebertbad, Oberhausen 2012. Cara is Gudrun Walther – vocals,fiddle, accordeon, Jeana Leslie – vocals, fiddle, piano, Ryan Murphy – uilleann pipes, flutes, whistles, Jürgen Treyz – guitar, Rolf Wagels – bodhrán.

A song by Patty Griffin, played by Cara.

Photo gallery:

***

Fresh tune: The Bombadils – Peter’s Lament for the Death of the Duck

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfMHJ8HPRAw

About the video: Original song written by the Bombadils. Copyright 2012. Filmed and recorded by Denis Martin at Stewart Hall – Point Claire, Montreal, Canada.

Following Sarah Frank’s Interview from last week is this nice tune from The Bombadils.

***

The Captivating Tunes of  Ewan McLennan

Ewan McLennan

I was chatting with Jacob McCauley about an article he wrote for The Living Tradition magazine. On cover is Ewan McLennan whom I have read about before but never heard fully. I searched for a link to his website and I found it gives you the opportunity to hear his recordings. I was impressed. He has a deep but smooth sounding voice. His guitar playing is also delicate as if he is holding a little bird on his palms afraid to hurt it.

According to his bio:

Winner of the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award and named FATEA Music Award’s ‘Best Male Vocalist of the Year’, Ewan McLennan is an emerging folk artist that has been making headlines. His music combines traditional folk, with an inevitable focus on the music of Scotland, as well as his own self-penned songs that are receiving critical acclaim in their own right. BBC Radio 2’s Mike Harding has said of Ewan, ‘he sings beautifully, with great sincerity and great empathy, he’s terrific!’. His guitar playing, described as ‘stunning’ , is influenced by the rigour and technique from his years of studying classical guitar, while retaining a unique and compelling sound in which his immersion in folk music is evident.

Meanwhile his debut album, Rags & Robes, has been receiving glowing reviews. Described as ‘a collection of truly captivating songs’, it was chosen as a ‘Top Ten Album of 2010’ by MOJO and has won numerous accolades in radio and print media.

According to The Root and Branch Review ‘he may well be the best singer you’ll hear all year’ while Maverick have said he is ‘quite possibly destined to become the UK’s finest folk singer!’.

More here: http://www.ewanmclennan.co.uk/

***

Hot releases. Yes they are fresh from the oven ready to be served to sooth your hunger for Celtic music! Click each image to buy:

Orginally from Castletown Geoghegan, Co. Westmeath but now residence in Kilfenora Co. Clare, Colin Nea is among Ireland's finest button accordion players. Winner of the prestigious All-Ireland Senior Button Accordion title in 1993 and 1994, Colin has firmly established himself among the upper echelon of Irish button accordionist. His second solo album entitle 'Between the Jigs and the Reels' has just been released and is available for sale and download in the online store.

Orginally from Castletown Geoghegan, Co. Westmeath but now residence in Kilfenora Co. Clare, Colin Nea is among Ireland’s finest button accordion players. Winner of the prestigious All-Ireland Senior Button Accordion title in 1993 and 1994, Colin has firmly established himself among the upper echelon of Irish button accordionist. His second solo album entitle ‘Between the Jigs and the Reels’ has just been released and is available for sale and download in the online store.

The beauty of Cornwall through the eyes of Cornish Composer and Violinist Sue Aston. The DVD is a visual treat for anyone in love with the landscape of Cornwall and Celtic Music. The DVD features many of the videos seen on the Classical music channel oMusic (SKY TV) and includes the hits 'The Home Coming' and further tracks from Sue Aston's albums Sacred Landscapes and Inspirational Journey.1. The Home Coming 2.Escape to Freedom 3. Nancy's Garden 4. Elly's Theme 5. Sketches of Newlyn 6. Afternoon Tea 7. MadronSpecial Features Interview with Sue Aston Stills galleryEach DVD Includes a limited FREE personalised signed photograph from Sue Aston 7" x 5"

The beauty of Cornwall through the eyes of Cornish Composer and Violinist Sue Aston. The DVD is a visual treat for anyone in love with the landscape of Cornwall and Celtic Music. The DVD features many of the videos seen on the Classical music channel oMusic (SKY TV) and includes the hits ‘The Home Coming’ and further tracks from Sue Aston’s albums Sacred Landscapes and Inspirational Journey.
1. The Home Coming 2.Escape to Freedom 3. Nancy’s Garden 4. Elly’s Theme 5. Sketches of Newlyn 6. Afternoon Tea 7. Madron
Special Features Interview with Sue Aston Stills gallery
Each DVD Includes a limited FREE personalised signed photograph from Sue Aston 7″ x 5″

This is NUA's debut recording, featuring all original compositions. NUA is an innovative new trad trio bringing a fresh and unique sound to traditional music, creating their own distinctive flavour with both original and traditional compositions from Ireland and Scotland. Based in Toronto, Canada, NUA consists of three award-winning members: fiddle player James M Law, v guitarist Graeme McGillivray and bodhrán player Jacob McCaule

This is NUA’s debut recording, featuring all original compositions. NUA is an innovative new trad trio bringing a fresh and unique sound to traditional music, creating their own distinctive flavour with both original and traditional compositions from Ireland and Scotland. Based in Toronto, Canada, NUA consists of three award-winning members: fiddle player James M Law, v guitarist Graeme McGillivray and bodhrán player Jacob McCaule

Full of atmosphere, and rich in its diverse representation of the world of Celtic music this is an exceptional, unique and original Celtic/Folk CD from two established musicians in the field.

Full of atmosphere, and rich in its diverse representation of the world of Celtic music this is an exceptional, unique and original Celtic/Folk CD from two established musicians in the field.

The debut album from Barrule, consisting of new and traditional music from the Isle of Man. Alongside the trio, this eclectic album features appearances from guest musicians such as Manx gaelic singer Greg Joughin, guitarist Malcolm Stitt, pianist David Kilgallon, guitarist Dylan Fowler, Hurdy Gurdy player Clare Salaman, and bodhrán player Will Lang.

The debut album from Barrule, consisting of new and traditional music from the Isle of Man. Alongside the trio, this eclectic album features appearances from guest musicians such as Manx gaelic singer Greg Joughin, guitarist Malcolm Stitt, pianist David Kilgallon, guitarist Dylan Fowler, Hurdy Gurdy player Clare Salaman, and bodhrán player Will Lang.

Mànran have quite literally rocketed to the top of the Scottish music scene with their powerful combination of Gaelic/English songs underpinned by driving Accordion, Fiddle, Flute and a backline of drum and bass to make any mouth water. Mànran are also the only band to host Highland and Uilleann pipes together in one line up to create a sound like no other.

Mànran have quite literally rocketed to the top of the Scottish music scene with their powerful combination of Gaelic/English songs underpinned by driving Accordion, Fiddle, Flute and a backline of drum and bass to make any mouth water. Mànran are also the only band to host Highland and Uilleann pipes together in one line up to create a sound like no other.

Midweek Music Extravaganza

/ mrbaxteria2008 / 4 Comments

 

Feautring: Kinfolk, Jamie Smith’s MABON, McAuley/Horan/O’Caoimh, John McSherry, Michael Shimmin, Joe Dart, Wilber Calver with Moya (Maire) Brennan & Shane McGowan

Featured Single: The Lady of the Woods

I mentioned the new single from Jamie Smith’s MABON in my last edition (with the amazing Corrina Hewat as featured artist). A few months ago, drummer Iolo Whelan announced that they are in the process of recording the new JSM album. It was later revealed that the title of the said album is “Windblown”. Anyone who followed their career in the old line up will know that they have always played lively instrumental tunes. You have to understand my surprise when I discovered that the carrier single Lady of the Woods features male vocals including top  notch harmonization. The song uses influences from pop/rock and traditional music. The song is radio friendly enough that I am sure with the right timing and promotion will be one of those top 40 UK singles like what fellow Celtic bands  Capercaillie did with Coisich, a Ruin and Manran with Latha Math.

Download the single that is given by the band for free here: http://www.jamiesmithsmabon.com/windblown/

***

Introducing: McAuley/Horan/O’Caoimh

Artwork by The Celtic Music Fan

More from this link: http://www.mcauleyhoranocaoimh.com/

And check out their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Mcauleyhoranocaoimh

***

Album Review: Kinfolk- This Land

A track by track review of the amazing CD.

Principal musicians: Brian McDaid & Gerry Power

Other players: Johnny Cameron,David Mclean, Damien Mullany, Alan Burton, San Proctor, Dorothy Swift and Paul Fox.

From the first few notes emanating from the acoustic guitar of the intro to This Land, one is given a tip that this album is composed of songs that you can sing along. Coupled with great accompanist from the trad scene , Kinfolk has an album that makes you feel like you are watching a family album. I call this a grand offering due to the number of guest players ranging from bouzouki, mandolin, keyboard, banjo, accordion, fiddle, uillean pipes, and other vocals and instruments. The harmonies are solid and breezy. When you are driving long distance, this is one of those albums that you’d like to listen to on your way home from a long day’s work.

Tracks:

There are 13 tracks. There are ballads , instrumentals and upbeat songs. They are arranged in a way that reminds of of a plot in a novel. Each song tells a different story but still related to the bigger picture that makes this album solid.

This Land: A tribute to Ireland and anyone who has an immigrant soul will relate to this:

” Well I hope and pray her smile will be there to greet me

Though my home’s far away I can still hear her sing so sweetly”.

Donegal: The upbeat tempo of this track makes one wonder. If this album has enough airplay and this track has enough promotion, this could be one of those top 40 folk tunes. The fiddling and singing reminds me of Scottish pop rock band Simple Minds. It is irresistibly catchy and poppy.

Stac Pollaigh: Acoustic guitar, whistle, keyboards make this instrumental track have that New Age crossover appeal. Something spiritual, relaxing but still very traditional sounding.

The Hunger Roars: Hunger Roars recall the term ‘starving artist”. I personally think it is about one goes through in life mourning over relationship we can’t salvage from the ruins. A kind of existential anguish permeates the track. It is a song that you can interpret based on your own personal feelings. It has that kind of hoe down tempo. In spite of its lively tempo, the melody is steeped in melancholy atmosphere. Something luminous but somber at the same time.

Wonderful Day: Another finger snapping and toe tapping track. An uplifting and positive track which is a tribute to a beautiful landscape. Embellished by the nice sound of the banjo and the other instruments, this song is one of those undiscovered gems in the folk music scene.

Campsie Glen:

“ Will you come with me this summer,

To the fells in Camsie Glen..

This idyllic track takes me back in those years when everything seems like a scene through a rose colored bowl. Thoughts of childhood are precious and this is something that will save us from the twist and turns of adult uncertainty. The fiddle is bright and the vocal harmonies are rich. The simplicity of this med tempo track is what makes it such a pleasure to listen to. There are ven sounds of birds at the end of this.

Bound for New York: No need to expound on the thoughts of this one because I am sure you know what t is about. And I agree! Once again, the vocal harmonies and the chorus that goes:

“So I’ll have to go,

I’ve got to let you know,

My ship will leave the harbor in the morning

Cross to the sea so blue,

But my heart will stay with you,

I’m bound for New York City in the morning..

If this song doesn’t make you misty-eyed then you are either made of steel or a frickin’ robot. I just lost it!

Lady of the Isle: The drone of the keyboards coupled with the tin whistle makes the intro to this song very ‘soundtracky’. The vocal follows with the beat of the percussion. It has the characteristic of a slow marching song. The spacey arrangement creates a haunting atmosphere which has that lament sound.

“ But we cannot be together, So I’ll love her from afar,

For she is to wed another, and that day will break my heart”.

Thingamajig: Is a jig…but has a pop rock flavor. A great fusion of styles. The percussion and fiddling makes me want to go out and dance in the rain!

Working for the Company: Voice and acoustic guitar feels like a break from the grand instrumentation of previous tracks. A tin whistle and scattering of ‘ohhhs and ahhhs’ in between the chorus and verse plus other spare vocal ‘cloak’ makes this one a must for listeners of chill music.

Home to Ireland: The use of Major 7th chords gives this track a pastoral flavor. Major 7 reminds me of golden wine and gentle rays of the sun. “ Why don’t you come home to Ireland, All the way back to this green green land. This actually expresses my sentiments why I consider Ireland as my spiritual home.

Paddy’s Shout: Another instrumental track that showcases the mature and excellent musicianship of Gerry Power and Brian McDaid. I find my self rocking my head to this gentle uplifting track.

I Blame the Whiskey: The closing track. A tongue in cheek song about…well, you with your Celtic blood would understand and relate to. But this is also a song about trying to cope with a bad experience in life. We all have that. Yes we blame the whiskey, cigarettes or anything we can get out hands on to quell that ache..anything to keep us alive. A beautiful track that I can relate to.

My verdict is: Buy this album. It has a general appeal even to those who aren’t into Celtic music. The tracks are easy to the ears and all of them are worth your listen.Maybe music can’t really heal our pain or existential anguish but it is such a fine company when we feel lost and lonely. I love this album! Buy this album here: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/kinfolksongs

***

Featured mp3: Bridge of glllass

Here’s the pre-release track from  the olllam album (with John McSherry, Michael Shimmin, and Joe Dart) Ah something refreshing from the trad scene. This music grows on you!

***

Featured Artist: Wilber Calver (AfroCubanCelticMusic)

Gran concierto en Einsiedeln, Switzerland !

I want to introduce you to this exciting artist and whose album Diaspora is making waves! Jazz musician Courtney Pine (the first Jazz musician in my cassette collection as a kid) praises Wilber Calver’s album saying: “Wilber Calver is a unique new artist who has created a brilliant original sounding album that is steeped in the traditions of his Cuban culture and the Celtic folklore of his chosen instrument the bagpipes. I can’t stop playing it.” http://www.wilbercalver.com/

We have another legendary artist in the making!

From the official website:

About Wilber Calver

Wilber Calver Rodríguez “The Ebony Piper” was born in Holguín (Cuba).  In 1997 he enlisted as a percussionist in the traditional music group of the Centro Gallego de la Habana, with whom he performed in many festivals.  In 1998 he took his first bagpipe lessons with Professor Eduardo Lorenzo and it was from this moment that he fell in love with the pipes and took the decision to dedicate himself to the instrument.

During the following years he built up his performance experience and was included in the EU documentary “The latest Bagpipers of Havana”, won the “Premio iberoamericano ” Rey de España” ( 2004 ), appeared on the feature film “Havana Blues” (2005) directed by Benito Zambrano.

His TV appearances include : Musical ” Cuerda viva ” Cuba ( 2004 ), ” De la gran escena ” Cuba ( 2004 ) -Progra ESPECIAL ” Día da Patria gallega ” TVG España (2007) – ” A compañenos ” TVG ESPAÑA( 2008) – Serie “Padre Casares ” TVG España ( 2009 ).

He has been reviewed in the following publications : Revista Bohemia ” Con la gaita a cuesta ” Cuba ( 2004 ) -Revista ” O anuario da gaita ” Epaña ( 2000 ) – ” Gaitas con tumba..o ” Diario La voz de galicia

Wilber now lives in the Swiss Alps – Einsiedeln – and is in the process of recording his first album which will be an exciting fusion of celtic melodies with Afro-Cuban roots, arranged and produced by Alex Wilson.

***

Flashback: MOYA (MAIRE) BRENNAN & SHANE McGOWAN – You’re the One

As my personal tribute to the amazing late Irish novelist Maeve Binchy, I am posting this beautiful video by two equally mesmerizing artists, Moya Brennan and Shane McGowan. The song is written by Michael Kamen. It’s the ending track for movie Circle of Friends.