Music to Celebrate Halloween or “Samhain”.

I heard this whisper and I wondered,
I heard this laugh and then I knew.
The time is getting near my friends,
The time that I hold dear my friends,
The veil is getting thin my friends,
And strange things will pass through.
The Veil is Getting Thinner

One of the most important time of the year is here. Halloween or as the Celts call it Samhain. Events in our lives can alter the things we do. I noticed this lately, when I had to do things I normally don’t do because I had to. I am sure you out there are given the task of doing what you must do because no one else can do it. It is an honor and  a burden at the same time.

You know, when it comes to family emergencies or situations that need our best judgement, I say that personal issues have to be set aside. As what I remember from my friend who became a mother once said. “Depression has no space in my life when another life depends upon me. My youthful angst just flies out of the window”. It is true.  There are times when we are called upon to act and do what’s necessary, even if it means sacrificing the things that make us glad.

This year has been very confusing. But there’s an anchor that keeps me grounded. And that is loving the things I do. I might not be an excellent blogger- and I know I do have my technical errors and stuff. But I do know that I care about what I am doing. Can’t live without it. In the midst of  the tempest that  that threatens to destroy us…we got to have something to believe in and to hold on. It has been a great loving year with you my readers. And I just want you to know that I am grateful for everything. Me might not talk face to face. I might not see you in person. But I treasure this connection we have. It is the the thing that makes everything worthwhile. May you find peace and happiness wherever you are. And I hope I do the same.

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Jeremy and his band have been creating energetic music that fuses everything.  If you live in the Czech Republic you can catch them live. An experience not to be missed.

Irish Music Session POITÍN & friends

Time
01 November · 20:30 – 23:30
Location
More info
Regular session for lovers of Irish and Celtic music. Hosted by Poitín.

Check this link for more info: http://www.soundclick.com/bands/page_music.cfm?bandID=502898

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If you are a subscriber of this site then you would remember how I like to mention the projects of Jenne Lennon again and again. Her collaboration with Liz Madden known as Shishonnah has been getting great reviews from all around and I can attest to that . I heard the two songs already and fell in love with them. “Dance with the River”  released on I-tunes  on  April 2nd is a beautiful evocative and percussive track that calls to mind the works of Loreena McKennitt, Dead Can Dance and Clannad. These two artists are a force of nature together. Jenne hosts her own podcast called Wind Talker Podcast: http://windtalkerradio.blogspot.com/ and I am a regular listener. The podcast focuses more on individuals trying to make a difference and going on their way to say yes when people say no. I love the message of her show and I wish her to continue touching more minds…Please listen tune in to her show.

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Lovers of Welsh Celtic music have something worth listening to. At the same time you guys will find a lot of info in this site. This week it highlights the works of Breton singer/composer Dom Duff. This is a nice radio station .

Click Radio Cymru

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If you haven’t “liked” The Bombadils yet, then it is a musical experience you should not miss. Check out the band’s music player in their Official Facebook Page .  Can’t wait for the official album launch.  Just saying hi to the band.

And oh a nice pic and article about them lately: http://www.westislandgazette.com/event/25044

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Now we all know that Texas based Celtic rock band Cleghorn are busy composing new songs and promoting their music through live shows. You will be happy to know that they have come up with new videos for their new tunes. I am glad 9 Minutes of Woo has been documented. This anthemic piece sends chills down my spine. How can I resist? Cleghorn rules!!!!  Now if you have facebook you can check these wonderful photos from their recent performance during Pirate Days of Texas 2011.

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I promote Marc Gunn‘s Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. You hear real music here. Where else anyway? Been a follower of his blog for a while now and he offers nothing but the best music reviews and MP3s to listen to in order to sample artist works. Check him out friends .

..well that’s it for today. I will let you hear more of my ‘confessions’ later . Take care folks. Trick or Treat!

Best Irish Performers of the Decade and Other News!

On the pic: Cathie Ryan

On the pic: Cathie Ryan

LiveIreland has released the best Irish performers from 2000 to 2010. Those listed are the following:

Lunasa

Jimmy Keane

Laura Smith

The Brock McGuire Band

Eilis Kennedy

Alan O’Leary

Paddy Homan

Cathie Ryan

Len Graham

Shaun Davey

Flook

Liz Carroll

Beal Tuinne

Read more here: http://my.liveireland.com/profiles/blogs/liveireland-decades-awards

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Dublin will be bursting with gigs at the start of the year. If you are lucky to find yourself waking along, then better head to The Temple Bar where all things exciting and traditional happens. Temple Bar has been around for almost twenty years, bringing you the brightest and the greatest in Irish music. Check out http://www.templebartrad.com/

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Fo those who haven’t bought Marc Gunn’s Kilted For Her Pleasure should get their copies now. Funny, beautiful and warm are used to describe this collection of songs that gives you a sideways glance.

Here’s what one reviewer says:

“Funny. Sexy Songs. Oh my… Is it warm in here – or is it just me? Gunn will heat up your blood with this devilishly funny collection – sure to elicit the many naughty giggles and blushes promised by the title. A sure bet for fans of sexy Scotsmen (like Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series), beer, filk and cats.”
– Melissa McCauley

Listen to samples here:  http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/gunnmarc11/from/celtic/

Marc at Kerry Pub

Marc at Kerry Pub

That’s it for now folks. Will be keeping you updated for more later!

New Celtic MP3’s from Marc Gunn

Still thriving in the great month of October. I got a recent newsetter from Marc Gunn who has been responsible in exposing a lot of Celtic talents for years. This one will be a great addition to your music source>

 

 

Celtic MP3s Music Magazine
New Orleans, LA
> Official Site > ReverbNation Profile
Changing the way you hear Celtic Music
October 15, 2010 — 21,000+ subscribers

 

HIGHLIGHTS…
– Irish & Celtic Music Podcast Updated
– Celtic Podcast Has New Voicemail Number
– Celtic Podcast Now on Facebook
– Celtic Writers Wanted
– Indie Celtic Bands Need Your Help
– Celtic Invasion of Ireland 2011
– See Marc Gunn Live
– Celtic Music CD Store Presents
– Unsubscribe at the bottom of the newsletter

Don’t just download.
Support artists you like & Buy.
Then, forward this newsletter to a friend.
Subscribe here.

Greetings Celtic Music Lovers,

I want to thank everyone who sent gifts and their congratulations for the news of my daughter. Kenzie is due in one week, and I am as excited as can be.

Jed Marum Soul of a Wanderer

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST UPDATED
As promised, I have several shows scheduled for the podcast while I take a break to raise my daughter.

This week, I have a very special feature of Jed Marum’s CD Soul of a Wander. You can listen to the entire album in podcast form, or on the website.

Once you’re done listening to Jed’s liquid, honey voice, you will want to race over to Jed Marum’s website and buy a copy of Soul of a Wanderer.

Visit the podcast at celticmusicpodcast.com

CELTIC PODCAST HAS A NEW VOICEMAIL NUMBER
The podcast has a new voicemail number! Call 678-CELT-POD. That’s 678-235-8763 and leave a voicemail comment.

Not sure what to say? Try “Hi, this [your name], you’re listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast!”

 

CELTIC PODCAST IS NOW ON FACEBOOK
A while back, Jasper setup a Celtic Podcast Facebook group. The problem with groups is that they only allow a limited number of members. So this month, I started an Irish & Celtic Music Podcast Facebook profile. It features the latest shows, but you’ll also find links to articles, CD reviews and Celtic MP3s straight from the Celtic MP3s Music Magazine.

Get it while it happens when you join the podcast page on facebook.

 

CELTIC WRITERS WANTED
There are several new reviewers now associated with the Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. But I would like to see more people involved. Do you write articles on Celtic culture, news, history, geneology, legends, stories or more? Please consider contributing your content to the magazine. It’s a great way for you to get involved in your Celtic community!

Contact your editor@celticmp3s.com for more details.

BCM Fest - Celtic Music Monday
Photo by Tom C

 

 

INDIE CELTIC BANDS NEED YOUR HELP
Over the past few months, I’ve done a BIG push of the Celtic iMixes on iTunes. I’m not giving those up, but I thought it was time to get you a wee bit more involved.

There are hundreds of indie Celtic bands that have no support of a label or no money to hire a publicist to promote their music (I’m one of them). Many of them also forget to ask their fans for help. This month, I’d like to ask for your help for your favorite Celtic band or artist. Here’s how:

1. Pick your favorite Celtic artists to promote.
2. Ask this same question online: Who is your favorite Celtic musician or band?
3. Then post who your favorite group is and why.
4. Make sure to add a link to the band’s website.
5. Finally, cross-post that link to your various social networks.

And if you want to share it on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast Facebook page, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Oh! And while you’re there, I’d love you to share the latest news from your favorite Celtic band as well.

Gougane Barra
Photo by Marc Gunn

 

 

NEW CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS
Wouldn’t it be amazing to walk among the roling green hills of Ireland? Picture the texture of standing stones, the sounds of Irish fiddle, and the wet taste of Guinness on your lips and you’re just now beginning to understand how cool it will be next June when you join me on another Celtic Invasion of Ireland.

Marc’s annual trip is scheduled for June 13-20, 2011. Find all the details when you visit the website at www.celticinvasion.com.

SEE MARC GUNN LIVE!
Starting in November and for six weeks after that Marc Gunn will perform at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival. Find his complete touring schedule on his website at www.marcgunn.com.

 

CELTIC MUSIC CD STORE PRESENTS
Visit www.celticmusic.org to find more great Celtic music CDs.

PoitinBofiguifluki by Poitin

A breathless and enchanting collection of intricate, elegant and downright foot stomping Celtic music from Celtic Radio Award nominees continuing the tradition of the Chieftains, Solas and the Bothy Band.

KReelers saints and sinnersSaints & Sinners by The Kreelers

he Motor City’s own, The Kreellers bring a blood pumping, high energy brand of Celtic Rock that fuses traditional sensibility with modern rock, funk, and punk stylings

 

New Kilted Celtic Comedy  Music CD from Marc Gunn.Kilted For Her Pleasure by Marc Gunn

Kilted Celtic comedy music for the playfully demented Celtic music fan. Get ready to guffaw with a healthy dose of laughter, the best medicine for any Celtic music lover.

 Best  of  the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast New Old Songs by Jesse Ferguson

Traditional Irish, Scottish, and Canadian folk songs with lively arrangements and a personal feel.

The MabingdoinThe Mabinogion by Obod

The classic tales from the ancient book of Welsh mythology, the Mabinogion, are read by Professor Ronald Hutton.

The Rogues - 3 LBs of Rage“3 Lbs of Rage” by The Rogues

Perhaps the most complete Celtic album ever, 3 LBS. OF RAGE includes 14 traditional and original tracks spanning folk, rock, and classical music, as well as “The Gael” from Last of the Mohicans.

Thanks again for subscribing to the Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. I hope you enjoy all the new music.

Slainte!
– Marc Gunn

DVD Promo Title Frame
Photo by Chuck Davis

ABOUT THE MAGAZINE
Celtic MP3s Music Magazine is a weekly publication by acoustic Celtic folk musician and podcaster Marc Gunn, The Celt Father. The magazine promotes Celtic musicians worldwide, and you can help these artists:

1. Visit the links provided
2. Download the music
3. Order a CD, write, or donate to the band
4. Forward this ezine to THREE friends
5. Ask them to subscribe and help Celtic music grow

Copyright 2000-2011 Marc Gunn

Brenda Wootton and Alan Stivell Duet

This is a great find in YouTube. Yesterday I blogged about  a feature in livingincornwall.com where a never released live recordings of Brenda Wootton resurfaced. I also talked about Alan Stivell‘s new album Emerald. As we all know, France adored Brenda , a prominent figure in the Interceltique Festivals up to the time she passed away in 1994. This video (Amazing Grace) I think was taken around 1984. The quality is not that good but the audio is fine. Here you can witness the vocal power of this lady and how Alan Stivell accompanied her!

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For those who hasn’t sin up for a Marc Gunn newsletter, you better get one. Marc is a great source for new Celtic bands out there. There are also free MP3 samplers that you can listen to on his site . A great thing before your conviction to buy the complete album. He is a musician himself and at the same time he supports other musicians.

http://www.marcgunn.com/

Another Irish and Celtic Music Podcast Site

IrishCelticMusicPodcastLogoHi folks. It’s a lovely Monday, the first working day of the week. As usual what’s morning without our daily doze of Celtic music? Here’s another podcast link hosted by Marc Gunn. It is extensive because it covers all types of Celtic music under the umbrella name. It also showcases acts coming from the seven Celtic Nations. Point your browsers here to listen.