Music of Ireland

Réalta:The Brevity and Grace of the Irish Spirit.

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Realta:Aaron O'Hagan (Uilleann pipes, Flute, Whistles, Bodhran)Conor Lamb (Uilleann pipes, Whistles)Deirdre Galway ( Guitar, Bouzouki, Concertina)

Realta:

Style: Irish traditional

Members: Aaron O’Hagan (Uilleann pipes, Flute, Whistles, Bodhran)
Conor Lamb (Uilleann pipes, Whistles)
Deirdre Galway ( Guitar, Bouzouki, Concertina)

Golden melodies and shimmering sounds: these are the things that make Réalta a joy to listen to. No frills or effects. Just straight ahead traditional tunes but with undeniable freshness. Picture the sight of  flowers blooming in spring. They play tunes that’s moving yet also capable of being unobtrusive. This is exactly the main ingredient in recordings that stand the test of time. Which calls to mind the term: less is more.

This trio from Belfast are made up of Aaron O’Hagan (Uilleann pipes, Flute, Whistles, Bodhran), Conor Lamb (Uilleann pipes, Whistles) and Deirdre Galway( Guitar, Bouzouki, Concertina). Dierdre sings in that Janis Ian meets Judy Collins style. That’s the closest comparison I can give you because it is hard to categorize her voice. It sounds soft to fit folk but there’s also something kind of hippie to it. You be the judge but that’s my observation.

Fact: Celtic music is mood enhancer.  Something in  Patsy Tohey’s-The Exile’s Jig, reminds me of riding long distance, and that is the soundtrack. I love the bouzouki. It sounds like honey dipped with sunlight. The guitar strums are wispy. It is balanced by the round sound of the wooden flute. The uilleann pipes have this silver metallic crispness. If you are into instrumental music then Réalta should be in your priority list.

I like the way Sliabh Gael gCua (air) creates that floating sensation. We live  in a generation dominated by fast tracks. It gets too much sometimes. Slow tunes are awesome. I like an album that not only shows off acrobatic sounds but also lifts one’s soul with its slow airs.

Réalta creates impeccable arrangements. The Galtee has the kind of  tightness that’s comparable to a thread going through the needle. Réalta celebrates the ecstatic spirit of Irish music in its brevity and grace.

Bio:

This Belfast based musical trio bring with them the intricate melodies and driving rhythms that make Irish music so loved throughout the world. While Conor and Aaron pursue the melody on dual uilleann pipes, whistles and flute, Deirdre explores the harmony and rhythms within the tunes through a dynamic accompaniment on guitar.

These three young musicians take a lively yet respectful approach to traditional music and have already established themselves on the Irish music scene. Between them, they have performed with a variety of established bands including Craobh Rua and Killultagh. Their experience includes venues and festivals such as The Smithsonian Folklife Festival (Washington), Festival Interceltico Accidente (Asturias), Alkmaar Irish Music Festival and Mulligan’s (The Netherlands), Randers Ugen (Denmark), Le Bono Folk Festival (Brittany), Tok Trad Festival (France), Girvan Folk Festival and Moniaive Folk Festival (Scotland), The Open House Festival (Belfast) and The William Kennedy Piping Festival (Armagh).

http://www.realtamusic.com

https://www.facebook.com/realtamusic

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Huzzah!

How are you? I am just enjoying the peaceful Easter Saturday tuning in to CRC FM  based in Castlebar, Ireland. My big thank you to Denis Charlton for playing my request. The song is called In a Lifetime by Bono and Clannad. Life is beautiful when there are sweet tunes around. Music makes the world go round. And where there is music, magic happens. My big thanks to my friend Damien McCarron for recommending the station to me. You know he has recommended a LOT to me and they contribute to my ideas.

Lúnasa

Lúnasa

I wrote an essay about Lunasa in Expats Post earlier today. It’s one of the online magazine where I act as a music contributor. Here’s a little excerpt: My first introduction to the fabulous music of Lúnasa was through their second album Otherworld. The marriage of deep, tempestuous colors to the  serene patterns of water in the album artwork conveys the deep connection of Irish music to the spiritual world. In the tradition that spans thousands of years, the passion and love for immortality is embodied in the melodies that explains the visual symmetry of the Celtic artwork. READ MORE.

Kevin O'Donnell

Kevin O’Donnell

Here’s the fourth teaser for the Kevin O’ Donnell album:

Making of

Kevin returned to the studio in 2012 when Maurice Lennon, of Stockton’s Wing, agreed to produce an album of Kevin’s material. Kevin and Maurice eventually settled on ten original songs for the project. Some were pulled from the drawer; while others – previously recorded by Kevin in the ‘80s and ‘90s – were retooled, rearranged, and in some cases, completely rewritten. The project inspired Maurice to write an original tune (A Letter Home) that serves as a prelude to the album.

More at: www.deepisthewell.com.

John Breen

John Breen

Easter Lily -by John Breen http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjwR88_So7I is a perfect track today. The song has that warmness and down to Earth appeal that becomes a great tune to sing along with. Here’s the background:

Easter Lily recorded by John Breen and written by Brendan Phelan whose credits also include the hit Ballad’ Dublin in my Tears. This song is written about James Connolly’s wife Lillie Connolly who was originally from County Wicklow Ireland the same county as John Breen himself. James Connolly was a leader during the 1916 rising, having joined his workers army (the Citizen army) with the IRA to strike a blow for Irish independence and Socialism. James was murdered by the Brittish army for his part in the Easter Rising. He is an Iconic figure in Irish republicanism and indeed socialism globally. Lillie was from the Beautiful village in the east of County called Rathnew. James Connolly and Lillie nee Reynolds had seven children together, one of whom died tragically in a House fire. John Breen performs this with Steven Collins backing him on mandolin, banjo, vocals and bass guitar in what is their first recording together. The beginning of many more recordings to come…watch this space.
https://www.facebook.com/JohnBreen2u
https://www.facebook.com/JohnBreen2u?…

Dalla

Dalla

Been a while since I last heard about Cornish band Dalla. A new video has been uploaded. This is part of the Scilly Folk Festival and I thought you might want to get a listen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvXvpw_MrVg&feature=youtu.be

And some interesting pages….

Enda Seery: the “Síocháin na Tuaithe” Interview

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Recording for Síocháin na Tuaithe

Recording for Síocháin na Tuaithe: Black Rose Studio

Enda Seery(Éanna Ó Saoraí) is releasing his sophomore album Síocháin na Tuaithe which means Peace of the Countryside in English. The album is traditional but with added ingredients that incorporate a bigger “Celtic” sound. We can take this interview as a sort of a closer look into the process of creating an album. And there are many challenges when one is doing it independently. So it is quite interesting to learn something from someone who spent a great deal of time polishing the album and working with the best musicians in the field.

Your new album is going to be released this April. Are you nervous, happy…excited?

I suppose I’m nervous, happy, excited all of those. In all honesty, I’m very satisfied with how the album turned out. It’s a much more varied and detailed album than the first album “The Winding Clock”. I’m a little bit nervous of how people will react to my vocals and flute playing but I think if one wasn’t nervous there would be something wrong! I’m really excited about the launches that will take place around Ireland with three planned and maybe one more.

You laboured with the tracks for months. You even sang vocals. What are other new things that listeners can expect on Peace of the Countryside?

Yes I did labor with the tracks for months. I like to get things right and the way I want it. As I stated “Síocháin na Tuaithe” is a little different than “The Winding Clock” whistle album. As well as the vocal tracks, listeners can expect flute tracks too. Also there are some duet tracks on the album. One track is a flute/fiddle duet with myself and James Hughes from Co. Offaly and another is a whistle duet with myself and Eoghan MacAogáin from Limerick accompanied by Tom Delany on guitar with a French/Irish family background.

What were the challenges in conceiving the second album that was not present in the first?

Well the challenges were taking the feedback on board from the first album and trying to put them in place for the second. I took the constructive criticism on board with the duet tracks, flute tracks and vocal tracks. Not to sound big-headed, but my repertoire of tunes has greatly increased in the last few years, so it was a major challenge trying to pick out suitable tunes for certain tracks. I got some brilliant tunes on the Masters course in Traditional Irish Music Performance at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, University of Limerick.

 Any expectation upon the release?

My expectations would be higher this time round. I’m now a full-time traditional Irish musician, composer and teacher so as I said in the sleeve notes introduction, “music is now my life”. That’s why I’m a having a mini-tour of launches this summer. I want to promote the album to as wide an audience as possible. I also have the expectation and hope that my compositions will gain further recognition. I love composing and I especially love mixing my own tunes with older tunes and other recent compositions of others.

What are the memorable moments in the studio working with other artists in this one?

Yeh a few funny and happy memories alright. As well as recording most of the album again with Rob Laird at Black Rose Studios, Kilcock, Co. Kildare, I also recorded two tracks at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, University of Limerick. I had great fun recording with James Hughes, Eoghan MacAogáin and Tom Delany. James and I were surprised how well the flute/fiddle track came out considering we had been out late the night before! We also had a quite unusual set-up for the microphones in the studio which I won’t go into too much detail about!I enjoyed working with John Byrne on guitar again. He was calling me “one take Seery” after getting a recording take in one go! Some really accomplished and intricate guitar playing from John on the album.

What instruments and brands did you use in recording Peace of the Countryside?

Well I rarely record and perform without my trusted John Sindt whistles these days. I absolutely love them. I have four: D, Eb, C, Bb. They are really hard to get with the long waiting list so I consider myself lucky to have them. I play a Martin Doyle D flute on the album along with a Yamaha keyboard.

Why the title?

The title “Síocháin na Tuaithe” (Peace of the Countryside) is a reference and celebration of the beautiful countryside of Ireland, particularly that of Co. Westmeath where I live. It is also the title of a slow waltz I composed last year which is on the album. I was delighted to play the tune at my brother Ciarán’s wedding to Margaret last July. I am a fluent Irish speaker so Ireland’s language, culture and heritage, is very important to me. I like to name some of compositions in the Irish (Gaeilge) language.

What’s the list of things you will be doing this year in promoting the album?

As I already stated I will be having three launches, one in my home county of Westmeath on April 26th in Áras an Mhuilinn, Mullingar. Another launch will take place at the Fleadh Nua festival in Ennis, Co. Clare on May 25th or May 26th. In August, I will be having a launch at the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Derry, Northern Ireland. The venues and times of the launches in Ennis and Derry will be confirmed soon. In July, the new album will feature as part of the Joe Mooney Summer School in Drumshambo, Co. Leitrim where I will be teaching an advanced whistle class for the week. Irish Music Magazine will have a feature article and interview with me during the summer too. Finally, tracks from the album will hopefully get some air play on radio stations in Ireland and abroad too.

After the completion of “Síocháin na Tuaithe” , what have you learned so far in the whole experience. What thought would you impart to readers who are trying to gather materials for their own solo albums?

I have learned that variety is important. You have to try broaden the horizon a bit. My experience in Limerick has certainly broadened my mind and outlook on music a bit. I am still very much into pure trad music but I now am open to variety. There is a wide range of material on this new album, ranging from the regular jigs, reels, hornpipes to polkas, slip jigs, slow pieces and of course the songs! My advice is those trying to gather material for new albums is to take time and do it right. No point rushing it just for the sake of releasing an album.

Where can we buy “Síocháin na Tuaithe” ?

At the moment “Síocháin na Tuaithe” is only available directly from my website at www.endaseery.com. Go to the buy albums link. After the release on April 1st, the album will be available from the regular distribution outlets for traditional Irish music which I’m working on at the moment. Of course people in Ireland can buy the album also by going to the launches too!

Video:

Síocháin na Tuaithe

Síocháin na Tuaithe ..fresh ready for delivery.

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Huzzah!

Yes we are up to date with our artist of the week. Yes that’s Enda Seery above. A review of  Síocháin na Tuaithe will be out soon but I feel that doing an interview is a great intro to his album.  So what do we have on the menu? I will tell you:

Welsh musician Derek Smith recommended Ta Fechu from Chile. According to him: ” I had the privilege of meeting Ta Fechu from Chile at Lorient in 2011. They’re great people and they deserve to be heard.” Here is the video of the song called Añoranza. You got to admire the sound of pipes in this track. I also love the use of Latin flavour: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tz9c5aSvQ3s&feature=share

Deep Is The Well

Deep Is The Well

Here is the second part of our teaser for the Kevin O’Donnell upcoming release

More Than an Album

As the acclaimed author of Fadó: A Memoir of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness,Kevin is known as more than a singer-songwriter but also an author and historian. DEEP IS THE WELL is a work of historical fiction drawing extensively from real-life events. Kevin has penned a novel-worthy history of the Fagan family, from 1837 through today, steeped in a real American past.

Upon purchase of the album, we invite you unlock interactive multimedia content at www.deepisthewell.com. From there, as you listen to the album you can become acquainted with each of the songs’ characters as you read their complex backstories , view their family photographs, and explore their family tree. Watch videos, listen to the author read a chapter from his book, Fadó, download a bootleg bonus track, and gain access to the lyrics, chords, and the author’s personal notes from the album. Those curious about the evolution of writing and recording a song, from the first lilt of the melody to the last day in the studio, will be especially interested in a short documentary on the making of one of Kevin’s most intriguing songs.

Calum Stewart

Calum Stewart

Here is something from Calum Stewart:

North by East – Featuring Gareth Davies-Jones . Short video recorded during album launch in Newcastle. Short cameo by the beau gosse Heikki Bourgault. More information here:www.garethdavies-jones.com

Here is the video of Calum and Gareth: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2N6HwXmY2c

Dave Rooney

Dave Rooney

Check out this Dave Rooney promo video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5ncEE2Pxog&feature=share

It is concerning the Dave Rooney and Dave Browne, The Dream tour 2013. More info at : http://www.daverooneymusic.com
http://www.cobblestonesam.com

Siobhán Armstrong

Siobhán Armstrong

If you love harp music check out this upcoming special Galway performance hosted by Galway Early Music, the Historical Harp Society of Ireland and others.

Here’s what it says:

Thursday, 21 March 2013, 5.00pm
NUI, Galway, Galway
March 21 is the first European Day of Early Music, and under the aegis of the European Early Music Network (REMA), events happening all over Europe are being live-streamed via U-Sophia.com. Galway Early Music takes this opportunity to introduce all of Europe to Ireland’s medieval harp and its music in a live-streamed talk and concert by historical harpist Siobhán Armstrong. So, even if you can’t make it to the Moore Institute, NUI Galway, you can watch this event live via U-Sophia.com. Siobhan will start with a short talk on the construction of the instrument and the sources for its music. This will be followed by a concert, with an opportunity for questions and answers at the end. The event is organised by Galway Early Music in co-operation with the M.A. Medieval Studies, NUI Galway, and the Historical Harp Society of Ireland.
​​​​ ​Strathclyde-based Celtic duo Celtic Twist

​​​​ ​Strathclyde-based Celtic duo Celtic Twist

The duo of Phil Holland: Clarsach (Irish Harp,Celtic Harp), Fiddle, Vocals and Dave Palmley: Guitar, Vocals have their website redesigned to give you more access to graphics and music. Have a listen and also check the goodies in their music store. Support your independent Celtic musicians.http://hollandandpalmley.wix.com/html_celtictwist

Gladstone Theatre

Gladstone Theatre

Want to know how’s the Irish music scene doing in Ottawa Canada? Please join Irish Music Ottawa: http://www.facebook.com/groups/172682729446933/

Ok that’s it folks. If I miss anything the next edition is this Friday. Take care 🙂

Siobhán Armstrong

Ryan Murphy: About Techniques and Styles(Interview)

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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:

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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.

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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/

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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.

Throw your music map and dive!

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In this edition: Eve Williams, Clan Suibhne, Dom Duff, Colin Nea, Connie Dover , Mark Harmer and Planxty.

It is 2013. Four years after I officially launched this site. In the past four years, I met a lot of talented musicians and listened to their amazing music. In the past four years I met interesting readers who turned out to be bloggers too. In the past four years I poured my heart out, experienced joy and at some point almost lost my sanity. But I never gave up blogging and maintaining this site. Despite the personal earthquakes I experienced in this life, this one seems to be left unscathed. This is my baby. This is my love. It’s been four years. And here’s The Celtic Music Fan looking forward to more discoveries, more mistakes, more success and more joy! Let the fun begin again.

Eve Williams-Twenty Miles from Home

New CD from UK based singer/songwriter Eve Williams

Think of the soft approach of Cara Dillon and  the vocal power of Evanescence.

It is always a great experience when I discover new music. This is only possible without a map. Personal maps obscure our chances of finding something new out there. Especially when we are so used to the formula we created and the comfort zone we find hard to let go. I wondered if this is the same thing that ran inside the mind of Eve Williams when she created Twenty Miles from Home.

It is an eclectic album full of  surprises wrapped in a blanket of atmosphere. There are things that are consistently noticeable in the midst of variety. All the twelve tracks are melodic. Her voice is superb and full bodied. She is also a writer which explains her interesting lyrics references to classical literature.

In my other blog friend who is a guest blogger wrote about Music Theory. I think we have to admit that people who make artfully crafted music are those who at least in some part of their musical development, had undergone music studies. The maintaining discipline  in creating and also in the performing part is probably hard because music is such an emotional medium. It is easy to get lost and let everything rip through.

Twenty Miles from Home strikes me as a balance of  emotion and control. It is also a recording done with minimalist approach to instruments. This gives us a chance to hear how Eve can showcase her vocal talents. I sometimes find it hard to listen to something overly produced because you have a lot of sounds coming from every direction. Which in turn makes it hard to concentrate to the few aspects. But this album proves to be something that even listeners with short attention span can feast in.

I realized that listening to different systems also yield different results. When I listened to this through a computer, it didn’t give me too much probably due to the speakers. Then I put it in a CD player with good speakers. And the experience was something else. The whole album shimmers. The headphones also give you that intimate feel which focuses more on the nuances . I suggest you listen to all types of

Singer Eve Williams

Eve Williams

players and see which works for you.

Twenty Miles from Home is a beautiful album. Oblivion is one track with full arrangements and soaring vocals along with Tall Dark Stranger. These are orchestrated tracks. But I love the contrast of the spare arrangement on others like Broken Dolls (feat Scarlett Burnside), The Rock (feat. Dominik Boncza-Skrzynecki) and many more. Eve Williams is based in County Down, Northern Ireland. It is probably the beautiful landscapes that shaped her sound and sentiments. It it an album that can appeal to lovers of Sinead O’Connor, Cara Dillon and Evanescence. The combination of folk simplicity and operatic flourishes in her songs makes her one of the rising voices in the Irish music scene.

Older recordings

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Clan Suibhne Yank~Irish~Celtic Music Group‏

Clan Suibhne. Clan Suibhne They're Not Just a Band, They're a Clan clansuibhnegreengrassmusic.blogspot.com

Clan Suibhne. Clan Suibhne They’re Not Just a Band, They’re a Clan
clansuibhnegreengrassmusic.blogspot.com

Their unique “Roots” music, dubbed “Greengrass,” is a blend of traditional Irish/Celtic meets American Folk/Bluegrass tunes.  “This genre existed long before the music we know as bluegrass. We were very surprised, but so honored to win an award for our music,” says Charles (C.W.) Farrell. The three Farrell brothers and cousin John Curran have become well known around the “Irish Riviera” for their signature style. They incorporate traditional instruments, including  the mandolin and banjo, into traditional Irish music.

Celtic music is a family affair. You can see this in bands like Clannad, The Corrs, The Rankins among others. It is no surprise when a lot of American Irish bands are consist of family members. Irish and Scottish music have grown into stellar proportions in the United States in the past few years. This is an exciting age to start your own Celtic band because even though you can’t find listeners in your hometown, you know that there is this whole wild world which is the Internet. There will always be  listeners for you out there!

Clan Suibhne (pronounced Sweeney)are a band based in New Jersey. They play acoustic music combining their Yank-Irish-Celtic Roots which they fondly mention in their website.  Like I mentioned, they are a family group, acoustic and fun. They do solo, duo, trio & quartet arrangements throughout the New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York Tristate area.

This St Patrick’s Day 2013, they are scheduled to play at the Historical National Hotel in Frenchtown, NJ…and will be appearing at many other venues throughout the months of February, March and April 2013. Sounds like fun! Do check them out if you are in the area.

http://www.reverbnation.com/clansuibhne
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Clan-Suibhne/240984553900
http://clansuibhnegreengrassmusic.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/ClanSuibhne

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Connie Dover and what makes her amazing.

If you’ve been a listener since 1993(her debut album came out in 1991) and now it is 2013..surely there is something about Connie Dover. She is considered as one of the stalwarts in the Celtic genre. I think she is underrated considering the achievements she has. I don’t think I am totally biased when I say that being an American singer, she took such challenging steps in making sure she breaths authenticity in her every recording. Even to the point when she has to sing in Latin of Scots/Irish Gaelic.

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Before going solo, Connie Dover fronted this Missouri based bluegrass group. She is one American singer I really respect because her music is based in hard research and she yes she sings in Gaelic.

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Si Beag, Si Mhor

This composition by the famous Irish composer O’Carolan landed into facebook discussion with my friend Ralph who plays the tin whistle. I am so glad he raised this discussion up so I was able to do further research about the song. I discovered the other versions. There are many out there but I will just post two of them here. These are fine interpretations. I am crazy for uilleann pipes and that is why the one from Planxty appears in this edition. I am also a big fan of harp music specifically the Celtic harp. So let us get to know a wee bit more of this music.

Picture. Mark Harmer gauntssummergathering.com

Picture. Mark Harmer gauntssummergathering.com

In English it means: Little hill, big hill. It’s a reference to the fairy kingdoms.
It’s also translated as “it’s little, it’s big.”It’s sometimes titled “Sidhe Bheag, Sidhe Mhor” The tune is by Turlough O’Carolan (1670-1738). O’Carolan’s works were published by his son in 1747. According to this timeline “Si Bheag Si Mhor” was the first piece O’Carolan composed upon the completion of his harp apprenticeship (1691).

According to Ralph: “I think a closer translation is ‘big hill, little hill’. I’m pretty sure it has something to do with a war of fairy clans but I’d like to know how the story goes. Wanna know who owned w/c hill and who won in the end.” Here we have two versions. The first one by Planxty and the second one by Celtic harper Mark Harmer:

Note: An in depth research by harpist Scott Hoye suggested a new light to the trivia on top  . According to his source, Si Beg Si Mor is in fact a Scottish Tune, The Bonny Cuckoo. O’Carolan used the tune, made popular by the Ulster Scots, and wrote Irish lyrics for it. His poem was about the battle between two Faerie kingdoms. My big thanks to Scott for the info about this classic.

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Babel Pow Wow by Dom Duff

Breton musician Dom Duff is working on a new album. He is requesting the help of Breton music enthusiasts to help fund this project. As I

Dom Duff Babel Pow Wow Proje

Dom Duff Babel Pow Wow Project

said  in a conversation with a musician that music is a community. You get what you give. Dom Duff is very passionate about the culture of Brittany and its people. He  was also one of our featured artists way back .

I chatted with him a few days ago. He was trying to put a video project to promote the album. This involves people speaking in their own dialects from all over the world. The video you see below is just one of the many he is trying to create between music session. This man in really busy these days!

Please check this one out:

More here: http://www.kisskissbankbank.com/fr/projects/dom-duff-album-babel-pow-wow-2013

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Wonderful Review of trad album by Colin Nea

Fair play to Colin Nea on a great review from TradConnect-Enda Seery: http://tradconnect.com/profiles/blogs/album-review-colin-nea-between-the-jigs-the-reels

Colin Nea and Enda Seery are cousins. They are also very supportive of each others music projects. The proud Enda was posting and tweeting about this wonderful review of his album Between the Jigs & the Reels with Jack Talty on a piano. I haven’t talked to Colin Nea yet but I have exchanges several pleasant messages with Enda. He is also releasing an album this year and I am sure Colin is going to advertise it too. It is great to see trad music growing. It is composed of family relations jamming together or with other musicians. Like I’ve mentioned before: Irish music is a family affair.

Celtic Music Whimsy

/ mrbaxteria2008 / 4 Comments

In this edition:  Enda Seery, Fraser Fifield, Celtic Twist/Holland and Palmley, The Picts, Irish Music Ottawa Blog, and 9 Celtic music videos from youtube!

Videos: Seth Lakeman-Race to be King, Loreena McKennitt-Dante’s Prayer, Fraser Fifield- ‘Drawing Maps’, Rachel Hair Trio-Tsunami Jack, Eluveitie-Inis Mona, Enya-Book of Days, The Chieftains/Sean Keane-Drowsy Maggie, Seamus Ennis-An Poc Ar Buile and Ashley Macisaac-News Show in Japan.

Night Swimmers III by Eva McCauley

Night Swimmers III by Eva McCauley

How I got saved by a 16-year old artist!

I have a confession. Around Monday of last week, I was getting anxious because I usually have the Artist of the Week ready for publishing every the next day. But everyone was busy due to the holiday rush and no one was able to commit. Yours truly was experiencing panic. When I set a schedule, I stick to it not because I have a boss. After all, I own this site, no one pays me to write and I don’t earn my living by blogging. It is my passion for Celtic music and musicians that drive the itch. I have no partner in this. The same goes for my other blog Sphere Music. I do everything from ground up including the design and the decision of what I am going to feature next.

If you want to be part of my upcoming artist of the week, it is so simple. I get my recommendation from (your)peers in the music scene. Also, when I set my sights on you, then you get to be featured here. I write for the readers but I also write for the musicians. It is a practical thing to do. It helps musicians get to know other talents and this could be beneficial if they are looking for someone to jam with when they are in another country. From England, Ireland, Scotland, Brittany, Cornwall, Isle of Man, North America and other parts of the world, I have started building a network of artists. I feel like a super spider! Bloggers have the passion to keep the music scene alive. We are the Rolling Stones, Hot Press and Billboard magazine of Celtic music-well maybe not your typical journalism major but I try to make it interesting as much as possible.

Now we were talking about the incident last week right? Well it was the 16 year old Quinn Bachand who saved me. He’s the one who’s able to commit and he did an interesting interview! You can read this week’s interview about him to know more.

So what do we have for the start of the year?

Síocháin na Tuaithe Preview (New Album from Enda Seery in 2013)

Enda Seery is very excited about the release of his second album scheduled this year. He sent me demo clips of the few album tracks and they sound really amazing even in their rough states. I am sure the finished album will be fantastic.

16 tracks of Traditional Irish Music and Song… Coming soon in 2013!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzMh-aRF8h8

http://www.endaseery.com

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A Flurry of Recordings from Fraser Fifield

Guess who is hardworking this year and last year in the world of Traditional and Jazz music? Fraser Fifield is everywhere. Here is a nice article where he appeared: http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/entertainment/music/music-news/scottish-jazz-federation-launch-tours-1498666  He recently got his left arm broken. Get well soon Fraser!

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My House by Celtic Twist/Holland and Palmley

http://youtu.be/YCeV1RWZlFs

From Phil and Dave: “Everyone has a dream…however small, however simple…as long as its your dream and it makes you happy”.

This is a beautiful song!I like how Phil’s vocal style has evolved. It is softer and warmer now. I really love these guys. I mean they are not just part of my favorite circle of Celtic musicians but they also full of love and support. Wonderful friends and wonderful musicians. Such a rare combination.

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The Picts New Year Concert

Check out the photos from Douglas McQueen Hunter and the rest of  The Picts.

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Irish Music Ottawa Blog

I am proud to represent one of my peers from Canada. This is one of the most comprehensive sites I have ever seen. If you are in a band, an avid Irish music listener, if you are looking for gigs or want to know what’s going on, check this site. According to Craig who runs Irish Music Ottawa: This not-for-profit webpage provides links to primarily Ottawa Valley, and Irish Traditional Music (ITM), activities in, or within a few hours of the Ottawa / National Capital Region of Canada.  Music is a shared experience between musicians and the audience. That’s the spirit!

http://www.irishmusicottawa.ca/

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The rest of my facebook posts:

I love posting videos on facebook because I am driven by the mood of the moment and the kind of music that suits that mood. I was looking back and I already posted a lot this week so I am sharing this with you in case we are not facebook friends. Just to give you an idea what I thought were hot music!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8op3oYkbcrk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDvxT53nILo

Happy New Year!!!