An Irish Halloween Mixtape

It does seem in Ireland that this year's Halloween is being celebrated like never before and I'm loving it. Here's an Irish Halloween mixtape! Some of the tunes are technically not written about Halloween but are included for atmospheric qualities.




1. And So I Watch You From Afar - Set Guitars To Kill


2. Ham Sandwich - Running Up That Hill [Live]


3. Pearse McGloughlin - Haunting Room





4. Shaz Oye - Blood on the Bone


5. David Hope - See The Ghost







6. Entheos - Ghost on the Stairs


7. Melophobia - Hurricanes & Gravestones (part 2)






8. The Angel Pier - Skulls & Xs


9. Jape - Haunt Me







10. Mumblin' Deaf Ro - Trouble Under A Murder Moon


11. Dave Geraghty - Cracked Skull






12. Jack L - The Devils


13. Shane MacGowan & Sinead O'Connor - Haunted


14. Murder Plan - The Dead (Tango)


15. God is an Astronaut - From Dust To The Beyond





[Disclaimer: These links are removed after a number of weeks and are intended as music samples only. Please support the acts in any way possible. If your music is here it means that your music is search-able on some of the biggest music sites in the world; http://hypem.com/ http://elbo.ws/ ]

Ham Sandwich - November 7th Whelans

Niamh Sambo announced the support bands for Whelans; they are Dundalks Blind Pilots and The Funeral Suits who impressed big time at this years HWCHs.


Here's Ham Sandwich from Podge & Rodge show nearly two years ago making a Rod Stewart tune sound good.





Remember that The Funeral Suits were chosen by this blog as one of the bands to watch out for this year! We also chose Aortal who broke up but hey you win some you lose some!





Also on the bill are the first band to ever play the 2uibestow sessions in Boyles, Slane; Blind Pilots

Jerry Fish to Ring in the New Year in Vicar Street

Yep confirmed through Twitter .... Jerry Fish will be ringing in the new year in style in Vicar Street. More details soon!

Here's the lastest video from the band doing a great impression of Calexico with the help of Imelda May.

The Swell Season - December 15th Vicar Street

The Swell Season in Vicar Street on December 15th was announced via twitter!

The amazing blog http://www.fuelfriendsblog.com is the place to go for a sample of 'Say It To Me Now' from The Frames album Fitzcaraldo. The blog writer Heather took this video clip of Glen doing his thing outside the record store Fingerprints.

Tuesday's Topical Threesome

This Thursday night sees three of our best artists battle it out for the hard earned cash of the concert going faithful. Here's the great choice for your pre-halloween night out!




Dave Geraghty - The Odessa Club €10

Dave is back in Ireland after a short tour with his side-project Bell X1 and is doing a few dates around Ireland including this one in the capital.

Tuesday's Feet

http://www.davegeraghty.com







Pearse McGloughin with support from Fia Rua - Whelans [Upstairs] €7

Fresh from gaining excellent reviews on the back of his HWCHs performance in The Button Factory, Pearse is playing a big headline gig in Whelans. Get there early for the excellent Fia Rua.

Passion Song

http://www.myspace.com/walkperson
http://www.fiarua.net/












Fiach with support from Brian McGovern in The Village [single launch]




Before Fiach heads off to Represent Ireland in the “Liet International Song Contest” in the Netherlands on the 31st of October we have the single release of "YOU DEAR" in The Village with his full band line up. Should be a great gig.


Too Many Years

http://www.fiach.net/

Musical Youth Foundation - Launch Night

See this? Fiach, Carosel, The River Valley Band and more for just a 5er? Wow recession prices at last! Should be a great winter gig.

New Sounds Sunday - Conor Furlong, Fiona Melady, Mail Order Messiahs

Dubliner Conor Furlong has made one of his new songs 'Wrong' available as a free download. Not only is it free but it's a decent tune too. On his myspace Conor gets compared to Mercury Rev, Moby and Brian Wilson by various people. You might as well download the tune and decide for yourself!

Wrong








"Love in the Movies" is the second single to be taken from Fiona Melady's acclaimed debut album "The Fear I Fear" and the first single from Fiona to be distributed by Universal Music Ireland and it's available on itunes!

http://www.myspace.com/fionamelady






At last week's HWCH I was given the debut album by Mail Order Messiahs and it's quite a good record. It is mainly for fans of Jape and Kid A era Radiohead.


http://www.myspace.com/mailordermessiahs

Fluid Flow

Friday's Forgotten Favourites - Pelvis

Pelvis were a three piece indie pop band with great tunes and image.

Pelvis were:

Johnny Rogan
Vocals, Bass Guitar & Piano

Ed Reynolds
Guitars & Backing Vocals

Mick Goss
Drums & Backing Vocals


Around '97 Pelvis was a great indie pop band and were creating a nice buzz in the Irish music scene. They won the Heineken Green Energy Unsigned Band Competition, in May '97 winning £10k worth of recording time and within no time their star was rising. Pelvis released singles 'Streetlight' and 'Hang My Hat' and the album 'Who Are You Today' on Setanta Records. They even got a spot on Later With Jools Holland alongside Pulp and Lenny Kravitz. As well as performing all over Europe with time for more BBC radio session, Pelvis have recently opened and toured with The Jesus and Mary Chain and Divine Comedy respectively.


In 1999 the band were dropped from their record label and as a result were no more. I can't find any information on what the three members of the band did after their fifteen minutes.


Pelvis - The Change

Pelvis - Peace & Love

Buy from Setanta Records

The 2UIBestow Sessions - November 5th

Van Cleef - Prince Single Launch

Van Cleef's official single launch party takes place on Halloween night in The Lower Deck. If you're lucky enough to get your hands on the single the b-side will bring hours of fun as you listen to 'Lisdoonvarna' on repeat!

31 Oct 2009 20:00 ’Prince’ Single Launch Hallowe’en Party @ The Lower Deck Dublin
3 Dec 2009 20:00 Whelan’s Upstairs Dublin
11 Dec 2009 20:00 Scruffy Murphy’s Dublin



http://www.myspace.com/vancleefmusic

Dublin's Showcase Nights

As this blog grows many artists have been asking me about showcase nights to play in Dublin and let's face it for a population of over a million and with almost as many bands and artists out there at the moment there isn't a massive selection.

If anyone else runs a showcase night do get in touch.

If any of you hard working people want to use this blog to get info out to the world just get in touch!

Here's to my knowledge are the best and the contact info:


Sundays

Sunday Roast in The Globe on St Great George's Street.




Fiach runs The Appollo Sessions in The Bleeding Horse on Camden Street.

http://www.fiach.net/



Mondays

The Lazy Band featuring Lisa O'Neill and Enda Reilly play a free gig upstairs in Bewleys Cafe Theatre and it starts around 8pm.

http://www.myspace.com/thelazyband


The Glor Sessions

This is a poetry and music night downstairs in The International Bar run by the brilliant Stephen James Smith.

http://www.stephenjamessmith.com/Glor.html



Tuesdays

The Open Mic in Bankers, College Green is run by the legendary Dave Murphy.

The Ruby Sessions takes place in Doyles, College Green also on a Tuesday.



Wednesdays

The Zodiac Sessions downstairs in Bruxelles.

http://www.thezodiacsessions.com/






The Song Room in The Globe run by Hamlet Sweeney.

http://www.hamletsweeney.com/

Album Review: Mark Black - Sweet Rescue Blues

Mark Black is an exceptional performer and artist from Donegal. Mark Black's most recent album 'Sweet Rescue Blues' was released earlier this year and proves that we Irish can perform the blues!

Watch 'Ramblin on my Mind'




'Sweet Rescue Blues' has many fine moments. The song 'Crazy in the Light' is a fine dixie inspired blues track. The closer 'Stay (Here With Me)is Dylanesque in it's nature. 'Rough Park' and 'Lough Swilly' are two beautifully composed acoustic instrumentals. The title track is also a fine track with nice melodies.


On a whole it doesn't work too well for me. Mark's voice is suited for the blues but can be laboured. The gritty blues tracks have an altogether unreasonable familiarity about them. There's also a lack of warmth or atmosphere in the album which is badly needed.


Mark Black - Sweet Rescue Blues - [8 out of 12]



http://markblackmusic.com/

http://www.myspace.com/markblackmusic


7 Nov 2009 22:30 Chasin Bull Bundoran, Donegal
13 Nov 2009 20:00 Balor Arts Centre Ballybofey, Donegal
19 Dec 2009 22:30 Bridge Bar Ramelton, Donegal
27 Dec 2009 20:00 An Grianan Theatre Letterkenny

Busking Festival in Navan

.......... this weekend!

Here are a selection of confirmed performers

Andrew Brady Meath www.myspace.com/andrewbrady2009

Barry McAuley Meath

Bobby Noonan Tipperary www.myspace.com/bobbynoonansongs

Doris Dublin http://www.myspace.com/dorismusic

Geriko Louth www.myspace.com/gerikosspace

Christy Leech Meath www.henriettagame.com

Jimi Cullen & The Jobless Wicklow www.myspace.com/jimicullen

Joy Booth http://www.myspace.com/joyboothmusic




Mugger Dave Galway www.myspace.com/muggerdave

Relief Dublin www.myspace.com/relief

Roy Sheils Dublin www.myspace.com/royshiels

Ruairi Coogan Meath www.ruairicoogan.com

Saramai & The Swords Meath www.myspace.com/saramaiandtheswords

The DC Experiment Dublin www.myspace.com/thedcexperiment

The Dolldrums Meath www.myspace.com/thedolldrums






Here's the Saturday line-up

Saturday – 24th October 2009 – Samhain Sounds – Busking Timetable

12noon – 1pm Irene Darcy, Liam Gilsenan, Chris Kelly, Gerry Tully

1pm – 2pm Christy Leech, Roy Sheils, Ralph, Ragdoll, The Buskers

2pm – 3pm The Dolldrums, Relief, Andrew Brady, Navan Samba Band, Geriko

3pm – 4pm Barry McAuley, Bobby Noonan, Andy Leech, Saramai & The Swords

4pm – 5pm Ruairi Coogan, The DC Experiment, Jimi Cullen, Mugger Dave, Joe Cleere, Minty & The Freshmen

Tuesday's Topical Threesome - The Irish at CMJ, NYC

As far as I can see there are ten Irish bands and artists making the trip to NYC for this years CMJ Music Marathon. I just experianced our HWCHs but it's tiny in size compared to the CMJ in New York. Here are the details of where you will find the ten Irish artists.

Tuesday 20th October

10.00 pm Stand in the Bowery Ballroom


Thursday 22nd October

7.45 pm: Skibunny in The Suffolk

9.45 pm: General Fiasco in Fontana's


Friday 23rd October

9.30 pm: Valerie Frances in Googie's Lounge


There's an Irish Showcase Night in the Bowery Poetry Club on Friday with six of our best bands performing. Stream the gig live here: http://www.bowerypoetry.com/

Friday 23rd October

9:00 PM: Subplots

9:45 PM: We Should Be Dead

10:30 PM: The Minutes

11:15 PM: Super Extra Bonus Party

12:00 AM: The Star Department

12:45 AM: Dark Room Notes


Also on Friday Night:

12.00 am: [Saturday] Kill Krinkle Club in Local 269

More info: http://www.cmj.com/marathon/

Little Palace Tour Details

24 Oct 2009 20:00 Pumpkin Festival (Support to Bell X1) Virginia, Cavan
5 Nov 2009 20:00 The Village Wexford St, Dublin
7 Nov 2009 20:00 Headfort Arms Kells, Meath
12 Nov 2009 20:00 The Backroom Navan, Meath

http://www.littlepalace.ie/index.html

Here's a really good interview with Michael Brunnock the songwriting genius behind Little Palace.


Michael Brunnock interview with Journalist Suzanne Connolly

Fairplay Collective | MySpace Music Videos

IMTV Nominees Announced

There's something to cheer about for the following Irish artists to have a nomination for the Irish Music Television awards to take place in The Sugar Club on Friday November 27th.

The best thing about this for me is that I never heard of the website before and have had a chance to check out some cool videos from Irish Artists. It's very much weighted towards the alternative genre but I'm delighted for acts such as Sean Needham, Miss Paula FLynn and Enda Reilly to have been included.

1.BEST LIVE VIDEO

LISA HANNIGAN - I DON’T KNOW
LISA HANNIGAN - LILLE
LADYDOLL – BUTTON
THE BRILLIANT THINGS – RISE
AND SO I WATCHED YOU FROM AFAR – SET GUITARS TO KILL

2.BEST DANCE VIDEO

LE BIEN – HERE AND THERE
NOISE CONTROL – ADDICTION
DARK ROOM NOTES – LETS LIGHT FIRES
ARVEEN & MISK - HELLS BELLS
LE GALAXIE – YOU FEEL THE FIRE

Tip to win:




3.BEST STYLED VIDEO

DIRTY EPICS – COMING UP
JULIE FEENEY – IMPOSSIBLY BEAUTIFUL
LAURA IBIZOR - SHINE
THE CORONAS – LISTEN DEAR
THE BLIZZARDS – POSTCARDS

Tip To Win:




4.BEST SOLO MALE

YNGVE WIELAND – LITTLE BOY
PADRAIG RUHSE – GONNA BE A CHANGE
JJ – PLAYING THE GAME
PEARSE MCGLOUGHLIN – WAYS TO KILLS A WEREWOLF
ENDA REILLY – MOL AN AIMSIRE

Tip to Win:



5.BEST SOLO FEMALE

LISA HANNIGAN – LILLE
JULIE FEENEY – LOVE IS A TRICKY THING
WALLIS BIRD – TO MY BONES
MISS PAULA FLYNN – HOLIDAY IN SWEDEN
GEMMA HAYES – HOME

Tip to Win




6.MOST ORIGINAL CONCEPT FOR VIDEO

FIGHT LIKE APES – SOMETHING GLOBAL
THE CHAPTERS – VIDEOTAPES
HERM - HEADS
GRAND POCKET ORCHESTRA – BALLET SHOES
SEAN NEEDHAM - I’M NOT AFRAID

I don't particularly think any of the above are completely original and while I love what Sean Needham does in the video 'I'm Not Afraid' I think this video will win:



7. BEST PRODUCTION / SPECIAL EFFECTS

SICKBOY – SILENCE IN CONVERSATION
CAP PAS CAP – WE ARE MEN
JAPE – FLOATING
HAM SANDWICH – BROKEN GLASS
202′S - EASE MY MIND

Tip To Win:




8.BEST VIDEO BY A NEW COMER (public Vote)

HOGAN – I WANT YOU
HOARSEBOX – ALL I NEED NOW
BATS – SHADOW FUCKING
BOWLEGGED – RED LIGHT
TALLULAH DOES THE HULA – BAD BOYFRIEND


9. DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

EOGHAN KIDNEY
LORCAN FINNEGAN
SIMON EUSTACE
LINDSEY BYRNES
WILL MCCONNELL

10. VIDEO OF THE YEAR 2009

DUCKWORTH LEWIS METHOS – MR MIRIAD
FIGHT LIKE APES – TIE ME UP IN JACKETS
THE CORONAS – LISTEN DEAR
THE BLIZZARDS – POSTCARDS
VALERIE FRANCIS – PUNCHES

Tip to Win:

Free Music Monday

.... or so it seems to be!


Heritage Centre is giving away a whole load of new and old tunes over at http://heritagecentre.bandcamp.com/

They are busy recording their debut album in Canada and are very close to being a finished article!





Ultan Conlon is also giving away his new single The Will as a direct free download from his website here: http://www.ultanconlon.com

.... or get it here: The Will









Enda Reilly passed his debut Oxygen21 to me the other day and it's a delightful album. Over on his website you can download over twenty live recordings which show how good Enda's style of folk is.

Here are some of the best:

The Weary Traveller

Samurai Sword

I'm Doing Fine Just The Way I Am

get the rest here: http://www.endareilly.com/

Catch Enda in the Odessa Club this coming Thursday.

HWCH's Day 3 Review & Overal Thoughts!

For the last night despite my desire to see bands like Funeral Suits, Super Extra Bonus Party and Ham Sandwich I decided to stay in The Button Factory for the last night of HWCHs.


Pearse McGloughlan

Pearse was accompanied by Sean Lynch on Mandolin and played a great set of songs from his debut album 'Busy Whisper'. It was a small but appreciative audience for Pearse's music.

Ultan Conlon

Ultan and his band of excellent musicians played a brilliant set from Ultan's soon to be released debut album. This was one of the first gigs for Ultan and the band but it didn't show. In an Irish world full of singer songwriters Ultan has a massive amount to offer with great tunes and songwriting.



Fiona Melady

I've been fortunate to see Fiona perform many times this year and this was the best I have seen. Fiona was at ease and looked like she was having a ball. She was accompanied by Gavin Fox [fresh from playing in Ollie Cole and Fionn Regan's bands on Saturday] and Ian Melady of Little Palace on Drums. Fiona's music has midday radio written all over it! Come on Tony Fenton play her music!


The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra

.... were amazing. A breath of fresh air! The nine piece played a blinding set which gives hope to a fine successful debut album in the future. There were like the missing link between Arcade Fire and Jack L!


The Angel Pier

The Angel Pier confirmed their greatness with a neat set to finish the night to a decent crowd.



Best 3 Bands

Murder Plan [not part of HWCHs but playing in Le Cirk on Friday night]
The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra
Heritage Centre


Best 3 for Entertainment

NoLady [see video]
The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra
A Plastic Rose




3 Things I Learned

Beards are back. Not silly goatees but big folk off beards .... Gavin Fox, Ultan Conlan, Ollie Cole, Heritage Centre, Angel Pier, .... are all at it!

ALT is a great venue!

People I've had a chance to have a chat with [ie called Networking] are really sound and there was a really lovely vibe about the place! Was great to talk about music rather than Nama, Taxes, Budgets and Anarchy!

I'll be uploading more video clips from the festival in the coming days and weeks: http://www.youtube.com/mixtape4melfi

HWCH's Day 2 Review

The afternoon industry panels were hugely enjoyable and informative in The Button Factory. The Media panel discussed the future of music promotion on a whole with emphasis on getting the best from the online resources available. The 'TV on the Radio' panel opened up a whole different side to the music industry that I never knew existed.


Ollie Cole in The Button Factory

A decent sized crowd turned up for the early evening gig time of 7.10 for former Turn front man Ollie Cole. There was a stupid rattle noise from the stage which simply pissed me off. I was expecting a low key performance from Ollie but the songs are in the main more indie than the expected Elliot Smith influenced folk! A fine set from a fine performer.


Land Lovers in The Button Factory

The five song set from Land Lovers showcased their songwriting talents. It was a solid performance but there isn't much to write about!


O Emperor in Andrew's Lane Theatre

The first thing to note is the folk image the band offers on sage. However it's a odds with the KOL/Killers imspired indie rock. The penultimate track was really good but again I wasn't really impressed.


Ali & The DTs in Andrew's Lane Theatre

The best way to describe Ali & the DTs is to imagine if The Commitments went Country Rock instead of Soul. There were ten people on stage and it was a mess. There was a wall of sound blasting from the stage where nothing made sense. I'm listening to their songs on the breaking tunes site and they sound great! They need to sort out their live performance.


The Holy Roman Army in Twisted Pepper

I have listened to the debut album from The Holy Roman Army a few times but seeing the band live brought the album to life. There was a really good crowd for the band and the band were on top form.


Valerie Francis in Twisted Pepper

My night ended with seeing and hearing Valerie Francis for the first time. She performed well at a difficult pre-clubbing time slot. I have to make sure I buy her album soon.

Trees

HWCH's Day 1 Review

The best thing about day one of the Hard Working Class Heroes festival was that so many people were talking about Irish music. All the bands I seen were playing for their lives last night. Great night.

NoLady

Aine O'Doherty formally known as the act 'Onya' from Donegal has recruited a fine band and are now 'NoLady'. They make cheeky alternative pop music which can easily be compared to The Sultans of Ping.




City of Angels http://www.myspace.com/cityofangelsdub

From NoLady the plan was to go straight to see the lovely Heathers but on my way past Twisted Pepper I heard a great voice and some decent alternative sounds. 'City of Angels' are a brand new band in that the gig last night was their forth ever concert. I got to hear about four tunes and I was massively impressed. I thought the vocals could have been louder but the four piece have a decent set up!


Heathers http://www.myspace.com/heatherswhatsyourdamage

I think due to an earlier band not making the festival Heathers were due to play until 9.30 but finished as soon as I took my first sip from my pint at 9.10. There was a great crowd in the new look Think Tank.


A Plastic Rose http://aplasticrose.wordpress.com/

Over to The Button Factory for Belfast's 'A Plastic Rose' who I knew nothing about. The set was amazing. The twin vocals on most of the songs work well for me as the distinct vocals compliment each other. The sound is probably as big as their ambition and will be a band to watch out for in the future.


Dark Room Notes http://www.darkroomnotes.com/

Staying in The Button Factory Dark Room Notes appeared to the large crowd and performed a decent set. As 'headliner' they didn't engage the crowd and I felt as though they were going through the motions. I really wanted to be impressed!


Heritage Centre http://www.myspace.com/heritagecentre

Of all the bands I really wanted to see this weekend Heritage Centre was the band I most wanted to see and they did impress me. I love their songs and live they have energy in abundance. I'm sure this band will become an international success.




Neosupervital http://www.myspace.com/neosupervital

I was delighted to enter Twisted Pepper and see a big crowd for Tim's electric sound of dance rock. I love the song Rachel which he performed and it was a real party atmosphere.


Murder Plan http://www.myspace.com/murder.plan

Not part of HWCHs but playing a free gig in the beautiful room upstairs in Le Cirk were Murder Plan. It's a tough task trying to describe their sound. Stephanie's voice is amazing and is their greatest quality. Their songs are really good, they have lots of energy and are excellent musicians.

The River Valley Band - Kimberly [single release]

THE RIVER VALLEY BAND Single Release *KIMBERLY*

“Absolutely brilliant! opening doors where ever they go!” Pat Kenny RTE Radio 1

Text ‘music 3919’ to 57501 to buy on your mobile phone and on iTunes.

The River Valley Band have also been confirmed to play at The Leinster Magners League – Leinster V Cardiff Blues match on Oct 31st in the RDS to an estimated 18,000people.

‘Collectively made up of Danny Coady on vocals, mandolin & rhythm guitar, Eoghan Leadbetter on piano & rhythm guitar, Conor Brett on lead guitar & vocals, Liam Teehan on bass guitar and finally David Thompson on drums & vocals. These are 5 young men with instruments in their hands and a recession at their feet’

HWCHs plan!

Here's my plan .... I really hope this works! I aim to upload as many video clips over the weekend as possible and keep the blog updated with info on who impressed me!



Friday

7.15 Albert Penguin in Twisted Pepper

8.10 NoLady in Academy 2

9.00 Heathers in Think Tank

10.00 Dark Room Notes in The Button Factory

10.55 Heritage Centre in Academy 2





Saturday

7.10 Ollie Cole in The Button Factory

7.50 Land Lovers in The Button Factory

8.15 Mail Order Messiahs in Think Tank

8.55 C!ties in Twisted Pepper

9.35 The Holy Roman Army in Twisted Pepper

10.30 Sweet Jane in Andrews Lane




Sunday

7.30 Pearse McGloughlin in The Button Factory

8.10 Ultan Conlon in The Button Factory

8.50 Autumn Owls in Academy 2

9.30 The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra in The Button Factory

10.15 The Angel Pier in the Button Factory

Album Review: Miss Paula Flynn - Self-titled

It's been two weeks since the release of Miss Paula Flynn's self titled debut and it's been on regular play in my car and at home during the fortnight. I could easily write a decent sized essay about this album. I'll try to explain why it's a special collection of songs that will compete with Lisa O'Neill's and Declan DeBarra's albums for my album of the year.


The first thing you should notice about the album apart from the wonderful packaging is that it's a big album of 17 tracks. This includes 13 songs and three spoken word tracks backed by a music soundtrack and a closing lullaby. The spoken word tracks for me act as intermissions and give a rather structured 'peak and trough' feel to the album on a whole.


'Miss Paula Flynn' is a very personal reflective album. It's full of thoughtful imagery about many of life's personal issues. 'Wallpaper's Peeling' is like a tragic waltz dedicated to an end of a relationship. 'Angels in the Dark' contains many references to nature with the trees in the moonlight being the angels in the dark. The reflective tones in 'Killed a Bird' has the ability to bring me close to tears. This personal reflection and thoughtful imagery is wrapped up and delivered by Paula's delicate beautiful voice and the amazing musical compositions on the album.


You could say the above represents the 'Trough' and the 'Peaks' are the uplifting tracks such as 'Magic', 'Goldfish at the Fair' and 'Five a Day' where Paula is trying to convince us of the message that sex, love, pain, death and Miss Paula Flynn is good for you.... or so the doctors say!


I love the spoken word tracks. 'Disco Dance' paints the picture of a situation which we have all found ourselves or in fact find ourselves in a nightclub in the middle of a dance floor some weekend. 'Boxed In' is a poetic story all about being trapped in a situation you don't want. Is there a better way to close an album than the lullaby 'Little Black Sheep'.


Overall 'Miss Paula Flynn' is a great album. It has great lyrics, beautiful folk music and that voice you could easily fall in love with. It's an album I would buy for my niece in college, my 40 year old sister and my best friend and they will all love it!


Miss Paula Flynn - Self Titled [12 out of 12]



Listen to three album tracks as well as last year's Christmas single 'Happy Chrstmas Valentine' and the cover 'Let's Dance' over at

http://www.misspaulaflynn.com/

Buy the album: Miss Paula Flynn on itunes

Holiday In Sweden from Miss Paula Flynn on Vimeo.

The Spirit Store is 10!

Dundalk's Spirit Store celebrates 10th Birthday October 29th

The Spirit Store will host a special evening of music on Thursday 29th October featuring many musicians who have graced its stage over the decade since it first opened its doors and they're gonna party like it's 1999 . . .

Looking at the list of acts who have played the venue through the years you might be mistaken in thinking you're looking at the list for a major Dublin venue – The Frames, The Four Of Us, Damien Rice, Bell X1, Snow Patrol, Declan O'Rourke, The Walls, The Blizzards, John Spillane and almost any significant Irish act you can think of have played there and it is a firm favourite with touring acts such as Conway Savage, Josh Ritter and the Handsome Family who soak up the old school atmosphere.

Occupying a central position in the local community the Spirit Store is known for more than just gigs. Many young musicians have made their live debuts at the Tall Poppy Club singer songwriter sessions, while there is a vibrant trad session every Sunday. With the local bird watchers taking up residence one a month and a weekly 'stitch and bitch' session there is an all-inclusiveness about the place that has always reached out to more than the young and trendy.

Here are some performances from The Spirit Store on YouTube!

Gemma Hayes - Ran For Miles




Cathy Davey - Reuben




Duke Special outside the venue during the Summer!

The Swell Season - In These Arms

We really didn't make too much fuss over 'Falling Slowly' winning the Oscar. It was and is a phenomenal achievement. The new album 'Strict Joy' initially seems to have quality en masse.


Listen to 'Strict Joy' here:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=113630469

Get all the tour info and news here: http://www.theswellseason.com/

Download recent concerts from the wonderful site: http://www.playedlastnight.com/artists/artist/6/The_Swell_Season

Fiach - You Dear [single]

Below is the usual press release thingy but as an introduction I got to see and hear Fiach perform in The International Bar about 2 feet from me and he's songs are amazing. I'd say his debut album due early next year will make Fiach a household name in Ireland!



http://www.fiach.net/

Debut single YOU DEAR by FIACH
Available on iTunes from Oct 16th 2009


Widely known as One of Ireland’s best kept music secrets -FIACH- is now ready to be launched into the hearts of music lovers the length and breadth of the country.


Described in HOT PRESS as a "Supreme performer" Dublin singer/songwriter FIACH is releasing his debut single 'YOU DEAR', taken from his forthcoming debut album 'So I' (set for release in Feb 2010). He is now officially on the RTE Radio 1 Playlist and enjoying airtime on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio Foyle amongst other stations nationwide.


No stranger to the gigging circuit, FIACH has shared the stage with Sinéad O'Connor, Damien Dempsey, Bellx1, Declan O’Rourke & Mundy and has donned his singer songwriting talent in such venues as The Olympia and the RDS. He has toured Europe and East Coast USA, each time steadily increasing his fanbase. He has also appeared on several TG4 shows and appeared on RTE daytime television.



FIACH also performed and represented Ireland at the annual Celtic Languages Contest 'Nós Úr' in Inverness in June this year singing an Irish version of his song 'So I' and came 1st in the jury vote. He will further represent Ireland and the Celtic Nations in Holland in October for the European Languages Song Contest Finals. FIACH has also appeared on the well-known Irish compilation cd’s CEOL.


16 Oct 2009 20:00 The Academy (supporting Wallis Bird) Dublin, Dublin
28 Oct 2009 20:00 Oireachtas Letterkenny, Donegal
29 Oct 2009 20:00 The Village Dublin, Dublin
31 Oct 2009 20:00 Liet International song contest Friesland

Non HWCHs gigs in Dublin this Weekend

Apart from the 100 odd bands doing the various HWCHs gigs over the weekend there are also some tasty gigs in the city ....


Murder Plan - Le Cirk [midnight on Friday night]

I love this band's sound .... pop into Le Cirk for some great music from a band I rate so highly!

http://www.myspace.com/murder.plan










Over the road in Peadar Kearney's on Friday you will find Funzo ..... "The brilliant Limehouse magazine is back with this month's issue and they're throwing a party to celebrate! The magazine features an interview with Liam "Killer" McDermott, and there are free copies for all on the night! Support is from Damian Hillan and winners of the Trinity Battle of the Bands 09 The Giraffes!

Entry is 5 yoyo or next best offer. Funzo and Limehouse appreciate these are hard times and would just like as many of yez to stall it out as possible- it's gonna be that good a night! If the fee is too much we'd be happy to have you as our guest. Come one, come all!"


http://www.myspace.com/listentofunzo







Funzo have also got the Delorentos support slot for Saturday night in Whelans. Here's three songs the band performed in Road Records recently:

Tuesday's Topical Threesome

This weekend sees over 100 of our best bands and artists playing for their supper in Dublin. One of the best aspects of HWCHs is the four industry panels happening in The Button Factory over the weekend which are outlined below:

Panels / Saturday 17th October

MEDIA / 2pm

'Why the first, last and middle words are online'

Anthony Volodkin / Hype Machine
Sean Adams / Drowned In Sound
Una Mullally / Unarocks / Sunday Tribune
Niall Byrne / Nialler9
James Foley / Record of the Day

We never thought it would last but, boy, we were wrong. In the last 10 years, there has been an explosion in music coverage online. From MP3 blogs which can help to crack acts and generate new genres in the process (come on down bloghouse) to websites which are the old inkies in all but name, waves of webby whipper-snappers have emerged as a new force to be reckoned. But what does this mean for bands? Are blogs as unapproachable as the old music media and the MMS? Will blogs even bother with you if you don’t look like Grizzly Bear and sound like La Roux (or look like La Roux and sound like Grizzly Bear)? Who the hell reads blogs anyway? And should bands bin those glossy colour photos that the dude at some rip-off music biz training course said they should get printed by his mate? The revolution from the horse’s mouth, spell-checked and gramatically correct.


MUSIC PLACEMENT / 3.30pm ( Saturday 17th October )

'TV On The Radio'

Nick Robinson / Kobalt Music Publishing
Gabe McDonagh / DDB Music Placement
Josh Roth / manager Ra Ra Riot
Steve Lindsey / Elevate Music
Keith Johnson / IMRO

The most important people in your career? That would be the director of whatever US TV show is currently pulling in the viewers, the dude who is putting together the ad for the new iPhone and the music supervisor working on next year’s big indie flick about two stoners on a road trip across Canada. Music placement may always have existed in one form or another, but it has never been this crucial to a band’s financial well-being and reputation. Our panel look at how music placements work, compile a list of what a band should do and should not do and spill the beans on the bottom line. We promise that you will never leave the room to make a cup of tea during a TV ad break again.



Panels / Sunday 18th October


LABELS / 2pm

'Meet your new best friend'

Harry Martin / Domino Records
Jim Powers / Mintyfresh Records
Una Johnson / SXSW
Wes Howerton / Barsuk Records
Michael Roe / Richter Collective

According to Thom Yorke, you don’t need a record label in the Noughties. No, you simply put your new album on the interweb, leave out a tip-jar and Bob’s you uncle. The real picture, though, is a lot more complex. Our panel of label folks talk about a brave new world where they don’t have the cash to splash on advances any more, yet must compete with a growing number of online and offline hurdles and obstacles. Hear just why you might still need a label in 2009, how labels are reinventing their wheels, what labels are looking for when they go talent scouting and when they’re going to turn a profit on you.


TOURING / 3.30 pm ( Sunday 18th October )

'The music hitchhiker’s guide to the galaxy'

Ian Fintack / Agency Group
Storme Whitby-Grubb / Little Touring
Larry Little / Future Sounds
Julia Gudzent (Melt Booking Agency
Paul Quigley / CMW
MatT Kroepel / EMI

You don’t need us to tell us you need to tour. The only muso we know who doesn’t “do” vans and trucks and buses is Enya but she’s OK, she has her gaff in Killiney paid for. For the rest of us schmucks, it’s all about the three Ts – touring, traction and t-shirts. Like Jack Kerouac, rock’n’roll is on the road and these bed-raggled men and women you see before you are going to tell you how to go from playing gigs in your hometown to playing gigs in someone else’s hometown. It ain’t easy, but we assume you know that already. Bring your own gaffer tape.


Here are three bands I am really eager to catch live:

Heritage Centre: Free Out Here [Academy 2 - Friday 10.55 stage time]

Indie rockers Heritage Centre are gaining a great reputation with three EP's released and many headline gigs under their belt. The new EP Sidwell Maxwell Williamson is available for free download here!

http://heritagecentre.bandcamp.com/


Sweet Jane - Your Making This Hard [Andrews Lane Saturday 10.30]

http://sweetjanemusic.blogspot.com/ I'm really looking forward to catching Sweet Jane live after their impressive debut EP earlier this year.


Heathers - Fire Ants [Think Tank - Friday 10.15]

I have only seen Heathers instore in Tower Records but I do love their sound and the debut album is a good un!

The Minutes

Here's a message from the band:

"We're off to NYC next week to record our debut album.

It’s after taking us a long time to get here.
Everything we've ever done has led up to this moment.
SO this SATURDAY night, we're playing a special show.
The venue is TONERS, Baggot Street.

If you’re able to help in any way, please do.

It’s a fundraiser for our album.
ADM is €10 & doors open @ 8pm."

I rate the following track as one of the best indie tracks coming from an irish band ever!

Bill Coleman - Welcome to the Breakdown

Here's something I stole from Bill's blog over at http://www.myspace.com/billcolemanmusic

The new single, 'Welcome to the Breakdown' will be released October 30th on downloadmusic.ie. If you've caught a gig of late you might remember that this is the one about getting laid off and shouting "HALLELUJAH" at the thought of finally having time to finish off your second album ;-).


Details on how you can buy the single at the bottom of the post. Speaking of gigs - here's a few, more to follow over the coming days...


DUBLIN - Wednesday, October 28, 2009 - Zodiac Sessions Halloween Party @ Bruxelles - Harry Street, D2. Set: 10:00 PM

DROGHEDA - Thursday, October 29, 2009 - The River House - Marsh Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Set: 10:00 PM

DUBLIN - Tuesday, November 10, 2009 - Ruby Sessions @ Doyles Pub - Fleet Street/College Green, Dublin. Set: 9:00 PM

SLANE - Thursday, November 12, 2009 - Boyles, Slane @ Boyles - Main Street, Slane, Co. Meath. Set: 9:00 PM

DUNDALK - Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 - The Spirit Store Downstairs - Georges Quay, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Set: 9:00 PM

DUBLIN - Saturday, November 28, 2009 - Double Headliner @ Academy 2 - 57 Middle Abbey Street, Dublin. Set: 8:00 PM


If you happen to catch a live gig currently there are pre-release copies of the new 'Black & Red' EP containing 'Welcome to the Breakdown' and a few other aural goodies. The EP will be available from mid-November from iTunes etc.



TO BUY THE SINGLE: Text 'music 4175' to '57501' to purchase* a pc download** copy. You can pre-order these and it'll be fired on to you on the release date.
*Texts cost €1, which includes operator revenue share.
**To download direct to your mobile text 'music 4175 m' to '57501'.

Duke Special - Free Album

Yep a free 11 track sampler album consisting of old favourites and live versions of Duke's catalogue! All you need is to enter your email adress to get the goodies!

http://www.dukespecial.com/

Hard Working Class Heroes Schedule

FRIDAY 16TH OCTOBER
________________________________

ANDREWS LANE
7.30 - 8.00 - MIRACLE BELL
8.10 - 8.40 - WE CUT CORNERS
8.50 - 9.20 - SUBPLOTS
9.30 - 10.00 - THE DEAD FLAGS
10.10 - 10.40 - THE AMBIENCE AFFAIR
11.00 - 12.00 - VILLAGERS

(12:00 - 2.00AM HWCH CLUB)
IRATE SOUND SYSTEM & CHEWY

BUTTON FACTORY
7.15 - 7.45 - MIDATLANTIC
8.00 - 8.30 - ALRIGHT CHIEF
8.40 - 9.10 - THE BROTHERS MOVEMENT
9.20 - 9.50 - A PLASTIC ROSE
10.00 - 10.35 - DARK ROOM NOTES

THE ACADEMY 2
7.30 - 8.00 - I ♥ THE MONSTER HERO
8.10 - 8.40 - NO LADY
8.50 - 9.20 - DEAF ANIMAL orchestra
9.30-1-.00 - HERE COMES THE LANDED GENTRY
10.10 - 10.40 - NOT SQUARES
10.55 - 11.30 - HERITAGE CENTRE

TWISTED PEPPER
7.45 - 8.15 - ALBERT PENGUIN
8.30 - 9.00 - CITY OF ANGELS
9.15 - 9.45 - BITCHES WITH WOLVES
10-00 - 10.30 - SERGEANT MEGAPHONE
10.45 - 11.15 - TALULAH DOES THE HULA
11.30 - 12.00 - NEOSUPERVITAL

4 DAME LANE
7.30 - 8.00 - LADYDOLL
8.15 - 8.45 - THEME TUNE BOY
9.00 - 9.30 - BLACK ROBOTS
9.45 - 10.15 - ZEALOTS
10.30 - 11.00 - IDENTITY PARADE

THINK TANK
7.30 - 8.00 - GIRAFFES
8.15 - 8.45 - HIRED HANDS
8.55 - 9.25 - IAN WHITTY & THE EXCHANGE
9.35 - 10.05 - THE STAR DEPARTMENT
10.15 - 10.45 - HEATHERS
10.55 - 11.30 - MORE TINY GIANTS




SATURDAY 17TH OCTOBER
_______________________________

ANDREWS LANE
8.30 - 9.00 - O EMPEROR
9.10 - 9.40 - ALI & THE DTS
9.50 - 10.20 - GRAN CASINO
10.30 - 11.00 - SWEET JANE
11.15 - 12.00 - ADEBISI SHANK

(12:00 - 2.00AM HWCH CLUB)
IRATE SOUND SYSTEM & CHEWY

BUTTON FACTORY
7.10 - 7.40 - OLLIE COLE
7.50 - 8.20 - LAND LOVERS
8.30 - 9.00 - BRIANA CORRIGAN
9.10 - 9.40 - DEAF JOE
10.00 - 11.00 - FIONN REGAN

THE ACADEMY 2
7.30 - 8.00 - FINGERSMITH
8.15 - 8.45 - KILL KRINKLE CLUB
9.00 - 9.30 - CUTAWAYS
9.45 - 10.15 - DISTRACTORS
10.30 - 11.00 - CHEAP FREAKS

TWISTED PEPPER
(ON THE RECORD AT HWCH)
7.30 - 8.00 - KYON
8.15 - 8.45 - YES CADETS
8.55 - 9.25 - C!TIES
9.35 - 10.05 - THE HOLY ROMAN ARMY
10.15 - 10.45 - VALERIE FRANCIS
10.45 - 12.15 - DJ SETS FROM:
UNA ROCKS, JAM CARROLL, NIALLER9
12.30 - 01.00 - THE SPOOK OF THE 13TH LOCK
01.15 - 01.45 - THE DYING SECONDS
02.00 - 02.45 - HUNTER GATHERER

4 DAME LANE
8.00 - 8.30 - ESCAPE ACT
8.45 - 9.15 - P.DOG
9.30 - 10.00 - BLOOD BOTTLER
10.15 - 10.45 - COLLIE

THINK TANK
7.30 - 8.00 - RORY GRUBB
8.15 - 8.45 - MAIL ORDER MESSIAHS
9.00 - 9.30 - GOATBOY
9.45 - 10.15 - THE POORMOUTH
10.30 - 11.00 - LIZ IS EVIL





SUNDAY 18TH OCTOBER
________________________________

ANDREWS LANE
8.15 - 8.45 - DISCONNECT 4
9.00 - 9.30 - ROBOTNIK
9.45 - 10.15 - ONLY FUMES & CORPSES
10.25 - 10.55 - 202s
11.50 - 12.30 - SUPER EXTRA BONUS PARTY

BUTTON FACTORY
7.30 - 8.00 - PEARSE MCGLOUGHLIN
8.10 - 8.40 - ULTAN CONLON
8.50 - 9.20 - FIONA MELADY
9.30 - 10.00 - THE BRAD PITT LIGHT ORCHESTRA
10.15 - 11.00 - THE ANGEL PIER

THE ACADEMY 2
7.30 - 8.00 - ARMOURED BEAR
8.10 - 8.40 - BIGGLES FLYS AGAIN
8.50 - 9.20 - AUTUMN OWLS
9.30 - 10.00 - TIDAL DISTRICT
10.10 - 10.40 - VERONA RIOTS

TWISTED PEPPER
7.30 - 8.00 - GO PANDA GO
8.10 - 8.40 - HASSLE MERCHANTS
8.50 - 9.20 - JOGGING
9.30 - 10.00 - TINY MAGNETIC PETS
10.10 - 10.40 - SOUNDS OF SYSTEM BREAKDOWN
10.55 - 11.30 - HAM SANDWICH

4 DAME LANE
7.30 - 8.00 - PRIMO
8.15 - 8.45 - VOX POPULI
9.00 - 9.30 - CARPOOL CONVERSATION
9.45 - 10.15 - REMMA
10.30 - 11.00 - AIRSTRIP ONE
11.15 - 11.45 - KILLER CHLOE

THINK TANK
8.10 - 8.40 - THE VALS
8.50 - 9.20 - PLANET PARADE
9.30 - 10.00 - EXIT THE STREET
10.10 - 10.40 - POCKET PROMISE

Clowns Without Borders Fundraiser

This looks like a great charity event on Tuesday 27th October in Whelans.


Featuring: Cathy Davey, Neil Hannon, Maeve Higgins, David O'Doherty, The Rubberbandits, Warlords of Pez & more


Clowns Without Borders are a small bunch who do clown shows for have-not kids in the world. They need cash so Cathy Davey, Neil Hannon, Maeve Higgins, David O'Doherty, The Rubberbandits, Warlords of Pez & special guests are gonna come play for you on this school night. Get on.

Tickets: €15 plus booking fee
Doors: 8pm

New Sounds Sunday - Sean Needham, Miss Paula Flynn, The Swell Season

Sean Needham has produced another quality video for the second single off his second album 'Time is a Friend'. Have a look ...... it's pretty cool!



Copied from YouTube: "Take one bike with a box on the front (Christiania bike), tape a video camera inside the box and get a silly Irish man to cycle the streets of Copenhagen. This video is the result. It cost nothing ... "







Another video worth checking out is the brilliant video for Miss Paula FLynn's 'Holiday in Sweden' song taken from her self-titled debut album. The album is on constant play in my car and will be reviewed this week!

Holiday In Sweden from Miss Paula Flynn on Vimeo.

There's an album trailer on YouTube for Strict Joy the new Swell Season album! And here it is ....









In other news ..... FreshAir is a free music festival that will be transmitted directly into your ears via The Small Hours on Today FM. Donal Dineen has chosen his pick of the best new irish sound makers to take part in a month-long celebration of great new music, live on your radio. More details are here: http://freshairfestival.wordpress.com/

Some of the artists involved include:

•3epkano
•Beautiful Unit
•Chequerboard
•Dark Room Notes
•Good Time John
•Katie Kim
•Patrick Kelleher
•R.S.A.G
•Si Schroeder
•Sunken Foal
•Thread Pulls
•Valerie Francis

Stephen Gately Remembered RIP

Another young Irishman dies suddenly. Such sad news. http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/1011/gatelys.html

What I have learned this year in the Music Game!

While I do a lot of regurgitating of music business information on here I still have a different perspective on the business because I'm not associated with the financial side of things. I'm not in this game to make money. I don't need to forge alliances with anybody. I don't review albums I don't like. If an album is poor I simply won't listen to it let alone write about it.

So as an outsider on the fringes looking into an industry I have come up a few opinions! Here are a few steps I'd take to get ahead in the music business. All the below assumes the artist is happy with the quality of their songs and live performances and the list is not linear!

• Get Networking: MySpace is a lame horse but still has some value. Facebook and in particular Twitter is the place to let your personality shine. Don't moan and bitch on your blogs. It turns people off big time.

• Don't rush into getting an album together but it is vital to have a single, EP or socks to sell at your gigs for the impulse buy.

• Consider a different angle when promoting your gigs. Some artists are doing a 'Pay What You Like' concept for gigs and merchandise. I remember seeing Joseph Arthur in Whelans about 4 years ago where you can buy the live show you just witnessed and took part on your exit. If he did that 4 years ago then it must be possible now on a budget!

• I would say the following but blogging and blogs are simply the Mojo's and Melody Maker's of the future. A lot of blogs are linked up to some of the most popular sites on the net such as http://hypem.com/list/5533 and http://elbo.ws/

• As regards the whole illegal downloading thing, initially don't let it bother you. Should it bother you if someone in America is listening to your music for free? You have got to see two separate markets. The Irish market including the media, radio, live performances and local blogs which will be enable you to build up a buzz and launch your career. Then there's the wider market. How will they get to know about you? Maybe try giving your Ep or some of your songs to interested worldwide blogs.

• Choose carefully about picking a PR company. You obviously have to ensure value for money which is tricky to measure in the PR game. I do know of some very hard working PR industry heads who work very hard. It's a real judgement call.

• There is no point gigging hard, gaining fans all over the place and then disappear for six months to a year in the studio because in the main the fans won't wait for you. Balance is the key. Gig and record at the same time. Also get your mates to record as many live performances as possible and put them onto YouTube!

• Wherever you happen to be make sure you show the world how much you love what you are doing by being fun and smiling at every opportunity!
  

Hope the above makes sense! I know it's not an infinite list but if I have given an artist a glimpse of an idea then this has been worthwhile.

The Glor Sessions in The International Bar

The Glor Sessions is the weekly night of music and poetry that seems to be growing and growing over the last few months. The poet Sephen James Smith is the man behind this night and this Monday the line-up is tasty!

MUSICIANS:

Fiach
Lisa Mc Laughlin
Jonny Murphy
Owensie
Luke Gibney
Oil & Blood
Miranda Al- Raad
Allan Tully


POETS:

Bridgit Katharine McCone
Laurie Leech
Niamh Bagnell

Ge there at half 8 as it all kicks off at 9!