I was a tad surprised last week to find two of Mundy's albums 'Raining Down Arrows' and '24 Star Hotel' available as free downloads on Soundcloud here: http://soundcloud.com/mundy
Here's the best of the tracks available:
03 Love and Confusion by Mundy
09 The Sound of Keys by Mundy
Mundy is performing at The Grand Social this Friday night. Here's the full line-up:
Mundy
Leanne Harte
Mark Greaney ( JJ72, Concerto For Constantine)
Apollonia Tribal Dance
Wayne Cuddey (The Butcher)
Story Fold
You can call me Frances
Created by Comets
Followed by Dj set from Daire Kelly
All proceeds go to The Hope Foundation for all there good work.
Suggested donation of 10 euro
12 You're the one by Mundy
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Free Christmas Gift from BPLO
Limerick's finest The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra are giving you a free download because it's nearly Christmas.
Have a listen here:
All I Want (A Christmas Gift from the BPLO) by sillygooserecords
Download the tune here:
Have a listen here:
All I Want (A Christmas Gift from the BPLO) by sillygooserecords
Download the tune here:
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Album Review: Bill Coleman - You Can't Buy Back Your Life
Bill Coleman has made a great second album in which every song hits home with melodies and messages. The 'story' of the album should be an inspiration to every aspiring new artist.
Way back in the 'Heyday' of Irish singer-songwriters of '02 - '03, Bill Coleman releases a debut EP which includes one of my favourite songs ever in 'Don't Suffer in Silence' followed in 2007 with a fine debut album. Bill was gathering a fan base and a name for himself with some prime time TV appearances. Then the story unfolds as Bill tells it himself at gigs that he is to become a full time musician because of redundancy. The redundancy money went into 'You Can't Buy Back Your Life'.
Bill's model of selling music has been to make the album available for free through his website for download in exchange for an email address here. However if you get a chance to see Bill perform live, like what I did a few weeks back, you can pick out your own unique copy with it's own artwork and number. It's all explained below in a video.
I've read reviews of this album in which the first few tracks of the album are held in high regard but the second half is considered weak. I disagree with this completely. I've been familiar with the early tracks on the album for some considerable time and it seems ridiculous for me to review them here. The track 'Crossfire' makes a great ringtone!
The album kicks off with 'I Want You To Know' and 'Welcome to the Breakdown' where Bill sings with such great conviction and passion. 'She Knows/I Know' is an intriguing love story. 'Crossfire' has a great sing a long chorus and foot tapping rifts. All of the early tracks consist of a full band sound with many hooks and loops to fill in the sound. This works and the tracks benefit to a point. However for me there's no comparison to the strength and depth of some of the tracks towards the end of the album.
While reviewing the album I found myself beginning the album on track six which is the sublime 'Your Hands Were Made For Working'. The delicate vocals and beautiful lyrics of the track is of such high standard. Nobody in Ireland has written better songs than 'Your Hands ...' or the compassionate 'False North' or inspirational 'Church of Second Chances'.
This leads me to the most important aspect of Bill Coleman. He writes great songs. Songs of meaning which have a point. These lyrics get delivered with vocals which can be delicate on some tracks and full of passion on others. The best example of this is 'False North' where he conjures up a variety of emotions;
"Hold on to nothing,
So nothing can harm you,
So nothing can hurt you.
So nothing can break you,
So desperate to say yes, So desperate to impress,
So desperate to be loved, But too scared to say so.
| will change your mind, I will kiss your tears,
I will break your heart, Then I'll disappear."
Bill Coleman - You Can't Buy Back Your Love [11 out of 12]
False North by bcoleman
Your Hands Were Made For Working by bcoleman
The Church of Second Chances by bcoleman
Here's the wonderful video for 'Welcome To The Breakdown'
Here's Bill explaining the CD Art design:
Way back in the 'Heyday' of Irish singer-songwriters of '02 - '03, Bill Coleman releases a debut EP which includes one of my favourite songs ever in 'Don't Suffer in Silence' followed in 2007 with a fine debut album. Bill was gathering a fan base and a name for himself with some prime time TV appearances. Then the story unfolds as Bill tells it himself at gigs that he is to become a full time musician because of redundancy. The redundancy money went into 'You Can't Buy Back Your Life'.
Bill's model of selling music has been to make the album available for free through his website for download in exchange for an email address here. However if you get a chance to see Bill perform live, like what I did a few weeks back, you can pick out your own unique copy with it's own artwork and number. It's all explained below in a video.
I've read reviews of this album in which the first few tracks of the album are held in high regard but the second half is considered weak. I disagree with this completely. I've been familiar with the early tracks on the album for some considerable time and it seems ridiculous for me to review them here. The track 'Crossfire' makes a great ringtone!
The album kicks off with 'I Want You To Know' and 'Welcome to the Breakdown' where Bill sings with such great conviction and passion. 'She Knows/I Know' is an intriguing love story. 'Crossfire' has a great sing a long chorus and foot tapping rifts. All of the early tracks consist of a full band sound with many hooks and loops to fill in the sound. This works and the tracks benefit to a point. However for me there's no comparison to the strength and depth of some of the tracks towards the end of the album.
While reviewing the album I found myself beginning the album on track six which is the sublime 'Your Hands Were Made For Working'. The delicate vocals and beautiful lyrics of the track is of such high standard. Nobody in Ireland has written better songs than 'Your Hands ...' or the compassionate 'False North' or inspirational 'Church of Second Chances'.
This leads me to the most important aspect of Bill Coleman. He writes great songs. Songs of meaning which have a point. These lyrics get delivered with vocals which can be delicate on some tracks and full of passion on others. The best example of this is 'False North' where he conjures up a variety of emotions;
"Hold on to nothing,
So nothing can harm you,
So nothing can hurt you.
So nothing can break you,
So desperate to say yes, So desperate to impress,
So desperate to be loved, But too scared to say so.
| will change your mind, I will kiss your tears,
I will break your heart, Then I'll disappear."
Bill Coleman - You Can't Buy Back Your Love [11 out of 12]
False North by bcoleman
Your Hands Were Made For Working by bcoleman
The Church of Second Chances by bcoleman
Here's the wonderful video for 'Welcome To The Breakdown'
Here's Bill explaining the CD Art design:
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Yes I Know It's Christmas
Check out this festive tune .... love the line 'This is how they break prisoners'!!!
This Christmas I'm gonna feed the world
cos' when the whole world is fed
then I'll never have to listen to anyone
singing "Do They Know It's Christmas"
again, and again, and again
Yes, I know that it's Christmas
the problem is I can't forget
When you're a shop assistant, like me
Christmas is a living hell
"Now, That's What I Call Christmas"
Over and over on infinite repeat
this is how they break prisoners
I'll tell you anythin' that you wanna hear
Somebody please free my people
I need a resolution from the U.N.
There's been repeated inhumane treatment
Of "Silent Night", by Boys II Men
by Boys II Men
Yes, I know that it's Christmas
but it's a struggle just to be polite
Tryna' look happy in this hat and tinsel
when really I am dying inside
And you can't kill Cliff Richard
He keeps gettin' born again
He's like some kind of Terminator
of Christmas Past, Future and Present
So I've kidnapped the instore Santa Claus
I've got him and all his elves
and if I hear one more Christmas song
There'll be no Christmas
(No, No Christmas!)
Yes, I used to love Christmas
but that was before I had this job
When you're a shop assitant, like me
Christmas goes on and on
So be nice to the shop assistants
and remember what they're going through
Yes, They know that it's Christmas
Tonight, thank God it's them
instead of you!
Words and Music (c) 2009 Aidan Comerford
http://www.myspace.com/guiltyfolk
This Christmas I'm gonna feed the world
cos' when the whole world is fed
then I'll never have to listen to anyone
singing "Do They Know It's Christmas"
again, and again, and again
Yes, I know that it's Christmas
the problem is I can't forget
When you're a shop assistant, like me
Christmas is a living hell
"Now, That's What I Call Christmas"
Over and over on infinite repeat
this is how they break prisoners
I'll tell you anythin' that you wanna hear
Somebody please free my people
I need a resolution from the U.N.
There's been repeated inhumane treatment
Of "Silent Night", by Boys II Men
by Boys II Men
Yes, I know that it's Christmas
but it's a struggle just to be polite
Tryna' look happy in this hat and tinsel
when really I am dying inside
And you can't kill Cliff Richard
He keeps gettin' born again
He's like some kind of Terminator
of Christmas Past, Future and Present
So I've kidnapped the instore Santa Claus
I've got him and all his elves
and if I hear one more Christmas song
There'll be no Christmas
(No, No Christmas!)
Yes, I used to love Christmas
but that was before I had this job
When you're a shop assitant, like me
Christmas goes on and on
So be nice to the shop assistants
and remember what they're going through
Yes, They know that it's Christmas
Tonight, thank God it's them
instead of you!
Words and Music (c) 2009 Aidan Comerford
http://www.myspace.com/guiltyfolk
Friday, November 26, 2010
Christmas Gigs Galour!
There's a whole host of special Christmas gigs on the horizon. Here's a list of the best of the bunch!
On December 10th it's the Clockwork Apple Christmas Party in Whelans with a great line-up.
Check out the recently released Captain Kennedy debut album here:
Sweet Jane play The Grand Social on December 17th.
Support from: Talulah does the Hula + Robotnik Admission €6
Sweet Jane 'Save A Little Place' by SweetJaneMusic
Heritage Centre have announced a free Christmas gig in The Grand Social for Wednesday 22nd December. I love 'Heritage Centre' and I'm sure you'll get a taster of the debut album arriving in the early part of next year.
Mark Greaney plays The Workmans Club on Monday the 20th December, 2010.
Tickets €10.00 available from www.ticketmaster.ie
Mark Greaney was the lead singer and songwriter of the band JJ72.
Check out Mark's brand new website here: http://markgreaneymusic.com/
Here's Mark back in 2000 with JJ72:
Also just announced is this:
AND SO I WATCH YOU FROM AFAR
With very special guests JOGGING & HUNTER-GATHERER
New Year’s Eve, Fri 31st December, 7:30pm
Whelan’s, 25 Wexford St, Dublin 2
Tickets are €20 plus booking fee available now from WAV Tickets (1890 200 078), www.tickets.ie, City Discs & Ticketmaster Outlets nationwide.
ASIWYFA, 04 K Is For Killing Spree by TOOLBOX PR
On December 10th it's the Clockwork Apple Christmas Party in Whelans with a great line-up.
Check out the recently released Captain Kennedy debut album here:
Sweet Jane play The Grand Social on December 17th.
Support from: Talulah does the Hula + Robotnik Admission €6
Sweet Jane 'Save A Little Place' by SweetJaneMusic
Heritage Centre have announced a free Christmas gig in The Grand Social for Wednesday 22nd December. I love 'Heritage Centre' and I'm sure you'll get a taster of the debut album arriving in the early part of next year.
Mark Greaney plays The Workmans Club on Monday the 20th December, 2010.
Tickets €10.00 available from www.ticketmaster.ie
Mark Greaney was the lead singer and songwriter of the band JJ72.
Check out Mark's brand new website here: http://markgreaneymusic.com/
Here's Mark back in 2000 with JJ72:
Also just announced is this:
AND SO I WATCH YOU FROM AFAR
With very special guests JOGGING & HUNTER-GATHERER
New Year’s Eve, Fri 31st December, 7:30pm
Whelan’s, 25 Wexford St, Dublin 2
Tickets are €20 plus booking fee available now from WAV Tickets (1890 200 078), www.tickets.ie, City Discs & Ticketmaster Outlets nationwide.
ASIWYFA, 04 K Is For Killing Spree by TOOLBOX PR
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Motivation?
There's never been a better time in recent history to need motivational music and messages which will help us to just keep going.
I need positive inspirational messages. These ten songs contain some wonderful messages and I'm going to share them with you!
Please hit the artists link if you like the tunes.
Dr. Millar - Feel Everything and Love Yourself
Eric Eckhart - Better Way
Better Way by Eric Eckhart
Alphastates - Sometimes
Alphastates - Sometimes by 2uibestow
Burning Codes - You're Worth So Much More
Sean Needham - I'm Not Afraid
Wallis Bird - Just Keep Going
Seán Kangataran - Wake Up
Wallmark - Melodies & Lines
Bill Coleman - Offer Up The Hope
Brownbread Mixtape - Offer Up the Hope by bcoleman
Michael Brunnock ft Moe Holmes - Sensation [Live in NYC]
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
IMTV Awards Tomorrow Night
The IMTV awards takes place tomorrow night in The Academy. Along with the awards for the various categories there will also be live performances from The Minutes, Valerie Francis, Talulah does the Hula, Colin Devlin and more!
Here's my predictions for the win;
BEST MALE
Fionn Regan – Catacombs
Colin Devlin – The Heart Won’t Be Denied
Mighty Stef – Thank Christ for the Kids
Simon Fagan – Damn Honey
Prediction: Colin Devlin:
BEST FEMALE
Cathy Davey – Little Red [Cathy Davey doll is freaky in a weird way]
Jennifer Evans – Scattered
Maighréad – SEA
Silhouette Volume – Destroyed
Prediction: Silhouette
BEST LIVE VIDEO
Valerie Francis – Slow Dynamo
Two Door Cinema Club – Undercover Martyn
Great Lake Swimmers – Still
Primordial – Empire Falls
Prediction: Two Door Cinema Club
BEST STYLED VIDEO
The Matinee Idles – Everything
The Coronas – Far From Here
Talulah Does The Hula – Don’t Panic
Sweet Jane – Black Eyes
Prediction - Sweet Jane
BEST GROUP VIDEO
The Minutes – Fleetwood
The Looks – Romeo
Fight Like Apes – Hoo Ha Henry
Delorentos – Sanctuary
BEST PRODUCTION / EFFECTS
Villagers – Becoming a Jackal
The Gorgeous Colours – The Creatures Down Below
Shit Robot – Take Em Up
The Lowly Knights - You Can Tell A Man By How He Lifts His Hands
Prediction - The Gorgeous Colours
SEXIEST VIDEO (public vote)
Veda – Miss You Much
Luán Parle – Why Baby Why
Patrick Kelleher and his Cold Dead Hands – Contact Sports
Nadine Coyle – Insatiable
Rubberbandits - Bag of Glue
Prediction - Ah Jaysus are these the only sexy videos we have produced in Ireland? What the ..... sigh!
MOST ORIGINAL CONCEPT
Hunter-Gatherer – Cloud
Kill Krinkle Club – Moon
Miracle Bell – Love Sounds
The Ambience Affair – Devil in the Detail
Prediction - The Ambience Affair
BEST DIRECTOR
Will McConnell
Myles O’Reilly
Lorcan Finnegan
Jessie Ward
Prediction: Myles O'Reilly
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
O Emperor – Don Quixote
The Gorgeous Colours – The Creatures Down Below
The Minutes – Secret History
Cathy Davey – Little Red
The Ambience Affair – Devil in the Detail
Prediction .... I love the O Emperor concept, big hope for The Gorgeous Colours but the winner has to be The Ambience Affair for the still photo concept of the video:
Here's my predictions for the win;
BEST MALE
Fionn Regan – Catacombs
Colin Devlin – The Heart Won’t Be Denied
Mighty Stef – Thank Christ for the Kids
Simon Fagan – Damn Honey
Prediction: Colin Devlin:
BEST FEMALE
Cathy Davey – Little Red [Cathy Davey doll is freaky in a weird way]
Jennifer Evans – Scattered
Maighréad – SEA
Silhouette Volume – Destroyed
Prediction: Silhouette
BEST LIVE VIDEO
Valerie Francis – Slow Dynamo
Two Door Cinema Club – Undercover Martyn
Great Lake Swimmers – Still
Primordial – Empire Falls
Prediction: Two Door Cinema Club
BEST STYLED VIDEO
The Matinee Idles – Everything
The Coronas – Far From Here
Talulah Does The Hula – Don’t Panic
Sweet Jane – Black Eyes
Prediction - Sweet Jane
BEST GROUP VIDEO
The Minutes – Fleetwood
The Looks – Romeo
Fight Like Apes – Hoo Ha Henry
Delorentos – Sanctuary
BEST PRODUCTION / EFFECTS
Villagers – Becoming a Jackal
The Gorgeous Colours – The Creatures Down Below
Shit Robot – Take Em Up
The Lowly Knights - You Can Tell A Man By How He Lifts His Hands
Prediction - The Gorgeous Colours
SEXIEST VIDEO (public vote)
Veda – Miss You Much
Luán Parle – Why Baby Why
Patrick Kelleher and his Cold Dead Hands – Contact Sports
Nadine Coyle – Insatiable
Rubberbandits - Bag of Glue
Prediction - Ah Jaysus are these the only sexy videos we have produced in Ireland? What the ..... sigh!
MOST ORIGINAL CONCEPT
Hunter-Gatherer – Cloud
Kill Krinkle Club – Moon
Miracle Bell – Love Sounds
The Ambience Affair – Devil in the Detail
Prediction - The Ambience Affair
BEST DIRECTOR
Will McConnell
Myles O’Reilly
Lorcan Finnegan
Jessie Ward
Prediction: Myles O'Reilly
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
O Emperor – Don Quixote
The Gorgeous Colours – The Creatures Down Below
The Minutes – Secret History
Cathy Davey – Little Red
The Ambience Affair – Devil in the Detail
Prediction .... I love the O Emperor concept, big hope for The Gorgeous Colours but the winner has to be The Ambience Affair for the still photo concept of the video:
Win Tickets to Villagers Limerick Gig!
The wonderful music blog 'Rarities and B-Sides' is one today and has a great competition to help celebrate.
Get 2 tickets for Villagers gig in Limerick on December 17th here: http://raritiesandb-sides.blogspot.com/2010/11/birthday-competition-win-2-tickets-to.html#comment-form
There's been a few announcements as to who the gets the supports for Villgers upcoming tour. In Cork on Dec 15th support will be from The Ambience Affair. O Emperor gets the support for the 'Sold Out' Vicar street on December 21st.
O Emperor - Po by DamianChennells
Villagers - Becoming A Jackal by dervortex
Update on The Riot Tapes
The Riot Tapes are in Phantoms Next Best Thing final on December 1st upstairs in Whelans and will be jammers with the friends and family of the 5 finalists:
Howlin Dowlin
Shouting at Planes
Juliet’s Rescue
The Crayon Set
The Riot Tapes
I don't know anything about Howlin Dowlin and Juliet's Rescue. I've heard great things from Shouting at Plans and I love the indie pop of The Crayon Set. My tip for the win is The Riot Tapes whose music I've enjoyed listening to over the last few months. Check out some more tunes here:
The Riot Tapes - Photograph (v3) by the riot tapes
The Riot Tapes - Open Eyed Dreams (v3) by the riot tapes
The Riot Tapes - Everything Is Local (RADIO RADIO mix) by the riot tapes
Monday, November 22, 2010
Album Review: Fia Rua - Falling Time
'Falling Time' is a great album. I often have 'Dancing About Architecture' moments when I write reviews where I find it difficult to explain my fondness for an album but I'll do my best here to explain why 'Falling Time' is a great album.
Fia Rua is Eoghan Burke from Galway and has just released a wonderful collection of songs called 'Falling Time'. It comes out at a time where there's no real appetite for singer-songwriters in Ireland which is a massive shame as I fear Fia Rua's excellent album will go unnoticed by the mainstream media. It's an album of delicate tunes and songs sung with conviction on the themes we are now in the midst of in Ireland.
In many ways 'Falling Time' could well be the first recession album I've really enjoyed. Songs like the title track, 'Leave Me on the Floor' and the Jinx Lennon assisted 'Shakier' deal with despair, reality and loss. In between these themes we have some beautiful love songs like 'Into My Soul' where he sings 'I need your spirit inside me, Into My Soul'.
There are two real quality attributes within 'Falling Time'. The first of these is that Eoghan sings with such great conviction. When he encourages us to 'Walk Away' in the song of the same name I'm there with him. When he sings 'I crave more magic in my life' it brings to mind The Frames 'Pavement Tune' when Glen belts out 'I want my life to make more sense'.
The other attribute which shines is the accompanying fiddle and piano performed by Christophe Capewell. The fiddle in particular adds great depth to all the tracks and in particular to 'Hop on the Road' as well as adding the atmospheric sounds of 'Winter Sun'.
I highly recommend 'Falling Time'. At present this album means a massive amount to me. It suits my delicate mood yet has many positive messages for me which have the power to inspire. 'Falling Time' will be in my top 10 albums of the year for sure.
Fia Rua - Falling Time [11 out of 12]
Fia Rua - More Magic by 2uibestow
http://www.myspace.com/fiarua
See Fia Rua Live:
Boyles, Slane with Preachers Son and The Making.
Fia Rua is Eoghan Burke from Galway and has just released a wonderful collection of songs called 'Falling Time'. It comes out at a time where there's no real appetite for singer-songwriters in Ireland which is a massive shame as I fear Fia Rua's excellent album will go unnoticed by the mainstream media. It's an album of delicate tunes and songs sung with conviction on the themes we are now in the midst of in Ireland.
In many ways 'Falling Time' could well be the first recession album I've really enjoyed. Songs like the title track, 'Leave Me on the Floor' and the Jinx Lennon assisted 'Shakier' deal with despair, reality and loss. In between these themes we have some beautiful love songs like 'Into My Soul' where he sings 'I need your spirit inside me, Into My Soul'.
There are two real quality attributes within 'Falling Time'. The first of these is that Eoghan sings with such great conviction. When he encourages us to 'Walk Away' in the song of the same name I'm there with him. When he sings 'I crave more magic in my life' it brings to mind The Frames 'Pavement Tune' when Glen belts out 'I want my life to make more sense'.
The other attribute which shines is the accompanying fiddle and piano performed by Christophe Capewell. The fiddle in particular adds great depth to all the tracks and in particular to 'Hop on the Road' as well as adding the atmospheric sounds of 'Winter Sun'.
I highly recommend 'Falling Time'. At present this album means a massive amount to me. It suits my delicate mood yet has many positive messages for me which have the power to inspire. 'Falling Time' will be in my top 10 albums of the year for sure.
Fia Rua - Falling Time [11 out of 12]
Fia Rua - More Magic by 2uibestow
http://www.myspace.com/fiarua
See Fia Rua Live:
Boyles, Slane with Preachers Son and The Making.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Gary Dunne - Are We Gonna Take It?
I'm a tad sad, a little depressed and I'm also stuck for words. This song helped a bit! Gary Dunne wrote and recorded this song this evening!
What Kind of Country? by garydunne
What Kind of Country? by garydunne
Live @ Boyles - Nov 25th
I'm really excited about this gig on Thursday. We have one of Ireland's finest bands headlining with support from Matthew Devereax from The Pale and Vitruvius. Bring on Thursday!
Links: Vitruvius: http://www.myspace.com/marcusvitruvius
The Pale: http://www.myspace.com/thepaleie
The Dirty 9s: http://www.myspace.com/thedirty9s
Check out some tunes you're likely to hear on Thursday:
The Dirty 9s- Something Better by 2uibestow
The Pale - We Were First On by 2uibestow
Links: Vitruvius: http://www.myspace.com/marcusvitruvius
The Pale: http://www.myspace.com/thepaleie
The Dirty 9s: http://www.myspace.com/thedirty9s
Check out some tunes you're likely to hear on Thursday:
The Dirty 9s- Something Better by 2uibestow
The Pale - We Were First On by 2uibestow
Friday, November 19, 2010
Swear I'm Not Paul on YouTube
This is very cool. It's Swear I'm Not Paul's Ronan doing what he does best on camera!
If you want to help out this handsome blogger then hit this link and add a comment or two:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3rTJPLg6rs
Here's the Cap Pas Cap video in full:
Here's the free download of Groom's The Golden Age:
This Golden Age by groomtheband
Get the Captain Kennedy track here:
If you want to help out this handsome blogger then hit this link and add a comment or two:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3rTJPLg6rs
Here's the Cap Pas Cap video in full:
Here's the free download of Groom's The Golden Age:
This Golden Age by groomtheband
Get the Captain Kennedy track here:
Simon Fagan: Bewleys Gig Streaming Live
Live tonight streamed online from Bewleys: http://simonfagan.net/live/
Something I Don't Know by Simon Fagan
Introducing: Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras are an Italian based band with an Irish link. They are regular visitors to Ireland with an Irish singer in Claudia MacDowell. The band have shared a stage with the likes of The Frames, TKO and Noah and the Whale and are worth a listen if you're into radio friendly pop rock music.
http://www.mardigrasmusic.it/
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Funzo - 4 Life Not Just 4 Christmas
This is a bit of distracting Fun, Zo I don't care what you think!
Help get this song into the charts for a bit of Christmas cheer! Funzo won the Christmas FM Song Contest last year with this song and it's not a bad effort. It has all the bells, big chorus and you can almost smell the Mulled Wine!
This Christmas by Funzo
Help get this song into the charts for a bit of Christmas cheer! Funzo won the Christmas FM Song Contest last year with this song and it's not a bad effort. It has all the bells, big chorus and you can almost smell the Mulled Wine!
This Christmas by Funzo
Video: Doctor Millar - You Just Can't Let Things Go
This track is taken from the wonderful Dr. Millar album 'Always Coming Home'. It's just an amazing piece of work. There'll be some news about a special performance of the album on the blog soon.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Bill Coleman, Joel Plaskett - Boyles, Thursay 18th November
I can't wait for this gig. Bill's second album has been out a few weeks now but I've held out on reviewing it until I buy the album from him at Boyles tomorrow night.
Also playing tomorrow night is Canadian sensation Joel Plaskett. This will be some special gig!
JOEL PLASKETT - Through & Through & Through by Triad Publicity
Also playing tomorrow night is Canadian sensation Joel Plaskett. This will be some special gig!
JOEL PLASKETT - Through & Through & Through by Triad Publicity
Cocophone - Special Offers Mini Album
I love the acoustic indie folk sounds of Cocophone. The harmonies of Fin and Freya accompany the delicate compositions to create a sound which is warm and brimming with charm. Freya's voice is simply divine!
Check out the Mini album here:
Check out the Mini album here:
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Video: Dayo & The Swing Folk
I love the Jazzy Folky sounds of Dayo. DOI I worked with the guy a good few years ago. I'd love for you all to check out the song and befriend him on the social networks.
Links: http://www.myspace.com/dayosongs
Dayo & The Swing-Folk Facebook Page
Links: http://www.myspace.com/dayosongs
Dayo & The Swing-Folk Facebook Page
Queen Elvis to Support a Leveller!
Some excellent news from Galways' impressive folk band Queen Elvis. They have the Mark Chadwick support in Whelans on December 11th.
I was a massive fan of One Way from The Levillers:
One Way - The Levellers by kidwave
Check out the sounds of Queen Elvis here:
Queen Elvis - Easy by RisingStars
I was a massive fan of One Way from The Levillers:
One Way - The Levellers by kidwave
Check out the sounds of Queen Elvis here:
Queen Elvis - Easy by RisingStars
Monday, November 15, 2010
Jerry Fish, Cathy Davey & Glen Hansard - Sugar Club
Jerry Fish has announced that his special guests for the big Christmas gig in The Sugar Club on December 18th are Cathy Davey and Glen Hansard! This should mean an almost immediate sell-out!
Get your tickets here: http://www.tickets.ie/events.aspx/search?s=jerry%20fish
You Ain't Goin' Nowhere-Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova by djblakemall
RockCandy This Friday!
RockCandy
RockCandy takes place in both Shebeen Chic and Sweeney's Bar!
Friday the 19th November
2 Venues
5 Stages
20 Live Acts
All for FREE
/// Sweeney's Bar
Upstairs...
More Tiny Giants
Attention Bebe
Mescalitio
Odd Socks Revival
Water Woods & Mountain
Ground Floor...
Dr Bob
DJ Chanty Lace
Bob Gleen
History of Harry (Jam Band)
Basement...
Skuzzi Port
Daithti
Sound of System Breakdown
Noise Machine
/// Shebeen Chic
Upstairs...
The Guilty Boy
9 Bar Blues
Mute Fish
Wyvern Lingo
Basement...
Apollo's Creed
The Cujo Family
Moo
Beer Garden...
Tommy Headon & Brian Lee's Busking Band
History of Harry - Save the King by RisingStars
Sounds of System Breakdown: Vinegar Joe by theharro
Water Woods and Mountain - Soul Child by RisingStars
RockCandy takes place in both Shebeen Chic and Sweeney's Bar!
Friday the 19th November
2 Venues
5 Stages
20 Live Acts
All for FREE
/// Sweeney's Bar
Upstairs...
More Tiny Giants
Attention Bebe
Mescalitio
Odd Socks Revival
Water Woods & Mountain
Ground Floor...
Dr Bob
DJ Chanty Lace
Bob Gleen
History of Harry (Jam Band)
Basement...
Skuzzi Port
Daithti
Sound of System Breakdown
Noise Machine
/// Shebeen Chic
Upstairs...
The Guilty Boy
9 Bar Blues
Mute Fish
Wyvern Lingo
Basement...
Apollo's Creed
The Cujo Family
Moo
Beer Garden...
Tommy Headon & Brian Lee's Busking Band
History of Harry - Save the King by RisingStars
Sounds of System Breakdown: Vinegar Joe by theharro
Water Woods and Mountain - Soul Child by RisingStars
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Neev Kennedy in Final of International Song Contest
Galway's Neev Kennedy is in with a fantastic chance of winning the 'You Bloom' International Song Contest. There are four songs left in the competition with Neev's song '10 Times' in the running for a whopping €12,000. Bob Geldof is one of the judges too!
Listen to a preview of the track '10 Times' here 10 Times (Preview) by Neev Kennedy
Linkage: http://www.myspace.com/neev_kennedy
Listen to the four songs in the final here: http://youbloom.com/
Neev has also contributed guest vocals for Canadian dance artist Max Graham.
Sun In The Winter Feat Neev Kennedy - Radio Mix by maxgraham
Listen to a preview of the track '10 Times' here 10 Times (Preview) by Neev Kennedy
Linkage: http://www.myspace.com/neev_kennedy
Listen to the four songs in the final here: http://youbloom.com/
Neev has also contributed guest vocals for Canadian dance artist Max Graham.
Sun In The Winter Feat Neev Kennedy - Radio Mix by maxgraham
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Album Review: Preachers Son - Love, Life & Limb
Highly personal debut album from a band consisting of Kila's bassist and Engine Alley's drummer. Preachers Son's debut is a varied collection of mini rock anthems which makes for an absorbing listen.
Preachers Son are Dubliners Brian Hogan (Kíla) and Emmaline Duffy-Fallon (previously of Engine Alley). The debut album 'Love Life & Limb' was released on Oct 15th on Reekus Records. Guest artists on the album include: Gavin Friday, Liam Ó Maonlaí, Kieran Kennedy, Jose Carlos Anselmo Flores and Rori Coleman.
'Love, Life & Limb' has taken up much of my time and my thoughts in the last few weeks. I was instantly engaged with the album from the beginning with the track '26 Years'. It's an anthem of sound with a killer chorus, great lyrics and a real heavy edge. The best songs on the album have all of these attributes such as 'X For Sandra''Lost My Faith' and an album highlight 'This Time of Life'. In particular I love the attitude filled version of 'Son of a Preacher Man'.
I mentioned above that the album is varied and it certainly is. I am a fan of albums having 'Peaks & Troughs' but I found the 'Troughs' to be in general a real let down. The songs like 'Rain' and 'Heaven For The Moment' veer into some weird Nick Cave-like world which is void of charm and direction.
There is an exception to this particular criticism which is the Gavin Friday assisted 'Lipstick' and is another clear highlight in the album. 'Lipstick' is a wonderfully charming song with beautifully arranged strings and delicate vocals. For me it one of the best songs released by an Irish band this year.
Lipstick (duet with Gavin Friday) by Preachers Son
Preachers Son - Love, Life & Limb [10 out of 12]
Buy The Album: http://itunes.apple.com/ie/album/love-life-limb/id399434878
More info: http://www.preachersson.com/
Here's some footage from the Preachers Son album launch which includes performances from The Aftermath and My Evil Ex.
Preachers Son are Dubliners Brian Hogan (Kíla) and Emmaline Duffy-Fallon (previously of Engine Alley). The debut album 'Love Life & Limb' was released on Oct 15th on Reekus Records. Guest artists on the album include: Gavin Friday, Liam Ó Maonlaí, Kieran Kennedy, Jose Carlos Anselmo Flores and Rori Coleman.
'Love, Life & Limb' has taken up much of my time and my thoughts in the last few weeks. I was instantly engaged with the album from the beginning with the track '26 Years'. It's an anthem of sound with a killer chorus, great lyrics and a real heavy edge. The best songs on the album have all of these attributes such as 'X For Sandra''Lost My Faith' and an album highlight 'This Time of Life'. In particular I love the attitude filled version of 'Son of a Preacher Man'.
I mentioned above that the album is varied and it certainly is. I am a fan of albums having 'Peaks & Troughs' but I found the 'Troughs' to be in general a real let down. The songs like 'Rain' and 'Heaven For The Moment' veer into some weird Nick Cave-like world which is void of charm and direction.
There is an exception to this particular criticism which is the Gavin Friday assisted 'Lipstick' and is another clear highlight in the album. 'Lipstick' is a wonderfully charming song with beautifully arranged strings and delicate vocals. For me it one of the best songs released by an Irish band this year.
Lipstick (duet with Gavin Friday) by Preachers Son
Preachers Son - Love, Life & Limb [10 out of 12]
Buy The Album: http://itunes.apple.com/ie/album/love-life-limb/id399434878
More info: http://www.preachersson.com/
Here's some footage from the Preachers Son album launch which includes performances from The Aftermath and My Evil Ex.
Friday, November 12, 2010
SJ McArdle - Why?
I went to see SJ McArdle perform live in Boyles, Slane on Thursday. SJ's songs are meaningful, thoughtful and wonderfully performed. His magical performance of the Annie Lennox song 'Why' was a really special moment. Check out the video below: http://www.sjmcardle.com/
SJ McArdle - Turn The World by 2uibestow
SJ McArdle - Turn The World by 2uibestow
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Goodbye Vasco Junior
Although I never got to see Vasco Junior live and only got their debut album a few months ago I have been very much aware of the band and their decent sized following. The album was well produced, included a few really good alternative rock songs and some fine musicianship. The band announced on the social networks that they have called it a day.
Here's the best song on album:
Vasco Junior - Fall by 2uibestow
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
A Do For Donal - Saturday 13th Nov Button Factory
This is a quality line-up for the Trust Fund of Donal Gilligan RIP in The Button Factory this Saturday night.
Irish cinematographer Donal Gilligan died suddenly at the age of 46.
Gilligan had amassed an impressive list of credits including Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan , Samuel Beckett’s Endgame and Horse, Primeval and the new series of Raw for RTÉ television.
01 10,000 Miles Away by Mundy
Irish cinematographer Donal Gilligan died suddenly at the age of 46.
Gilligan had amassed an impressive list of credits including Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan , Samuel Beckett’s Endgame and Horse, Primeval and the new series of Raw for RTÉ television.
01 10,000 Miles Away by Mundy
Introducing: Killer
Yes that's right I'm introducing 'Killer' to you! .... Killer's debut album suggests to me it belongs to the old days of early 90's Irish rock. If Feile was still going in Thurles; 'Killer' would open the festival! The music is not having a great impression on me but I'm sure there's a market for Killer with his music in Ireland.
Check out http://www.killerceol.com/
Find three songs from Killer here: http://soundcloud.com/killer-4
Here's the best of the three:
Planets (You're The Reason) by KILLER
Check out http://www.killerceol.com/
Find three songs from Killer here: http://soundcloud.com/killer-4
Here's the best of the three:
Planets (You're The Reason) by KILLER
Charity night: The Hard Rock Cafe - Saturday 13th
Charity night in aid of Oxfam Pakistan appeal @ The hard rock cafe:
Line up -
Anthony Furey and the young folk
The lonely schizophrenic
Al Marshall
Andy Delamere
The secret gospel choir
Entry is €5 with raffles and the like going on during the night!
I wonder will someone bring Biscuits?
Anthony Furey - Biscuits by 2uibestow
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Introducing Terence Rowlands
'Beta' is the home produced debut album from Terence Rowlands and I'm massively impressed with it so far. I'm going to look forward to getting stuck into this album for a review. Terence has a quality voice and some good tunes. I love the song below 'Red Sunrise'.
More info: http://www.terencerowlands.com/
Red Sunrise by Terence Rowlands
More info: http://www.terencerowlands.com/
Red Sunrise by Terence Rowlands
Clockwork Apple Weekender Reminder
A reminder that this is happening in The Village this weekend. I'll be there on Saturday and I'm really looking forward to seeing Sweet Jane, The Gandhies and Jennifer Evans for the first time.
Stage Times:
Friday 12th November:
The Dead Flags - 9.50pm
The Holy Roman Army - 9.10pm
Verona Riots - 8.30pm
Youth Mass - 7.45pm
False Starts - Youth Mass by Clockwork Apple
Saturday 13th November:
Sweet Jane - 9.50pm
The Gandhis - 9.10pm
little xs for eyes - 8.30pm
Jennifer Evans - 7.45pm
Tomaselli Has A Friend - Jennifer Evans by Clockwork Apple
Black Eyes - Sweet Jane by Clockwork Apple
The Christmas Clockwork Apple gig returns to Upstairs in Whelans and features the following bands on December 10th:
Take The Money and Run: http://www.myspace.com/ttmr
Captain Kennedy: http://www.myspace.com/captainkennedy
Hazy Jane: http://www.youtube.com/user/hazyjaneofficial
Stretch That Penny - Captain Kennedy by Clockwork Apple
Stage Times:
Friday 12th November:
The Dead Flags - 9.50pm
The Holy Roman Army - 9.10pm
Verona Riots - 8.30pm
Youth Mass - 7.45pm
False Starts - Youth Mass by Clockwork Apple
Saturday 13th November:
Sweet Jane - 9.50pm
The Gandhis - 9.10pm
little xs for eyes - 8.30pm
Jennifer Evans - 7.45pm
Tomaselli Has A Friend - Jennifer Evans by Clockwork Apple
Black Eyes - Sweet Jane by Clockwork Apple
The Christmas Clockwork Apple gig returns to Upstairs in Whelans and features the following bands on December 10th:
Take The Money and Run: http://www.myspace.com/ttmr
Captain Kennedy: http://www.myspace.com/captainkennedy
Hazy Jane: http://www.youtube.com/user/hazyjaneofficial
Stretch That Penny - Captain Kennedy by Clockwork Apple
Monday, November 8, 2010
Numbers Mixtape
Here is a little post consisting of wonderful Irish songs and a few facts and numbers to help us celebrate a wee occasion.
1. Berkeley - One Way Out
Berkeley - One Way Out by 2uibestow
On Twitter, the 2UIBestow account currently has 347 Followers! http://twitter.com/2uibestow
2. Favourite Sons - No One Ever Dies Young
Favourite Sons - no one ever dies young by 2uibestow
So far there have been a very modest 1,541 tweets! http://twitter.com/2uibestow
3. Emmett Tinley - Two Years On
Emmett Tinley - Two Years On by 2uibestow
273 people 'Like' the 'Live At Boyles' Facebook page.
4. Resurrection Fern - Two Days Driving
Resurrection Fern - Two Days Driving by 2uibestow
According to Google there are 8290 results from a simple '2uibestow' search.
5. A Band Called Wanda - Two by Two
A Band Called Wanda - Two by Two by 2uibestow
This is post number 1,117.
6. Declan DeBarra - Three Days From Now
Declan DeBarra - Three Days from Now by 2uibestow
666 different Irish bands and artists have been tagged on the blog. A STAGGERING number for our population and it's still just a fraction of those out there.
7. Brian Canavan - Four Foolscap Pages [Main inspiration for this post today!]
Brian Canavan - Four Foolscap Pages by 2uibestow
We have a modest but nice figure of 64 followers of the blog ... Thank You!
8. Doctor Leaves - Seven Year Itch
Doctor Leaves - Seven Year Itch by 2uibestow
At the moment of writing this there have been 148,448 views of this blog. Thanks!
9. The Mighty Stef - 100 Midnights
The Mighty Stef - 100 Midnights by 2uibestow
We have 49 followers through The Hype Machine: http://hypem.com/list/5533?w=1
10. Ann Scott - 100 Dances, 1000 Stars
Ann Scott - 100 Dances, 1,000 Stars by 2uibestow
We are also blog number 7396 on that other great blog aggregator Elbo.ws.
11. Odi - One in a Million
Odi - One In A Million by 2uibestow
Oh and ..... 2 U I Bestow is 2 Today! Yay!
1. Berkeley - One Way Out
Berkeley - One Way Out by 2uibestow
On Twitter, the 2UIBestow account currently has 347 Followers! http://twitter.com/2uibestow
2. Favourite Sons - No One Ever Dies Young
Favourite Sons - no one ever dies young by 2uibestow
So far there have been a very modest 1,541 tweets! http://twitter.com/2uibestow
3. Emmett Tinley - Two Years On
Emmett Tinley - Two Years On by 2uibestow
273 people 'Like' the 'Live At Boyles' Facebook page.
4. Resurrection Fern - Two Days Driving
Resurrection Fern - Two Days Driving by 2uibestow
According to Google there are 8290 results from a simple '2uibestow' search.
5. A Band Called Wanda - Two by Two
A Band Called Wanda - Two by Two by 2uibestow
This is post number 1,117.
6. Declan DeBarra - Three Days From Now
Declan DeBarra - Three Days from Now by 2uibestow
666 different Irish bands and artists have been tagged on the blog. A STAGGERING number for our population and it's still just a fraction of those out there.
7. Brian Canavan - Four Foolscap Pages [Main inspiration for this post today!]
Brian Canavan - Four Foolscap Pages by 2uibestow
We have a modest but nice figure of 64 followers of the blog ... Thank You!
8. Doctor Leaves - Seven Year Itch
Doctor Leaves - Seven Year Itch by 2uibestow
At the moment of writing this there have been 148,448 views of this blog. Thanks!
9. The Mighty Stef - 100 Midnights
The Mighty Stef - 100 Midnights by 2uibestow
We have 49 followers through The Hype Machine: http://hypem.com/list/5533?w=1
10. Ann Scott - 100 Dances, 1000 Stars
Ann Scott - 100 Dances, 1,000 Stars by 2uibestow
We are also blog number 7396 on that other great blog aggregator Elbo.ws.
11. Odi - One in a Million
Odi - One In A Million by 2uibestow
Oh and ..... 2 U I Bestow is 2 Today! Yay!
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