Irish Music Magazine - April 2001

Ireland

Singing on the Wind

Richie O'Rourke in a recent conversation with Karen Casey in Cork prior to her latest US tour and the release of the new Shanachie album.

Merry Sisters of Fate

David Ingram catches up with Lúnasa at the North American Folk Alliance.

Music to the Power of Two

Music to the power of two is a special thing and duets like Hayes and Cahill, Glackin and O'Domhnaill satisfy the equation of excellence innovation and respect for tradition. Another duet that comes within this algebra is that of Cormac Breathnach and Martin Dunlea. John O'Regan reports.

The Achiever's Tale

From a blacktie gig in Dublin Castle to the difficulties of canine trasportation, Bill Whelan is on top of the game. Jim Kelly goes out west to meet the Riverdance composer on the occasion of his IMRO Life Time Achievement Award.

Scotland

Special Supplement

Our annual temperature check on the health of our closest Celtic cousins. A special 12 page report from Alan MacIntosh Brown.

North America

Boxing the Compass

Wexford-born button accordionist John Redmond talks to Helene Northway about his first CD, East To Northeast, and about not always taking the road most travelled, plus a confession or two along that by-way.

The Prodigals

John O'Regan meets Gregory Grene of the Prodigals, New York's latest Celtic Rock sensations.

Europe

Irish Tunes in Millvalley

De Reelium are currently regarded as some of the best talent in Celtic music in Germany, certainly since the band has now found its own distinctive sound. Report from the Mollies.

Regulars

Tuition Tips from Waltons

Part two of our look at the mandolin, this month we concentrate on the reels Farewell to Erin and Mary Grace.

Story Behind the Tune

Joe Burke tells Ita Kelly the story behind "Return to Camden Town".

Up and Coming

Padraic O'Reilly is a young, capable and very talented gentleman. At 22, he has just released his first solo album Down the Ivory Stairs a milestone album of traditional piano playing. Ita Kelly reports.

The Music Makers - Sindt Whistles

What could be so special about a tin whistle? We decided to find out. Tom Madden headed up the Hudson River for a meeting with the master machinist.

Thunderbolts & Lightning

"Everyone talked about Joe Heaney's wonderful use of ornamentation but I was equally impressed by the commitment he gave to his songs. The persons in his ballads were close relatives, bitter enemies and precious loves." Dan Milner tells Barbara Horowitz.

Live Reviews

It's the turn of the singers to sit centre stage as we bring you reports of Luka Bloom in Limerick and Sean Keane in Dublin.

CD Reviews

Another selection of CD reviews brought to you in association with HMV