Irish Music Magazine - May 2004

Ireland

Another Summer Scorcher

Seán Laffey talks to Christy Leahy and Ciarán Coughlan, about North Cregg's move to the Greentrax label, European tours, piping collaborations and the need to keep the music fun.

Eleanor McEvoy

Only a Woman's Heart the song and the compilation album have been good to Eleanor, in fact it was the biggest selling Irish album of all time. That was then, now she is ready to move on as Alan O'Leary discovered when he met her on the eve of a month long UK tour.

Champions of the World?

Geoff Harden talks to Francis McPeake and finds a man who is not at all happy with the way Traditional music competitions are run.

Arcanadh

Aidan O'Hara meets a group of young teachers who are intent on supplying a missing ingredient in the confection that is Irish traditional music.

North America

Celtic Fiddle Festival

The Celtic Fiddle Festival are on the road again, with a new fiddler after the tragic early death of fiddler Johnny Cunningham. David Ingram finds out about the changes and memories.

Europe

Aes Dana: A Bridge Between Two Islands

Celtic music from Italy with a number of top flight Irish traditional players guesting in on the recording session, that is what is on offer in the latest release by Palermo-based Aes Dana. Alfredo De Pietra reports.

United Kingdom

An Extra Big Pinch from Dalla

Julian Gurr goes fishing for the latest news from Cornish Celtic band, Dalla.

Regulars

The Launch Pad

Seán Laffey attends the launch of the new CD from Tim O'Shea which formed part of the 5th Gathering Festival 2004.

Up & Coming - The Border Collies are Top Dog!

Ita Kelly interviews Colm O'Donnell; sheep farmer, dog breeder and leader of a prize winning band.

The Story Behind the Song - Erin's Green Shore

Dan Milner introduces us to our own Hibernian lady of liberty.

Festivals 2004

The second instalment of our whistle stop guide to early summer festivals from around the world of Irish Music.

Live Reviews

Planxty at Vicar Street in Dublin where Alan O'Leary has a spiritual experience.

CD Reviews

Another selection of CD Reviews brought to you in association with Gael-Linn