Irish Music Magazine - November 2004

Ireland

Kílalive at Last

John Brophy met two members of Kíla whose new live CD will be launched in Vicar St on October 22nd.

By Heck He's Still Swinging

A special interview for Irish Music Magazine. The saxophone of jazzman Richie Buckley sounds very much at home amidst the rollicking and, well, swinging playing of David Munnelly and his energetic band. "My influences are of the heyday of Irish Music" he modestly tells Sean Walsh.

The Art of Mozaik

Well known as a road warrior, Andy Irvine tells Sean Walsh that the inspiration to form Mozaik came behind the wheel on a long trip in Australia.

A Sparkling Defence

In his latest album, 'Fort of the Jewels' Brian McNamara continues his homage to the rich musical heritage of County Leitrim. IMM's Ita Kelly gets to polish the family silver and takes a look inside the trinket box of Leitrim memories.

Building the Tradition

So you've got FIAS (Folk instrument acquisiton syndrome) and you'd like something a bit special, maybe custom made to suit your own tastes. In the first of a 3 part series, John Brophy takes a look at the art, craft and the business of making and selling instruments.

North America

Maggie Uncovered

Nora or Maggie we all know the song, you know that one that starts with all those blooming violets, but did you know where it came from and when it was written? Aidan O'Hara has the story for you, and it all began at a bit of a sing-song way back in the 70's.

United Kingdom

Hey Sandy!

Sandy Denny was taken from the scene in her prime, although she had already made a serious name for herself both as a singer and songwriter writes John O'Regan.

Europe

Flying a Kite

Sweden has become synonymous with high quality pop, of course it all started with the Eurovision and the Benny and Bjorn outfit known as ABBA. So what happens when one of the current crop of Swedo-popsters takes on an acoustic Irish trad persona? Magic that's what happens, that is the verdict of John O'Regan, but how did they do it? They all got authentic at Blás in Limerick.

Regulars

Book Review

Oisín Mac Diarmada reviews a recent publication entitled 'Hidden Fermanagh', compiled by Cyril Maguire which offers an insightful look at the musical heritage of Co. Fermanagh.

Festivals Report

November is no longer the wallflower of the festival year, as you'll discover when you take a glance at what's on offer in this month's issue.

Stories Behind the Tunes

Mid nineteenth century Fenianism had it's popular heroes, many of whom were exiled to America. Then at the start of the Civil War, two of the movement's leading lights, Generals Mitchell and Maher were on opposing sides, yet both worked incessantly for a United Independent Ireland. Dan Milner brings us a ballad and a story shot through with irony.

Up & Coming

John O'Regan meets folkies Heather Innes and Ciaran Doris. Is there still a space in our heart for good old fashioned folk song he ponders?

Live Review

Tom Clancy attended the eighth Blás Summer School at the University of Limerick, where he went for the songs, but there are many who just came for the tunes. Tom brings a harmony to the proceedings, read what he has to say on the two week full-immersion-experience of the "culture".

CD Reviews

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