Irish Music Magazine - Jan/Feb 2006

Ireland

A Time For Every Song

'Full Tide' is Mary Black's first studio album in six years. What makes this album different however is that for the first time it features songs written by Mary herself. Ita Kelly reports.

The Sharon Shannon Collection 1990-2005

The latest release from Sharon Shannon is a retrospective, which celebrates 15 years in the career of one of Ireland's most charismatic musicians, writes Ita Kelly.

The Gathering 2006

The 7th Gathering Traditional Festival February 15th - 19th, 2006 takes place in the Gleneagle Complex, Killarney, County Kerry and is previewed in a special Irish Music Magazine feature.

Songbirds

This is Fil Campbell's big project to pay homage to some of the first ladies of Irish song. John Brophy reports.

Lady of the Island

Ita Kelly meets Lasairfhiona Ní Chonaola who talks about making her second album, Flame of Wine.

North America

Songs for Concern

Helene Dunbar talks to Michael Londra about his work with Concern.

Europe

An Educated Ear for the Tradition

Seán Laffey discusses the phenomena of the adult learner with Gerry Murray of Shantalla.

United Kingdom

Boys of the Lough

Dave Richardson talks with Alex Monaghan about the past, the present and the future of the Boys of the Lough.

Mabon

Seán Laffey meets Derek Smith of Mabon, Cardiff's rising stars of Celtic music.

Kate Rusby

Backstage at Belfast's Opera House and Kate opens her heart to Mac Spy.

Regulars

Up & Coming - Brian Roebuck

Our man in Wexford, Nicky Rossiter checks out the enduring ballad legacy of the most iconic of the Dubliners as brought to life by Brian Roebuck.

Tuition

The 5th in our series of tutorials brought to you in association with Waltons Music.

Story Behind the Song

Dan Milner discusses 'Her Mantle So Green', a favourite of the late Margaret Barry.

Festivals 2006

An early look ahead to some festivals that are already grabbing the headlines for 2006.

Live Reviews

Geoff Harden reports from his recent trip to Cape Breton at the Celtic Colours Festival.

CD Reviews

Another selection of CDs brought to you in association with Gael-Linn.