Irish music blog. Containing gig, live and concert reviews reviews; album reviews; setlists for recent Dublin shows; album news; and basically everything from the Irish music scene.
This year is yet another great year for smaller Irish festivals. Never mind the behemoths of Oxegen and Electric Picnic, it's at the lesser known events where the true talent emerges - especially of a local sort.
Le Cheile 2010 is set to be fantastic. It takes place from the 30th of July to the 2nd of August in Oldcastle, Co. Meath at three venues in the town: Caffrey's Redrooms, Creams Marquee, as well as the Oldcastle House Hotel.
The lineup itself looks amazing with headline shows from Mick Flannery, Jerry Fish, Jack L, Fight Like Apes, Noise Control, and Weapons Detector, as well as The Richter Collective presents Bats and Not Squares.
And that's not to mention the brilliant acts further down the bill like Henrietta Game, Planet Parade, Codes, Grand Pocket Orchestra, Jogging, Ollie Cole, John Shelly and the Creatures, and many, many more.
Dublin band CODES have announced a matinee all-ages gig at the Academy this summer to cater to their younger fans. The press-release calls it an "intimate all-ages gig", which I think may have been a little bit of an oversight. Still though, the concert on June 26th should be a great gig for all involved.
Tickets are a bargain at €10 and go on sale this Friday.
Part Four of my countdown of the Best 50 Irish Acts today. The only requirement for entry is that the artist must have played live or released something in the past twelve months.
20. And So I Watch You From Afar ASIWYFA are not for everyone. They released a double-album of instrumental tunes last year which divided opinion. Some people loved it and some people hated it. I was nearer the first camp. They released their Letters EP earlier this year, and I must say that it's an improvement on the album. I'm always a fan of prolific artists (are you listening Damien Rice?)
19. Villagers Conor O'Brien's the Immediate are the most missed 00s Irish band. Their album In Towers and Clouds is a masterpiece of Irish rock. Thus a lot is expected from his follow-up project, Villagers. 2009's Hollow Kind EP was a fantastic introduction, and with the imminent release of their debut album, 2010 may be O'Brien's year.
18. CODES This bunch of Dublin youngsters smashed onto the scene with their debut album Trees Dream in Algebra, and the fantastic single 'This is Goodbye'. They're signed to a major label, so major things should be expected from one of the shining lights in young Irish rock.
17. 202s Less electronic than CODES, 202s are a wonderful new Irish rock band. Their self-titled debut was one of my most listened to records of 2009, with a wonderful bunch of instantly memorable songs. Their live act is pretty solid too. It'll be exciting to see what they do next.
16. R.S.A.G. Kilkenny one-man-band Jeremy Hickey was an extremely worth candidate for last year's Choice Music Prize with his gorgeous Organic Sampler (p.s. the bonus disc is just as good). Although he hasn't released a follow-up yet, he's been trying out some new stuff live, and his experimentation is bound to produce some alchemic goodness.
15. Ultan Conlon Ultan Conlon has been on the scene for many years, releasing his debut EP in 2002, going on to form the underrated UltanJohn, and even playing with legendary guitarist John Marytn. His single 'The Universe Tune' was released earlier this year, and should have gotten much more attention. He's still vastly underrated, but if he continues making music this good, the limelight can't be far away.
14. Jape Richie Egan seems to be reporting about new endeavours and live shows every day on twitter. The winner of last year's Choice Music Prize, he can now easily move on from all those Jack White references. A lot is expected from the follow-up to Ritual, but if his entire catalogue is anything to go by, it's sure to be brilliant.
13. The Cast of Cheers One of the golden children of the class of 2010, this Dublin four-piece released their debut album Chariot for free to the public. A brave move, but it has paid off, as many people (including myself) have waxed lyrically about their excellent 33 minute rock sucker punch.
12. David Geraghty It wouldn't be fair to lump David Geraghty in alongside the main Bell x1 category, as he's a wonderful solo act in his own right. Bell x1 is mostly Paul Noonan's vehicle, but we always knew that Geraghty's guitarwork was one of the band's best features. His second album Victory Dance improved greatly on his debut Kill Your Darlings, and was my favourite Irish album of 2009. There's a lot more to come from him on his own terms.
11. Heathers I first saw Dublin sister-act Heathers on TG4's Pop4 a few years ago, and was enchanted by their Gaelic take on Tegan & Sara pop. Their single 'Remember When', taken from 2008's Here Not There is currently being used by Discover Ireland on their television and cinema adverts and is everywhere at the moment. 2009 was not a lean year for them though, they're not just recycling old tunes, as they gave a wonderful guest spot on Ireland's own Gorillaz, Super Extra Bonus Party's 'Comets'. A fantastic tune.
Last night saw some excellent live performances from many of the nominees for the Choice Music Prize 2009 (don't worry, you are looking at the ceremony held in 2010, it's just for the best Irish album of 2009), but by far the best were Dark Room Notes and And So I Watch You From Afar. Both bands are on their debut albums, so who knows what the future may hold awards-wise.
CODES opened the night strongly, before Julie Feeney toned it down a notch. Feeney had been the darkhorse when nominees were announced, but crept up to become favourite with PaddyPower heading into last night's show. Her outfit last night was definitely note worthy, probably moreso than her performance. (Check it out here.)
Dark Room Notes were next up and impressed many people who may have missed them first time around, or else wrote them off. Their live show is so much better than the album. Duckworth Lewis Method released one of my favourite summer albums of 2009, but with Neil Hannon already having a gong in his possession, it was always a longshot to see them winning. Their live stint last night was fantastically entertaining though.
Valerie Francis was also very impressive. It was a nice, subtle nuanced performance which contrasted well with the all-out rock of CODES and the jangly pop of Duckworth Lewis Method. Her live take on 'Punches' was especially great. It was a real treat to see so many wonderful Irish acts performing a variety of genres. I suggest you grab a ticket for the Choice Music Prize 2010 Award Show as soon as possible next year.
When I saw the nominees, I didn't actually expect The Swell Season would play, but play they did and gave a fine performance. It's just a pity for Glen that his second album with Marketa wasn't a patch on the first. Last night, they were joined on 'Paper Cup' by Leonard Cohen's guitarist, unfortunately not Leonard himself, but it'll do for now.
Adrian Crowley was second last on stage, but would return later to pick up his gong. He's a damn fine performer, and definitely a worthy winner. And So I Watch You From Afar closed the night with a stonking set, infused with marvellous instrumental rock. Some people had definitely written them off before, but I'm sure they converted many last night. If I had to guess, I'd say they were probably in the running but narrowly missed out.
Laura Izibor couldn't make it last night, due to something or other, nor could Bell x1 (touring commitments) but so many other great acts played, it didn't make too much difference. It would've been nice to have them all there though. Maybe next year...
Watch the Duckworth Lewis Method at last night's show:
Great news comes my way from Jim Carroll and his On the Record blog. He announced this morning that eight out of ten cats acts nominated for this year's Choice Music Award will be performing on the night.
The show takes place in Vicar Street on March 3rd. Tickets are €27, and for that bargain price, you'll get approximately ten minutes each from all of the following: And So I Watch You From Afar, Codes, Adrian Crowley, Dark Room Notes, The Duckworth Lewis Method, Julie Feeney, Valerie Francis, and The Swell Season.
Bell x1 and Laura Izibor are the two absentees as they're touring elsewhere. But for €27, how can you argue with a lineup like that?
A little late, but better late than never. Here's my Top 10 Irish Albums of 2009...
10. And So I Watch You From Afar - And So I Watc You From Afar
If Salvador Dali was still alive today, he may paint an album cover like that of ASIWYFA's debut album. Better still, if he was a musician, he'd probably make bizarrely brilliant instrumental tunes like the eleven shoegaze classics that appear on this debut album.
9. David Turpin - Haunted
Lauren Murphy called David Turpin's second album a disappointment, like his first. She outlined his vocals as the problem. In this opinion, she is massively wrong. Turpin has a gorgeous soft voice which perfectly matches his blissful lyrics. It's not grating in any way - no more so than Joanna Newsom - perhaps Turpin is the Irish Newsom? Divisive, but brilliant. Well, in this writer's opinion anyway.
8. Patrick Kelleher - You Look Cold
Patrick Kelleher plays a lot of instruments. Strangely enough, one of the many on here he claims to play is a door. The album itself is a mult-layered electronic triumph, which is sure to please fans of Animal Collective, Panda Bear and the like.
7. Pearse McLoughlin - Busy Whisper
A gorgeous debut filled with enchanting songs that take you back to a better time, Pearse McLoughlin has crafted out a first album that's up there with any other singer-songwriter you care to name. Yes, even that Rice fella.
6. Herm - Monsters
Another fantastic debut, this one is like an earworm that digs into your brain and just won't let go. The album is a wonderful slice of indie pop released on Catchy Go Go. I don't know about the go go, but this sure is catchy.
5. The Duckworth Lewis Method - Duckworth Lewis Method
Named after an extremely complicated way of determining scores in rain-affected cricket matches, this is the best concept album to come out of Ireland...ever. Pugwash's Thomas Walsh and the Divine Comedy's Neil Hannon have teamed up to make the sweetest (spot) album of 2009.
4. CODES - Trees Dream in Algebra
An album two years in the making, Trees Dream in Algebra, is the most-polished Irish debut in years. They worked with excellent rock producer Greg Halford on it, and marked themselves out as one to watch for the future. The U2 of the 2010s maybe?
3. The 202s - The 202s
Good albums don't always have to be a well-structured coherent whole. Sometimes they can just be wonderful collections of singles. That's what the self-titled debut from the 202s is. Like a greatest hits package, it's full of powerful tunes with outstanding choruses. Although as a coherent whole, it's damn good too.
2. The Holy Roman Army - How the Light Gets In
I like alt.country and rock mostly. So it takes a great album from genres such as electronica to get me to listen to it more than a handful of times. However, this debut from fellow Carlovians stuck with me all year. Songs like 'Elegy' and 'Stagger Gently Home' are immediately gorgeous, with the latter being one of my songs of the year. Fabulously addictive.
1. David Geraghty - The Victory Dance
The break-up of Juniper has given us so much. Damien Rice and Bell x1 are both extremely successful on both sides of the Atlantic. However, Bell x1 guitarist David Geraghty could well end up being the best of all. His debut was a fantastic introduction, but his second, The Victory Dance was so much better. Filled with gorgeous guitarwork, it's a cracking collection of songs. And who knew he was such a great vocalist too? Wonderful. The best Irish album of 2009.
I originally posted this on Nialler9's blog as part of his readers' poll for the best Irish albums and songs of the year. Well here's my top 10 Irish songs of 2009, complete with videos. Enjoy!
1. The Holy Roman Army – Stagger Gently Home
What a fantastic video, created by the kids at Drumphea National School in Co. Carlow. Plus the song itself is amazing.
2. David Geraghty – Tuesday’s Feet (No video, not even a live one online)
I got the chance to talk to Daragh Anderson, the singer and frontman for upcoming Irish band CODES. They've had a hugely succesful year, so Daragh took some time out of his busy schedule to talk about signing to a major label, supporting Keane, the power of reviews, and how their shows cause riots (kinda). Oh, and he also spoke about his work with the Sligo tourist board (not really), and how upset he was that Olly didn't win the X Factor last night (definitely not).
Firstly, thanks for giving me the time for this interview. You've probably been busy promoting the album for the past few months, has it taken over your life? No problem sir, yes I guess it really has properly now. Not that that's a bad thing!
The really great music requires a lot of suffering! You play a lot of live dates, have you any weird or interesting stories? You know, we probably have a story from everywhere we've played so far, all the nooks of Ireland have thir own little bit of character. For me it's gotta be playing in Ray's hometown of Ballymote in Sligo. The venue was way over capacity, all hell just broke loose really, people were invading the stage and breaking glasses over each other's heads. There was one poor bouncer tring to get people in order, it was a right riot. I don't think we were meant to be on the recieving end but Paul did get a punch in the face accidentally...and that was just the women!
Nice. You must have some hardcore fans! Has anyone asked you to sign a body part yet or has fame intruded into your life at all? Nah, I'm not going to pretend it's like that for us. Usually just people politely approaching us. After shows we try to get out and say hello as much as we can. I've signed someones face though, in permanent marker. I bet the next day they were like "who ?"!
You must feel you've come up in the world since signing with EMI. How did that come about? It's nice to have to opportunity, yeah. Well we started working on the record around November last year on our own budget, with a view to pitching the finished work to a label of some kind. So, we put our eggs in the one basket so to speak. We couldn't afford to do anything really after spending all our savings on the record. It was risky, but we believed in it so much and had put every effort into the musicianship and organising it so we could get it recorded the way we wanted as quickly as possible. Luckily for us we had a few offers in the new year and we went with the EMI deal because they seemed to "get" the record a lot better than some other labels, as well as not wanting to change any of the work we did, which is utterly flattering and affirming I guess.
Yeah, a lot of artists suffer from too much label involvement, you were one of the lucky ones. But then again, the album is so good, why would you want to change it? Or is there anything on it you wish you'd done differently? There are always parts I suppose, you wish you'd done one or two little things differently, but that's the beauty of capturing a moment in time, be it a photograph or a recording. It's never perfect, sometimes the discrepancies are what make it beautiful. Our producer, Greg, kept reminding us that in the studio. We're keen perfectionists, but sometimes that can just seem too laboured and un-human, he taught us to just play and let him do the worrying!
Greg produced the Manics before, and you've supported Keane. Is there anyone you'd love to work with or tour with? I'd love to tour with NIN, just to see how all that works, the stage set up, the interactivity. I know U2's stage is visually amazing but I don't think anyone else is doing what NIN are live.
Excellent. Speaking of huge productions: what do you think of X Factor and shows like that? Admit it, you watched it, didn't you? Not one second of it! I'm slightly proud not to be sucked in but I guess it's not really having the time. I have 2 seasons of The Wire to watch on DVD you see. Oh yeah and being in a band. That too! It's funny to me though, I find that people watch it more for the failures and the car-crash value than for any real musical merit. It showcases the worst sides of people really. Their desire for instant acclaim at any cost, and their lack of shame. At the end they're just marionettes in a big ridiculous pantomime.
Last year's Norn Ire contestant Eoghan's album was called "the worst ever" by critics. Do you pay much heed to album reviews? Your own got some damn good ones (myself included). I'd like to say no. But I think I do. The other lads not so much, they're always reassuring me and telling me not to take heed but I have let bad reviews get to me in the past. We have gotten some really great ones for this record, and I'm glad because we're all so proud of it, but it's funny how with maybe 50 good reviews I always manage to dwell on the few bad ones. Being in a band sometimes feels like you're on the defensive, because you put so much of yourself into it and you wait for the critical onslaught to hit. It's a good thing I have the other 3 guys to give me that reassurance sometimes.
That's true, but it also means you'll be working doubly hard for the second album. Should we be expecting that any time soon? Or do you have any plans for it at all? Our plans are to get TreesDream released in as many territories as possible before we star working on the next album. I've got maybe six or seven new tracks that are contenders, and some pretty good ideas about where we want to go with it, but we're sort of sidelining those at the minute to focus on playing live and getting as many people to hear the current one. People can expect less guitars!
Next stop America? UK tour in Feburary. We'll see where that takes us!
Excellent. You have some Irish dates this weekend, including one in Dublin on Monday. Tell us about that? (Encourage us to go!) We carry on the tour this week with Dundalk on Thurdsday in the Spirit Store which is a lovely intimate venue only an hour's drive from Dublin. We play Sligo on Friday Night in The Clarence. Bound to be a packed out night so get some tickets early. Sligo tourist board had this to say "Remember when the beaches went on forever, when the sea glinted in the sun, when you could smell the green of the woodland after rain, well that’s Sligo" sounds good! We then head offshore to Shirken Island (Off the coast of West cork) In what promises to be one of the most memorable shows this century. See shirkenisland.eu for boat times, we play The Jolly Roger pub at 8pm, it's going to be a pretty crazy night. Not one for the sea-sick! And on Monday we headline The Button Factory with special guest Gemma Hayes in aid of the Dublin Simon Community, which is a really great cause, and of course more pertinent at this time of year and in this climate with homelessness on the rise see www.dublinsimon.com for info on the great work those guys are doing.
Last but definitely not least, what is your favourit album of the decade? And favourite Irish album of the 00s? Wow, a lofty question. Kid A - Radiohead (2000), and Irish... Adebisi Shank - self-titled (2008).
Upcoming gigs: Thursday, 17 Dec: The Spirit Store, Dundalk Friday, 18 Dec: The Clarence, Sligo Saturday, 19 Dec: Shirken Island, Cork Monday, 21 Dec: The Button Fatory, Dublin with Gemma Hayes
Watch a acoustic version of 'Starry Eyed', one of my favourite songs of the year:
CODES supported the Airborne Toxic Event at the Olympia Theatre last night and were sure to win many new fans with their splendid dose of electronic-rock. If you missed it, and are down the country, they'll be playing the Forum in Waterford on the 28th of November.
Setlist: Malfunctions This Is Goodbye Starry Eyed Memorial (Daragh solo) In Algebra You Are Here 4 Winters
CODES played a wonderful headline show at the Academy on Saturday night to promote their debut album TreesDreamInAlgebra, which I previously reviewed here. They opened the show with the splendid 'Malfunctions', and from then on you knew it was going to be a marvellous show. If you get the chance to see them on the road any time in the future, I really suggest, nay, demand that you go!
Setlist: Malfunctions This Is Goodbye Guided by Ghosts Our Mysteries / {Missed Histories} Cities Starry Eyed Truer Words In Algebra --- Acoustic intro > You Are Here Magnetic North 4 Winters
Here's a short clip of the gig that has made its way onto youtube:
CODES have a number of upcoming dates around the country to support their excellent TreesDreamInAlgebra album (which I reviewed at the weekend). They'll be playing the Academy on Saturday to launch the album and tickets for that are €13.
Full Dates: Friday 25 The Clarence, Sligo Saturday 26 The Academy, Dublin **Album Launch** Friday 2 The Set Theatre, Langtons, Kilkenny Saturday 3 The Forum, Waterford Sunday 4 Cyprus Avenue, Cork
Few Irish artists have great debut albums. It takes most of them years practicing their craft before the release an essential record. CODES have taken their sweet time about making and releasing their debut, and as a result, it's one of those rare beasts - a stellar debut album.
'Malfunctions' serves as an introduction to the record, but is not a reflection on what's coming up. As soon as second track (and single) 'This is Goodbye' gets going, you know you're onto something special. It's a song already crying out for an arena tour, and maybe even a stadium tour. It has everything needed to make it a live classic, it soars and droops, returns, and is a powerhouse of a tune.
Another great masterstroke is how each song segues into the next, making this a compellingly cohesive album, rather than just a bunch of songs. Thus 'This is Goodbye' sails into 'Guided by Ghosts', a song better than the majority of the new Muse album. The production of this song and the rest moves the album above many other Irish releases as it's so glossy - this is all thanks to Manics helmer Greg Haver. Listen to 'Our Mysteries (Missed Histories)' to see what I mean. On a different record, this would have a raw edgy feel, but thanks to its smooth edges and shiny sound, it sounds like a single waiting to happen.
The album isn't just shiny, it's glorious lyrically as well as musically. 'Telos' is a lovely soft intimate instrumental interlude, worthy of Sigur Ros. The band excels all-round, and lyrics like this testify this brilliance: "The faded photographs of winter / In the spaces inbetween, I find your letter / That’s when I begin to wonder, if all the hope in a new year could bring you back". Beautiful.
There are tonnes of possible singles on this album, and each listen will bring a different favourite track. That's the power of this debut. Every song is a standout. 'Memorial', 'Starry Eyed', 'Cities', everything I've still to mention, is fantastic.
One of the best albums of the year, and a debut to stand alongside Fight Like Apes last year. Five stars. If I could give it six, I would.
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