Watch: Every Ireland World Cup Song Ever

With the 2010 World Cup starting next week in South Africa, most of Ireland's men will be tuned in to the telly cursing at the fact we're not there instead of France. If Thierry Henry gets a run-out at any time, the decibel level is sure to rise fivefold. But just imagine if we were there, then we'd have four weeks of having to listen to both our official and unofficial World Cup songs. The Irish have had some good teams over the ages, but not as many good World Cup anthems. Although you can't go wrong with 'Put 'Em Under Pressure'. Still a classic.

I'm probably missing a good few unofficial ones here, so if you know of any, leave a message in the comments and I'll try to add it. Also, some of these videos are terrible, but they're all that's available.

1988 - European Championships, West Germany
Ireland's first ever international football competition was also our first attempt at trying to create a soundtrack for a sporting event. The songs were the musical equivalent of a nil-all draw. Very uninspiring, and not something you want to go back and revisit very often.

Liam Harrison and the Goal Celebrities - 'Give it a Lash Jack'


Christy Moore - 'Joxer Goes to Stuttgart'


'Ooh Ahh Paul McGrath'


1990 World Cup, Italy
1990 was Ireland's best ever World Cup, not just on the field (Packie Bonner sand David O'Leary have been heroes ever since), but off it as well. One half of U2 (the less well-known half) took it upon themselves to turn a riff from the Horslips into an anthem. And it worked. We've been singing that one World Cup song ever since. Nobody has come close. Also, who can forget that Billy Joel cover by Memories? Oh dear Jesus. Allegedly Joel himself actually tried to sing some of the lyrics to it when he came to play Ireland later that year.

Adam Clayton & Larry Mullen - 'Put 'Em Under Pressure'


Memories - 'The Game'


'Jackie's Army'


'The Flame'


Penney's Winning Team - 'The Team That Jack Built'

1994 World Cup, USA
Amazingly, there are more videos from the batch of songs from the 1990 World Cup than the 1994 one. I could only find one, the awful 'Watch Your House for Ireland'. So if anyone knows where I can find a video or mp3 or anything of any of the others, let me know.

'Watch Your House for Ireland'


Joe O'Toole - We're going to America
The Mighty Quinn

2002 World Cup, Japan and South Korea
Ireland's most recent World Cup was probably the one with the worst song yet. I mean, it has Dustin and the bloke from Aslan, but even worse contains the line "Sayounara Connemara". I also remember there were other songs in 2002, but can't remember the names. Anyone care to jog my memory?

Irish Squad, Dustin, Nicky Byrne, Christy Dignam - 'Here Come the Good Times'


2010 World Cup, South Africa

This year to cash in on the World Cup, Shay Healy has teamed up with the Corrigan Brothers to release this ditty. Since Ireland aren't there, it's a tribute to England's best player, Wayne Rooney. Damn you Thierry Henry.

Corrigan Brothers & Shay Healy - 'Wayne Rooney is Our Hero'

List: Top 5 Unreleased Dave Matthews Band tracks

Yesterday, Dave Matthews Band issued an official press release stating that they'd be taking the entire year of 2011 off:

"A MESSAGE TO OUR FANS

As we feel the excitement building for this summer, we wanted to let everyone know that after twenty years of consecutive touring, Dave Matthews Band will be taking 2011 off. We feel lucky that our tours are a part of so many people's lives, and wanted to give everyone as much notice as possible. We're excited to make this summer one of our best tours yet, and look forward to returning to the road in 2012."

This may or not be great news, since last year's Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King was the band's best album in a decade. However, after relentless touring for that entire decade, it's about time they took some time off. That said, I wouldn't rule out a follow-up to Matthews' 2001 solo record Some Devil.

So to coincide with that announcement, here's my top 5 unreleased Dave Matthews Band tracks:

'#40'
Also called 'Always', '#40' is one of the band's long lost tunes. It's sometimes teased at shows, but has only been played in its entirety once in the last eight years. The definitive version is the Live at Yoshis performance, and if you can get your hands on that bootleg, I highly recommend it. A fantastic recording.


'Good Good Time'
First played at the Bonnaroo Festival in 2004 and originally titled 'Thing' and later 'Hmmm', 'Good Good Time' made its debut as a Dave Matthews and Friends song, but was equally great when brought to the table by the full band.


'Granny'
One of the oldest DMB tracks, it dates back to 1992, but has not been released as part of an studio album. It's still played regularly on tour, and was recorded in the sessions for Under the Table and Dreaming. A live favourite of many long-time fans.



'Joyride'
First played in 2004 alongside other new tunes intended for Stand Up, 'Joyride' was a million times better than 'Hello Again' which made the cut. It was released as a bonus track, but the majority of listeners would not have heard it.


'Sweet Up and Down'
Leaked as part of the unofficial Lilywhite Sessions, this song was cut from the final release of Busted Stuff, and along with 'JTR' is a huge omission from that album.

List: Top 5 Richie Kavanagh Tracks

RIP Gerry Ryan. A legend of a broadcaster. However, I'm not going to merely post a "news" story of his death in order to get some quick traffic and increase my hits, instead I'm going to do a tribute to the late RTE DJ and TV presenter by making a list of the top five Richie Kavanagh tracks. There was probably no greater defender of Richie's brand of Irish music than Gerry. Have a listen to the wonderful comedy on 'Mobile Phone': "Is that Fenagh 2222?"

5. 'My Granny Was a Plucker'


4. 'Mobile Phone':


3. 'A Ride on a Tractor':


2. 'Stay Wut Her Johnny'


1. 'Aon Focal Eile':

List: 40 Reasons to Get Excited About Irish Music

Today the US website Flavorwire responded to Rolling Stone magazine's '40 Reasons to get Excited About Music' with their own '40 Better Reasons...' It must be said that the Flavorwire article is better, and the reasons selected are better. That said, the RS one is worth a gander at anyway. However, not all 80 reasons apply to music in Ireland. Some do, some don't. So here's my 40 Reasons to Get Excited About Irish Music... (note: these aren't in a specific order, they are all just as important as each other)

#1 - ELECTRIC PICNIC
Ireland's "boutique festival" is back for its sixth edition, coming on leaps and bounds from Groove Armada, David Kitt, and Super Furry Animals headlining in 2004. This year there are tonnes of great acts from at home and abroad, with the Frames being the pick of the locals and a reunited Roxy Music the biggest act on the bill.
http://www.electricpicnic.ie/

#2 - OXEGEN
Taking over from Witnness, Oxegen has quickly become the must visit event for any music lover. Now taking place over three days in July, the 2010 lineup promises to be the most diverse ever, with everything from hip-hop to folk to dance. There's a very international feel to this year's showcase with Eminem, Jay-Z, and Muse topping the bill.
http://www.oxegen.ie/

#3 - INDIE-PENDENCE
A much newer festival than the two behemoths, Indie-Pendence will take place on the August bank holiday weekend this year, and features some of the best upcoming Irish acts. Expect to hear and see Jape, The Coronas, The Chapters, CODES, Yes Cadets, and many more over three days.
http://www.mitchelstownfest.com/

#4 - CASTLEPALOOZA
The other guy in the "little two", Castlepalooza takes place in Tullamore in August, and shares many acts with its sister festival Indie-Pendence. Among the biggest draws this year is Mercury Rev, but of the local acts, Fionn Regan is sure to put on a fantastic show.
http://www.castlepalooza.com/

#5 - HWCH
Hard Working Class Heroes takes place every September and showcases the best in young Irish talent. It's an essential step for any upcoming band, and past HWCH gigs have increased the exposure of acts such as Ham Sandwich, Fight Like Apes, Super Extra Bonus Party, Halves, RSAG, and Dark Room Notes. Expect to see a lot of exciting new acts this September.
http://www.hwch.net/index.html

#6 - KILKENNY RHYTHM AND ROOTS FESTIVAL
Only two weeks left until the opening night of the 2010 KK R&R Festival, and anticipation is growing. This year's line-up is the best yet, featuring great American acts - Josh Ritter, Joe Pug, the Duke and the King, and Jason Isbell are all due to perform - as well as dozens of homegrown artists. Local highlights should be James Vincent McMorrow, Jezzebelle, Clive Barnes, and the Sullivan Brothers. Many of the gigs are free, and some take place during the day. Make sure to check out the lineup.
http://www.kilkennyroots.com/

#7 - HEINEKEN MUSIC
Not only sponsoring Oxegen, Heineken also have their hands in other pies (or should that be lagers?), particularly the Green Energy festival which takes place in Dublin in May. They also sponsor Green Spheres events around the country, and run a wonderful music website, featuring some of Ireland's best music journalists.
http://www.heinekenmusic.ie/

#8 - 2UIBESTOW
I know I harp on about this a lot, but 2UIBestow is the best music blog in Ireland, particularly when it comes to homegrown talent. Peter Nagle updates daily with reviews, downloads, and wonderful features - all concerned with promoting the best of Irish. A lot of acts have come to my attention because of Peter, and if you haven't checked out his wonderful blog, I suggest you do so immediately.
http://2uibestow.blogspot.com/

#9 - NIALLER9
The perennial winner of Best Music Blog at the Irish Blog Awards, Nialler9 is essential daily reading for any follower of Irish music. Most of his posts are an eclectic mix of talent, and there's a lot of worldwide music coverage, but he often has exclusive domestic material, and his inclusions on the monthly MAP mixtape are always inspired.
http://nialler9.com

#10 - ON THE RECORD
Irish Times music critic Jim Carroll runs a regular blog alongside his weekly reviews and features in the IT arts supplement The Ticket. While he does not post as often as some other Irish bloggers, his profile as a national journalist brings a lot of traffic - thus generating an outlandish amount of reader interaction. Always a great place to hang out - especially when there's something controversial.
http://www.irishtimes.com/blogs/ontherecord/

#11 - HOT PRESS
Ireland's longest-running music magazine, Hot Press has always been at the forefront of domestic coverage. The internet has probably decreased its readership in recent years, but it still provides great articles and interviews every fortnight. Plus it still costs less than a breakfast roll.
http://www.hotpress.com/

#12 - STATE.IE
Originally beginning life as an answer to Hot Press, the once printed magazine is now an online-only affair, providing music news from all around the globe. It has a large number of fantastic writers, thus providing a great all-round look at the music world.
www.state.ie

#13 - SOUNDCLOUD/BANDCAMP
While these aren't Irish websites, many local acts are using them to stream their songs and offer up free downloads. A song uploaded to Soundcloud can easily be embedded onto any other website, and Bandcamp offers an easy way to download tracks. Two of the best recent examples have been the free giveaways of Cast of Cheers' debut album Chariot and the Holy Roman Army's Desecrations EP.

#14 - TOUTLESS
A wonderful remedy for overpriced tickets on eBay, toutless is a message board which allows users to post up Tickets for Sale as well as Tickets Wanted. This wouldn't be too interesting in its own right, except for the fact that toutless forbids any kind of profiteering, and tickets must be sold at cost price or lower. Check it out, you could find yourself a bargain.
http://www.toutless.com/viewforum.php?f=1

#15 - CLUAS
Now ten years old, Cluas is Ireland's longest running music webzine. It has many sections, but the best of which is always its live reviews. The writers attend a lot of gigs around the country (but mostly in the capital) and provide fantastic feedback.
http://www.cluas.com/

#16 - GOLDENPLEC
Run by two diligent writers, GoldenPlec features more competitions than the Olympics. There's always plenty on offer, and is a great draw to the site. Missed your chance to buy a ticket to a gig? There's probably a competition on here somewhere to win them. And to get you to stick around, there's news, reviews, and lots more.
http://www.goldenplec.com/

#17 - THUMPED
A great website with music news, interviews, and competitions. However, I must say that the best thing to come out of Thumped is their regular newsletter which rounds up the best of these. Always welcome in my inbox, I highly recommend subscribing to it. And when you're done there, pop over to the forum for a chinwag.
http://www.thumped.com

#18 - MUZU.TV
Muzu.tv is essentially the Irish equivalent of YouTube, and thus hosts a heap of local music videos. They're easily uploadable and easily embeddable, allowing even the most technophobic bunch of musicians to share and show off their live performances.
www.muzu.tv

#19 - BALCONY TV
A wonderful idea, where bands come to play on a balcony overlooking Dublin. It's no Woodstock, but the stage has hosted many great acts, and the site's videos have had over 10 million views from around the world.
www.balconytv.ie

#20 - CHOICE MUSIC PRIZE
Established in 2005, the Choice Music Prize is the brainchild of Jim Carroll and an answer to the UK's Mercury Music Prize. Every year it selects ten of the best national albums, and then whittles them down to one eventual winner at a glitzy awards ceremony in Vicar Street. This year's winner was Adrian Crowley's Season of Sparks which beat off more commercial acts such as Bell x1 and the Swell Season to take home the €10,000 cheque.
http://www.choicemusicprize.com/

#21 - METEOR AWARDS
The object of scorn from many music snobs, the Meteor Awards is Ireland's biggest music awards ceremony, and far more credible than the Brit Awards. It showcases the best in Irish Pop, but aside from Westlife winning every year, the Best Male and Best Female categories always give great exposure. Wallis Bird was named this year's Best Female and has increased her profile greatly as a result.
http://meteormusicawards.meteor.ie/

#22 - IMTV AWARDS
The first annual Irish Music Television Awards were held last October, and the follow-up ceremony is due to take place around the same time this year. It features a number of diverse categories highlighting the best in Irish music video production. The two big awards on the night are the Best Overall Video and the Best Director prizes.
www.irishmusictelevision.com

#23 - CEOL AR IMEALL
Presented by Sunday Tribune journalist Una Mullally, Ceol ar Imeall is a late night music show on TG4, which perhaps did not get as much attention as it deserved due its late-night timeslot. A fantastic show which hopefully will be moved to an earlier time when it returns for a second season.
http://www.tg4.ie/Bearla/clar/ceol-im/index.asp

#24 - OTHER VOICES
Recorded in a church in Dingle, Co. Kerry, Other Voices is the rawest music show on Irish television. Featuring both interviews and live performances, it highlights local and international acts, as well as established artists alongside smaller names.
http://www.rte.ie/tv/othervoices

#25 - WHEN UNDER ETHER
When TV3 bought Channel 6 and renamed it 3e, Irish music suffered a huge blow with the demise of Nightshift. However, 6's music presenters Michelle Doherty and Elton Mullally moved to RTE2 to cover alternative music on the bizarrely titled When Under Ether (I know it's a PJ Harvey song, but they could've just called it "Music".)
http://www.rte.ie/tv/programmes/when_under_ether.html

#26 - 2XM
There was a lot of fuss kicked up when it was announced that BBC 6 Music was to disappear. Luckily Ireland's equivalent is staying around. 2XM is home to many great DJs, and caters to a much more varied market than its parent station 2FM. Highlights are Aoife Barrys' 'Sweet Oblivion', 'The Analogue Hour', and 'Wired for Sound'.
http://www.rte.ie/digitalradio/twoxm/index.html

#27 - PHANTOM FM
"The home of Rock in Dublin", and my favourite Dublin station, Phantom FM plays a lot of Irish acts in its rotation. It's the original home of When Under Ether presenter Michelle Doherty, but there are countless other wonderful DJs, catering for all tastes (as long as it's rock).
http://www.phantomfm.com/

#28 - BEAT 102 103
Little known in Dublin, Beat 102 103 (or Beat FM) caters to the south-east. It's mainly a pop station, and plays the likes of Rihanna, Beyonce, and the Black Eyed Peas, but is also known to play local acts - particularly on 'Irish Beats' with Rob O'Connor.
http://www.beat102103.com/

#29 - IRISH RECORD STORE DAY
This year's international Record Store Day takes place tomorrow, April 17th, and offers music fans the chance to get their hands on some rare material. It also provides a great outlet for independent record stores, such as Road Records, Tower Records, and many other music shops outside the capital to get punters through the doors. For a full list of RSD records, check out this great article on thumped.

#30 - INDIECATER
The cleverly titled independent record label is host to a large number of cheap and cheerful albums and EPs. There are dozens of great discounts to be found, as well as exclusive new releases and re-releases of classic albums. All the albums can be streamed beforehand, and free downloads of a track or two are always available to sample.
http://www.indiecater.com/

#31 - ROAD RECORDS
Situated on Fade Street in Dublin, Road Records is one of Ireland's finest independent record stores. Home to a range of vinyl, as well as the wonderful Record of the Month club, there is something in here to suit everyone's tastes. It's open seven days a week, and is a must-visit for any collector.
http://www.roadrecs.com/

#32 - TOWER RECORDS
Just off Grafton Street (not the one upstairs in Eason), Tower Records is a fantastic music shop in its own right, but really comes to life when it hosts one of its many fantastic in-store performances. Many leading Irish acts have played in the back of the shop, and a lot of great music can be heard for free while browsing the shelves.
www.towerrecords.ie/

#33 - O2 ARENA
Formerly the Point Theatre, the O2 is Ireland's largest indoor music venue (as far as I know), and hosts all the big global names. I saw Paul McCartney there last year, and Iron Maiden and Stevie Wonder are set to take to the stage at the docks this year. It looks fantastic since the revamp, and the sound has improved greatly too.
www.theo2.ie/

#34 - GRAND CANAL THEATRE
The Grand Canal Theatre just opened last month, but is due to host a large number of concerts, as well as many other events, over the coming months. The little brother of the bigger O2, it's a very plush venue, and is sure to become a favourite on the live scene.
www.grandcanaltheatre.ie

#35 - VICAR STREET
A medium-sized venue, and one which comedians Dara O'Briain and Tommy Tiernan return to time and again, Vicar Street is also host to semi-intimate gigs from some of Ireland's best loved musicians. Bell x1, the Frames, and the Cranberries are all fans of the venue, and it has also held some of the world's biggest names - James Brown, Steve Earle, Nick Cave, and Jeff Beck have all played in Vicar Street at one time or another.
http://www.vicarstreet.com/

#36 - WHELAN'S
Whaln's, together with the Village and its upper floor is one of Ireland's best music venues. Hundreds of artists have taken to one of its many stages since it first opened its doors over twenty years ago. Many acts who are since gone, such as Mic Christopher and Jeff Buckley, have performed in this intimate venue, which hosts a different musical event every night of the week.
http://www.whelanslive.com/

#37 - MARQUEE
A temporary venue each year in Cork, the Marquee is the temporary home of many global superstars. It began in 2005 with Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys, and in 2010 will provide a roof for an eclectic group containing Paul Weller, Christy Moore, Snoop Dogg, Westlife, and Madness.
http://www.aikenpromotions.com/event.asp?eid=300

#38 - DOLAN'S
Dolan's Warehouse is home to traditional Irish music many days of the week, but often showcases more contemporary artists. The musical home of the Cranberries, Dolan's in Limerick is Munster's best music venue, and has been for many years.
www.dolans.ie

#39 - ROISIN DUBH
Connaught's finest music venue is often a stop for artists when doing a mini-tour of Ireland. Many acts play Dublin and Belfast and then stop off in Galway. The city is fantastic, and this venue is one of its jewels. A fantastic small venue, it will see the likes of Richard Hawley and Dinosaur Jr come through its doors in the coming weeks.
http://www.roisindubh.net/


#40 - THE MUSICIANS THEMSELVES
Where would Irish music be without the actual musicians? There's so many great established acts, as well as many more coming up through the ranks. It would be unfair to single out just one. But maybe not fifty...

List: 50 Best Irish Acts Today - 10-01

Part Five, and the final part 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.

Read the rest of the list:
50-41
40-31
30-21
20-11

10. Mick Flannery
'Tomorrow's Paper' from Corkonian Mick Flannery's second album 'White Lies' is about as good a singer-songwriter classic as you're likely to hear. In fact that whole album is utterly brilliant. A vast improvement on his debut Evening Train, he's an artist who keeps going from strength to strength. He tours endlessly around the country too, so be sure to catch him when and if you can.



9. Adrian Crowley
Winner of this year's Choice Music Prize, Adrian Crowley is finally getting the adoration he deserves. His first album came out way back in 1999, but it seems like the 2010s will be his decade. My own favourite artist Ryan Adams loves him, and if that's not praise, he's due to appear high up on the bill at Electric Picnic 2010 as one of Ireland's biggest names.



8. The Swell Season/The Frames/Glen Hansard
These are all lumped in together as they're whatever Glen Hansard decides to do after polishing his Oscar when he wakes up in the morning. He's focused mainly on the Swell Season in the past few years, but with the Frames still gigging (and also set to play this year's Electric Picnic), there would be no better time than 2010 for some new material from Ireland's greatest rock band. Until that happens, however, we still have Glen and Marketa churning out gorgeous duets, as well as reissues of the Frames' breakout albums to keep us going.



7. The Holy Roman Army
Fellow Carlovians, the Holy Roman Army appeared on the scene last year with their amazing electronic record How the Light Gets In. Their song 'Stagger Gently Home' was a captivating track, and after appearing on Nialler9's MAP gained attention all over the world. They are similarly amazing live, and have really honed their live act since I first saw them early last year. They've also followed up that debut album with a fantastic covers EP, Desecrations, which can be downloaded for free here.



6. Oliver 'Ollie' Cole
Ollie Cole is best known for being the frontman in Irish pop-rockers Turn. They made some incredible albums during their time together, with Forward being the standout. However, on his own, Cole is proving to be even better. He released his debut solo album We Albatri last month, and is one of the country's most charming live performers.



5. The Chapters
The Chapters are a bunch of the most down-to-earth musicians in Irish music. After a rocky start with label bankruptcy and the like, the band finally signed with 3ú, who unleashed 'Videotapes' on the world last summer. Since then, the band has been engulfed in success, releasing the fantastic debut album Perfect Stranger, and going on to appear on radio on TV both here and across the pond. They're set to be one of the biggest draws at this year's Indie-pendence on the August Bank Holiday weekend.



4. The Divine Comedy/The Duckworth Lewis Method/Neil Hannon
Like the Frames and the Swell Season for Glen Hansard, these two bands are Neil Hannon's babies. In 2009, Hannon joined forces with Pugwash's Thomas Walsh to record the greatest ever Irish concept album - about a fundamentally British game. It was one of the year's most captivating and charming albums, featuring the utterly brilliant 'Jiggery Pokery'. 2010 sees Hannon back in his old work clothes, with the Divine Comedy due to release their tenth album Bang Goes the Knighthood on May 31st.



3. James Vincent McMorrow
In my review of James Vincent McMorrow's recent debut album Early in the Morning, I called it "the best album to come out of Ireland in a decade". Yes, it's that damn good. The songs from it have been used in an advert for Barnardos as well as on hit US television shows Grey's Anatomy and One Tree Hill. However, this is only the start for McMorrow, who will definitely be the breakout Irish star of 2010.



2. Bell x1
Bell x1 are my favourite live band. Any chance I can get to see them, I take it. Paul Noonan is a fantastic entertainer, and the band are always on form together. The public knows this too, and they easily could have played 365 days at the Olympia or Vicar Street last year. They've come a long way since the days of Juniper, and release wonderful singles as well as enchanting albums. They've also gained a huge following in the US, where they've appeared on primetime television shows - including many great live performances.



1. Fight Like Apes
A bizarre bunch of folks, fronted by the brilliant vocalist MayKay, Fight Like Apes released one of the most-anticipated Irish albums of the 00s, And the Mystery of the Golden Medallion to much fanfare in 2008. It was every bit as good as expected, and was released worldwide last year. Their live show is even better, playing festivals all over Europe last summer, including a standout performance at Glastonbury. They represented Ireland at the Eurosonic Festival last January, which has just been released as the free album Live at Eurosonic. Download that fantastic set here. Ireland's greatest act right now.

List: 50 Best Irish Acts Today - 20-11

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.

List: 50 Best Irish Acts Today - 30-21

Part Three 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.

30. Lisa Hannigan
The former cohort of Damien Rice decided to go it alone, and his music suffers as a result. The lack of her vocals on most of 9 was the reason it wasn't as good as O. Her debut album was a consistent record, but not amazing. However, we know from experience that she definitely has it in her.



29. John Shelly and the Creatures
John Shelly and the Creatures have been in your head for a while. 'Long May You Reign' was used as the soundtrack to the Discover Northern Ireland adverts. The Belfast band have just released their debut album Dinosaur, which is an album full of gorgeous tunes.



28. I Am Not Lefthanded
They've taken over 2UIBestow this week, but 66% Irish band I am Not Lefthanded could easily take over the airwaves with their instantly memorable pop tunes. They've only released EPs so far, but are due to record their album this year. Their live act is just as fantastic.



27. We Cut Corners
Another act selected in the Irish Sound of 2010, We Cut Corners are a brilliant Dublin duo, who have supported some fine acts as well as appearing on national television. Their appearance on When Under Ether late last year was wonderful.



26. Mumblin' Deaf Ro
2007's The Herring and the Brine was one of the albums of the decade, and since then Mumblin' Deaf Ro has been playing regularly and consistently all around the country. It was his second album, and the follow-up is eagerly awaited - not least by all those people who read his regular comments over at On the Record!



25. Duke Special
Not many artists have the pull or the imagination to release three albums simultaneously. But that's just what Duke Special did earlier this year. Ever since 'Freewheel' launched him into the mainstream, he's been doing everything possible to combat the natural progression to chart topper. That takes someone either brave or crazy. But perhaps Duke Special is both.



24. Fiach
Another artist who has just recently released his debut, Dubliner Fiach is one of Ireland's unsung musical heroes. A wonderful singer in both English and Irish, the 24 year old is a definite tip for the top. His debut album So I is a great album, but it doesn't show off the tremendous talent he has performing live.



23. Pearse McLoughlin
Pearse McLoughlin released the wonderful single 'Ways to Kill a Werewolf' last year, and since seeing the video, I have had the song on repeat. I'd say a thousand of those youtube views are mine! It's taken from the album Busy Whisper, which really deserves much more attention.



22. Mark Dignam
Mark Dignam is a popular musician's musician. At his Whelan's gig last year, Liam O'Maonlai and Glen Hansard both popped along to join him on stage. He's also performed with the Frames and Paul Noonan. All those acts know how good Dignam is, and it's about time that the public knew how good he is too.



21. Two Door Cinema Club
Yet another Irish Sound of 2010 pick, Northern Ireland's Two Door Cinema Club are gaining a lot of critical acclaim from a variety of sources. They're a fantastic rock band, and just released debut album Tourist History. The album is decent, but Two Door Cinema Club's singles so far are insanely catchy. There's only better to come.

List: 50 Best Irish Acts Today - 2010 Edition, 40-31

Part Two 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.

40. The Guggenheim Grotto
Dublin pop duo the Guggenheim Grotto impressed me greatly with their marvellous second album Happy the Man. Their debut was an accomplished album, but the follow-up was amazing. It was released in America last year, and won great acclaim, with the band's music appearing on many television shows.



39. Julie Feeney
2009 was a great year for Julie Feeney. She was nominated for a Meteor Award, and her second album pages was selected by the Choice Music Prize panel as one of the best albums of the year. She had previously won the Choice Award back in 2006, which shows her to be one of the most consistent artists around.



38. Kitty and the Can Openers
Kitty and the Can Openers are one of the most captivating live acts I've seen. They're a Belfast band, fronted by the fantastic Ciara O'Neill, who write wonderfully twee pop tunes. You might have seen them supporting someone in the past year or so, but they're so good, they really should be doing their own headline tours.



37. Planet Parade
Selected in the Irish Sound of 2010 Poll, Planet Parade are a great upcoming band. Hailing from Kildare, they've supported some fantastic acts and played every Irish venue possible. It won't be long before they really take off.



36. The Last Tycoons
I reviewed the self-titled debut from the Last Tycoons earlier this week, and found it to be the perfect cross between Nick Cave and the Rolling Stones. There's a hell of a lot of other influences in there too, but this alt-country/rock band is a welcome breath of fresh air to the usual singer-songwriter stuff which emerges every year.



35. Robotnik
One of the most eclectic artists around, Chris Morrin released his debut album Pleasant Square back in 2008. Anyone who has heard it, will tell you that 'I Found Jesus' may be the catchiest Irish song ever. He plays endless live shows, both here and abroad, and is a fantastic entertainer.



34. Mark Geary
Mark Geary has been on the scene for two decades now, and plays a wonderful electronic folk (screw you Ellie Goulding). He's a much more dedicated musician than most, and gives his all at his live shows. I first saw him on Other Voices a few years back, and have been hooked ever since.



33. Valerie Francis
Another Choice Music nominees, Valerie Francis's Slow Dynamo was one of the best Irish records of 2009. A real grower of an album, with tunes that work even better in a live arena. I can't wait to see what she does next.



32. Declan O'Rourke
Hailing from Ballyfermot, Declan O'Rourke is one of Ireland's most accomplished singer-songwriters. He released the excellent debut album Since Kyabram in 2004, with the follow-up coming three years later. At this rate, we should expect the third album to drop sometime this year



31. The Dirty 9s
Sounding like something out of Kill Bill, the Dirty 9s have just released their debut album Stop Screaming, Start Dreaming. The Dubliners are a fantastic live band, who pack a fantastic punch. Definitely one to watch for the future.

List: 50 Best Irish Acts Today - 2010 Edition, 50-41

Last year, Peter at 2UIBestow answered the Irish Times' list of the best Irish Acts around today with his own list. This year, he has followed that up by doing it again. Check out his list of his top 50 here, and then when you're finished, have a look at mine.

50. Ham Sandwich
The Kells band have been going for a few years, but have only started to hit the big time in the last year or so. Debut album Carry the Meek was met with great acclaim in early 2008, and a lot is expected from their follow-up.



49. Groom
Groom emerged from the alt-folk band Settler six years ago, and have gained in ability and following ever since. They take their inspirations from a variety of places, and are a live band definitely worth seeing.



48. Miss Paula Flynn
A new contender on the scene, Paula Flynn released her self-titled debut album just last October. A great lyricist and melody-writer, it is Flynn's voice that really makes her one to watch. One of the best female singers in Ireland right now.



47. Herm
If Paul Clancy were still alive, he definitely would have made this list. Kevin Connolly from Herm worked on his album, and is a fantastic musician in his own right. Their 2009 album Monsters is a great record, although somewhat disparate. However, I expect that all to calm down on the next album. Or maybe not...



46. Laura Izibor
The winner of the 2004 2fm Song Contest, a lot was expected of Izibor when she signed an adult record deal. Still only 22, she has most of her career ahead of her. And if her debut Let The Truth Be Told is anything to go by, it'll be amazing.



45. Declan De Barra
The Waterford singer-songwriter is a former member of Clann Zú, and uses his experiences from living in Australia and Canada to create enchanting music. A fabulous live entertainer too, DeBarra has his finger in many pies, and is one to watch on television as well as radio.



44. The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra
Listed in our Irish Sound of 2010, the Brad Pitt Light Orchestra are one of the best named bands around. Still yet to release their debut album, they're a wonderful live band, and have two gorgeous EPs under theit belts.



43. Damien Rice
The former Juniper frontman came to prominence at the start of the last decade, but took years to record a follow-up to the excellent O. We know he's capable of utter brilliance, but we could be waiting years to hear it.



42. Gemma Hayes
Gemma Hayes is one of the most underrated acts in Ireland today. She writes gorgeous Sheryl Crow-esque songs, and has a wonderful catalogue of albums. A marvellous live entertainer who should be so much bigger worldwide.




41. Henrietta Game
Another feature in the Irish Sound of 2010 poll, Henrietta Game are very new to the scene, but have already garnered much attention. Their set at Electric Picnic last year was one of the highlights of the festival, and there is so much more to come from this Limerick band.

Blogs What I Like: Day & Night

Niall Byrne aka Nialler9 writes a regular column in the Irish Independent's Day & Night section. He also has a blog to go with it. Today, the Sound of 2010 list written by myself and Peter over at 2UIBestow was featured. In addition to this, there's also a large number of other bands tipped for the top, with links to many lists. Check them all out here:
http://dayandnightmag.ie/2010/01/15/new-bands-to-watch-in-2010/

and have a look at State.ie's tips here:
http://www.state.ie/category/faces-of-2010/

The magazine has come a long way since that pic above...

List: Best Irish Albums of 2009

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.

List: Irish Sound of 2010

After last year's succesful Irish Sound of 2009 post between myself and Peter over at 2UIBestow, we have teamed up again to highlight ten acts worth looking out for in 2010. We've picked five acts each, all of which could end up dominating the Irish music scene in the next twelve months.

A Plastic Rose

Belfast based A Plastic Rose consists of equal parts Sligo and Belfast and make the type of Indie Rock music Tim Wheeler dreams about. The vocals are shared by the contrasting styles of Ian and Gerry which results in harmonies not normally associated with the alternative rock genre. So far in their career they have released Eps and Singles with the full LP hopefully out this side of Christmas 2010. Seeing A Plastic Rose live is a must for the new year.

MySpace



The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra

Hailing from Limerick The Brad Pitt Light Orchestra make some wonderful indie folk music which is receiving radio play across the country. They've release two EPs, played Electric Picnic and HWCHs as well as picking up celebrity fans like Paul McCloon and Cormac Battle along the way! 2010 could be the year of The BPLO with the likely release of their debut on the horizon.

MySpace



Candice Gordon

Born in South Africa, but resident here since the age of seven, the Dubliner has an amazing voice as well as a wild backstory including a stint in the circus. But it's the music that really does the talking - it's a deep down dirty whiskey swagger that pulls no punches.

MySpace

Candice Godon - 'Smoking Like the Barrel of a Gun'


Fiach

Is it better to release a number of mediocre albums or wait until the time is right to make and release an amazing debut album? Fiach has been around forever but in February he will finally release that debut album that he has spent years preparing. Fiach is a veteran of many a sessions night clocking up an impressive apprenticeship of live performances. The recent Whelans gigs proved he is equally impressive fronting a band and owning his audience. I think 2010 will find us falling for the singer-songwriter again with Fiach's uplifting songwriting being at the forefront of the movement. February 25th finds Fiach in The Button Factory for the album launch!

MySpace



Henrietta Game

Henrietta Game only formed last January and already they've released a single, selected as Tony Fenton's daily download, performed with the legendary Peter Green and got a high profile slot at The Electric Picnic. Henrietta Game are guitar, cello, violin, glockenspiel and four part harmonies which send shivers down the spine. Henrietta Game is one of the most original bands out there which will appeal to indie kids and folk lovers alike.

MySpace




Oliver "Ollie" Cole

Many of you may remember Ollie Cole as the frontman in the sadly-missed Turn. Well, he's back under the guise Oliver Cole and has signed to EMI. He released the excellent What Will You Do EP last year, and looks set to release full-length debut album We Albatri sometime in 2010.

MySpace

Oliver Cole - 'We Albatri'


Padraig Digan

Padraig was the lead singer with Wallmark and later with Whiskey Tango Foxtrot. In 2005 Wallmark released a great album but Wallmark didn't last much longer after the release. Since then Padraig has been writing a whole bunch of great tunes that will become his debut album this year with Karl Odlum's input. Padraig writes honest emotional songs full of life and character. With luck 2010 will be Padraig's year!

Padraig Dignan



Planet Parade

Clane produces a lot of good music. Planet Parade are the latest act to join Bell x1 and Damien Rice as exports of Kildare's Detroit Rock City. They're a fantastic indie-pop band who have been honing their craft in a live setting - particularly at autumn's Hard Working Class Heroes Festival in Dublin. Check out their EP Ghosts to People, and if you're around, head over to Whelan's on Friday, January 15th to catch them live.

MySpace

Planet Parade - 'Sunshine'


Two Door Cinema Club

With a debut album imminent, Bangor, Co. Down's Two Door Cinema Club could be the biggest Irish act of 2010. They've been hyped by the BBC and Spinner, and will be releasing their first album, Tourist History, on March 1st. They played the Introducing Tent at Glastonbury last year, but expect them to feature higher up the bill at Festivals in 2010, as well as joining the NME Shockwaves Tour throughout the UK and Ireland.

MySpace

Two Door Cinema Club - 'I Can Talk'



We Cut Corners

Ireland's other singing drummer duo Oppenheimer split up over Christmas, but instead of the Nordies' electronic feel, We Cut Corners are a beautiful folk-pop group with songs that sound so much bigger than the sum of their parts. They also joined the lineup at Hard Working Class Heroes in 2009 and featured on RTÉ 2's When Under Ether. Expect to hear much more from them in 2010.

MySpace

We Cut Corners - 'YKK'