I had been looking forward for some time to seeing this show and after my recent conversation with John Sheahan, the last surviving member of the original Dubliners, I was even more excited. The show, the brainchild of John and another musical legend, Phil Coulter (the Musical Director), is produced by John's daughter, Ceoladh and directed by Maurice Sweeney and recreates the sights and sounds of The Dubliners as they were in the 1960's and early 1970's. The musicians, handpicked by John and...

Today marks the 40th anniversary of the passing of one of my favourite singers, Luke Kelly of the legendary Irish folk group, The Dubliners. For me, he was one of the greatest singers and interpreters of a folk song who ever lived and it is sad that he left this world at the early age of 43, with so much left to offer.  I recently sang my own tribute song to him at Music Academy and I am pleased that my good friend, Chris Kavanagh and his group, The Patriots, are keeping Luke's great...

Saturday, 27th August dawned bright and clear and promised  warm and dry weather for the opening day of Pairc Festival, Birmingham's new celebration of Irish music and culture.  It was with excitement and enthusiasm  that I set out to cover the event for WhatsOn U.K. Saturday's programme began with Lampa, who provided a very enjoyable programme of traditional and contemporary songs, played in a lively, upbeat manner. They were followed by the ever popular Father Teds, who...