The Goo 1
Christian Wethered FOLK March is shaping up to be
a good one. First of all, a couple of small festivals are kicking off. Kilkenny TradFest begins on March 14–17, in Kilkenny City. This will include performances from Renowned accordionist Sharon Shannon on Friday 14th at St Canice’s Cathedral, and award-winning folk singer Aoife Scott with her trio at the Set Theatre on Saturday 15th. Well worth a shout. Padraig Jack will play Cleere’s Theatre on 15th March There’s also the Tullamore TradFest on March 22–24 in County Offaly. This will be a celebration of traditional Irish music. Tullamore TradFest features sessions, concerts, and workshops, attracting musicians and enthusiasts alike. As for other concerts, Brigid Mae Power will be playing a gig in Bello Bar with Bill MacKay on Saturday 22nd March. She’ll be playing songs from her recent album Songs for You: a collection 36 of cover songs dedicated to her father. Her minimalist, evocative sound is incredible, and it’s hard to think of a better venue to hear her play live. The Murphy Beds will be playing with Liz Hanley on Saturday 8th March at the Shamrock Traditional Irish Music Society. The band boast the harmonious blend of Eamon O’Leary and Jefferson Hamer, and will be accompanied by the exceptional fiddler and vocalist Liz Hanley. Their collaboration offers a rich tapestry of traditional and original folk songs, delivered with close harmonies and intricate instrumental arrangements. In terms of releases, Somebody’s Child – When Youth Fades Away drops on March 28th. This is following their second, brilliant single ‘Last Night I Held Your Hand’. The album was recorded in the US with Grammy-winner Peter Katis (The National, Interpol, Frightened Rabbit). The album promises a fresh perspective, reflecting on the passage of time and youthful experiences. In frontman Cian Godfrey’s words, ‘If our first album was about running away, this one is about staying put and reflecting. It’s about letting people in and letting ourselves out.” Then there’s an album from Meljoann on March 14th, called Status. Their offering is set to intrigue listeners with its unique blend of electronic and folk elements, pushing the boundaries of traditional Irish music. She describes herself as an ‘avant-hyperpop producer from Ireland’. Check out her manic 2024 single, ‘Bye’. Don’t forget: Artist applications for Ireland Music Week close on March 25th. The festival offers 50 Irish acts the opportunity to showcase their work to 90 international delegates, including bookers and buyers from major festivals.