Category: Latest News

Anne Gildea’s – “How to Get The Menopause and Enjoy It” Show Returns to Ireland

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Anne Gildea is a Dublin-based comedienne. Her current show How to get The Menopause and Enjoy It, launched in Dublin’s Viking Theatre on Valentine’s Day 2022. The show’s combination of comedy, information, warmth, and authenticity proved an instant sell-out hit: HTGTM&EI is currently on its third tour of Irish theatres, in addition to international dates in the UK and Europe. Gildea has just announced a host of shows in Ireland from March straight through to December 2024! (See dates below).

Anne will also be touring with preeminent menopause expert, Dr Louise Newson as a comedic contributor to her show ‘Hormones and Menopause – The Great Debate’ show. From Portsmouth to London’s West End to Inverness, this 35-date tour will be all over the UK Autumn/Winter 2024.

Previously Anne was a co-founder and long-time creative/performer with The Nualas, (1995-2018) Ireland’s top shiny-dressed, musical-comedy girl- trio. Their unique brand of intricately-arranged, self-penned song and provocative chat about current stuff proved a huge success.

They toured worldwide most notably playing The Royal Albert Hall, London; a sell-out seven-week run at The Irish Arts Centre, New York; multiple sell-out seasons at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival; a six-week sell-out at the Drill Hall, London, nine-weeks at The Tivoli, and five-weeks at The Academy, Dublin, as well as The Olympia Theatre and Vicar Street,  Dublin, The Opera Houses in Belfast and Cork, a 64-date tour of the UK in 2001,  and countless other major venues across Ireland, Australia and Asia.

Many international radio and TV appearances over the years included a double headliner on BBC One TV’s Stand-Up Show, with US comic Jon Stewart, BBC’s Edinburgh Nights, and The Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala, Seven Network, Australia as well as guesting on shows including BBC Radio’s The Ned Sherrin Show, The World Service’s The Arts Show, and writing and recording several radio series for BBC Radio 4.

Smidgen of Nuala Reviews:

‘Must see.’ NY Times |  ‘Dammit! The Nualas can sing and make your face ache from laughing’. Time Out, London | ‘They had a capacity crowd eating out of their hands.’  The Evening Standard, London |  ‘Sequin chic and bone-dry wit’ Independent, London | ‘The audience bayed, clamoured and stamped for more. I haven’t seen the like at a ‘Fringe show before!’ ‘ Edinburgh Evening News | ‘Genius.’ The Scotsman | ‘A world class act’ Sunday Times | ‘Feckin’ great.’  The Village Voice, NY

Solo, as a comedy writer/performer Anne was headline performer on 5 RTE TV series:  X-it File (2 series), X-it Pole, The Gerry Ryan To-Night Show and The Dog’s Dinner, & featured in comedy-doc The Green, Green Grass of Home, and serio-doc No Laughing Matter, which followed her treatment for breast cancer in 2011. She has appeared in other telly such as Fr. Ted (Channel Four) and Bridget and Eamon (RTE).

As a stand-up Anne head-lined an episode of RTE’s The Liffey Laughs, and guested on The Late, Late Show. Live she has performed all over Ireland, in the US and in the UK,  where she started out doing comedy  with the trio, Doris Karloff, London, ‘89.

She has published two books, a novel, Deadlines and Dickheads, (O’Brien Press 2006) and a memoir, I’ve got Cancer What’s Your Excuse (Hachette, 2013) The latter inspired the feature film, The Bright Side, which premiered in cinemas in August 2021 and streamed on Amazon Prime from May 2022.

‘Talented, confident and phenomenally quick-witted,’ Chortle |

‘Irresistibly hilarious’ Irish Times |

 ‘Laugh out loud funny.’ Hot Press|

Ireland’s answer to David Sedaris.’ GCN |

Anne was a featured columnist for seven and a half years with The Irish Mail on Sunday, by-line ‘A wickedly funny take on modern Ireland’, and has also written for other publications including   The Irish Times, Examiner, Independent &  The Irish Post, London.

Selection of How to Get The Menopause and Enjoy It reviews:

‘Never has the female body been put under such an hilarious microscope… this funny and taboo-busting work blasts the lid right off. Utterly punk.’ – Irish Independent

‘So canny, funny, smart, on-point and hilarious. Wonderful tonic and cultural link to our bonkers past.’ – June Caldwell (writer)

‘Anne Gildea’s show is one-woman genius. Hilarious and educational in equal parts.’ –Loretta Dignam, founder, Menopause Hub, Dublin

‘Amazingly funny and really accurate menopause show – loved it!’ – Dr. Deirdre Lundy, menopause specialist.

ANNE GILDEA  ‘How to Get the Menopause & Enjoy It’

Irish TOUR DATES March – Dec 2024

WATERGATE THEATRE – Kilkenny – Sat 23 March

ESKER ARTS CENTRE  – Tullamore, Co. Offaly  – Fri 29 March  SOLD OUT

NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE – Wexford –  Sat 13 April

CLAREMORRIS TOWN HALL – Claremorris, Co. Mayo –  Sat 20 April

SOLSTICE  ARTS CENTRE, Navan, Co. Meath  – Friday 10 May

THE EXCHANGE – Twickenham,  London – 17 & 18 May

RAMOR –  Virginia, Co. Cavan –  Sat 01 June

DUNAMAISE ARTS CENTRE – Portlaoise Co. Offaly  – Friday 14th June

THE CIVIC THEATRE –  Tallaght, Dublin – Sat 29th June

FRIARS GATE, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick – Fri 06 September

THE VENUE THEATRE,  Ratoath, Co. Meath –  Sat  07 September

HAWK’S WELL THEATRE – Sligo –  Friday 13 September

GlÓR, Ennis, Co. Clare – Saturday 14th September

ÍONTAS THEATRE –  Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan  –  Sat 21 September

TOWN HALL THEATRE – Westport, Co. Mayo – Friday 15 November

BACKSTAGE THEATRE – Longford –   Sat 16 November

TUAR ARD ARTS CENTRE – Moate, Co. Westmeath – Fri  22 November

ABBEY TAVERN – Howth, Co. Dublin – Sat  23 November

MERMAID ARTS CENTRE – BRAY, Co.  Wicklow –  Sat  30 November

AN GRIANÁN – Letterkenny, Co. Donegal – Sat 14 December

+

Dr Louise Newson Live TOUR DATES 26 Sept – 12 Nov (+  Anne Gildea will be providing a comedic perspective in the show.

Fri 27 Sept Stafford

Sun 29 Sept The Haymarket Basingstoke

Mon 30 Sept Epsom Playhouse Epsom

Tue 1 Oct Nottingham Playhouse Nottingham

Wed 2 Oct Venue Cymru Llandudno

Thu 3 Oct The Atkinson Southport

Fri 4 Oct Kendal Leisure Centre Kendal

Sun 6 Oct Eden Court Inverness

Mon 7 Oct Festival Theatre Edinburgh

Tue 8 Oct Perth Concert Hall Perth

Thu 10 Oct Buxton Opera House Buxton

Fri 11 Oct CAST Doncaster

Sat 12 Oct Storyhouse Chester

Sun 13 Oct Lichfield Garrick Theatre Lichfield

Mon 14 Oct Chelmsford Theatre Chelmsford

Tue 15 Oct Theatre Severn Shrewsbury

Wed 16 Oct The Redgrave Theatre Bristol

Fri 18 Oct Darlington Hippodrome Darlington

Sun 20 Oct Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester

Mon 21 Oct The Duchess Theatre London

Tue 22 Oct The Hawth Crawley

Wed 23 Oct Pavilion Theatre Worthing

Thu 24 Oct Exeter Northcott Theatre Exeter

Fri 25 Oct Swan Theatre Worcester

Sun 3 Nov Kings Hall Ilkley

Mon 4 Nov The Apex Bury Saint Edmunds

Tue 5 Nov Royal & Derngate Northampton

Wed 6 Nov Lighthouse Poole

Thu 7 Nov Grove Theatre Dunstable

Fri 8 Nov Assembly Hall Theatre Tunbridge Wells

Sat 9 Nov Warwick Art Centre Coventry

Sun 10 Nov Rose Theatre Kingston

Mon 11 Nov New Theatre Royal Portsmouth

Tue 12 Nov The Alban Arena St Albans

See Anne Gildea’s official website for all links to tickets and shows!

WEBSITE www.annegildea.com

 

 

Alfie Hudson Taylor Announces New Solo Music + Irish Tour Dates!

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Alfie Hudson Taylor Takes Center Stage as a Solo Artist, Unveiling Debut Single ‘Being In Love’

[March 5, 2024] – Nationally acclaimed as one-half of the chart-topping duo Hudson Taylor, Alfie Taylor is now embarking on an exhilarating solo chapter in his musical odyssey as Alfie Hudson Taylor. Renowned for his musical prowess and experiences touring with stellar acts like Jake Bugg, The Rolling Stones, and Hozier, Alfie has achieved chart-topping success in the UK and Ireland, amassing over 60 million streams globally and selling out tours.

Despite the duo’s global triumphs, Alfie faced the harsh reality of financial challenges, vividly illustrated by having -80 euros in his bank account on the day their sophomore album reached number one. Motivated by a deep-seated desire to shed light on the trials artists face in today’s music industry, Alfie made the audacious decision to step away from the brotherly partnership.



In October 2023, Alfie took the initiative to share his profound experiences and insights with the world through the release of the podcast ‘How To Break An Artist.’ This podcast not only served as a fountain of advice for emerging talents but also unveiled the untold reasons behind the conclusion of Hudson Taylor.

Now, Alfie Hudson Taylor stands on the brink of a solo career, unveiling his emotionally charged debut single, ‘Being In Love.’ The track serves as a poignant exploration of Alfie’s personal journey in a relationship with his partner. Reflecting on the song, Alfie articulates, “I wrote ‘Being in Love’ about my partner Gabrielle. It’s an attempt to describe the feeling of being in love.”

Recorded in Somerset, UK, ‘Being In Love’ is a testament to Alfie’s newfound confidence in pursuing his solo career. Collaborating with producer and confidant Luke Potashnick, the duo intentionally captured the raw, organic, and human essence of the music. Opting for live recordings with a band and adding layered strings afterward, they deliberately eschewed over-editing to preserve the authenticity of the sound.

Alfie Hudson Taylor is poised to captivate audiences with his distinctive sound and authentic storytelling. ‘Being In Love’ heralds the commencement of an enthralling solo journey for this remarkably talented artist. With unwavering dedication to addressing industry challenges, Alfie is poised to carve out his unique niche in the dynamic landscape of the music world.

TOUR DATES: (CLICK DATES FOR TICKETS)

Tour dates:
 
 

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Al Lewis: A Journey of Heartfelt Melodies and Emotional Catharsis Spanning 15 Years

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Al Lewis: A Journey of Heartfelt Melodies and Emotional Catharsis Spanning 15 Years + Irish single release: NEVER BE FORGOTTEN – MARCH 1ST 

Al Lewis embarked on a musical odyssey that has now spanned 15 remarkable years. It was the untimely death of his father that served as the catalyst for this journey, leaving an indelible mark on Lewis and propelling him into the world of singer-songwriting.

Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Lewis shares, “I realised then that life was short, that you don’t know what’s coming around the corner, so you should grab for your dream.”

With unwavering determination, Lewis seized that dream and has since released seven solo albums, establishing himself as an artist of exceptional tenderness, insight, and melodic invention.

Lewis’s collaborations with Welsh singer-songwriter Sarah Howells, US artist Alva Leigh (as Lewis & Leigh), and Bristolian electronic soundscaper Kayla Painter (as GLASLYN) showcase his refusal to be confined by genre boundaries. Born and raised in Pwllheli, Lewis effortlessly navigates between English and Welsh in his songwriting, with his 2013 homage to Dylan Thomas, ‘A Child’s Christmas In Wales,’ making history as the first Welsh-language track to be play-listed on BBC Radio 2.

However, Lewis’s motivation extends beyond accolades and achievements. Music, for him, is an expression of joy and a cathartic exercise that allows him to better understand himself and the complexities of his own experiences. Turning personal stories into songs became a way for Lewis to navigate the intricacies of his emotions and make sense of life’s challenges.

It took Lewis a decade and a half to find the strength to address the profound loss of his father in song. Raised in an environment where discussions about feelings were not commonplace, Lewis struggled to process his grief. The breakthrough came during the filming of a television special for S4C, where Lewis was to perform for Multiple Sclerosis sufferers in North Wales. Confronted with the task of speaking about his father’s battle with MS, Lewis realized the deep-seated emotions that he had long buried.

The turning point came during the lockdown, when Lewis decided to explore his father’s long-forgotten possessions stored in the attic. Among dusty boxes, he uncovered relics from his father’s past – documents related to divorce, struggles with illness, and dreams pursued in the face of a diagnosis. This emotional journey allowed Lewis to paint a fuller picture of his father, providing closure and a deeper understanding of the man he had lost.

In sharing his personal and musical evolution, Al Lewis has emerged not only as a critically acclaimed artist but also as a testament to the transformative power of music and self-discovery. As he continues to captivate audiences with his tender melodies and insightful lyrics, Lewis stands as an inspiration for those seeking solace and understanding through the universal language of music.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Linda Coogan Byrne linda@goodseedpr.com

Editors Notes:

About Al Lewis:

Al Lewis is a singer-songwriter hailing from Pwllheli, Wales. With a career spanning 15 years, Lewis has released seven solo albums and collaborated with various artists across genres. His music, characterised by tenderness, insight, and melodic invention, reflects his personal journey of emotional catharsis and self-discovery. Born and raised in Pwllheli, Lewis writes and sings in both English and Welsh, making a mark as a versatile and compelling artist

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Rocstrong returns with ‘Moon’ ft. Tolü Makay

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Dublin’s Genre-Bending Sensation, ROCSTRONG, Announces Anticipated Album “Road Trip FM” with new song “MOON”

[Jan 24] – 

André Bangala, widely known as ROCSTRONG, has emerged as a captivating force in the Irish music scene, seamlessly blending pop, rock, and soul into an electrifying musical experience. The Congolese-Dubliner with his genre-defying sound has earned him acclaim as one of the most outstanding performers in Ireland.

ROCSTRONG kickstarted his musical journey with the Coen Brothers’ movie ‘Hail Caesar,’ where his single ‘Go Head’ took a strong hold in the soundtrack, and also served as the soundtrack for a high-profile Lidl campaign supporting women’s gaelic games. Other synchronisations include McDonald’s all-media campaign and a global campaign for Seat, solidifying his presence on the international stage.  He has showcased a charismatic star in the making. His unique style draws inspiration from musical legends such as James Brown, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Childish Gambino, Andre 3000 and Frank Ocean.

After a brief hiatus during the Covid era, the dynamic artist is back with a bang. Following the critical acclaim of his 2016 EP and memorable live performances, ROCSTRONG is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of his highly anticipated album, “Road Trip FM,” set to hit the airwaves in the Summer of 2024.

Having carved a niche with his distinctive sound and infectious energy, his return is poised to make a considerable impact on the music scene in 2024. The artist’s dynamic live performances and genre-blending artistry have garnered him a dedicated fan base, and “Road Trip FM” is set to solidify his position as a trailblazer in the industry.

With “MOON” featuring a mesmerising vocal collaboration with Tolü Makay, setting the stage and released on Feb 22nd, ROCSTRONG invites audiences to join him on a musical journey that promises to be a standout highlight of the year. Stay tuned for the Summer release of “Road Trip FM” as ROCSTRONG makes his triumphant return to the forefront of the music world. 

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Sano Hill to Release Captivating Valentine’s Day Single: “Not That Kind of Love Song”

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Galway City, January 15, 2024 – Irish singer-songwriter Sano Hill, renowned for his heartfelt compositions that delve into the intricacies of life, love, and loss, is set to enchant listeners once again with his upcoming single, “Not That Kind of Love Song.” Scheduled for release around Valentine’s Day 2024, the song promises to be a moving melodic account of a love affair, capturing intimate stolen moments that may well be the last for the featured couple.

Hill, based in the picturesque Galway City, has already established himself as a notable artist with performances across the United States and Ireland, supporting the likes of Paddy Casey and In Tua Nua among other fellow lumineers. His debut album, “If Not Now, When?” released in late 2023, received international critical acclaim, marking him as a distinctive voice in the singer-songwriter genre.

The track “Not That Kind of Love Song” presents a charming and soulful sound, featuring delightful acoustic guitar, warm string layers, and mellow drums, peppered by synth flutters and led by Sano’s alluring voice. Plastic Magazine acclaimed the song for providing an alternative sound and approach to the typical love songs that dominate the airwaves on Valentine’s Day.

“Not That Kind of Love Song” has already gained significant recognition, recently reaching the No. 1 spot on the prestigious North American New Artist Spotlight Top 20 chart. The track is also currently holding the top position on the PureMzine Irish Artist Top 20 Spotlight Video Chart.

Sano Hill’s debut album, “If Not Now, When?” charted a singer/songwriter’s journey through a relationship, from hopeful beginnings to doubt, denial, disillusionment, breakup, recovery, and finally finding his voice. The album has been celebrated for its timeless and inventive compositions, with tracks receiving praise such as “echoes of the greats from the past,” “timeless,” “remarkable,” “stunning,” and “a masterpiece.”

Recorded partly in Windmill Lane Studios, the upcoming album was produced by award-winning Irish producer Larry Hogan, with final mixing and mastering completed by celebrated engineer and producer Braddon Williams. Williams, known for his work with artists such as Beyoncé, Snoop Dogg, Mark Ronson, and The Script, has added a layer of brilliance to Sano Hill’s musical endeavors.

As Sano Hill continues to captivate audiences with his soulful and introspective sound, “Not That Kind of Love Song” promises to be a standout addition to his already impressive body of work. The single is set to release around Valentine’s Day 2024, providing a unique and heartfelt alternative to the typical love songs of the season.

Galway City, January 15, 2024 – Irish singer-songwriter Sano Hill, renowned for his heartfelt compositions that delve into the intricacies of life, love, and loss, is set to enchant listeners once again with his upcoming single, “Not That Kind of Love Song.” Scheduled for release around Valentine’s Day 2024, the song promises to be a moving melodic account of a love affair, capturing intimate stolen moments that may well be the last for the featured couple.

Hill, based in the picturesque Galway City, has already established himself as a notable artist with performances across the United States and Ireland, supporting the likes of Paddy Casey and In Tua Nua among other fellow lumineers. His debut album, “If Not Now, When?” released in late 2023, received international critical acclaim, marking him as a distinctive voice in the singer-songwriter genre.

The track “Not That Kind of Love Song” presents a charming and soulful sound, featuring delightful acoustic guitar, warm string layers, and mellow drums, peppered by synth flutters and led by Sano’s alluring voice. Plastic Magazine acclaimed the song for providing an alternative sound and approach to the typical love songs that dominate the airwaves on Valentine’s Day.

“Not That Kind of Love Song” has already gained significant recognition, recently reaching the No. 1 spot on the prestigious North American New Artist Spotlight Top 20 chart. The track is also currently holding the top position on the PureMzine Irish Artist Top 20 Spotlight Video Chart.

Sano Hill’s debut album, “If Not Now, When?” charts the development of a singer-songwriter, his emerging process and efforts to find his voice, while working through the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. The album has been celebrated for its timeless and inventive compositions, with tracks receiving praise as “echoes of the greats from the past,” “timeless,” “remarkable,” “stunning,” and “a masterpiece.”

Recorded partly in Windmill Lane Studios, the album was produced by award-winning Irish producer Larry Hogan, with final mixing and mastering completed by celebrated engineer and producer Braddon Williams. Williams, known for his work with artists such as Beyoncé, Snoop Dogg, Mark Ronson, and The Script, has added a layer of brilliance to Sano Hill’s musical endeavors.

As Sano Hill continues to captivate audiences with his soulful and introspective sound, “Not That Kind of Love Song” promises to be a standout addition to his already impressive body of work. The single is set to release around Valentine’s Day 2024, providing a unique and heartfelt alternative to the typical love songs of the season.

For more information on Sano Hill and his music, please visit https://linktr.ee/SanoHill and stay tuned for the release of “Not That Kind of Love Song.”

CONNOR McKEON AND HIS 12-PIECE BAND RETURN TO NATIONAL CONCERT HALL, MARCH 9TH, WITH THE SWEETEST FEELING: A CELEBRATION OF SOUL AND MOTOWN HITS

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Jan 15, 2024 – Following the tremendous success of the Legends Of Swing Show, Connor McKeon and his 12-piece band are set to take the stage once again at the National Concert Hall with their latest production, “The Sweetest Feeling.” After 10 sold-out shows that left audiences captivated, this new show promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the iconic hits from the Soul and Motown era.

“The Sweetest Feeling” pays homage to some of the world’s most beloved Soul and Motown artists, including Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Jackie Wilson, The Supremes, and many more. The show is a dynamic blend of musical excellence, infectious energy, and soulful renditions that transport audiences back to the golden era of timeless classics.

Connor McKeon, known for his cool and charismatic stage presence, has garnered praise from a diverse fan base, including Hollywood stars like Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, sports legend Tiger Woods, and Ireland’s own Ryan Tubridy. Aptly dubbed “The New Kings of Cool,” the band’s performances have left an indelible mark on both national and international audiences.

The upcoming show at The National Concert Hall on Saturday, 9th of March, marks a return to familiar ground for Connor and his band. Hailing from Blessington and now residing in Kildare, Connor is back by popular demand, ready to enthrall audiences with big band hits celebrating all the hits of Motown.

With more nationwide dates soon to be confirmed, “The Sweetest Feeling” tour kicks off at The National Concert Hall Dublin a venue that have played a significant role in shaping Connor’s journey as a singer and performer. Music Director on the night will be Gavin Murphy.

Connor’s musical journey began at 17 when he joined his first band, ‘No Sweat,’ a rock band that quickly gained popularity in the UK. The band’s evolution over the years led to a broad repertoire, allowing them to tailor set lists for various events. The hand-picked musicians in Connor’s band are regular players with some of the biggest names in the industry, ensuring a top-tier musical experience.

“The Sweetest Feeling” promises to be a highlight in Ireland’s entertainment calendar, with previous sell-out shows at renowned venues such as The National Concert Hall Dublin, Vicar Street, The Cork Opera House, The National Opera House Wexford, and more. As Tiger Woods aptly put it, “These guys knock it outta the park!”

For ticket bookings see: https://www.nch.ie/all-events-listing/connor-mc-keon-the-sweetest-feeling/ TIME 8:00PM VENUE MAIN STAGE TICKETS €20, €32.50, €39.50

 

MADDIE MORRIS TO RELEASE DEBUT STUDIO ALBUM “SKIN” – A MUSICAL JOURNEY INTO IDENTITY, ACTIVISM, AND HOPE.

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Jan 2024– Maddie Morris, the acclaimed BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Musician and socially conscious songwriter, is set to release their highly anticipated debut studio album, “Skin,” on February 23rd 2024. Building on the success of their first studio EP, “Upstream,” Maddie continues to push the boundaries of traditional folk music, using their art as a powerful tool to address contemporary issues and foster inclusivity.

Described by Jim Moray as “leading the next generation of socially conscious songwriters,” Maddie’s work goes beyond storytelling, transforming narratives into action. Recently commissioned by Rural Arts to explore LGBTQIA+ experiences through traditional music, Maddie has collaborated with organizations such as Queer Folk, Esperance, and Trans Pride Brighton, showcasing a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices.



“Skin,” produced by Pete Ord and recorded at The Studio at Sunbeams in Cumbria, is a beautifully crafted collection of songs that delves into the intimate, hopeful, and political aspects of identity. Maddie’s distinctive vocal style, paired with insightful songwriting, creates an album that gracefully navigates the intersection of art and activism.

The album features collaborations with outstanding artists, including Archie Churchill-Moss, Belinda O’hooley, Bryony Griffith, George Sansome, Janice Burns, Kath Ord, and Matt Downer. Musical guests such as Belinda O’Hooley, Bryony Griffith, Archie Churchill-Moss, George Sansome, and Janice Burns contribute their exceptional talents to enhance the poignant songwriting.

Maddie’s writing emanates from hope rather than anger, taking listeners on a journey through queer joy, liberation, history, hope, and vulnerability. “Skin” promises to be a significant addition to the folk music landscape, capturing the essence of Maddie’s unique perspective and commitment to making a positive impact through their art.

Following the critical acclaim of “Upstream,” Maddie Morris is poised to make an even greater impact with “Skin.” The album invites audiences to explore the profound connection between personal stories and the broader political landscape, echoing the sentiment of second-wave Feminism’s ‘the personal is political.’

“Skin” will be released on NoMasters in February 2024, marking a milestone in Maddie Morris’s career as an artist dedicated to making a difference through music.

Full list of UK Dates below: (all tickets avail here: https://www.maddiemorrismusic.co.uk/gigs

1st Feb / @ludlow_distillery / Ludlow
2nd Feb / @thejamfac / Hereford
3rd Feb / @violetstearoombridgnorth / Bridgnorth
(Bookings through @shirefolkmusic )
4th Feb / @reddeerclub / Marsden
8th Feb / @polyfalmouth / Cornwall (with @angelcakepie)
9th Feb / @barbican_theatre / Plymouth
10th Feb / @springbankarts / Derbyshire
14th Feb / St Albans Folk Club/ St Albans
16th Feb / Cambridge Folk Club / Cambridge
19th Feb / @kitchen_garden_cafe / Birmingham (with @katyrosebennett)
20th Feb / The Hoy / Leigh on Sea
21st Feb / @cecilsharphouse / London
22nd Feb / @temperancecafe / Leamington Spa
23rd Feb / @stablesmk / Milton Keynes
25th Feb / @hydeparkfolkclub / Leeds
29th Feb / Topic Folk Club / Bradford (Joint headline with @abbeythomasmusician)
1st March /St Mary’s Church /Todmorden
7th March / @forestarts_nm / New Milton
8th March / @ashcroftarts / Fareham
9th March / @westendcentre / Aldershot
10th March / Live at Sams / Sheffield
10th March / @@livetoyourlr / Online
24th March / @operanorth / Leeds (Playing with @georgesansomefolk )
28th March / @cobaltstudios.ouseburn / Newcastle
30 March / @mattandphreds / Manchester

Eleanor McEvoy Announces Christmas Single!

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Eleanor McEvoy ‘SOUTH ANNE STREET’ (The Christmas Mix) 

Via Blue Dandelion Music is Out Tues 21st Nov

+ Launch of the single on Tuesday 21st Nov 2.30pm, upstairs room in McDaids,  3 Harry St, Dublin, D02 NC42, Ireland.

Get ready for a festive treat this holiday season with South Anne Street – the Christmas Mix! Grammy award winning sound engineer Ciaran Byrne, known for his work with musical legends like U2, Ed Sheeran and The Pogues, has sprinkled his magic on Eleanor McEvoy’s enchanting song. Mark your calendars for the release on Tuesday 21st November

“South Anne Street” was originally featured on McEvoy’s critically acclaimed album “GIMME SOME WINE” which was recorded during lockdown. (Giving some clue, perhaps, as to why the album was entitled “GIMME SOME WINE”).

The song  captures the essence of a chance encounter with a former flame on a Tuesday afternoon before Christmas. Awkward conversations transform into warm moments at McDaid’s pub on Harry Street – a stone’s throw from the iconic corner of South Anne Street and Grafton Street in Dublin.

Steeped in the ambience of ‘the corner of South Anne and Grafton Street’ this Christmas Mix by Ciaran Byrne brings out the yuletide atmosphere of the lyrics.  It is the only single in the world to feature the bell of the Luas, a sound that is unique to Dublin city! As the track gently fades away, the bells of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral resonate across the city.

“South Anne Street” is both absolutely specific and utterly universal. “At the end of the day, there’s nothing quite like a quiet pint in a Dublin pub in the company of an old friend..” Experience the magic of Christmas with Eleanor McEvoy’s SOUTH ANNE STREET – The Christmas Mix and let the spirit of the season wash over you.

Featuring;

Damon Butcher (Everything But the Girl, The Beautiful South)  – Fender Rhodes

Liam Bradley (Van Morrison,  Moving Hearts) – Drums

Keith Duffy (The Corrs, The Commitments) – Bass

Alexander Koryukovec – Accordion

Eamon Nolan (RTE CO, BBC Symphony Scottish National Jazz Orch) -Flugelhorn

Interesting notes of interest for editors/researchers:

COLLEGE PARK

College Park is a cricket ground in the grounds of Trinity College Dublin in Ireland and is the home ground of Dublin University Cricket Club.  The ground made history in 2000 by playing host to Ireland women’s first Women’s Test match against Pakistan women, which Ireland women won by an innings and 54 runs.

McDAIDS

The pub was once the Dublin City Morgue and was later converted into a chapel for the Moravian Brethren, hence the high ceilings and the Gothic style windows. McDaid’s has been identified by Joycean scholars as the setting for the opening of his story, Grace. one time haunt of the nation’s literary giants of the 20th century: Patrick Kavanagh, Flann O’Brien, J.P. Donleavy, Liam O’Flaherty, Paddy Kavanagh and Brendan Behan.

SOUTH ANNE STREET

Really interesting history – one of the oldest shopping streets in Dublin

CORNER OF SOUTH ANNE AND GRAFTON STREET

Flower sellers on the streets of Dublin have been part of the theatre of the city since Viking times. Fast forward to nineteenth century Dublin when Grafton Street and Henry Street became the shopping destinations of the city.

Additional Reading: Eleanor McEvoy Biography 2023

“McEvoy sounds like the sort of woman who might greet you with a bottle of red one night and a rolling pin the next” – Truck and Driver Magazine

Eleanor McEvoy is one of Ireland’s foremost songwriters. She is the composer, producer and co-performer of “A Woman’s Heart”, the title track for the best-selling Irish album in Irish history.  In May 2019 it was voted by the Irish public as being in the TOP 10 of Ireland’s Favourite Folk Songs. It features regularly on screen, most recently in 2019 in the award-winning TV show “Derry Girls”.

Eleanor began her career as a session musician in Dublin, where she lent her talents to numerous recording artists including U2, Sinead O’Connor, The Pale, Mary Black, Phil Coulter and Liam Clancy. She also spent five years as a violinist with the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, but her true passion was song writing.

Her eponymous debut album, released under Geffen Records in LA was followed by tours across the USA, Europe and Asia. Subsequently, Eleanor transitioned to Columbia Records in New York for her second album “What’s Following Me?” From that point onward, Eleanor McEvoy established herself as a globally recognized artist and performer. Her extensive discography comprising seventeen albums, has been consistently praised by critics and fans alike.

McEvoy’s song writing prowess is further evident in the multitude of cover versions of her songs by renowned artists like Emmylou Harris, Mary Black, Phil Coulter, Mary Coughlan, Eliza Carthy, Jack LDerek Ryan, Emma Langford and up and coming Irish band Saint Sister.

Her song “Sophie” was aptly described by David Smith in The Guardian as “an anthem that is touching, inspiring and consoling thousands of anorexic girls around the world” It is employed internationally in treatment centres to aid patients with eating disorders.

In May 2022, McEvoy mesmerized audiences with sold-out concerts at the National Concert Hall and National Opera House where she performed with the RTE Concert Orchestra alongside Wallis Bird and Maura O’Connell for “A Woman’s Heart Orchestrated”.

Her latest album “Gimme Some Wine” recorded during lockdown, features the singles “Scarlet Angels”“Almost Beautiful” (a co-write with The Beautiful South’s Dave Rotheray) and “South Anne Street”.  Since its release Eleanor has been touring extensively, both at home and internationally in support of the album. Throughout 2024 she will continue to tour with dates across Australia, Ireland, Germany and UK throughout the year.

Outside of her touring and recording commitments, McEvoy serves as the Chairperson of the board of IMRO, she recently held a position as a board member of the National Concert Hall, and is a voting member of The American Academy (The Grammy Awards). In October 2020 Minister Catherine Martin appointed her to the Task Force for the Recovery of the Arts.

For All Upcoming Irish & International Tour Dates visit www.eleanormcevoy.com

Galway Troubadour Set To Release Debut Album

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Sano Hill is a singer-songwriter based in Galway city who writes and performs songs inspired by life, love and loss. He has played to audiences in the US and across Ireland with his work released already to international critical acclaim. 

He “is blessed with a strong and distinctive voice” (Galway Advertiserand his compositions have been described as defining “a timeless recipe for original guitar music: inventive, humanist lyrics sung from the gut, then embedded in rhythms to barrage or soothe the soul” (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel).

For leading Irish music magazine, Hot Press, Sano Hill daringly “tries to capture the sound, sense and smell of Galway in a similar vein to Van Morrison’s finest compositions about his native Belfast.” (Hot Press).

If Not Now, When? is Hill’s debut album and charts a singer/songwriter’s development and ambitions over the course of a relationship from hopeful beginnings, to doubt and denial, disillusionment, breakup, recovery and finally finding his voice. Album tracks released to date have been acclaimed internationally in the music press as having “echoes of the greats from the past” (New Artist Spotlight), “timeless” (Vents Magazine), “remarkable” (Music Taste), “stunning” (FV Music Blog), and “a masterpiece” (Sinusoidal Music).

Recorded partly in Windmill Lane Studios, upcoming album ‘If Not Now, When?’ (Nov 17th 2023) was produced by award winning Irish producer Larry Hogan, with final mixing and mastering completed by celebrated engineer and producer Braddon Williams who has previously worked with Beyoncé, Snoop Dogg, Mark Ronson, Il Divo, Wyclef Jean, Billy Joel, Kelly Clarkson, P Diddy, and The Script.

Song breakdowns by the Artist:

If Not Now, When?

CD/Digital – Release – 17th November 2023

TRACK BY TRACK

Time Out – Opening the album is an anthem for all indie artists. Beginning with just a vocal and acoustic guitar ‘Time Out’ builds to a stunning full-band arrangement charting the story of a singer/songwriter trying to make a living and dreaming of success. Set in Galway, ‘Time Out’ evocatively captures the colour and feel of that city, with references to experiences had, stories heard and familiar places.

The Climb – The Climb begins as a song of seduction but gradually evolves into something both darker and more hopeful. The pandemic experience was an influence here, trying to come to terms with the enormity of what we (and the planet) have been facing, including the impact of climate change, and seeking meaning, understanding and hoping ultimately that we can overcome, we can climb that hill.

Beautiful – A delicate love song capturing intimate moments at the beginning of a relationship, ‘Beautiful’ features scenes of performance, encounter and reflection

Dancer – ‘Dancer’ deals with the challenge of artistic creation, set against the background of a memory of a dance, and the first fires of romantic encounter. It is part love song, part artistic reflection.

Love Story – Foregrounding the exotic sounds of the Iranian Doudouk and Greek bouzouki, ‘Love Story’ recalls the initial excitement of a romantic relationship, and subsequent regrets of losing touch over time and words left unsaid.

CircleWalk – ‘CircleWalk’ is a song dealing with communication breakdown in a relationship and an appeal to begin talking again, for real. The track captures both lyrically and musically the tensions and frustrations that can exist within a relationship, when two people can’t find the words to say how they feel and instead walk in circles around what they need to say.

Not that Kind of Love Song – a song perhaps more open to interpretation than most on the album. It deals with an illicit encounter (perhaps an affair) and the moments shared by a couple in the knowledge that they could be their last moments together. A love song, but not that kind of love song.

No Romeo – No Romeo is a frank expression of the breakdown of a relationship and the reality that love and relationships rarely (if ever) follow the paths charted in film and popular culture.

Starting Over – This is a song of overcoming, reconciliation and renewal after the traumatic ending of a relationship. It’s a driving song (evident in the music video) that emphasises the importance of moving on, and not carrying the weight of the past on that journey.

Feel Love – This track is a deep expression of the power of love within us all to connect and overcome. In a time of great instability, war, and potential environmental catastrophe, this song is an appeal to ‘feel love’ again as a starting point for how we respond appropriately to what is going on in the world.

Sing out Loud – In the uncertain world we all inhabit, still recovering from the Covid-19 Pandemic, this song is about reconnecting with the world and each other and celebrating the joy of living and the potential of every moment to bring insight. The song explores this theme by focusing on a singer/songwriter and his attempt to come to terms with his own fears and insecurities, to believe in his music and voice and perform again, to ‘Sing Out Loud’ and: If Not Now, When?

New Single From ilsantino Just Announced ‘The Girl’ Kid Moxie Remix.

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Dublin-born, Kildare-based songwriter and electronic musician Paul Nolan has spent the last decade or so writing, recording, and performing as ilsantino, and quietly honing his own unique brand of retro-electropop.

While enjoying some success with early releases and collaborations with musicians including Gavin Glass, Dermot Lambert, and Garry O’Briain, Nolan’s more recent partnership with in-demand producer Conan Brophy has proved the most successful of his career to date.

Nolan’s ability to write simple, catchy pop tunes is perfectly complemented by Brophy’s production style and capacity to create bright, shiny, spacey electropop tracks packed with energy, atmosphere, and hooks. The pair have partnered on a string of singles and remixes over the last two years, covering much ground in the dream-pop/ dance-pop genres.

2022 was to prove a pivotal point in Nolan’s life and career. A keen amateur athlete, he suffered a cardiac arrest weeks after completing the Dublin City Marathon. The speedy response of friends in Newbridge Athletics Club saved Nolan’s life. He was back in the studio shortly after the incident and new music projects have proved hugely therapeutic as well as instrumental in his recovery.

‘The Girl’ (Kid Moxie Remix)

‘The Girl’ is a track that explores conflicting emotions. It finds the protagonist working hard to ignore a truth that is evident to others, but then pausing to reflect on the situation and, finally, figuring out what the right thing to do is! Is it written from personal experience?? Maybe!!

Nolan reached out to LA-based producer Kid Moxie after hearing her collaboration with Depeche Mode on ‘Wagging Tongue’, their most recent single. He enquired whether she might be interested in working on a remix of ‘The Girl’…

She loved the track, and quickly agreed to put her own stamp on it, creating a gorgeously upbeat and funky contemporary pop version of the track with loads of retro touches!

ilsantino influences

Nolan’s influences include classic electronic artists like Depeche Mode, Faithless, Goldfrapp, Kraftwerk, Robyn, Röyksopp etc., and more contemporary acts such as Future Islands, The Japanese House, Tame Impala, and White Lies.

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