Sunday 8 November 2015

ALBERT NILAND - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, November 30th, 2015



www.albertniland.com - for news, videos, etc

Albert Niland returns to Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, on Monday, November 30th. Doors open 8:30pm; gig 9pm. Admission is €12.

Albert Niland is, without doubt, one of the most impressive singer/songwriters to have come out of Ireland in more than the past decade.
Originally from Mountbellew, Co. Galway, he came to national attention in the early noughties for his interpretation of Kate Bush's 'Wuthering Heights'. That cover is, indeed, extraordinary, but there is so much more to Mr. Niland's catalogue, and musical breadth.
Time spent as a student of Flamenco guitar in Spain, years spent living and touring in Europe, and influences from as broad a range as Irish Traditional, to American folk, have all worked to form Albert Niland into one of the most exciting, and innovative songwriters around.

Most highly recommended.

FRANKIE LANE & PAUL KELLY - LIVE at Mick Murphy's, Monday, November 23rd, 2015






























Frankie Lane and Paul Kelly have been making music together, on and off for more years than they probably care to remember.

They have been a part of, or played with, the best of Irish music outfits since the early 1980's, most notably - The Fleadh Cowboys, and have shared stages, and studios with some of the greatest international performing and recording artists.

Singer/songwriter/guitarist/dobro playing Frankie, and multi-instrumentalist (fiddle/mandolin/banjo) Paul, play BAG at Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, Co. Kildare, Monday, November 23, 2015.

Doors open 8:30pm; Gig 9pm. Admission: €12 at the door.

Video: Frankie and Paul in action - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jp09K-WdVYI

ULTAN CONLON - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, November 16, 2015


www.ultanconlon.com - For info. videos, news, etc.

Ultan Conlon plays his debut BAG performance on Monday, November 16th. Doors open at 8:30pm; Gig starts at 9pm. Admission is €12.

In these times of short attention spans and the need for instant gratification, it is refreshing to have an artist like Ultan Conlon capable of producing deeply affecting songs like the ones on his soon to be released second album which demand you sit down and slowly listen to over and over. Ultan combines common themes and familiar situations with coherent prose and wraps them around musical styles rooted deeply in traditional rock and roll, country and folk. There is no slick polish, flash or tricks to the songs, nor is there to the man himself. Love, regret, heartbreak and hope are presented in a candid way made even easier to empathize with due to Ultan's comforting and uncontrived vocal delivery.

His current, and second release, 'Songs of Love So Cruel' finds Ultan not just comfortable with fuller instrumentation but also more versed and focused as a songwriter. In a time when the idea of a concept album might scare away not only listener but performer as well, Ultan has embraced the notion to boldly put together a stellar collection of songs that, while capable of standing on their own, insist that they be heard together from beginning to end.
Much of the album's theme is that of reflection and looking back from various perspectives on lives lived, lovers who've faded away and some who've remained.
Asked about what's most important to him musically Ultan replies, "I believe sound, image, and great voices come and go but great songs will always remain". It can be sure that Ultan Conlon knows a tremendous amount about great songs and his should certainly stand the test of time.




Thursday 5 November 2015

NOVEMBER BAG GIGS SCHEDULE

The remainder of November's gigs are an all-Irish affair. For all gigs, Doors open at 8:30, with a €12 admission. Gigs start at 9pm. Please follow website links below, to view videos etc. This promises to be an outstanding month of gigs, folks. Do please spread the word, come along, and bring a friend!

Monday, Nov 9th - Grainne Hunt
www.grainnehunt.com
Just back from opening for Glen Hansard with Mark Geary in Europe, Gráinne Hunt released her new mini album 'Firing Pin' on October 23rd.  The title track is the second single released off the album. The first single 'Lilacs ' was released in August, reaching no.4 on the iTunes chart and gaining significant airplay on national radio.
Often compared to Natalie Merchant, Alison Moyet, and others, Grainne Hunt is a singer to be heard. Here's your chance.


Monday, Nov 16th - Ultan Conlon
www.ultanconlon.com
In these times of short attention spans and the need for instant gratification, it is refreshing to have an artist like Ultan Conlon capable of producing deeply affecting songs which demand you sit down and slowly listen to over and over. Ultan combines common themes and familiar situations with coherent prose and wraps them around musical styles rooted deeply in traditional rock and roll, country and folk. There is no slick polish, flash or tricks to the songs, nor is there to the man himself. Love, regret, heartbreak and hope are presented in a candid way made even easier to empathize with due to Ultan's comforting and uncontrived vocal delivery.

Monday, Nov 23rd - Frankie Lane & Paul Kelly
www.frankielane.com
Frankie Lane and Paul Kelly have been making music together, on and off for more years than they probably care to remember.


They have been a part of, or played with, the best of Irish music outfits since the early 1980's, most notably - The Fleadh Cowboys, and have shared stages, and studios with some of the greatest international performing and recording artists.

With a legendary enthusiastic stage presence, Frankie and Paul continue to impress, wherever they appear.




Monday, Nov 30th - Albert Niland
www.albertniland.com
Albert Niland is, without doubt, one of the most impressive singer/songwriters to have come out of Ireland in more than the past decade.
Originally from Galway, he came to national attention in the early noughties for his interpretation of Kate Bush's 'Wuthering Heights'. That cover is, indeed, extraordinary, but there is so much more to Mr. Niland's catalogue, and musical breadth.
Time spent as a student of Flamenco guitar in Spain, years spent living and touring in Europe, and influences from as broad a range as Irish Traditional, to American folk, have all worked to form Albert Niland into one of the most exciting, and innovative songwriters around.
Most highly recommended.

Tuesday 3 November 2015

GRAINNE HUNT - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, November 9, 2015


Gráinne Hunt is well known to BAG Regulars for lending her beautiful vocals to Mark Geary's previous shows with us, but she is also a fine songwriter in her own right. Its a great pleasure to welcome Gráinne to BAG for her debut solo performance on Monday, November, 9th. Doors open at 8:30pm. Admission is €12; Gig starts at 9pm sharp, with support on the night from Ciaran Dwyer.

Just back from opening for Glen Hansard with Mark Geary in Europe, Gráinne Hunt released her new mini album 'Firing Pin' on October 23rd. The title track is the second single released off the album. The first single 'Lilacs ' was released in August, reaching no.4 on the iTunes chart and gaining significant airplay on national radio.

She also provides backing vocals for Nicole Maguire and Glen Hansard and is regularly compared to Natalie Merchant, Dolores O'Riordan and Alison Moyet amongst others.

With songs co-written with James Cramer of Tupelo and produced by Joe Chester, in the Living Room @ The Cauldron, this album is a long awaited release from the singer. Gráinne is joined on the album by James and Joe, along with Graham Hopkins, Lorcán O’Dwyer and Vyvienne Long. The beautiful artwork for the single and album was provided by Gary Reddin Ink.

The album 'Firing Pin' is a 9 track release featuring six studio tracks and three live performance tracks.

Praise for Firing Pin
'Love mini album 'Firing Pin'... Mark it down as one to nab' ‘her debut release is hewn out of a subtle special talent’ Tony Clayton Lea, Irish Times
'The Words of it all'....breathtakingly beautiful' Dan Hegarty, 2FM
‘Grainne’s voice is enchanting and pure, with an honest charm’ Ceol Caint


Upcoming gigs
Wed 11th November – The Velvet Sessions, Dundrum
Fri 20th November – with The 4of Us, Club Beo, Letterkenny
Sun 22nd November – Private House Concert
Fri 27th November – Opening for Frances Black, St David’s Church, Naas
Fri 11th December – Songs from Ireland tour – Stafa, Switzerland
Sat 12th December - Songs from Ireland tour – Bern, Switzerland
Sun 13th December - Songs from Ireland tour – Bern, Switzerland

Purchase - https://grainnehunt.bandcamp.com/releases
Available instore – Tower Records, Freebird Records, Classified Records (Dundalk), Keegan’s (Carrickmacross), Birdy’s (Carrickmacross)


Video – Lilacs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rcv_wRs5uCA

For more information, contact Grainne below
grainnehunt@gmail.com
www.grainnehunt.com www.twitter.com/grainnehunt www.facebook.com/GrainneHuntMusic

Tuesday 6 October 2015

DENNIS ELLSWORTH - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, November 2, 2015


Website: http://dennisellsworth.com/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/DennisMEllsworth

Dennis Ellsworth played his first ever (and only) Irish gig at Mick Murphy's last February. The crowd may have been small, but was treated to a night of smooth-sounding Canadian roots/folk. I'm delighted to welcome Dennis back to BAG, and particularly pleased to be associated with his introduction to Irish music fans.
Dennis Ellsworth plays BAG at Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, Co. Kildare, Monday, November 2, 2015. Doors open: 8:30pm. Gig starts: 9pm. Admission: €12

From his early school days, writing songs in the back of class, to playing in a college rock/punk outfit, and onwards to a solo career of folk/roots songwriting and touring, Dennis Ellsworth is a storyteller at heart - and a very fine one at that. In 2014 Ellsworth was named one of Canada’s top ten new artists by the judges of the CBC Searchlight Contest. He also performed at the Lincoln Centre in New York City as one of twelve finalists in the International New Song Contest.
His new record, (his fourth) 'Romantic As It Gets' is a lush, timeless gem, with hints of Americana, folk, and roots-rock. It showcases an experienced songwriter hitting his stride. Romantic As It Gets has just been released on Busted Flat Records, and is the focus of Dennis' current tour.
The coming year will be full of great new plans and opportunities. Following the release of Romantic As It Gets, Ellsworth will tour in Canada twice, will re-visit the United Kingdom, and will make his career debut in continental Europe.
Highly recommended.

Thursday 24 September 2015

JOHN SPILLANE - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday December 7, 2015


John Spillane returns to BAG at Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, Monday, December, 7th, 2015. Doors open 8:30pm; Gig 9pm sharp. Ticket details below.

At this stage, John Spillane hardly needs any introduction to Irish music fans. But, in case you're recently returned from Mars, I can tell you that this October this acclaimed Singer and Songwriter, celebrates 33 years of an ever-consistent, vastly illuminating and exciting career within the world of music. Having sold over 100,000 albums in Ireland, John Spillane has also been awarded with two Meteor Irish Music Awards for ‘Best Act Folk’ and ‘Traditional’ act. His songs have been covered by many Irish folk lumineers such as Christy Moore, Sean Keane, Karan Casey, Pauline Scanlon, Solas, Mary Black, Méav, Sinéad Lohan and Sharon Shannon.

Live, John Spillane is at his best; in one show the listener is treated to all the joy, sorrow, magic, love, poetry, madness and humour needed to sustain one, and to tide one over, until the next time you meet John - in some other place, to do it all again, and re-charge your batteries, once more. A John Spillane show is a tonic for all that may ail you; it is a slice of true living. You'll think you're just listening to music, but you're not, you know!!

This will be the last BAG gig before the Christmas break. It will be a ticketed affair, and is expected to sell out. So, book early. Tickets, priced €15, will be available direct from me at the door on Monday nights from October 5th onwards. Tickets can be reserved by emailing ballymoregigs@gmail.com  but must be paid for by Monday November 30th, or they will be released for general sale on the night of the gig.

Website: http://www.johnspillane.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5fkNR1O6tY&list=PLYpvnwaEAlxRs1eWf238MCoiB_5dCQCy2

Thursday 17 September 2015

PETER DORAN - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, October 19, 2015

Photo credit: Luke Daniels
Peter Doran returns to play BAG - what he often says is one of his favourite gigs - in Mick Murphy's Bar, Ballymore Eustace, on Monday, October 19. Doors open at 8:30pm; Gig 9pm sharp.

Peter Doran is a Singer-Songwriter from Mullingar. His musical life started twenty years ago in a roar of electric guitars, distortion pedals and Marshall amps. But, perhaps thankfully for us, his musical direction took an unplanned shift into acoustic-land after watching people like Damien Rice, Glen Hansard and Emmett Tinley, perform at “The Stables”, an intimate music venue just ten minutes walk from Peter’s Home. It was a new century and he had a new fascination: the singer and the song.

Peter has just released his fourth album, the self-produced “Outlines” to critical acclaim in Ireland. It is the songwriter’s most sparse and direct work to date. Peter’s combination of vocals and melody create a natural intimacy, one that makes the listener feel as though he is sharing his best kept secrets with them. For my money, it's one of the best records I've heard in the past year - the quality of the songwriting is that good, the delivery is assured, and the production is sensitive and measured; it compliments the arrangements, rather than competing with them, as is so often the case.
In the last years Peter has played headline shows in Ireland, Holland and New York, and has opened up for artists like Mick Flannery, Declan O’Rourke, Duke Special and Mark Geary. Very highly recommended.

Website: www.peterdoran.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/peterdoran

Wednesday 16 September 2015

KRISTA DETOR BAND - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, October 12, 2015


In continuing to seek to present new artistes to the 'Ballymore faithful', I'm delighted to announce the first BAG appearance of Krista Detor, from Indiana, USA. Krista plays Mick Murphy's Bar, Ballymore Eustace, on Monday, October 12th. Doors: 8:30pm; Gig 9pm sharp. Admission: €12 at the door. This is a real treat, folks, and highly recommended.
Joining Krista for the evening on guitar and backing vocals is David Weber, and on bass - a man who needs no introduction to BAG regulars, as we pretty much count him one of our own, at this stage, he having appeared so many times here with Buddy Mondlock - Mr. Mike Lindauer, on the fretless bass, folks!

http://www.kristadetor.com
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWu4JwCsFT-ystrRAa9buQA
https://www.facebook.com/Krista.Detor.Music?fref=ts

"She is not just a songwriter, nor accomplished musician, nor poignant entertainer - I have been awed by the soul-punching talent of Krista Detor.." - WNC Magazine (Feb. 2015)

MusicDish magazine calls her work: "..like Richard Wright’s 'Manchild in the Promised Land' or the musical equivalent of Akira Kurosawa’s 'Dreams';" The Allmusic Guide calls her “An artist of rare ability with a deep poetic gift,” and Rolling Stone, "A small miracle."  Krista Detor’s solo albums have reached national and international prominence, including #1 on the Euro-Americana Chart, and placement within the top 10 of the U.S. Folk and Independent Music charts, but she is no ordinary songwriter: Detor has been involved in several award-winning collaborations, including the highly-acclaimed 'Wilderness Plots,' (PBS national), for which she and fellow writers, including American College of Arts & Letters inductee author Scott Russell Sanders, were recognized by the Indiana Legislature for contributions to the arts (2010), and which resulted in (2) Emmy nominations and a Golden Eagle award.

She was the only American woman invited to The BBC's Darwin Songhouse Project, Shrewsbury England (2009); Says Neil Pearson, Producer of the project: “Krista is one of the very finest modern songwriters at writing within character; and her ability to convey the emotions of the people that inhabit her songs is utterly convincing and believable.. The compelling way the narratives are delivered make one of the most flexible and empathetic writers. Her understanding of the human condition and her ability to express the motivation for her characters give her songs real impact and resonance with the listener.”

She has been commissioned to write musical theatre for The U.S. Dept. of State in New Delhi, India (2012); For the Indiana Arts Commission ('The Breeze Bends the Grass,' Musical Theatre collaborative project, 2013); and has written commissioned choral pieces for several national and int'l choirs. In addition, she's been a returning presenter at Stanford University, wherein, her album, 'Chocolate Paper Suites' was a multi-year ‘required reading’ assignment for the literature course, "The 'isms of Modernism," in which students sought to explore modernism's impact on, and negotiation with, contemporary culture and art. Says Dr. Rod Taylor of the album, “This album provides an excellent example of how the most salient elements of modernist art and philosophy persist in postmodern culture. Its poetic and intertextual lyrics, captivating melodies, meaningful organization, and complex narrative thread will undoubtedly lead to rich discussions among my students.” She has conducted songwriting seminars, performances and presentations at universities and arts centers throughout the world, including Ireland's prestigious IMRO performing rights organization.

Most recently (Feb. 2015), she was Artist-in-Residence at the prestigious Hedgebrook foundation.

Krista will tour Europe and the UK with her new album, 'Barely,' beginning Sept. 30th, 2015, and continues to tour the U.S. all the while. She's shared stages with Victor Wooten, Chuck Rainey, Loudon Wainwright, The Neville Bros. and Suzanne Vega, among many others.

Tuesday 15 September 2015

TOKYO ROSENTHAL - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, October 5, 2015

Website: http://www.tokyorosenthal.com/tokyo_rosenthal/home.html

Returning for his 2nd BAG appearance,Tokyo Rosenthal plays Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, on Monday, October 5th. Doors 8:30pm; Gig 9pm sharp. Admission: €12

"Rosenthal can draw you into his lyrics much the same way that James Taylor and Don Henley can".
"Take Jackson Browne’s personal confessions and wrap them in Kris Kristofferson’s world weary tales of broken relationships and you have an idea of what to expect from Tokyo Rosenthal."
"This is Americana with real teeth in the lyrics"

This and more is what the critics are saying about Tokyo Rosenthal. But it wasn’t an overnight trip. Hardly, as "Toke" has spanned the music scene for three decades. But it was in 2007 when recognition finally reached him through the recording of his CD, "One Score And Ten".

In a career that started with the country rock boom, Rosenthal has honed his craft and "Rootsy/ Americana with a little blues thrown in" sound to perfection.  His move to Chapel Hill, North Carolina allowed him to team up with the famed producer and recording star Chris Stamey in the studio. But prior to that Rosenthal made his reputation while living in Rhode Island, New York, and Los Angeles.

In 2014 Toke began hosting his own weekly syndicated radio show, "The Tokyo Rosenthal Program, as a prelude to the newly released, "Afterlife", Toke's 6th studio album.

Always writing and always gigging, his musical journey continues.

JEFF FINLIN with Clive Barnes - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, Sept. 28, 2015

www.jefffinlin.com

In the early noughties, Jeff Finlin was a regular visitor to Ballymore Eustace to play the Ballymore Inn when my predecessor, and great friend, Larry Roddy, used to promote his tours in Ireland. It's been way too long since his last visit, and I'm delighted to welcome Jeff back to Ballymore, to play Mick Murphy's Bar, on Monday, Sept 28th. Doors opean at 8:30pm; Gig 9pm sharp. Regulars from those days will tell you that Jeff Finlin is one of the best songwriters to have crossed the Atlantic. I can attest that this is a show that will be in everyone's Top 5 at the end of the year. Most highly recommended, and not to be missed.
Joining Jeff on guitars on the night, will be BAG favourite, Clive Barnes.

Jeff's website Biohttp://www.jefffinlin.com/bio-photos
New record, 'My Moby Dick' on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7uYTIBspRg&list=PLLVZydaB3gi-_uN4Q4v2BFdGk3U5RCTrU
YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsQntBW2OAQmAjR-f7Z6YjQ

" Finlin writes with the minimalist grit of Sam Shepard and Raymond Carver. Tune in and you will hear an illusive magic!" - Dave Hoekstra-Chicogo Sun Times

"Jeff Finlin might be one of the finest American troubadours since Bob Dylan." - JR Moehringer
5280 magazine

"If Jeff Finlin were not a songwriter, it’s likely he’d be a novelist and he’d fall somewhere between Kerouac, Twain and Vonnegut." - Neil Fagan, Performing Songwriter.

http://www.clivebarnesmusic.com/

Clive Barnes is one of Ireland's top guitarists, both in his own right as a solo performer, and as a highly sought after session guitarist/touring 'sideman'.

A top slide guitarist, on both upright, and lap guitars, Clive has also developed a well-deserved reputation as one of the best electric guitarist accompanists in the business, across many genres - from blues and rock, to country and folk/roots.

Crossroads Blues: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O95Qd66QcaE



Wednesday 9 September 2015

PAT COLDRICK - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, Sept. 21, 2015



I am particularly delighted to welcome back Pat Coldrick to Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, on Monday, Sept. 21, as part of his CityJam Album Tour. Doors will open at 8:30pm, for a 9pm show, and admission will be just €12. Don't be surprised if Pat is playing when you arrive - he likes nothing more than to 'meet and greet' his audience with music as they arrive!

Below, you'll find an excellent biography, taken from Pat's website, but let me give you my own personal recommendation, first: Pat Coldrick contacted me about four years ago about booking a gig; I jumped at the chance, and this surprised him a bit. You see, he hadn't been having much luck before that, as most folks thought 'Classical Guitar' was too risky to book. I don't - not when it's Pat Coldrick playing it! I saw that what Pat was trying to do was different - it wasn't about recitals for the establishment, but about performance for music lovers. Pat has returned to BAG each year since, and each year the crowd is bigger and bigger. Once you catch him live once, you'll come again - I guarantee it. Don't miss this chance to catch Pat iN a venue he loves to play, and where he gets a fantastic reception.

Now, the official Bio (it's good too!):
Pat Coldrick is an Irish Classical Guitarist and Composer, who has been working for the last six years in Ireland but has also performed Recitals in Europe, the USA and Russia.

Pat has been described as ‘pushing the boundaries of classical guitar’ with his musical interpretations and compositions and has made Classical Guitar exciting, interesting and more accessible to music lovers in general. Through his interpretation of music and by exploring and embracing new technologies he strives to enhance the dynamics of the classical guitar and bring his music to a wider audience both at home and abroad.

His music defies genre and appeals to a wide cross section of music lovers. While Pat plays his own arrangements of great classical pieces, it is his own compositions that sets him apart – pieces such as Lament, CityJam and Antarctica to name but a few. Pat’s skillful and atmospheric connection with his audience is an art form in itself and is in total contrast to other more formal classical performances. He has a very easy going, laid back and unassuming approach and his interaction with the audience and philosophy of ‘entertaining’ rather than ‘educating’ his listeners is a breath of fresh air.

Once Pat begins to play people are immediately captivated by his dedication, passion and skill. His interpretation and delivery of each piece combined with his superb artistry as a performer results in his unique ability to make his audience laugh and equally move them to tears.

To date Pat has produced 2 albums – Cayendo in 2010 and CityJam was release in November 2014. Since CityJam was launched his music has been played on all the major radio stations in Ireland and was voted ‘Album of the Week’ on RTE Lyric FM. It’s fair to say that Pat’s music is currently attracting a lot of attention in classical quarters and beyond. Pat is now widely acknowledged as a very accomplished musician and composer who is succeeding in bringing classical guitar music ‘Centre Stage’ where he so passionately believes it belongs.

Pat’s musical formation has not followed normal traditional lines. He is mainly self taught and in a relatively short period of time he has put together an impressive body of work and has gained considerable recognition throughout Ireland and Internationally both as a performer and composer.

Thursday 3 September 2015

PETUNIA with Ed Tapceanu & Candice Roberts - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, Sept. 14, 2015.

http://www.petuniamusic.com/

Returning for his second BAG appearance, Petunia appears at Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, Co. Kildare on Monday, September 14, 2015. Doors open: 8:30pm; Gig 9pm sharp. Admission: €12 at the door.

Petunia’s music is infectious, his singing ranges from the most delicate you’ve ever heard to the most powerful, often within a single song…hillbilly-flavoured-swing inflected-ragtime-goodtime-thunderously rolling-one-of-a-kind-you-don’t-want-to-miss-this-sort-of-a-show. 
He has a huge repertoire of music to draw from but fans continue to cry out for the Petunia originals; Whenever Petunia takes the stage for a solo spotlight, it is always powerfully impressive.

Joining Petunia on the night will be Ed Tapceanu on the upright bass. Ed Tapceanu has been a permanent member of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, playing double bass, since 2006.
He has held permanent positions in several European orchestras: Royal Philharmonic of Flanders, Antwerp, Belgium; Stadtorchester Wintethur, Switzerland.  
He's also active playing double bass, electric bass & baritone guitar in anything from old blues & jazz, rockabilly, soul and alternative rock & pop. 
Also joining Petunia will be Candice Roberts on harmony vocals, and shadow puppeteering!

Videos: 'Inside Of You' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNqL7ASf7JU
'Mercy' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6o8HzU252I

Tuesday 1 September 2015

Pete Fagan & Anna Mitchell - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, Sept 7, 2015

Pairing two fine young Irish singer/songwriters, BAG continues to bring the best of original roots edged music to its devoted followers.

As usual, Mick Murphy's doors will open at 8:30pm, with a 9pm sharp showtime. Admission is just €12, at the door.


Hailing from Kilcullen, Co. Kildare, Pete Fagan is one on the hardest working Irish musicians on the circuit.
With an impressive list of collaborators over the years,
Pete came to prominence on the live circuit in Ireland in the late '90's, and quickly turned heads with his powerful (& soulful) vocal talents. He's guested / toured with a veritable list of "who's who" artists on the Irish music scene (from the stars of "The Commitments" to Irish songwriting legends such as "Paul Brady").
He's performed with a plethora of artists from Paulo Nutini to Bryan Adams.
But, it is his songwriting, and in particular his work as half of the duo, Edisons, that has brought him centre-stage, and onto the radar of mainstream radio, and festival promoters. With his musical partner in crime, Fran King, Edisons play Electric Picnic for the second time this year.
As a solo artist Pete continues to be a prolific songwriter, with a new record in the can.
Videos: Ain't No Sunshine (cover) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsjKbHa5t2s
Easy (Song for The Missing) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mu2pYvdMQ6s
Evelyn - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jik93TAEwJ4




Cork songstress, Anna Mitchell, released her debut album ‘Down to the Bone’ on Feb 13th 2015.‘Down to the Bone’ captures the songwriter confidently moving between soulful Americana, brooding late night ballads and country tinged folk, paying homage to the traditions and influences that went before while carving out a unique and contemporary space for her voice to be heard.
With a reputation as a passionate live performer able to capture an audience, Anna has performed and toured with many celebrated singers & songwriters including Sarah Jarosz , Aoife O’Donovan, Mick Flannery, John Smith, Duke Special, Lisa Hannigan, Simone Felice & many more. So impressed was the celebrated American poet and songwriter Simone Felice, he invited her to join him on 5 week European tour in winter ‘14 stopping off in Ireland , U.K , Belgium and Luxembourg as well as a 3 week tour throughout the states in May/June ‘15.
Anna Mitchell's star is, most definitely, on the rise.
“If David Lynch were to reset Blue Velvet in the wilds of West Cork, then Anna Mitchell’s evocative, dark songs of life and love’s painful kiss would sit well on the soundtrack” (Joe Breen) ★ ★ ★ ★- The Irish Times
Website: http://annamitchellmusic.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdIvInCLiDx71k4Y1hnDitA

Wednesday 19 August 2015

Tim Grimm - LIVE in Mick Murphy's - August, 31st, 2015

Tim Grimm plays his debut BAG show on Monday, August 31st, 2015.
Door open 8:30pm; Gig: 9pm sharp; Admission: €12 http://www.timgrimm.com



Tim Grimm is a jack of many trades. Singer-songwriter, actor and  farmer.  Musically Grimm walks that fine line between folk and country, while maintaining a strong footing in tradition.  We hear the rural rumblings that have shaped his life, but we are also invited into a bigger picture, as evident in so much of his work. Critics searching for comparisons most often cite Johnny Cash, Woody Guthrie and (Nebraska era) Bruce Springsteen.  His qualities as lyricist are much praised. Tim Grimm is a story-teller par excellence, who not only sings but also acts his songs. Almost like a video in audio.

Read more here: http://cavalier-musicmanagement.com/artists/tim-grimm/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwZHlUbrvEU&list=PLJd6dr1hoEI2H31m6ofPxaMESW65lcbbj

Buddy Mondlock & Mike Lindauer - LIVE in Mick Murphy's,August 24th, 2015

Buddy Mondlock with Mike Lindauer, Live in Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, Co. Kildare,
Monday, August 24, 2015. Doors 8:30pm; Gig: 9pm sharp; Admission: €12 



Buddy Mondlock & Mike Lindauer have toured Ireland most years for much of the past 20 years, and are amongst BAG's most favourite acts. Buddy Mondlock is one of the great songwriters of our time, and his work has been recorded by artists such as Janis Ian, Art Garfunkel, Garth Brooks, and many more. http://www.buddymondlock.com/ 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jO9Plwt3qs 
www.buddymondlock.com

Wednesday 12 August 2015

BAG Listings for August - October 2015

Howdy folks!
The Autumn program of gigs is in full flight, and it's choc-full of wonderful acts for you to enjoy. I'll be posting full details in advance of each show, but here's the listings in brief:
Note: All dates are Mondays; all gigs will be Doors 8:30pm with a start time of 9pm sharp. All gigs will have an admission price of €12, unless otherwise noted.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6JAoOT0Z8w&list=PLT_b22DKY4rE1e4SqK0aN04YOCK4fxIHF
Sept 14 - Petunia with Ed Tapceanu & Candice Roberts (CAN) http://www.petuniamusic.com/ 
Sept 21 - Pat Coldrick (IRL) http://www.patcoldrick.com/ https://www.reverbnation.com/patcoldrick 
https://www.youtube.com/user/SuperSonatina/videos
Sept 28 - Jeff Finlin (USA) with Clive Barnes (IRL) 
http://www.jefffinlin.com/ http://www.clivebarnesmusic.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B79FNe8iA6k&list=PLLVZydaB3gi9G21CiFPgHFxAQslNjAAnW&index=1
Oct 5 - Tokyo Rosenthal (USA) http://www.tokyorosenthal.com/tokyo_rosenthal/home.html 
https://www.youtube.com/user/shamus8
Oct 12 - Krista Detor (USA) www.kristadetor.com
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWu4JwCsFT-ystrRAa9buQA
Oct 19 - Peter Doran (IRL) http://www.peterdoran.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/peterdoran
Oct 26 - NO GIG - Bank Holiday
November/December listings will follow soon.
Looking forward to seeing y'all again after the summer break, and enjoying more magic nights in Mick Murphy's.

Thursday 11 June 2015

JOHN STATZ - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, June 15, 2015


Website: www.johnstatz.com

BAG debutante, John Statz, has been met with high praise, following the release, in 2014, of his current, and seventh record, 'Tulsa'. Originally from Wisconsin, now residing in Denver, Colorado, John Statz took up an offer from Jeffrey Foucault to produce the record. The result is beautiful blend of soft americana and smooth folk. “John writes songs you can’t shake,” says Foucault. “They follow you around all day and run through your head at 3 a.m. Open hearted, horizon-line songs.” 

Popdose, in the USA, said: “This is a modern musical travelogue; a diary of different moments and places, captured in words and lyrics…HIGHLY RECOMMENDED“

American Songwriter said: “John writes the kind of songs that float through your mind, seeking purpose and stay nestled in your thoughts long after listening.”

BAG says: I fully concur with the sentiments expressed above, and I'm delighted to present to you, this fine young songwriter!

'Home at Last' - https://youtu.be/TZzpxqKqjMg
'Any Town' - https://youtu.be/ppqpjorXV6w

Monday 8 June 2015

ROY THOMPSON - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, June 8 2015


Yes, after 5 years since my last public performance (this promotion lark takes up a lot of time), I have given in to the many requests from BAG regulars to take a Monday night for myself!

It's a bit awkward writing a promo piece about myself, so I'll just tell you this:
I've had a guitar in my hand since I was a teenager, and been writing songs nearly as long. I'm flattered that folks have seemed to like them over the years. I've had some memorable gigs playing my songs - probably my best memory was opening for Jeffrey Foucault in Mother Redcaps in Dublin some years back - right before they tore it down to build apartments..... ah, the price of progress. Anyway, even when busy with promotion, and not performing, I've found a little time to write, and I want to give those songs their wings. There are plans for more gigs, and to record, but one step at a time....
I'll be real happy to play these songs for you on Monday, June 8; All the usual standard details apply: 8:30pm doors; 9:15pm showtime; €12 cover charge (this will help with investment needed to repair and upgrade my P.A. which I use for all the gigs) - I do hope you can come along.

Wednesday 29 April 2015

FIACH MORIARTY - LIVE in Mick Murphy's, Monday, May 25, 2015


Website: http://www.fiachmusic.com
You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Fiach2008

Following on from his enthusiastically received debut BAG show last year, Fiach Moriarty returns to Mick Murphy's, Ballymore Eustace, Monday, May 25. Doors open at 8:30pm; shot: 9:15pm. Admission is €12 on the door.

Touring in support of his fine new record, 'Revolution', (Title track video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgcTzGE3N_Y ) Fiach Moriarty is one of the finest young emerging Irish singer/songwriters around. Paul Brady says: 'Fiach Moriarty is one of Ireland's most talented singer-songwriters with a musical sophistication rare in the genre'. High praise, indeed, but so well deserved.

Since the release of his debut record, Fiach Moriarty has toiled and torn his way through countless venues in his home country of Ireland, as well as Europe, Australia and North America.

This heavy duty work ethic has paid off, garnering praise from from a host of musical heroes of his such as Paul Brady and Chris White of British invasion legends The Zombies and sharing the stage with Ray Davies of The Kinks and Fairground Attraction chanteuse Eddi Reader.

Fiach's second record, 'The Revolution' tackles subjects such as The 1916 Easter Rising, World
War 1 and Los San Patricios (the Irish brigade in the 19th century Mexican Army) and is set for release in April 2015.

The record was produced by former Edwyn Collins collaborators Simon Quigley and Peter Meighan and features a guest appearance from Meteor award winner Wallis Bird.