Focus
CD Reviews: Catherine McEvoy
The Home RulerCló Iar-Chonnachta CICD172No matter how open and objective you may try to be, one cannot help but form various pre-judgements when encountering new traditional music recordings. You begin to recognise patterns in production and presentation... 
Live Reviews: Phill Niblock
Crash Ensemble, Trio Scordatura, Susan Stenger (flute)Temple Bar Galleries, Dublin23 April 2008This concert of music by Phill Niblock – the ‘forgotten minimalist’ – had the feel of a ‘happening’, spread out over the four...
Live Reviews: Tarab
Francesco Turrisi (piano), Gabrielle Mirabassi (clarinet), Roman Bunka (oud), Ronan Guilfoyle (bass), Bijan Chemirani (percussion) / National Concert Hall, Dublin / 24 April 2008
Live Reviews: Dave Binney Quartet
Dave Binney (alto saxophone), Craig Taborn (piano), Scott Colley (bass), Brian Blade (drums) / Whelan’s, Dublin / 12 May 2008
Live Reviews: Ian Wilson's Harbouring
Dermot Dunne (accordion), Gorey Choral Group, Enniscorthy Choral Society, Wexford Festival Singers, Whisht Traditional Singers, Irish Chamber Orchestra, Conductor: Fergus SheilWhite’s Hotel, Wexford5 June 2008June saw the world premiere of Ian Wilson’s...
Live Reviews: Bobby McFerrin
National Concert Hall, Dublin26 May 2008When I was eight years old, the biggest thrill of the week was the ten o’clock children’s mass. As the reverend monsignor skipped his way through the formalities of the service, all we children wanted was...
Uilleann Pipers at Bettystown
Meeting of Uilleann Pipers, Neptune Hotel, Bettystown, Co. Meath, 7 April 1968. Photographer unknown.
Now's The Time: The State of Irish Jazz
The jazz scene in Ireland has witnessed a rush of young talent and now plays host to a long list of international artists. Kevin Stevens looks at the range of music out there and explores the next steps for Irish jazz.