Focus
Surface Tension
Caimin Gilmore, double-bass player with groups such as Crash Ensemble and singer/songwriter with the band Sun Collective, has recently released two EPs: a four-track record of new works for solo double bass, and a collection of songs and instrumentals with Sun Collective. Anna Murray reviews. 
What is Irish Hip Hop Telling Us?
A new documentary on the history of Irish hip hop explores the views of current artists such as Denise Chaila, Costello, Ophelia, Kojaque and Mango X Mathman. Is the genre becoming an agent of change in Ireland? Andrea Cleary reviews. 
How Can the Arts Plan in This Uncertainty?
The new Covid restrictions regarding indoor and outdoor gatherings have caused even more disruption in music and the arts, just as we thought things might be improving. Is it possible to have confidence about organising an event in this environment, and if not, what needs to be done, asks Shannon McNamee.
Uncovering an Historical Irish Composer
A new record by pianist Niall Kinsella, featuring singers Raphaela Mangan and Gavan Ring and violinist Mia Cooper, presents all of Irish composer John F. Larchet's original songs for voice and piano. Mark Fitzgerald reviews. 
Ghosts in the Theatre
Lankum's live-streamed show at the Abbey Theatre, titled 'A National Disgrace', presented an eerie image of the arts today – empty theatres and audiences watching from home. Andrea Cleary reviews. 
The Bishop's Zeal
The recently released album 'The Red Book of Ossory' by Anakronos is a meeting of medieval music and jazz, inspired by the curious fourteenth-century poems by Richard de Ledrede. Adrian Smith reviews.
John Hume and the Artists That Make Us Think
John Hume's views on the role of artists in a conflict are worth considering today, writes Toner Quinn.
Musicians and Identity – Why There Was Such a Strong Reaction to Minister Heather Humphreys' Comments
The response from musicians to comments last week by Minister Heather Humphreys about reskilling and retraining was visceral, although her words were not directed towards them. Colm Kelly explores why. 
Is Great Music Always Subversive?
A major book by American writer Ted Gioia, published last autumn, explores the history of music and many overlooked traditions, and argues that the best music has almost always been subversive. James Camien McGuiggan reviews.
A Hero's Disruption
It has been an exceptional year for the post-punk Dublin band Fontaines D.C., and this week, just over a year after their debut 'Dogrel', they release their much anticipated second album 'A Hero's Death'. Jake Tiernan reviews.