Focus

Uncovering an Historical Irish Composer Uncovering an Historical Irish Composer Mark Fitzgerald 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 Ghosts in the Theatre Andrea Cleary 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 Bishop's Zeal Adrian Smith 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 Toner Quinn 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 Musicians and Identity – Why There Was Such a Strong Reaction to Minister Heather Humphreys' Comments Colm Kelly 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? Is Great Music Always Subversive? James Camien McGuiggan 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 A Hero's Disruption Jake Tiernan 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.
The Punks Next Door The Punks Next Door Andrea Cleary Dublin band Silverbacks have just released their debut album 'Fad'. Andrea Cleary reviews.
A Story of Resilience A Story of Resilience Lucy Hayward O'Leary A recently published book by Alf McCreary on the history of the Ulster Orchestra tells the story of persistence in the face of extraordinary challenges. Lucy Hayward O'Leary reviews.
Up to the Surface Up to the Surface Don O'Mahony Jazz musician Aengus Hackett has just released his debut EP of electronic music under the alias Penji. Don O'Mahony reviews.

Pages