The Druids are an Irish Rebel Band. For those unaware of the meaning of the term, these men sing, play and recount the history of Irish rebellion and resistance to outside rule over the past centuries. They “sing songs which have meaning in terms of peoples every day life…”     

Starry Plough is The Druids latest anthology of these momentous accounts.  To this excellent selection of popular and well known rebel songs, Mick O’Brien has added his most recent self penned work, Starry Plough. In which he relates the story of James Connelly’s activist life and dreadful execution by firing squad in Kilmainham jail.

Although Starry Plough is serious in its content, The Druids present an upbeat and quite brilliant performance. Coupled with the unrivaled mandolin playing of Paddy Mangan, and pulsating beat of Mick O’Brien’s Bodhran the lyrics come alive for the listener.  Gary Lawlor’s lead vocals and fine acoustic guitar in the song Farewell to Bellaghy are soft and sincere but definitely deliver their message. Darren Egan, the “newest recruit,” is outstanding with his rendition of Highland Paddy. 

It would be hard to choose a favorite among all the favorites on this album, but if pressured, I would have to say I am especially fond of Let the People Sing. Call me an optimist but this one makes me feel good. The Legend is another favorite of mine, quietly telling the stories of long passed martyrs to the cause. I must also say that it was not possible for me to listen to these songs in the course of writing about them and not become engrosed and educated in the history of Ireland’s recent turbulent past.

This is an extraordinary album performed by talented, creative men who are passionately engaged in their cause. I would recommend it to anyone interested in outstanding Rebel music, Irish history and a great performance.  Starry Plough is meant to be enjoyed again and again and in the listening, learned from.  It definitely delivers on all counts. Great stuff Druids! 

 The Druids will launch Starry Plough on 01-Aug-2010 in Kildare.

Starry Plough

Back Home in Derry / Bobby Sands

Farewell to Bellaghy / Gerry O’Glacain

The Weeping Wind/The Lonesome Boatman / Bobby Sands/Finbar Furey

The Helicopter Song / Brian Warfield

The Legend / Dan Hannon

Starry Plough / Mick O’Brien     (scroll down to watch video of this song )

George and Pop / P. McGlinchey/G. Breslin

Highland Paddy / Sean McCarthy

Let the People Sing / Brian Warfield

Mick O’Brien – 5-String Banjo, Bodhran, Tin Whistle, Vocals

Paddy Mangan – Banjo, Mandolin & Vocals

Gary Lawlor – Acoustic Guitar, Lead Vocals

Darren Egan – Base, Vocals 

Alan Donohue – “The man that looks after us on and off the stage.”

Albums available at cdBaby:

Starry Plough (the week of launch)

From Bodenstown to Boolavouge

Visit The Druids at:

Bebo:  http://www.bebo.com/Profile.jsp?MemberId=8598844388

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-DRUIDS/138321612153?ref=search

Myspace:  www.myspace.com/thedruidsrebelband

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“I wish to thank everyone for a fantastic show last night! Very rarely does so much talent share one stage for such a great cause. The ever-popular Damian McGinty brought his best with some great songs, and we had many talents such as Niamh McGlinchy, Stephen Barr and Michael Doherty.

A last thank you must go out to our many American friends and supporters, particularly DianeS, whom I met long before the Facebook program began. Thank you all, there was as many people at the show in spirit as there were in the seats. Hopefully somewhere along the line, we can all meet in person, but From The Heart 2 has brought many people together. We did not foresee support from so far, but greatly appreciate it!”

—Cathal Lynch
—From The Heart 2

Cathal, the videos were wonderful. Those of us over here sure appreciate your middle of the night tenacity. Thank you back. DianeS

Here are some videos from the concert.

Mickey Coleman singing Miss You More than Words Can Say. He wrote this song for the first concert.

Damian McGinty singing Ronan Keating’s Hold On

Micheal Doherty doing Boy George’s Karma Chameleon

To read more about this concert click here. You can find more videos from the concert at Cathal’s YouTube Page

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I truly enjoy being able to showcase Chicago bands and musicians for Fanrealm readers all over the world and this is one of those opportunities. It is my pleasure to introduce one of my very favorite local groups to those of you outside the Midwest; Kevin Flynn & the Avondale Ramblers, Celt Rock with a most distinctive Chicago flavor. “We’re a Chicago-Irish band” is a quote from Kevin that I’ve seen in every review or story I’ve read about Kevin Flynn & the Avondale Ramblers.  I agree they most certainly are a Chicago-Irish band and a darn good one!

Kevin and the guys released their third album “Double Door 9-15-09” on March 17, 2010. A collection of self penned tunes (with the exception of The Minstrel Boy), it is a distinctively Chicago themed collection of songs recorded on September 15, 2009 at the Double Door here in the city. The album is filled with tales of local figures and legendary incidents having occurred over Chicago’s storied past. Kevin knows his city’s history, and his knowledge is unmistakable in his lyrics. An audience favorite and one of mine as well is The Pope of the Windy City, an accurate and true depiction of one of Chicago’s most famous and long serving mayors, Richard J. Daley. Another song, One Day In May, tells the story of the Haymarket Riot on May 4, 1886. Original lyrics set to the beat of a distinctively Chicago Celt Rock rhythm, these guys have another winner. This is an outstanding album and well worth adding to any collection.

See Kevin Flynn & the Avondale Ramblers at the IAHC Celt Fest in Chicago, July 10, 2010 appearing in the 5^th Province Pub – 8:00pm-9:30pm. Be sure to check out their website at www.kevin-flynn.com/

Double Door 9-15-09:

The Devil & Dr. Holmes

The Minstrel Boy

You Don’t Want Me

Somethin’s Goin’ Down

Sign of the Cross

Hey Now-You’re My Savior

Pope of the Windy City

The Legend of Money Malone

One Day In May

Here’s To You, Second City

Stand Tall

Kevin Flynn – Lead Vocals/Acoustic Guitar

Sean Mulroney – Ampeg, Baby Bass/Vocals

Nils St. Cyr – Electric Guitar/Vocals

Andy Gerber – Mandolin

Fred Frey – Drums/Vocals

Kevin Flynn & the Avondale Ramblers on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/kevinflynnandtheavondaleramblers

Albums available at cdBaby and at ITunes

Double Door 9-15-09

Don’t Count Me Out

The Murderer, The Thief, The Minstrels & The Rest

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Following the success of last years “From The Heart” concert in The Millennium Forum, a second will take place to raise awareness of suicide and honor Eamonn’s memory. 

DATE:                    Saturday, July 10, 2010

Time:                     8:00pm – 11:30pm

Location:              Millennium Forum, Derry

Many musical talents will be on show for the concert. Among them are:

Ben Kelly

Damian McGinty (of Celtic Thunder)

Maureen Campbell

Michael Doherty

Mickey Coleman

Niamh McGlinchey

Plunkett McGartland

Stephen Barr

May McFetridge will also be the hilarious host for the evening, plus much more to be announced!

Tickets: £12.50, £15.00, £16.50

All proceeds go to Foyle Search & Rescue: http://www.foylesearchandrescue.org/

Tickets available online:
http://gcldvsh.sed2.info/index.php?view=details&id=178%3Afrom-the-heart-memorial-concert&option=com_eventlist&Itemid=3

Or by telephone: 028 71 264 455

The following is an excerpt from a statement by SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan:
“The marked incidence of suicide in Derry – in particular among young people – is devastating the families and friends of victims and shocking the whole community. We are all left struggling with perplexing questions. No one on their own can establish or express adequate answers. This is a profound issue where we literally have to come together – different agencies, churches, professionals, community groups and families. We have to admire and applaud so much good, hard, sensitive work which is being done and so much of it led by those who have been bereaved by suicide.
Through this follow up concert, Bebe Johnson is determined to do just that. This is a warm way to bring people together to talk openly and honestly about suicide and mental health issues, so that we can encourage our young people to do the same. Bebe has put her heart and soul into the organisation of this concert. In support of her courageous efforts, I would urge people throughout the North West to support this concert, the proceeds of which will go to Foyle Search & Rescue.”

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Quigley’s Irish Pub is located in the heart of suburban Naperville. At ground level in a large restored historic Victorian building built in 1845, it sits at the top of a hill on Jefferson Street waiting to welcome you inside. The atmosphere is friendly, warm and inviting. The Iroko Teak bar and paneling and hand etched and colored glasswork give the whole place a sociable relaxed feel.  A small stage area at the front of the main room accommodates the local singers and musicians who appear there regularly. The area doubles as table space on days when there is no entertainment.

Quite large in square feet but intentionally separated, it is made intimate and cozy by the use of screens, snugs, clustered seating and several separate rooms including a cigar room. The food is simple, plentiful, fresh, promptly served by friendly wait staff and the Guinness is comparable in taste and head to the properly pulled pints at the top of the St. James Gate brewery in Dublin.  

 Patrons enter the pub through a lovely tree shaded patio scattered with wrought iron tables and chairs. One of the unique things about Naperville is its dog friendly policy. Many businesses in the downtown area leave full water bowls for the dogs outside their entrances. Not to be outdone, Quigley’s has taken dog friendly one step further. Well behaved pooches are welcome to join their owners on the patio. On most warm clear days, you’ll find all variety of mans best friend curled up under the tables or positioned next to their masters eyeballing the parade of plates passing by.

On the weekends I’ve been there, both Saturdays for lunch and Sunday morning for their “to die for” Irish breakfasts, there were always tables, snugs and seating available. But, I’ve been told that happy hour most nights packs ‘em in wall to wall. For the start of the World Cup the place was loaded hours before the first match began. All testaments to the popularity of the place.

I would highly recommend Quigley’s Irish Pub to anyone. Whether it’s a meal with family or friendly conversation over a couple pints, it’s a great place to kick back and relax.  It’s truly a jewel of a place and my very favorite pub.  

Quigley’s Irish Pub

43 East Jefferson Avenue
Naperville, IL 60540-4905
(630) 428-4774

http://www.quigleysirishpub.com/

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 Over the weeks I found myself returning to two favorites, If Love is a Red Dress and When I Get Low, and playing them again and again. Poignant and engaging, I found Red Dress just the song to curl up with on a dark rainy day to relive memories of past loves. When I Get Low is amusing, upbeat and showcases Kate’s ability to switch flawlessly between blue and bubbly without missing a beat or breaking a sweat. 

 With her distinctive lyric blend and the bands offbeat instrumentation, this EP is well worth adding to any collection. Descriptive words layered upon unusual melodies blend together to create a totally original sound. Kate O’Callaghan is someone to watch. She surely has the talent to make her mark in the music world. Observe and enjoy. 

To You, Kate O’Callaghan’s debut EP, will be released on June 25^th of this year, launching at McGrorys in Culdaff. With Mark Black, Peter Doherty, Seamus Devenny, Kevin Murphy and The Henry Girls. She Cries, All You Can Be, To You, Well Runs Dry
were all written by Kate.

TO YOU

*She Cries

*All You Can Be

*To You

*Well Runs Dry

 If Love is a Red Dress

 When I Get Low

* These songs were all written by Kate.

Kate O’ Callaghan – vocals and guitar
Mark Black – guitar
Peter Doherty – double bass
Seamus Devenny – drums, cajon, fiddle

Additional musicians:
Jennifer Kimball – backing vocals
Lorna Mc Laughlin – accordion
Kevin Murphy – clarinet
Paul Devenny – viola

www.kateocallaghan.com

www.myspace.com/kateocallaghanmusic

www.breakingtunes.com/kateocallaghan

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October 8^th marked the latest of many performances of greater stature for singer-songwriter, Enda Keegan as he opened up for legendary Irish superstar Finbar Furey at Nevada Smith’s in the East Village. Says Keegan “It was such a great honor to open up for Finbar, who is such an incredible artist and a true lifetime idol and inspiration for me!”

The week prior Enda had shared the stage with Bagatelle, another favorite and equally legendary band. A true entrepreneur, Enda was the driving force behind this event, entitled the “Streets of New York Benefit Night.” This benefit event raised funds for the NYPD Widow’s & Children’s Fund and honored Liam Reilly & Bagatelle for their contribution to Irish music and culture.

Taking a quick look back, Enda Keegan grew up in the small village of Owning in County Kilkenny, Ireland. Enda’s love for music began on his tenth birthday when given his first guitar. By the age of sixteen, Enda was playing many local talent shows and performing with the Carrick on Suir Operatic Society. Enda left high school after being told that music would just be a hobby, and that he should pursue a career in woodworking. He began performing throughout the Irish countryside by night, while working ten-hour shifts in the cabbage fields by day. One evening, an American businessman and his wife watched Enda perform, and made him a life-altering proposal; they offered Enda a full scholarship to the Shenandoah Conservatory of Music in Virginia. This was an offer he could not refuse.

Enda pursued his education with great passion, making the most of this rare opportunity. After graduation, Enda continued to write and perform original music, until later joining the band Surrey Lane. Their single “Some Days” was a Top 100 hit on the AC charts. They were also featured on ABC Radio who gave notice to their 9/11 tribute song “Love Must Grow.”

Enda Keegan recently toured nationwide on the American Idol 2007-08 season, (Rock Your Style Stage) alongside Constantine Maroulis, performing for thousands of new fans. With his upcoming release, “The Bridge,” Enda has created a stellar record with endless crossover appeal.  Recorded at Outloud Audio Studios in NYC, “The Bridge” has something for everyone, including the tender “New York City Morning” to the traditional upbeat pulse of “Banks of the Roses,” to the anthem, “One of These Days.”

Enda is an artist on a mission and on the rise, living out his childhood dreams and loving every minute of it!

Upcoming shows:

05/21/2010 - O”Brien’s on 46^th Street , New York, NY

05/22/2010 - Rosie O’Grady’s, New York, NY

05/23/2010 - PD O’Hurley’s, New York, NY

05/31/2010 - The Light Horse, Jersey City, NJ

Here are some samples of his songs:

You can purchase his music at cdbaby or

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Despite the frigid weather here in Chicago last weekend, Millennium Park and the Pritzker Pavilion were set afire and energized  by The ROGUES, a combination CeltRock, folk, classical band performing a mishmash of high energy, soulful wail, classic and rousing traditional music, switching between each without missing a beat. They took to the stage enthused. Kilted, booted and marching to the pounding of drums and wail of bagpipes, their unique sound filling the venue and surrounding audience with anticipation of the performance to come.  They did not disappoint.

 They drummed, they piped, they fiddled, they strummed and for a few fun numbers even hauled out the old accordion. You know you’re in for a good time when the bands lead singer wears a kilt and totes an accordion. And, I don’t mean one of those wee squeeze boxes. This was a full fledged, mother of pearl, straps across the back, 50’s instrument. Gotta make you smile!! For the entire time they were on stage there was a sense of excitement and humor in everything they did and said. There were times I could swear I saw Nelson Stewart channeling Elvis; lip quiver, hip swivel and all. Nelson mugged and grinned for a lovely smiling woman at the corner of the stage taking pictures who he later introduced as his wife. Said she was an American and he stole her away and took her back to Canada as payback for NAFTA. Somehow it all works.

Experiencing this group live is something not to be missed if they tour in your area. The individuals make this band what it is both with their exceptional musical abilities and their charming anything for a laugh persona.  For me personally the highlight of the evening occurred when the entire band took to the aisles, marching up and down between the audience playing Scotland The Brave to cheers and applause loud enough to compete with the bagpipes and drums. I loved this moment! I loved this show!

Look for The ROGUES version of the traditional tune Bonny Portmore, on their album Roguetrip, to be featured in the movie “The Irishman” being released Summer, 2010. The film, starring Christopher Walken, Val Kilmer and Vinnie Jones is the true story of Danny Greene, an Irishman who fought the Italian mafia in the 1970’s.

The ROGUES have been making music together since 1994, performing at festivals, theaters, highland games, clubs and pubs throughout America and Canada.  They are:

Nelson Stewart:  Lead vocals, piano, electric/acoustic guitars, accordion, mandolin, bass guitar, bodhran, tenor drums, doumbek, djembe.

Randy Wothke:  Bodhran, Scottish snare drum, doumbek, djembe and other percussion, keyboards, vocals.

Lyric Todkill: Vocals, highland bagpipes, whistles, electric/acoustic guitars, piano, bass guitar.

Corey Walden: Electric/acoustic fiddles, vocals.

Jimmy Mitchell: Highland bagpipes, Scottish smallpipes.

Doug MacRae: Highland bagpipes.

Michael Kenney: Highland bagpipes.

Tyson Kipfer: Bass guitar.

Visit their website: http://www.therogues.com

 Listen to samples of their music at: http://www.myspace.com/houstonrogues

The Rogues’ CDs

The Rogues’ DVD

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This year Chicago changed both the time of year (from fall to spring) and the location of its CelticFest. Millennium Park, the crown jewel of Chicago’s downtown area, now hosts this annual gathering. Performing on Saturday night at the Pritzker Pavillion, a new state of the art stage, sound system and audience facility, were The Rogues at 4:00pm and followed at 7:30pm by the evenings main attraction, The Saw Doctors, the Irish rock group from Co. Galway, Ireland who had kicked of their U.S. tour the evening before at the Magic Bag in Detroit (See Fanrealm’s tour section for dates and locations for U.S. appearances.).                                                                                                            

I must admit to being a brand new Saw Doctors fan, six months ago I had no idea of whom or what Saw Doctors were. That was then, this is now…..  In these few short months I am transformed; a total convert to their music, to their fandom, to all things Saw Doctor.

Being a newbie in an audience of seasoned Saw Doctors concert goers is an experience unto itself. The fans are decked out in their maroon and white Galway GAA jerseys and waving the red and green flag of Mayo. Faces silently (and no so silently) mouthing song lyrics, couples with arms entwined, and swaying together to the music, others dancing alone in the aisles, all in high spirits and excited to be a part of the revelry happening in the audience. Both the young and not so young continually rush the stage to be a part of the animated mass pressed together and in unison signing, waving and swaying to familiar songs pounding from amps mounted above the stage. This is The Saw Doctors!!!  Big, bold, loud and loved unconditionally by every single person in the audience. These guys are fan favorites and it shows from the moment they take the stage until the final notes of their encore. They never took a break, segueing flawlessly from one song to another, singing, playing, laughing and interacting with each other and the audience as though every fan there was a long lost and dearly missed friend. Being a part of this love fest was an amazing experience for me. Having it in my home town, a part of CelticFest Chicago and free just added to my nights’ treasured memories.

The band shared two songs during the course of the concert, gifting the audience with You’ve Got To Be Yourself, a song never performed for a Chicago audience before and second, Takin’ The Train which will be included in their new album scheduled for release this Summer.

They performed straight through for the entire 1½ hours on stage, ending with I’ll Be On My Way and then returning to shouts of encore, encore to perform an additional three of the fans’ favorites. I missed the first encore, forgive me, I was on the way out. (Hey, give me a break, I’m new to the protocol.) I sure didn’t miss two and three, N17 and Hay Wrap.

Aside from the weatherman sending an arctic wind and almost freezing temperatures, the only flaw to a perfect evening that I could find was a report that the City of Chicago didn’t allow, or wouldn’t supply any alcohol in the backstage area, though they were selling it out front. I’m sure a few were had by those deprived as Leo later blogged “don’t worry, we went for a few afterwards, met loads of people and drove off to Ohio at 3am. ~Leo”

To any of you still wondering if seeing The Saw Doctors is something you want to do – YES, IT IS!!!  This is one of the best rock bands I’ve ever experienced and they truly do love their fans.

The Saw Doctors:

Davy Carton: Vocals, Guitar

Leo Moran: Guitars, Vocals

Anthony Thistlethwaite: Bass Guitar, Saxophone, Vocals

Kevin Duffy: Keyboards, Vocals

Eimhin Cradock: Drums, Vocals

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As part of the recent release of his new album, A Mothers Lullaby, Mickey Coleman has announced a tour schedule for Easter week in and around Co. Tyrone. For those of you lucky enough to be in the area their dates, venue links and phone numbers follow.  ENJOY!!!

Sunday 4th April – Bellaghy GFC Hall Co.Derry

Tuesday 6th April – The Waterfront Hall, Belfast ( BT Studio)
Box office 02890334455

Wednesday 7th April – The Marketplace Theatre, Armagh
Box office 02837521821

Thursday 8th April – The Burnavon Theatre Cookstown
Box office 028 8676 9949  

 Friday 9th April – The Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen
Box office 028 66 325440

Saturday 10th April – The Riverside Theatre, Coleraine.
Box office 02870323232

Mickey’s cds are available at cdbaby

and at

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