The songs and tunes of the Atlantic Fringe – the combined traditions from Ireland to Appalachia and beyond, are the result of generations of movement and migration, of leave-taking and homecoming, back and forth across the ocean in an endless tide of cultural exchange. Lyrics and melodies borrowed from one land wash ashore on another, only to return again later transformed, peopled with new characters and set in different modes.
From the rich traditions of both sides the Atlantic has come the source and inspiration of the music of Unwanted – three Sligo-based musicians, each with exceptional talent and a lifetime dedication to their music.
Roscommon born Cathy Jordan, lead singer for acclaimed group Dervish, moves effortlessly and with soaring voice between Sean-nós, Appalachian ballad and contemporary folksong, lending rich accompaniment on bodhrán and tenor guitar. Her engaging stage presence and easy interaction with the audience turns a simple concert into an evening at home among good friends.
Sligo native Séamus O’Dowd (guitar, fiddle, harmonica) grew up steeped in the tradition of Sligo fiddling, early on expanding his repertoire to include the New World traditions and today he is as accomplished playing Blues on slide guitar as he is playing jigs and reels. Séamus is well known both from his years with Dervish and from his performing with the best of Irish traditional musicians, such as piper Liam O’Flynn and accordionist Máirtín O’Connor.
Rick Epping (harmonica, concertina, banjo, jaw harp), a native of California, has been moving back and forth between Ireland and the United States for over 35 years and has been playing the music of both lands since childhood. Having played with musical greats as varied as Bill Monroe, Texas bluesman Mance Lipscomb and Irish accordionist Joe Cooley, Rick brings to the group a wealth of experience and authentic style.
Together, Unwanted demonstrate a deep understanding and appreciation of the music of both the Old World and the New, and together they have created a seamless fusion of these traditions, showing that the process of transformation arising from the musical ebb and flow along the Atlantic Fringe continues today. Wherever they perform, Unwanted are finding that they are welcome and very much wanted, indeed.
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this folk-carol on myspace... Poem 230 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (see my blog for details): CHRISTMAS SUNG SIMPLY
As gospellers have said, Beneath signalling skies, On land dusty to tread, A trough in a stable Was the strawy first-bed Of a divine baby - The forgiving Godhead.
A season for new hope - There then and here now; The yuletide of goodwill - There then and here now.
In respect of this chance, Beneath bright or dark skies, Faith's the star that we glance Attending Christ's churches And trying to enhance, With singing and ritual, Our God-loving stance.
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace...
Poem 162 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (please see my blog): TEES TO TYNE: FIRST IMPRESSIONS - SUMMER 2001
Where traditions are not so rare; Sea, country and works scent the air; A multitude of monuments, Planted tubs and patterned pavements.
The longish pedestrian malls; The remnants of defensive walls; Historic buildings are a gauge Of the respect for heritage.
Wheat, rape and pines in the fields; Estuaries guarded by shields; Long sandy beaches and wide scenes; Romantic-ruin go-betweens.
Rivers in parts licked by trees, Or fringed by boat clubs, wharfs, gantries, And crossed by practical delights - Varied spans, forming pleasing sights.
Fine churches headed at Durham; Football kits ad infinitum; Kept castles - one for study; Masonry behind masonry.
And, with moulding-works out that way, It’s somewhere for a longer stay..?
Hello everyone, this is to toast Liams' new record "Sweetwood" I do expect everyone receiving this to enjoy the record as much or more than the beer, so get your copy now! Cheers! Mike
Hey, Our Debut album – Aliquot strings is out now! It’s available in Irish record stores and online (click below). You can get a Free download of ‘Garavogue’ on www.tucanmusic.com Our launch nights are on Sat 6th June in The Clarence – Sligo and Sat 20th June in Crawdaddy – Dublin. Hope you like it! Cheers - Donal and Pearse
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace...
Poem 2 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (please see my blog): WALKABOUT WITH MY PEN
Once drove an old sedan, up north, From a place in Sydney to Cairns; Then to Kuranda I went forth, By train, to look without set plans.
I browsed through the trendy market, With fresh fruits of tropical kind; Walked to the creek through lush thicket - Nature’s hand giving peace of mind.
I dined in a scenic cafe; Then, outside, as I wrote for yen, Some passing Kooris called-out: “Hey, You go walkabout with your pen.”
Request or question, I don’t know - Assured voices, elderly men. That’s now several years ago, And I’ve seen the world - with my pen.
GR1000 for accepting the request. You won't be disappointed of being friends with these two fools! Great album by the way!!! Hopefully we won't miss ye again when you come back to Gaillimh.
Salut The Gombeens Jesters to His Majesty The People
special show: part of The Model art center's Other Spaces series -@ wolfetone st. Pharmacy this Thursday 8pm... check out http://www. modelart. ie/altsligo. html for more details
How ye folks, wish I could have made it Friday night, but was gigging meself. Can't wait to get me hands on a CD! Cathy, ye were savage in Carrick last Sunday too. Take care, Bean
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