Sweet Books and Cupcakes

The Ferocious Mingle Market x

2010-12-06T14:27:00.001-08:00

The Ferocious Mingle Mkt hits the city centre at The Front Lounge. We'll have quality stalls to tempt you offering gift options which will make you squeek with relief & at grrrreat prices to boot! Art, Irish Crafts, Vintage & Handamade Clothing, Vinyls, Steampunk, Christmas Confectionery & Wreaths,Designer Jewellery , Antiques, the Coolest Cushions and other homeware stuff that you're not aware you need as yet

Melifilous music for our entertainment by Miss Truly DiVine ,Burl Esquire & Dennis on sax
The Ferocious Mingle Mkt ~Dublin's Fancy Dress Market..costume, fancy dress or just dress fancy ..or not .:) totally optional but most delightfully welcomed!

Christmas Mingle Market x

2010-12-06T14:26:00.000-08:00

Note the venue change...it's now taking place in the Front Lounge, Parliament Street x

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=157985850911516

Photos from the night x

2010-04-30T05:34:00.000-07:00

Great night x

2010-04-30T05:33:00.001-07:00

Great night at the swap last night, there was loads of money raised for SVP and the whole night was amazing!

Plus The Crafty Market is on in the Shebeen Chic, Georges Street this Sunday!!!Please come along, I'll be selling my jewellery again x

Bernard Dunne

2009-09-28T16:03:00.000-07:00

Boxing champion, Bernard Dunne is paying tribute to his close friend Packie Ryan who recently passed away.

Dunne and a host of other celebrities hope to raise funds this weekend for Packie, by playing a charity football match at St. Patrick’s Athletics home ground in his honour.

Packie was a close family friend of Dunnes’ and he passed away lately “after a long battle with cancer.”

Dunne said: “We hoped Packie could go with CASA (Caring & Sharing Association) on a pilgrimage to Lourdes but unfortunately he was too ill to travel.

Dunne also added that he was delighted to be involved in the charity match, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to help his wife Frances, his daughter Abby and CASA in raising funds.”

“Bernard wanted to do something after his friend Packie passed away. He was only 32 years and left behind a wife and a new born baby. He teamed up with CASA so it’s really a joint effort.” explains Mags Travers of CASA.

Dunne was excited about getting involved with the charity, “I wanted to do something, so CASA came along, they’re a fantastic, they look after everybody.”

Dunne plans on swapping his boxing gloves for football boots when he takes to the field to play the charity football match.

The Gaiety All Stars vs. Sporting Bernard Dunne promises to be an exciting match.

Dunne joked: “I’ll have some big mates on the sideline to intimidate.”

Dunne will line out against Youre a Star’s Brian Ormond, snooker player Ken Doherty and footballers Paul McGrath and Liam O’Brian and Shane Byrne, Graham Geraghty.

Many other well known Irish celebs are set to don jerseys on the day, to make it a star studded and fun packed day.

Dunne said: “There will be face painting, clowns, it’s really a family day.”

The match is for a great cause, the charity event hopes to raise much needed funds for CASA who work with people with disabilities in communities in North Dublin.

“It’s great attention for CASA and the work they’re doing. In the current climate, with Givernment cut backs, it’ll be good to raise funds for them,” Dunne added.

The charity has been working closely with people with disabilities for over thirty years. Their goal is develop social outlets for people through social activity.

The money raised will help with the charities annual trips to Lourdes, which Packie had hoped to go on.

It will also go towards reducing the waiting list for the other programmes they run. It will also go towards the newly set up, Packie Ryan fund.

The match will take place in Richmond Park, Inchicore, this Sunday.

Amy Winehouse

2009-09-28T16:01:00.001-07:00

Last night Amy Winehouse’s ex husband accused her of cheating on him on four occasions.

Her video producer ex, Blake Fielder Civil, 27 claimed that “there may have been others. But if there are, she hasn’t told me.”

The rehab singer had relations with her manager’s assistant Alex Haines, 23 in April 2008. She had a brief fling with Mik Whitnall, 41 who plays guitar in band, Babyshambles.

She was also involved with Kristian Marr, 25 who had also been linked with Sadie Frost; he was her on-off boyfriend.

During her 6 month retreat to St. Lucia, the star hooked up with Rugby ace, Josh Bowman, 21. Mean while Blake was back in the U.K serving a 27 month sentence.

But Blake admitted yesterday that despite Amy’s serial cheating, he still loved her.

“She kept cheating on me, kept saying sorry. And I kept saying, ‘It’s alright, I forgive you.’ The nastier she was, the more in love I became. And she couldn’t believe her luck.”

Blake slated Amy saying: “You should have seen the state of them, especially Alex Haines. I can’t believe Amy is still friends with Sadie Frost after she f***** her boyfriend.”

Blake added that the guys who became involved with Amy were answerable, “If I was the person she had these flings with, I may have thought it’s not the best idea to sleep with someone who is out of their mind, can barely speak and probably weighs about five stone.”

“But that’s their cross to bare. I think she’s just very lonely and has always used her sexuality to make friends.”

He claimed that before things went down hill with Amy that their relationship was “loving,” “passionate” and “very physical.” He added: “She would want to have sex six times a night.”

He said: “She is even better at sex then singing,” he admitted.

“It was built on sex from day one and was always mind blowing. Amy was very loving and passionate and the best I’ve ever had.”

The pair met in 2004 before Amy’s rise to fame on the back of her Back to Black album. The album put Amy in the spot light and it was following this that she became addicted to heroin and cocaine.

Blake is now clean following a stint in rehab and spoke about when the couple first met: “She had this beautiful hair and amazing body. She was curvy then and I loved her like that. We clicked immediately. We weren’t on any drugs then. It was sex we were addicted to.”

The couple were granted a ‘quickie’ divorce at London’s High Court two weeks ago.

Amy Winehouse

2009-09-28T16:00:00.002-07:00

Grammy award winner Amy Winehouse makes more headlines for her wild behavior and battles with addiction then she ever did for her phenomenal musical talents.

Now the 24 year old singer is said to be obsessed with a tanning bed she had installed in her home.

Amy Winehouse developed the potentially deadly addiction last year.

A source told Britain’s The Sun newspaper: “Amy can’t do anything by halves. Recently she has been going for it on the tanning bed, but she won't be told.”

“Over the years Amy has been addicted to alcohol, all sorts of drugs, men and even knitting. This is another addiction that puts her health in danger.”

Amy had developed sores on her face last year and had bought the sun bed to try combat this. “She bought it to get rid of scabs that started appearing on her skin,” the source said.

Experts usually recommend short sessions on the tan bed, with at least 48 hours between sessions to allow the skin to heal. However, the singer has been said to spend more than an hour a day soaking up ultraviolet rays.

On another occasion back in March, it was reported that she fell asleep on the bed and woke up with burns.

“She’d had a bit of a heavy night the evening before and was a little too relaxed by the time she clambered into the bed and promptly fell asleep. Within an hour, her eyelids were red raw and puffy, and she was feeling in real pain,” a source close to the star revealed.

She’s not the only celeb tanning; Jennifer Aniston reportedly has a tanning bed in her home so she can maintain her sun kissed glow and Transformer’s beauty Megan Fox is fond of tanning too.

But in light of revelations by The International Agency for Research on Cancer, Amy’s habits and the habit’s of other tanners is potential life threatening.

The research found that tanning machines emitting ultraviolet light can increase the risk of skin tumors by 75%.

The Agency has said the tanning beds are “carcinogenic to humans,” and that tanning beds are as likely to cause cancer as smoking.

Although the agency said “children and young people were at the greatest risk,” the tanning beds are now considered carcinogenic to everyone by the World Health Organization. (WHO)

According to WHO, 25 per cent of Northern European artificial sunbed users are between 16 and 24 years old.

They also said, UV radiation plays an important role in the development of skin cancer, cataracts, and other eye conditions, and suppresses the immune system and causes premature skin ageing.

Gerry Ryan

2009-09-28T16:00:00.001-07:00

Almost a year and a half since DJ Gerry Ryan (52) split from his wife Morah he reveals that during the break up he was “frightened and “lonely.”

The father of five admitted: “There have been times when I’ve been very alone and very frightened. I’ve been deeply afraid and conflicted, worried and overwhelmed.”

He told listeners on his 2FM hit show that: I’m lucky to be surrounded by people who help me conquer that.”

A press statement, released last March by the couple’s solicitor, announced that Ryan’s 26 year marriage to Morah was over.

The college sweethearts never opened up about the reasons behind the breakdown of their marriage but Gerry later admitted he wished he could have done things differently.

He said: “It gave me a lot of cause for reflection. I look back on bits of my life and go, ‘Well, I could have done that better.’ I could have been more courageous, I could have been more honest, I could have been more reliable.”

“Once you start getting to those moments in your life, you say, I f***** up. But do you know something? I'm OK.”

When the couple split the DJ moved into a hotel, leaving Morah and their children Bonnie, Rex, Charlotte, Elliot and Babette to live in their luxurious Clontarf home.

Just ten months after the very public split Ryan announced that he was dating charity boss Melanie Verwoerd (42), head of Unicef Ireland.

South African born Melaine and Gerry have been going strong since and recently holidayed in the Italian city of Venice and flew to South Africa where the pair planned on meeting up with family and friends of Melaine.

Meanwhile Morah celebrated her 50^th birthday last night at a bash thrown by MCD boss Denis Desmond and his wife Caroline in their Dalkey home.

Morah has got her life back on track following the split, returning to work as a sculptor.

But she admitted: “It was heartbreaking, it was very hard but then every cloud has a silver lining and myself and the children are in a good place now. It's important to hang in there. It gets better.”

Morah added: “I suppose when my whole life fell apart I decided I had to do something. I'm running four miles every day, I'm doing yoga and have started meditation, so there have been big changes.”

When speaking about turning 50, she said: “I think it's great. I'm loving it. It's a new chapter in my life. I'm happy.”

Quick Reply

Misha Meltdown

2009-09-28T15:59:00.001-07:00

Troubled actress Mischa Barton is ready to return to work following her dramatic breakdown. She is set star in a new TV show The Beautiful Life.

The show sees Barton star as a supermodel trying not to slip from stardom and is produced by Ashton Kutcher.

Production of the show, which was supposed to air in the US this autumn, has been pushed back following Mischa’s recent stint in psychiatric care.

Mischa entered care in L.A almost a fortnight ago, amid reports of drugs and drink abuse. The dishevelled star was escorted from her home by police and dramatically sectioned.

But two weeks on, a close friend of Mischa and former OC stylist Stacey Kives has spoken out about the star's breakdown and hopes for her recovery.

Stacy admitted Mischa, "was on the path to self destruction; it was just a question of when she was going to be ready to do something about it."

“Mischa has been drinking since she was about 14, and she doesn’t drink to have fun anymore; she drinks not to feel anything. But I think this last episode has scared her straight. She finally sounds like she’s seeing reality.”

Mischa first appeared in the spot light alongside Lyndsey Lohan at the age of eight, when she modelled for a catalogue.

Her career blossomed and she appeared in a string of TV shows including soap All My Children, Channel 4’s The Big Breakfast and finally her major break through on theOC.

It was on the set of the OC that she met Stacey and they have remained close friends since. Stacey used to date a friend of Mischa’s ex boyfriend Cisco Alder.

Stacey has said that “Mischa is finally willing to get some help. She was partying so hard before. Whenever a close friend would say, ‘Mischa, I’m worried about you,’ she would distance herself.”

Mischa used to be friends with fellow L.A socialite Nicole Richie. Despite Nicole being worried about the wayward actress, Mischa remains distant from Nicole.

Nicole however, doesn’t feel that begin around negative behaviour fits in with her new life as a mother, a source close her revealed.

Mischa’s negative behaviour could be attributed to her battle with depression, friends of the star admit.

They added: “She wonders if she’s washed up at the age of 23. She’s been working since she was eight. She always assumed she’d keep working.”

Her family fear she’ll go down the same self destructive route as Amy Winehouse and Britney Spears.

Her mother Nuala, who was born in Ireland and her father Paul have always remained tight lipped about the reason for Barton’s wild behaviour and eventual hospitalisation.

2009-09-28T15:58:00.002-07:00

Jade Goody’s mum has revealed that her daughter spoke to her from beyond the grave.

Jackie Budden, 51 has revealed that she communicated with Jade through celeb psychic Jayne Wallace.

The psychic told Jackie that former Big Brother housemate Jade did love her husband Jack Tweed, 22 that he was disrespectful and said that marrying Jack was “the biggest mistake of her life.”

The grieving mother spoke out about the eerie experience saying: “I felt Jade near me and I couldn’t hold back the tears. I could smell Jade like she was standing there next to me – the feeling was incredible.”

27 year old Jade lost her long battle with cancer on Mother’s Day this year and Jackie claims that she had promised to give her a sign that she was happy.

The sign came in the form of an emotional psychic reading; during the reading Jackie was told by Jayne: “Jade wants to say ‘Sorry Mum’ for not listening to you. She knows it was the biggest mistake she ever made – but she just wanted to be a princess.”

“She still loves him and knows he loved her; but she’s disgusted with his behaviour and thinks it’s disrespectful to her memory and to you.”

Jackie and Jack never saw eye to eye and Jackie now says: “I’ve stuck up for him too often – but not any more.”

“It made me sick that he was with a girl just three weeks after the funeral. Most of the men Jade has ever been with have sold her out. The only difference with Jack is that he waited till she was dead."

During the eventful reading Jackie also heard predictions about her two grandsons Freddie (4) and Bobby (6) and their TV presenter father, Jeff Brazier (30).

The psychic warned: “It’s going to get worse and you won’t want the boys around him (Jack) at all - be on your guard.”

The psychic also revealed that Jade wanted her mum to give Jeff a break, “you’ve got to give him a chance. Within nine weeks he will prove himself to you.”

Another dramatic claim by the psychic was that Jade said she wanted her mum involved in the production of a musical based on her life. And urged her mum to reveal all, in her up coming autobiography.

A final prediction revealed was: “Within 12 months you will have been invited to go on the Oprah Winfrey show to talk about the musical and the book.”

Jackie admitted: “Some people criticise me – but you can’t judge me until you’ve walked in my shoes – I just want to feel close to my little girl again.”

Model Citizen

2009-09-28T15:58:00.001-07:00

Meath beauty, Grace Fox follows in her mother Helen’s footsteps by scoring herself a modelling contract.

She beat off stiff competition from hundreds of contestant in the Gillette Venus’s Model Search.

Grace (20) was delighted with the win and admitted she’d always dreamt of being a model. “My mother was a top model in the 70’s – so if I could have a career like hers I would be delighted.”

The mother/daughter pair are both thrilled, Helen admitted: “I’m thrilled for Grace. I’m a hugely proud mother.”

Helen, former model and Miss Ireland contestant, said that she was first “discovered” by Eddie Shanahan, a modelling agent, in the 70's and became the face of Mary Quant make up.

“I was also Miss Odeon in the 70’s; I went to a casting in London and a screen test.”

She spoke about Grace's future: “Hopefully she’ll get into modelling. This is great publicity for her. She eventually wants to get into media. She just got her honours degree from UCD and wants to do a Masters in Journalism.”

Grace added: “I’ve applied to do a masters in Journalism and Media in Griffith College Dublin, so hopefully I get accepted. I’ll be able to do the modelling part time.”

Grace, originally from Summerhill in County Meath, is a keen show jumper and is the secretary of Moy Riding Club in Summerhill, which is run by her parents.

The Meath stunner now lives in Dublin with her “proud as punch” boyfriend.

Gillette Venus launched their model search on Bebo and reduced the hundreds of entrants down to three.

Grace said: “My friend is a fashion stylist and heard about the competition, and told me to enter. I’m so thrilled.”

Fellow finalists Laura Gardiner from County Clare and Beibhinn Ronan from Raheny in Dublin, joined Grace in Temple Bar for the final showdown.

Grace’s “natural beauty” impressed judge John Compton of Compton Model Agency, who said: “When she walked into the room she had a real presence about her and a great personality which is hugely important in this industry.”

The unbelievable winning prize was a modelling contract with the Compton Model Agency and professionally pictures for Grace’s portfolio.

Since the competition Grace has been getting loads of work. “I’ve been to a test shoot for Image and loads of castings. I did a bridal shoot, it was my first one and it was with a male model so it was really awkward,” she joked.

Adam Clayton

2009-09-28T15:57:00.001-07:00

U2 bassists Adam Clatyton 49, confesses that getting busted for drugs was the worst moment of his life and has admitted that “when fame first happened I didn’t feel in control.”

Clayton was arrested for possession of marijuana in Dublin 20 years ago, and it made international headlines.

“The worst thing that ever happened to me was being busted - it wasn’t that I was treated particularly badly, it was just so stupid, so pathetic, to be busted for cannabis.”

He admits that his world became bent out of shape when U2 first hit fame, “It’s very confusing when fame comes early on in your career – you get a little bent out of shape in terms of what’s important.”

He added: “When fame first happened I didn’t feel in control – and it closed doors to me.”

He describes fame as a “dessert” that comes with your “achievements.”

“It’s not an achievement in itself, but sometimes it can overpower the work.”

Adam has since given up the drink and drug lifestyle. “I stopped drinking 12 years ago, and it was time – I’d had enough of drinking, drugging and nightclubs.”

“It was a difficult decision to change my life, but I’ve no regrets at all. I’ve had the best of it both ways,” he said.

“I really enjoy the privileges of fame now. It opens doors and allows you to meet people, and you’re in control.”

The U2 rocker has remained a bachelor but reveals he never intended to stay single, he said: “It’s just that there were times when I met people that fascinated me and times I didn’t.

He added: “I’ve never chosen to be a bachelor. I’ve had girlfriends throughout the last 20 or 30 years.”

The next stop for the lads on their world tour is Slaski Stadium in Chorzow, Poland. They will have support from fellow Irish band, Snowpatrol, before heading to Croatia for the next stage of their tour.

However, it seems that their tour has been hit by the economic climate because tickets for their dates are still available, including more then half of their US gigs.

They head for the states on the 12^th of September for 16 appearances in cities like Chicago, Boston, New York and L.A.

Dublin Horse Show

2009-09-28T15:56:00.002-07:00

Horse lovers from across the world will gather for the 136th Horse Show, as it hits Dublin tomorrow.

An estimated 100,000 people are expected to make their way to the annual RDS event.

The five day festival, sponsored by Failte Ireland, has become a Dublin institution and a social necessity each summer for many, with the best show of horses to top international show jumpers.

The highlight each year has to be the Aga Khan Cup challenge part of the Meydan FEI Nations’ Cup series, now in its 100^th year.

It sees four of the best riders from ten countries competing for the title, Germany – last years winners, Ireland, Sweden, France, Switzerland, the Netherlands, UK, USA, Belgium and Italy.

Irish show jumping manager, Robert Splaine, last week announced his team, which includes Cameron Hanley, Cian O'Connor, Denis Lynch and Billy Twomey.

The Irish team haven’t won the challenge since 2004 so they’ll be hoping to claim the trophy this year. It is always a dramatic and exciting spectacle and draws a huge crowd.

Competitions like the the Young Rider Speed Derby and the the Hunt Chase on the final day of the show are also crowd pleasers.

The show itself will host over 1,400 horses and ponies competing over the five days in more then 100 competitions.

Apart from competitions the entire RDS complex will be overrun with trade stands, live bands and art exhibitions, showcasing the very best in Irish Craft and contemporary art.

The huge amount of entertainment provided at the show encourages guests to make a day of it with their families, not just horse enthusiasts.

A popular event is the at the Blossom Hill Ladies' Day on Thursday. Perhaps Galway races Best Dressed Lady, Mary Therese Mc Donnell will give her outfit another day out.

The one event over the five days, where two legged fashion conscious females can steal the show from their four legged competition.

The Best Dressed Lady will win a trip for two to sample wines in Milan and Cape Town, South Africa, including a five night stay and €1000 spending money.

The event is always well organised however, AA Road Watch advise people attending the Show that Simmonscourt Rd will be closed from Wed 5th to Sun 9th Aug from 7am until 7pm.

Diversions will be in place via Anglesea Road, this is to accommodate the show and hopefully ease traffic congestion in the area.

Dun Laoghaire Festival of World Cultures

2009-09-28T15:56:00.001-07:00

Dubliners should get set for lessons in fire breathing, tipi making, African drumming, and hula dancing as the Festival of World Cultures lands in Dun Laoghaire later this month.

This exciting festival’s Artistic Director, Jody Ackland, has said: “2009 is as diverse as it gets,” promising a “spectacular and invigorating celebration of culture.”

“People from all over Ireland and the globe descend on Dun Laoghaire,”for the last weekend in August.

The unique festival hopes to “bring the world to your doorstep,” when Dun Laoghaire plays host to performers and artists from all over the globe, from Australia to Zimbabwe.

Almost every country will be represented; Native American Tipi Making is one of the more quirky workshops, running on the Saturday and Sunday of the festival in Clarinda Park.

The festival organisers hope people will have the opportunity to learn how to make tipis and that everyone will leave with the knowledge of how to make their own, in case of an emergency.

Added with a workshop on quilt making, you’ll be set.

Mercury Prize nominated, Lisa Hannigan played at last year’s festival and music remains a major feature of the festival with Gospel Choirs, DJ’s and bands performing all weekend.

Artists like French star Jane Birkin, Dublin based band Yurondy and Korean percussionists, Dulsori are set to play in venues around the city.

The family friendly event will have flamenco, Brazilian, salsa and swing dance.

There will also be demonstrations and taught lessons in Hula Dance and song, inspired by music from Disney’s Lilo and Stitch.

The diverse festival also offers a recession busting idea for the musical minded in the form of a Recycled Instrument workshop and Limbo lessons will take place on the Saturday, with expert advice from Tanzanian born Shah Smooth.

A photography exhibition will run over the two day event. The theme of the exhibition is Islamic Culture in Ireland, the exhibition is by Noel Bowler.

The festival will take in some Irish Culture, with Irish dancing and Fable telling on Saturday which will be a chance for children to create their own Irish legend story.

And what festival would be complete without a huge range of foods to sample.

Foods from all over the world, will be available for trying at the Global Village in Morgan Park, at the Mela Market in the People’s park and the International Food Traders at Newtownsmith Green.

The festival now in its ninth year, attracts over 250,000 visitors and performers from all over Ireland and the world, with a host of colourful events.

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, festival staff and volunteers have organised this huge intercultural celebration for Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August.

Con Gunning 2+2=?

2009-07-29T00:03:00.000-07:00

Whilst Irish author, Cornelius Gunning was browsing the internet, he was shocked to find that his books, which were originally priced at £3.50 and £7, are now selling for between $120 and $400 on Amazon.

The Ballyfermot native had no idea how popular the books he’d written had become and had no idea that such a demand existed for them. He joked: “I don’t know how to use a computer, but somehow I signed up to Amazon where they offered me €30 off my own book.

I had no idea; I just got onto Amazon by sheer accident.” It was there he discovered that his thriller Vengeance is Mine and fictional book 2+2=? are now selling for big money and he’d had no idea.

The reason for this price hike is that Cornelius writes, publishes and distributes all his books himself. It is because of this, there are only a limited number of copies of each book available, making them quite rare.

Cornelius built up his own clientele over the years he also said: “I’m planning on publishing 5000 copies of a children’s book myself. I publish and sell everything myself and I’ve also written 34 plays.”

Cornelius said: “Vengeance is Mine was published in 2000, it is a murder thriller with three fellas. It sold 2000 copies; it sold out so you can’t get it anywhere, coarse I have my own copy or two.”

He also added: “I’m not annoyed, go ahead and get it and thank you very much. They’ve put this price tag on my book and it’s a compliment.” When asked about getting more books published he said: “I did approach publishers but they said I would be waiting 12 months. I said I wanted an answer in a month. I gave them a weeks grace and got back onto them, they said they were having an editorial discussion about it and I just said ‘Send it back’.”

He even went about stocking his book in stores, “Bookshops would not take the book because I was too outspoken.” Mr. Gunning’s first book was released over twenty years ago.

He described the book: “2+2=? was released in1987, it was about a fella growing up in Ballyfermot. The character was rebellious. Everyone wanted him to be respectful, adults and authority, but that’s not always the case, they’re not always right.”

He claimed: “I’ve never had a bad word said against my books. Michael Sheridan compared me to John McGahern, they’re big name writers.” Rare and first editions of books usually sell for big numbers, books such as the first edition of Bill Clinton’s book, My Life, is selling for also over $400.

Beyond Baked Beans

2009-07-29T00:02:00.000-07:00

Irish chef, Edwina St. Lawrence is planning on changing the world, one student at a time. College years are often a time for boozing, late nights, new adventures and takeaway food.

On leaving secondary school you’ve generally acquired the proper skills to cope with the big bad world, however cooking is often one of the skills neglected. ‘Beyond baked beans’ is a 5 day cookery crash course, run by Edwina and is aimed at teens who plan on leaving home for the first time for college.

Owner of The Kitchen in the Castle cooking school, Edwina says: “This course is aimed at people heading to college, leaving home and fending for themselves.” She added: “It’s budget cooking, getting back to the basics and being aware.”

Students planning on cooking for themselves during the college year and who want good food on a budget are the perfect candidates for this health conscious course.

The main idea behind the course is to spend less money on healthy ingredients to make wholesome and delicious meals. This could prevent the usual pit fall of students forking out ridiculous money on convenience foods like pizza and chips.

“So many people don’t get taught to cook, they leave school and they’ve never cooked, they just go straight to the freezer.” It’s all about learning to make food from scratch and is for complete beginners.

Edwina admitted: “I’m a great believer that cooking is a life skill, everyone needs a basic understanding.” Students can expect to gain a great deal from the course, “We’ll be cooking basic things like cottage pie, how to roast a chicken and how to make stir fries. Things that don’t require a huge amount of equipment, because I know that when you’ve left home and are setting out you might only have two saucepans and a couple of plates.”

“We’ll teach about fresh herbs and spices and the whole essence of cooking everyday food. It’s all about simple food to feed yourself. It’s not about becoming the greatest chef in the world.”

Edwina, co founded The Kitchen in the Castle; with her sister in law Christine. Both live in Howth Castle and bring a range of world cuisine and culinary expertise to the school. “Christine had a passion for food and I’d spent 27 years in the food industry so we set up the cook school, aimed at the home cook.”

The school also hosts ‘recession-friendly’ cookery demonstrations, which include healthy eating, vegetarian and fish. She added: “Cooking is such a valuable life lesson for teens to bring into adult life.

As part of our new course curriculum, we teach young people how to cook nutritious, simple meals on a budget and introduce them to the fun side of cooking.”

Cake Cafe Picnice Basket

2009-07-28T23:59:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves a picnic, but not everyone loves buttering endless slices of bread and wrapping the entire contents of their fridge in tinfoil.

So the cake café have decided to take the hassle out of the picnic and make summer lounging in the park a pleasure as opposed to a sandwich making disaster. No more sand in your sarnie, no more luke warm tea out of a termos because this picnic goes above and beyond.

The Cake Cafe or Curved Street Cafe are offering ready made picnics. They include a cute picnic basket, napkins, blanket, crockery and freshly prepared food from The Cake Café.

You can also get a bottle of wine and strawberries included to really spice up a summer romance. They’ve also put together a list of our favorite picnic places around the city with map included. Enjoy a new found summer the old fashioned way with a pick-up picnic.

American Apparel

2009-07-28T23:57:00.000-07:00

It’s a favourite with celebs the world over, with Rihanna, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sienna Miller, singing sensation La Roux and Withney Port, of Hills fame being snapped wearing it.

So from the streets of downtown L.A to Grafton Street, the eagerly awaited clothing chain American Apparel will open its doors this week to eager Dublin fashionistas.

It was first made famous for its provocative and controversial advertising campaigns; Woody Allen even sued the company over an ad featuring his image.

But this US company has attracted positive attention for its role in promoting immigrant and gay rights, as well as sweatshop free production of its clothing.

Despite delays and confusion over the flagship stores grand opening it would seem that Thursday is D-Day.

These delays in the store’s opening were due to issues over rent and signage. Firstly, the store is located in the old Irish Life Building beside the Molly Malone, the owners of Irish Life spent in excess of €4 million renovating the site to prepare for America Apparel’s descension.

Grafton Street entered the world's top five most expensive streets back in 2008. American Apparel, had originally agreed to pay rent of €860,000 but entered discussion and eventually made a deal to have it reduced to €800,000, which delayed matters.

Further delays were due to signage; the store applied for planning permission to erect a sign with its slogan “Made in downtown LA” and two illuminated neon signs. Dublin City Council conservation officer however deemed the signs as “undignified.” They asked the store to tone down the signs and banners, believing them “inappropriate” because of the historical location of the building, opposite Trinity College.

The building is located within the Grafton Street Architectural Conservation Area. Despite these delays and twelve months on from when it was first announced that the edgy fashion store would open here, it will open this Thursday.

The L.A company employs over 10,000 people in 260 stores across 19 countries, including Sweden, Mexico, United Kingdom, Brazil and Australia and now Grafton Street, Dublin is a welcome addition.

The store started recruiting back in March and is a breath of fresh air considering unemployment is so high I the country at the moment.

American Apparel is known for its basics, such as T-shirts and hoodies, but in recent years has expanded to include a wide range of clothing for men and women. It is sure to rival Topshop and Urban Outfitters in the race to kit the capital in the latest in high street fashion.

Brendan Higgins Popart

2009-07-28T23:54:00.000-07:00

While a quarter of a million people forked out their well earned cash to see Bono live on stage this weekend, one artist was cashing in on portraits of the Irish rocker.

Artist Brendan Higgins, 51 was exhibiting his unique style portraits of Bono and the lads at the Temple Bar Music, CD & Record Fair.

From the early days Brendan has been a U2 fan so he decided they’d be the perfect muse for his portraits. He produced fun and vibrant pop art images, hand painted in acrylics of Bono and The Edge, Larry Mullen and Adam Clayton for the exhibition.

The Dublin artist is now based in Coolock and said: “I always had an interest in art. I caught onto local icons, Irish icons and my art developed, the paintings started selling. In general the pieces go for €175 to €250.” “I’m a registered artist and work in the freight business but I’m becoming more and more involved with the art.”

Brendan claims that from an early age he had an interest in art. He credits the Evening Herald as his inspiration for art at an early age. He admitted: “I was inspired by my Herald comic strip favourites like, “Little Sport” and “Mutt and Jeff”, and developed a talent as a cartoonist.”

“Years and years ago my family would always buy the evening Herald, each night I’d look at the cartoons.” Although a budding cartoonist, his passions lie in painting and drawing. “I was always doodling as a child and would sell my drawings on the school yard.”

From the school yard to exhibitions, Brendan’s most recent artworks are portraits of music icons, “I’ve always had an interest in music; it’s been a big influence. It’s creative bringing music and art together.”

Brendan has sold paintings to the famous Irish Golfer Paul Mc Ginley, including a portrait of Luke Kelly.

“Paul Mc Ginley is a real Dub at heart,” said Brendan, “He bought a portrait of Phil Lynott.”

Brendan noted that: “What I do is unique, because no one else is doing it and it’s my own unique style. It’s not everywhere you can get a painting of The Dubliners.”

“A cousin of Barney Mc Kenna from The Dubliners actually bought a portrait for him.”

Brendan’s next exhibition of work is on in Skerries Mills from the 3rd to the 16th of August. It will be a selection of his pop art style portraits including famous acts like The Dubliners, David Bowie, and even our very own Brian Cowen and of coarse U2.

He added: “Most recently I’ve done portraits of Michael Jackson.”

Friendly Fires

2009-07-28T23:51:00.000-07:00

Friendly Fires

These English lads, released their debut, self titled album back in 2008. Their extensive touring and amazing live performances catapulted them to stardom, so they decided to re-release the album this month.

The funky, indie, shoegazers have been together since they met at school at the age of 14 and this history creates a perfect harmony between the band members, Ed Mac, Jack Savidge and Edd Gibson.

There is a lot of live drums with samples underneath the tracks which works to make songs like ‘Paris’, ‘Jump in the Pool’, ‘Photobooth’ and new single ‘Kiss of Life’ work.

Fans who saw them at Oxegen will be delighted to see the re-release and that they were short listed for a Mercury Prize this year.

Julie Feeney

2009-07-28T23:50:00.000-07:00

Julie Feeney

Pages

The Galway born, Julie Feeney self-produced debut album, 13 songs, won her the Choice Music Prize in 2006. She has just released her second self-produced album, Pages.

The multi-instrumentalist, Feeney played eleven instruments on 13 songs, including keyboards, accordion, violin, harmonica and xylophon. For this album, however, she opted for an orchestra.

She conducted the orchestra herself and later recorded her singing in her own studio. Her innovation is incomparable to any other Irish artists at the moment.

The charming and heartfelt new album from Feeney is a perfect combination of music and vocals and marks a major talent to be reckoned with.

As We See Exhibition

2009-07-16T05:03:00.000-07:00

“As We See” is a photography exhibition supported by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority in partnership with the South Docks Festival.

The exhibition is showcasing local talents of eight individuals from the Pearse Street area.

The theme of the exhibition “As We See,” is portraits of dockland people.

The aim of the project was to encourage community participation in the arts. A spokesperson for the event said; “It was nice to run an event for adults this time, because most of the projects are run for children.”

The eight budding photographers involved were locals Anne Byrne, Billy Ryan, Brain Walsh, Noel Watson, Patricia Rodgers, Peter Watson, Ron Freeman and Veronica Doyle.

One photographer, Noel Watson has been living in the Pearce Street area for years. Originally from Pearse Street, he now lives on Grand Canal Warf.

Noel said: “I had an interest in photography but never realised there was so much to it, I bought a camera 3 or 4 years ago and had been taking a lot of pictures but didn’t know if what I was doing was right or the best.”

Noel admitted that: “Some of the group had never even touched a camera, or knew how to turn one on, including my father. He ended up buying a digital SLR camera and his photos turned out great.”

Noel himself took up close portraits of fellow photographers Patricia Rodgers and Billy Ryan, “They work here at the (St. Andrew’s Resource) centre, we have a policy of employing local people where we can, people living in the area. When we started the project our tutor suggested the theme of doing portraits of local people, so I chose to photograph them.”

The course was delivered by Roisin Ni Maoilearca with the help of DIT and IADT photography students.

Over the twelve week course the participants learned about the history of photography and how to use a camera effectively.

Dara O’Leary, the Arts Co-ordinator for Dublin Docklands Development Authority was involved with organising the project, she was pleased with how it all panned out, “80 people attended the opening night, and a few pieces were sold. They’re all of such a high standard.”

Noel Watson said: “It’s been absolutely fantastic, it couldn’t have been better. We’re even thinking of starting our own photo club in September. Inviting all the people involved in the project back, and showing new people what we’ve learned, sharing our talents.”

The exhibition “As We See” runs from the 15th to the 18th of July in Ely HQ, on Hanover Quay. The South Docks Festival runs from the 20th of July until the 27th of July.

Florence and the Machine

2009-07-16T03:23:00.001-07:00

Florence Welch is the vocals behind popular act Florence and the Machine.
Florence and The Machine's music has been really well received bothhere and in Britain and I am sure her run at Oxegen has churned outsome more fans.
To compare her to other female artists at the minute would be cruelbecause unlike Little Boots, Lady Gaga or newcomer La Roux, Welch’svoice is so pure and sweet, not hidden behind a barrage of heavy musicand production.
Her songs are simplistic in lyrical content, songs like Kiss With AFist, Rabbit Heart and You’ve Got The Love and Dog Days, collectivelymake this an memorable debut album.

Fight Like Apes

2009-07-16T03:21:00.000-07:00

Dublin’s alternative rockers Fight Like Apes are re releasing their“The Mystery Of The Golden Medallion” album this week. The album nowfeatures a bonus CD and rare tracks and includes the original tracksfrom the album, plus previously unreleased singles.
“The Mystery Of The Golden Medallion” was previously nominated for theChoice Music Prize, boasting 12 amazingly catchy FLA’s tracks. Thealbum embodies FLA’s excitement and enthusiasm for creating great upbeat music with apparent ease.
The album is being released as a festival edition, so eager fans canpick up a copy following their successful live show at Oxegen.

Deerhoof Whelan's Review

2009-07-16T03:19:00.000-07:00

Deerhoof Gig Whelan's July 10th
Deerhoof have graced our presence on several occasions and it wouldappear they’ve picked up more then a couple of fans along the way.Despite all this talk of recession, Whelan’s was packed on Fridaynight for their gig.

And sure why wouldn’t it, Deerhoof deserve a huge legion of fans, theyare so weirdly wonderful.
When they started playing there was an earthquake of sound and energyon the stage and drummer Greg Saurier was at the epicentre. He seemedto be the force behind the band’s overall amazing set.

Saurier is an intense and frenetic drummer and is at the heart of theband, being the only original member left.

There is a certain inter group harmony about the band that reallyworks and is heard through their song writing skills and seen thoughtheir performance on stage.

Deerhoof’s songs are anchored with mesmerizing and rhymic melodies ofnoise rock, accompanied with Satomi Matsuzaki’s untrained and quirkyvoice, making them epically melodic.
Some combinations just work; red bull and jager, Harold and Maude, theunmistakable vocals of Matsuzaki’s and dense guitars.

It was a welcome surprise from the more characterless bands out therethat just do their set and go. These guys seemed like they wereactually enjoying themselves, which made the entire set entertaining,although often chaotic.

The stage was a permanent hive of activity, with whistle blowing, aweird UV indie rave basket ball and random slow motion dance, addingto the bands distinctive sound and image.

The scrawny outline of drummer Saurier made a brief shout out tosupport act Abedisi Shank, in some inaudible speel. He made a secondappearance to the microphone when he exchanged his drum sticks for aguitar and treated the audience to a song.

Although they began as an art rock duo, the addition of vocals hasshifted Deerhoof into a slightly more mainstream direction. It’ssomething about the distorted guitars, and childlike Japanese voicethat makes this band a musical joy and an ipod favourite.

They created the album Friend Opportunity while touring with Radiohead, antruly great album, jammed with some of their most catchy songs todate, including a crowd pleaser at Whelan’s, Perfect Me.

Deerhoof my have drawn part of the crowd but something tells me thatsupport group, Abedisi Shank fans helped to pack out the place.Notorious for their amazing live performances, they didn’t disappoint.These guys had one of their most energetic gigs to date (and that’s saying something) sending the crowd into a good old fashioned Irishf renzy.

Another great combination; Deerhoof and Abedisi Shank.

BATTLE FOR THE SUN PLACEBO

2009-07-13T23:20:00.001-07:00

Placebo have had four studio albums, six EP’s and so many hits, like Nancy Boy and Every You and Every Me, they hold a special place in all our hearts. Unfortunately this latest album fails to deliver, it has no hidden treasures, no international hits. The album is familiar with the nasal vocals of Brian Molko covering themes of hate and rebellion, the tracks Ashtray Heart and For What it’s Worth are the only tracks that comes close to a classic Placebo.Placebo will always have their legions of fans but Battle for the Sun probably won’t earn them any new recruits.

BITTE ORCA DIRTY PROJECTORS

2009-07-13T23:19:00.002-07:00

Dirty Projectors have been on the scene for years, playing in relative obscurity and happily so. But the past year they have been touring and playing sell out shows; the formula for this new found popularity is steadily releasing great albums and this is no exception. In fact, it could be their best yet. Led by the controversial Dave Longstreth, this latest album is remarkably indie rock and full of enjoyably tuneful tracks, perhaps trying to reach a more mainstream audience. Their customary huge guitar sounds and full band arrangements, not to mention experimental sounds, have earned these Brooklyn natives a huge following and certain success.

KOKIA

2009-07-13T23:19:00.001-07:00

GigKOKIA

It would seem Japan has been harboring a music sensation…KOKIA. A music sensation should be someone with insane talent, drive and ability for creating music; KOKIA ticks all these boxes. To describe KOKIA’s sound is difficult, but I love a challenge…she sounds like birds singing, fields of daises and fresh laundry. Her songs are beautiful. It’s rare to describe anything as beautiful anymore but I think it’s the only adjective fitting for KOKIA. Her sweet voice is magical and her natural vocal, piano and violin talents emanate through her unique song stylings.Despite a rocky start, dabbling in the pop genre, KOKIA really found her niche with the release of the lyrical album “The Voice.” Each song, classically written by the star, has a cinematic quality to it, so it is no wonder some of KOKIA’s fame has come from penning songs featured in Anime gaming and movies.

Dolly Parton Tribute

2009-07-13T23:17:00.001-07:00

Dolly Parton Tribute

When an act warrants a tribute, then you know they’re big. She may only be 5ft in stature but Dolly Parton is a huge deal; multi talented, colorful and a country music legend. It’s the difficult task of tribute act Sinead Murphy to do all Dolly’s hits justice, hits like the infectious Nine to Five. Murphy, however, is part of an acapella trio act, this time she is flying solo. Her background in cabaret ought to help with the giant vocals of I Will Always Love You and Jolene. This tribute act plays Draiocht Arts Centre this week, so if you’re a Dolly fan or just fancy some honest to goodness country music then grab your cowboy hat, followed by the number 39 bus to Blanchardstown. It could be a while before the real deal is back in town so this could fill the Dolly void.

The Misfits

2009-07-13T23:16:00.002-07:00

The Misfits

Naturally bands evolve over time, whether it’s changes in musical direction or changes in line up they inevitably change; none more so then The Misfits. Despite these line up changes, including founding member and vocalist Glenn Danzig’s departure, they have remained a major musical influence. Since their formation back in 1977, coupled with the dawn of the punk movement they have been creating music, boasting a huge catalog, drawing influences from both punk rock and heavy metal.Today, The Misfits remain at their best, fronted now by Jerry Only, with original drummer Roberto Valverde and Dez Cadena, rockin’ guitar. They’ve managed to preserve their distinctive sound and image, rooted in rock and managed to preserve an almost cult like following. It’s this fact that they’ve decided to embark on a world tour, including a stop off in the Academy.

Metro Station

2009-07-13T23:16:00.001-07:00

Metro Station

If you’ve been living under a rock, are minus a radio or perhaps avoiding kids between the ages of twelve and seventeen then you probably haven’t heard of the phenomenon known as Metro Station. Their single “Shake it” and self titled album have brought them huge success. They’re everything angst riddled teenagers would want from a band; tattoos, piercings, polished video production and extra skinny jeans.Don’t be tricked by the fact that front man Trace is Miley Cyrus’s older brother, because in spite of this, they are quite a decent band. They pen all their own tracks and gained a following on Myspace before being signed.I’m sure many cynics believe the contrary but maybe the Cyrus name had nothing to do with Metro Station’s recent skyrocket ride to fame. It’s this fame that brings them to Irish shores to play the Olympia this week.

Smithfield Horse Fair

2009-07-13T23:15:00.002-07:00

The first Sunday of every month I am woken by the sound of horsehooves clip clopping across cobblestone, there are yells from locals,the loud roar of a horse usually follows. It’s 9am, and there is nochance of sleep, so as the sun rises above the Dublin skyline, there’sno other option then to wander down to Smithfield Square and catch theHorse Fair.
If you’re not a Smithfield resident, don’t be deterred, this is an incredible event, and definitely something worth seeing. It has beenaround since the 17th Century so perhaps this Sunday is the day tocatch one of Dublin's oldest and proudest traditions.
Of coarse if you’re not in the market for buying or trading a stallionor Shetland pony then just looking at the hoards of confused touristssnapping pictures of this wonderfully hap hazard fair is entertainmentenough.

!!!

2009-07-13T23:15:00.001-07:00

!!!

!!! is the love child of hardcore band, Yah Mos, Black Liquorice anddance movement protégé Popesmashers.Some members or the afore mentioned bands joined forces back in 1996and collectively went a new musical direction; thus chk chk chk wasborn.
They originated from the west coast of the US but have since settledin the musically creative haven of Brooklyn, New York. Since theirformation they have created amazing tracks and have earned a rep foreven more amazing live shows.
To avoid confusion or embarrassment this band responds to chk chk chk.Somehow exclamation mark, exclamation mark, exclamation mark seemsslightly less catchy.
Band name aside, they earned an international fan base when theysupported Red Hot Chillie Peppers on their 2006 tour. Now with areturn visit to Dublin, I am sure they’ll pick up even more new fansen route.

Prefuse 73

2009-07-13T23:14:00.002-07:00

Prefuse 73

If you’re looking for a way to fill the void The Hills has left in your Sunday evening entertainment, then head along to Prefuse 73. Far from Spencer Pratt is Prefuse 73, and for that we’re thankful. Prefuse 73 is the alias of the talented Scott Herren, his name is infamous in both rock, hip hop and music production circles. He has produced everything from good old-fashioned gangster rap to TV on the Radio and Battle albums. When he’s not producing, he is working on his own music.His 2003 album One Word Extinguisher earned him large scale success, most likely down to the fact that it’s a perfect hybrid of dance, post rock and hip hop. He is touring this time around with the album Everything She Touched Turned Ampexian. It was released this year, so if you intend to attend the gig maybe pick up a copy so you can sway and hum.

Deerhoof

2009-07-13T23:14:00.001-07:00

Deerhoof If I was in charge of handing out stars these guys would get five shiny gold ones, because they are so weirdly wonderful. Deerhoof have been creating music in their home town of San Francisco since the early 90’s, adding and subtracting members as they went, but ultimately producing some strikingly innovative music along the way. (Now that’s just good maths.)The founding members, Rob Fisk and Greg Saunier have always experimented with melodic sound, making all their music interesting and unique. Then there is the unmistakable little voice of lead vocalist Satomi Matsuzaki, adding a familiarity to tracks, her untrained voice instantly recognisable. These guys play Whelan’s along with support from Abedisi Shank. Abedisi Shank are also worth seeing live so try and make it your business to be on time. This is one instance where the fashionably late, although cool and mysterious, may miss out.

Maccabees

2009-05-25T03:17:00.002-07:00

Maccabees

Wall Of Arms

These London lads had huge success with their debut album, Colour It In, this follow up album it sure to make a mark on the indie scene in 2009. Definitely some great summer anthems on there, superbly delivered by lead vocals Orlando.

They’re everything you would want from an indie band, happy up beat tracks, full of songs about girlfriends, love and days spent by the sea.

They have the same qualities to their tracks as The Holloways and fellow Brighton natives, The Kooks. It seems great things come out of Brighton, killer candy floss, Simon Cowell and these guys.

Depeche Mode

2009-05-25T03:17:00.001-07:00

Depeche Mode

Sounds Of The Universe

Following, band member, Alan Wilder’s departure back in the 90’s many people thought they should have called it at day. This album restores some faith in Depeche Mode.

If it were a stand alone album it would be great, however, it’s not be as good as their old stuff, of coarse, it’d be hard to come close. Unlike, a wine these guys don’t necessarily get better with age.

Despite this and some rocky experiments with different sounds Depeche Modes latest album is strong. The combination of this and the fact that they’ve managed over forty number one singles makes them one of the most influential bands of the last century.

Greenday 21st Century Breakdown

2009-05-25T03:16:00.001-07:00

Greenday 21^st Century Breakdown

They’re sound is unmistakable, often copied but never equalled, some how Billie Joe Armstrong’s voice is so distinct there is no escaping. Their latest album is one you’ll find yourself humming and playing air guitar to it, love them or hate the, this album is a classic.

Their first album release in the Obama era sees a refreshing upbeat approach to their music compared with American Idiot in 2004, which was rampant with political rants. It’s refreshing and a lot more glossy then their earlier work such as Basket Case or Dookie. This mature sound works, with "Know you Enemy," just a taster for the rest of the album.

Jarvis Cocker Further Complications

2009-05-25T03:15:00.000-07:00

Jarvis Cocker Further Complications

Jarvis Cocker was dubbed as one of the key people in the Britpop movement in the 1990’s, the main difference between him and fellow Britpop figures Noel and Liam Gallagher and Damon Alburn was He was always a lot more suave. In Pulp he always donned a full suit and thick-framed glasses, before they came back into fashion.

His latest solo album is anything but suave. Its full of seedy yet humorous tracks in particular “leftovers” and “I never said I was Deep.”

This album comes three years after the release of his acclaimed solo album, simply entitled, Jarvis.

Gig Preview

2009-05-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

Gig Deerhunter

Deerhunter as no strangers to Irish shores and they’re back this time round to play Andrew’s Lane Theatre.

Despite several line up changes to the band over the years, these guys have managed to win the hearts of many. With their unique and consistent taking on post punk, their gritty vocals blend seamlessly into huge rhythms.

Citing The Birthday Party, The Bad Seeds, Bowie, and My Bloody Valentine as some of their influences, it’s no wonder Deerhunter have such a broad range and such an awesome sound.

Describing this sound, as simply experimental rock would be madness, because Deerhunter are so much more. They can be both chaotic and fragmented and yet some songs move as though in slow motion, melodic and hypnotic. (Who needs Paul McKenna when you have Deerhunter.) It’s this combination that makes listening through their entire catalog of songs a delight and should make for an even more delightful live show.

Where

Andrew’s lane Theatre

When

May 22nd, doors 8pm

how much

€14

Gig Preview

2009-05-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

Gig Fujiya & Miyagi

These synth yielding, minimalist elctro pop four piece first graced us with their presence during the Fringe Festival. Now they’re planning on a return visit, this time playing Tripod. If you’ve never heard of them, then it’s time to update your ipod. Because lets face it, any band that get their inspiration for a name from The Karate Kid are alright with us.

Their name aside, this band have gained a huge fan base since they started out. They tour this summer with their latest and highly anticipated album, “Lightbulbs.” Despite a huge repertoire of awesome tracks, Ankle Injuries remains my favourite, concentrating on rhythm and sound rather then lyrical content. A refreshing change.

It seems great things come out of Brighton, killer candyfloss, Simon Cowell and these guys. They formed back in 2000, remaining in relative obscurity until Matt Hainsbury joined in 2004 to add bass and vocals to the mix.

where

Tripod, Harcourt Street

when

June 20th, doors 730pm

how much

€20-25

Bob Dylan

2009-05-06T11:07:00.002-07:00

Bob Dylan’s latest masterpiece is released this month. It’s entitled “Together Through Life” and songs like Beyond here lies Nothing and Life is Hard showcase Dylan’s talent for turning personal and often depressing themes into beautiful and unforgettable anthems. Along with appearances from Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.

Hits like The Times they are a Changin and Blowing in the Wind, have made Dylan’s career so successful, spanning over five decades. He has been such a prominent figure in popular culture over the decades, now it looks like this album holds classic songs for the next generation.

Dylan plays Ireland this summer, to an already sold out venue.

Kelly Clarkson “All I Ever Wanted”

2009-05-06T11:07:00.001-07:00

Kelly Clarkson “All I Ever Wanted”

All I Ever Wanted is the fourth studio from the lovable Kelly Clarkson. As far as female artists go, she may be the best. We can all vouch for the fact that she can actually sing, unlike some acts that are making it big at the moment. Artist like Rhianna and even Britney tend to rely on their image, rather then sheer talent.

"My Life Would Suck Without You" showcases the huge range of her vocals and is a chart topping hit at the same time. Her second single is “I do not hook up,” which is bound to be another hit!

Bat for Lashes “Two Suns”

2009-05-06T11:04:00.000-07:00

Bat for Lashes “Two Suns”

Bat for Lashes is the alter ego of English Musician Natasha Khan. She has been compared to Bjork, a comparison earned through her psychedelic tunes that appeared on her first album “Fur and Gold.”

Her latest helping of hits is “Two Suns.” Although this album doesn’t have as many stand out tracks, I think it is definitely one of those albums that grows on you.

In her short career she has been nominated for a Mercury Prize, released one of the best tracks of 2006, “What’s a girl to do.” Plus she also supported Radiohead when they played Malahide Park, anyone who is a friend of Radiohead is a friend of mine!

Oxegen Preview 2009

2009-04-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

The last few summers have seen a barrage of music festival springing up all over the country, from Planet Love, Lovebox, Electric Picnic, to the West Coast for Cois Fharriage. Each year one festival pulls more crowds then any other, when 80,000 eager music fans descend on Punchestown for Oxegen.

Now in its sixth year, the line up has been announced and it’s shaping up to be bigger and better then ever before; opting for a broad lineup with both main stream, alternative and dance acts set to play. Perhaps tapping in on the Electric Picnic crowd, they’ve lined up Of Montreal, Nick Cave and TV on the Radio.

The top acts set to play this year’s festival are Kings of Leon and Ireland's own Snowpatrol, regulars at the festival, Blur’s return, The Killers and Bloc Party.Bloc Partyare no strangers to Irish shores or Oxegen for that matter. Since the release of their first album Silent Alarm in 2005, fans have been unexplainably drawn to these lovable Brits and their anthems that have ruled the airwaves. Their third album release Intimacy boasts more great hits such as Mercury and Talons.Influenced by The Cure, Joy Division and Mogwai, Bloc Party manage to make their own sound refreshingly unique and their songs refreshingly addictive. So join the enigmatic lead vocals of Kele Okereke and Bloc Party when they play both new and old classics.

If Bloc Party aren’t your cup of tea, then there is no denying that these guys are one of those bands that you have to see before you die. Even if you're not into this kind of alternative rock Nine Inch Nails are notorious for putting on great live performances.Nine Inch Nails debut at Oxegen this year to the delight of the nation. This multi award winning and hugely influential band make their return to Ireland following their 2008 tour, despite rumors that they were to split after ten years of success.This alternative rock band have released eight studio albums including their latest releases Ghosts I–IV and The Slip, released in 2008 to coincide with their world tour. Front man Trent Reznor has been there since the start and has been creating songs which span a huge range of genres making NIN accessible to so many and making them one of the highlights of Oxegen.

Another reason to grab your ticket for the festival now is these guys, Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds. Though they may not be to everyone’s taste, there is no denying their international popularity.The critically acclaimed Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds formed back in 1984. Before The Bad Seeds, Cave fronted the group The Birthday Party. The Australian born band is heavily influenced by jazz, blues and post punk, making their sound intense and their performance at Oxegen is bound to be an experience. Fans from all over Europe are expected to travel to see them perform, as they are notorious for putting on an amazing show.They played a sold out Dublin Castle last year, proving that Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds can pull a crowd.

Irish bands will be rampant at this year’s festival, most notably Irish trio, The Script. The Script have had a rapid rise to fame and not without just cause. They were crowned Best Irish Band at the Meteor Music Awards this year. The band aim to create soulful music and by listening to a couple of their tracks you’ll be hooked, they’re infectious and indeed soulful. Their debut single We Cry and their follow up single The Man Who Can’t Be Moved have been international hits since their release. They are bound to be crowd pleasers at the festival when they play the main stage. If you’re not into their music then go along just to see the handsome front man and keyboardist Danny O’Donoghue.

From Ireland to America, this band is a must see at this year’s festival. If I see no one else, I want to see this band. They have paved the way for so many bands and are constantly at the forefront of new music. The third album from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs was released back in March. This time round they have veered away from their usual sound which brought them such success in 2002.Perhaps rebelling against many copycat bands who latched onto this success, they’ve opted to create a whole new sound but all they’ve managed to do is raise the bar because this album is awesome.They had input from TV on the Radio front man Dave Sitek and this is evident on some of the tracks. TV on the Radio play Saturday along with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs so make sure you catch these synth yielding art punk rockers.

Next up is Foals, who play Sunday. Foals sprung to fame when they starred in a mini episode of cult channel 4 programme Skins, the band appeared on an episode of the series where they played a house party and since then have developed a huge following. The Oxford band have played in Dublin a handful of times to sold out crowds.They played Electric Picnic, Glastonbury, Lollapalloza last year and play Oxegen Sunday this year. Huge fans of the festival circuit Foals will no doubt have a huge fan following at Oxegen with classic tracks like Cassius and Hummer from their 2008 album Antidotes. Despite the fact that it looks like Topman exploded on them, these skinny jeans and plaid shirt wearing indie folk really have got talent!

So that’s it, six bands that are going to rock out this year but this is only the beginning, more bands are to be announced and with big acts like Blur and Kings of Leonbringing their unique stylings to the event, Oxegen is definitely not to be missed. So gather your pennies and put the recession in the back of your mind, because July 10th to 12th is going to be rad!

Halves interview

2009-04-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

I got the chance to speak with Brian Cash, from the amazing multi talented Dublin band “Halves.” We talked music and the future for the band...

So the EP is out March 27th, where will it be available?

Yeah most independent record shops around the country will be stoking it, and a few in the UK as well, but in Dublin probably just Tower.So your off to do a couple of gigs in Canada’s Music week, is that right? We have a show in Ulster Hall in Belfast on Monday and then were flying to Canada. I think were playing Thursday night in Toronto, so that should be a good one, really looking forward to that. I’ve never been to Canada before so I'm excited. It’s good to do and we haven't played live since November so we’re itching to play.

You guys haven’t gigged since you supported Bell X1 in Vicar Street?

Yeah it was an honor to be ask to do that one, cause its obviously huge. They like our music. We've supported big bands before who didn't necessarily have the same sound as us, but yeah Bell X1 they're more daytime radio, I know its a horrible term but yeah you could tell half the audience in Vicar Street didn't get us. The guys themselves were lovely, they were standing beside the stage watching the whole set which was nice, it’s really rare for bands to watch the support. I remember getting their first album back when they were far smaller, its a great record and we've watched them grow and grow, the nicest thing was that they were still so down to earth and getting local bands to play with them in Vicar Street, as opposed to someone more like to pull in numbers. Plus they're doing well in your business so that really nice to see as well.

You mentioned there that some of the audience “didn’t get us,” but there has been an influx in the amount of different bands and sounds on the scene at the moment, why do you think that is?

It's weird into be honest with you I don't know what it is, I think people are looking to different types of music, the city and the people its churning out all different types of music, there was a stage there where there were bands playing that kind of Strokes thing, the amount of bands walking around.As far as Irish bands, they're everywhere, left, right and centre. They're all doing quite different things. Like R.S.A.G I saw him last night for the first time, its a mad idea, it’s great like, but like if I heard five years ago that there was a guy who just came out and played drums to a backing track and a bit of singing you’d just kind of a laugh and go it’s a band without a guitar and bass. It was really refreshing to see a packed Vicar Street and this guy blowing everyone away with these amazing drum sounds.There's defiantly been a lot more experimentalism, people trying out different strands of music, compared with five or six years ago.It was much more of the singer songwriter thing stuff, I'd love to know the reason, five years ago I was making such different music too.

Many people compare you guys to Explosions in the Sky, This Will Destroy You and Mogwai. Have these bands helped develop your style?

I think people hear The Explosions, Mogwai thing because it was definitely part of our first two EP’s but a lot of it comes from what I listen to and what I've been listening to for the past few years. The four of us has different influences like electronic, then Dave does the string arrangements. I think people just heard that we were post rocky, like there are at least one track on each EP that were very loud squealy quit post rock sound I suppose people just named it all post rock, we tip our hats to it but myself, I wouldn't call us that because of that electronic, string element. We have versus and choruses and singing with harmonies. I can see how people heard that but the album will be a lot different.

You are working on the album at the moment?

We're finishing off writing the album, we have a deadline and we have 70% written and five months to go, we're using a new technique, we're concentrating on one song and a fully polished demo. We're taking our time on each song. We're going to Canada to actually record the album.

Do you have a new found infinity with Canada?

I think it's the recession thing, the Canadian dollar is weak so we looked at studios here and they were costing X amount and it ends up working out cheaper going to Canada. We got the flights cheap and are justifying it by saying it is our one holiday of the year. It's daunting making a first album but I'm looking forward to it.

Any plans to play Oxegen or Electric Picnic again this year?

I wish, well we can't do the picnic because that'd be three years in a row and you're only supposed to play three. Maybe 2010, to tie in with the album. They're unbelievable fun. I'm sure if we got offered Oxegen wed take the day off recording, last year was surprisingly fun, we were scared that only two people would show up, it was a bit of an experiment we decided not tell anyone or advertise, but the tent was rammed. The lineup this year is really good, TV on the radio, NIN and would love to see Nick Cave. It was weird last year, it was the usually Oxegen crowd and then you could spot a mile away the people there for Rage Against the Machine, they didn't want to be there they were just waiting around and it turned out to be of the coolest gigs I've ever been to. A good way to finish off the weekend. Fair play to organisers, they're not just booking the usual bands, they're getting more obscure bands. We thought we were going to bomb, with our string quartet, but last year there was a different mentality, like the Keiser Chiefs were playing at the same time so yeah it was an experience. They've left a lot of room for Irish bands. People should check out the upcoming bands it's great that they're getting a chance.

U2

2009-04-08T08:22:00.000-07:00

No Line on the Horizon is the twelfth studio album from U2 and the most recent album release since 2004. Five years on and U2 are still producing hits, five years on and you’re still guaranteed they’ll deliver.With this recipe for hit making U2 are already topping the charts worldwide and plan tour with it by playing three shows in Croke park over the Summer.Although the first release from the album “Get on your Boots” fell quickly down the charts, it thankfully doesn’t speak for the entire album.The band collaborated with famous producers Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois on a couple of the tracks most notably on “White as Snow” so check it out!

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs

2009-04-08T08:21:00.001-07:00

The third album from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs was released this week. Ive always been a huge fan of these guys. This time round they have veered away from their usual sound which brought them such success in 2003/2004. Perhaps rebelling against many copycat bands who latched onto this success, they’ve opted to create a whole new sound but all they’ve managed to do is raise the bar because this album is awesome. They had input from “Tv on the Radio” front man Dave Sitek and this is evident on some of the tracks,Check out theses synth yielding art punk rockers when they play Oxegen on the Saturday.

The Pet Shop Boys

2009-04-08T08:19:00.000-07:00

The Pet Shop Boys released their latest album this week entitled “Yes.” This electronic duo have been around for almost 23 years and still are managing to create great pop records. It’s hard to pin point any stand out track from the new album, I don’t think there are huge hits on there. It is, however, an album that you can happily listen through with out feeling the urge to skip a track, which is rare these days. Also to note, Johnny Marr guitarist with The Smiths and Modest Mouse feature on the album along with Owen Pallet of Arcade Fire fame.

Dan Deacon

2009-04-08T08:18:00.001-07:00

Dan Deacon hails from Baltimore in America. This guy needs to be seen to be believed. His live shows are indescribable as many fans at Electric Picnic or his sold out show at Vicar Street will tell you. His unique electro punk sound has made him famous on both sides of the Atlantic, most notably for his 2007 break through album “Spiderman of the Rings.”His latest endeavor “Bromst” has just been released and so far it’s living up to expectations. Songs like Snookered and Wet Wings are classic Deacon tracks that show off his insane talents.

Prodigy

2009-02-26T09:47:00.000-08:00

Prodigy

Invaders Must Die

This album is another amazing creation from The Prodigy. You can always rely on them to come up with instant hits time after time.

If you were lucky enough to grab a ticket for Slane this year then The Prodigy will blow you away with this new release. They’re notorious for putting on great live shows and this should be no exception. If you weren’t lucky enough to get a ticket however, then go out now and pick up this album, it’s an absolute must. Watch out for the track their latest track Omen and Thunder, in particular.

Empire of the Sun

2009-02-26T09:45:00.000-08:00

Walking On A Dream

Empire Of The Sun are the next big thing, if you were to believe all the hype they’ve created over the past while. It’s certainly a title some bands would rather avoid, because of the extra pressures that often accompany it.

They do have a similar sound to MGMT, and in fairness to the Australian duo they do have some electro pop tracks in the mix, which are contagious. In particular, look out for “Standing on the Shore, ” they may very well be the next big thing, but don’t believe the hype, check it out for yourself!

Bell X1 interview

2009-02-22T17:48:00.000-08:00

Q 1

Hey guys, so the album “Blue Lights on the Runway” is out now. Can we expect anything new from this one?

Paul:

Yeah, I think its hard to objective about it because were so close to it but for us we wanted to use different instruments for these tracks we wanted to use more noises from boxes, beats and synths, a direction we've never taken before. The song writing, although they're all still traditionally written but we took some of them on tangents when we were recording them, moments we captured in the studio and that we left on as additions to the songs has given us a couple of six or seven minute songs, wed never really done that before either. But these were moments we can never recreate, spur of the moment not thinking, they're the differences really

Q 2

You probably had more opportunity to play around with your sound because of the success of the last three albums?

Dave:

For some songs we definitely said this is an album track, lets embrace the freedom that gave us. A Better Band (track 6) I really love that track, its a song of three sections, songs like on Beatles albums, like Abbey Road, have three sections, not that I’m drawing comparisons between us and The Beatles. But its the idea of completely different songs that link in with each other, it just works, songs like Amelia (track 5) morph. Its more mature because it’s less thought about, more intuitive. Rather then this is the song structure. We played three gigs in Vicar Street in November and it was great for us cause it gave us a taster of what well be doing for the life of the album.

Q 3

You guys are playing Vicar Street again in March?

Dave: Yeah two extra dates have been added for the 8th and 9th April, but we play the 30th and 31st of March as well.

Q 4

Do you prefer playing the likes of Vicar Street or bigger venues like Malahide Park?

Paul:

I think we do, we did a string of small acoustic gigs in October and they were great, in a venue with a capacity for 68, in Ballymahon’s Bog Lane theatre, like you get that or The Point, three years ago or Malahide, you can do a run of really big gigs and crave the small gigs or a run of small gigs...

Dave:

I think its something well always do go back to the small gigs. Its more intimate, I mean were fans of music and bands like going to see Radiohead in The Olympia, its amazing.

Q 5

You played with the Dublin band Halves in November....Do you think bands like this have helped change the music scene in Dublin, compared to when you first started out?

Paul:

Music has broadened, there is nothing Irish about Halves or The Villagers. For a long time the Irish band was almost a derogatory term, it almost meant pub rock in its most extreme but the last few years there great music coming out of Ireland like electronic, hip-hop, its really broadened, that stereotype has really been blown out of the water.

Q 6

The first single off the new album, The Great Defector, is riding high in the charts but what was the inspiration behind the track?

Paul:

All kinds of depressing things, don't want to get into that and wreak your buzz. Ah no I suppose last year was the most intense year of touring. We were in America four times and in Europe a lot, I suppose it was an attempt to describe the madness of crazy living and no sleep for a while. Like if you've no sleep for a few days, that kind of delirious spacey state that you reach and it was a celebration of that.

Q 7

Rocky Took a Lover, from your last album, rumour has it there is a sequel to that track on this latest album, any truth to that?

Paul:

Ha, Rock Took a Lover, part two! There is a song called Ribs of a Broken Umbrella (track 1) which is also about an old man. I suppose that's where the similarity ends, although there was tragedy in his story too, I met a guy in a bar in New York who had emigrated from Poland in the 50’s, when he emigrated he was 17/18 and a girl from his home town was also 17/18 who was to emigrate to that states. They had planned to meet up in New York and start a life together but he never met her, they lost contact and never reestablished contact. He had this photograph in this wallet, a black and white photo of this beautiful young girl hat he still held a candle for. He never married or had a family and he was in his 70’s at this stage and the song is about him and his story.

Q 8

You guys planning on heading back to the US to tour this album?

Paul:

Were back there recording actually. Were back 12th of March in Washington, then Boston, New York and Philadelphia. Since we started making music we wanted to sell records there and tour there so it’s finally happened. We got a record deal out there with our last album, Flock and wanted to embrace it, wanted to make it work. It’s an expansive land but we've covered most of it in our four trips we made there. Its somewhere we enjoy traveling through especially last year, with election year. Very interesting, like down the south and outside cities, see what their vibe was.

Dave:

We were in New York for the inauguration day, we were doing a session and kind of stopped everything to watch the speech. People were just so happy about it. Bush had made such an international balls of it, the world was waiting with bated breath to see Bushes mistakes highlighted and the political situation in America brought to the world’s attention. It was like a new hope, even Americans were like you guys are really interested in it, but it was such a historical time, so significant, a giant step forward voting in a black president.

Q 9

So you guys will be spending Paddy’s Day in the US, any plans on how you’ll be spending it?

Paul:

Enjoying a nice cup of tea back in the hotel room! Nah were doing the David Letterman show in New York then flying to Boston, a feet of timing.

Q 10

You guys have been on David Letterman before, it must be pretty surreal, did you ever think you’d get to this point?

Paul:

Growing up, when we first got Sky, they showed Letterman every day and I remember watching. It's a lot smaller when you get there. The Ed Sullivan Theatre is tiny and he keeps it really cold, you can see your breath, to keep everyone on their toes. I swear he’s got the suit on and like a thermal vest underneath. Once they start shooting, with the lights and all it gets warmer but during the day, it’s freezing. A bit of media trivia there for you.....

Lily Allen Latest

2009-02-18T16:49:00.001-08:00

Lily Allen is back with her fresh new album, “Its not me, it’s you”.

She has had so much coverage in papers and gossip magazines of late, I’d almost forgotten that she can sing as opposed to just run around being drunk and disorderly. But fair play to Lily at least she admits to publicity grabbing. The first single released from her album, entitled The Fear has the lyrics “And I’ll take my clothes off and it will be shameless, cause everyone knows that’s how you get famous”….

Her new album isn’t half bad and The Fear is a sweet track, she may be taking a different route with her sound, compared to her first hit album, but so far it seems to be working!

The Fray

2009-02-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

The Fray

The Grammy Award winning, The Fray's debut album “How to save a life” was a huge success! It went double platinum in America, it’s often hard to top that, but surprisingly their follow up album is just as good.

The track “You Found Me” from the self titled album, is their brand new single release. It is one of those epic emotional tunes, with a huge chorus.

Their album is already riding high in the Irish charts so fans will be happy to know that The Fray plan on playing in Dublin in April to coincide with this album release!

Simon Fagan Interview

2009-02-18T16:43:00.000-08:00

I met up with the talented and enthusiastic Simon Fagan, to talk music scenes and musical influence.....

Whats the music scene like in Navan at the moment?

It's gotten alot better. There has been a revitalization of the live scene recently, with the likes of The Latern, prior to that the wasn't much.

There was always great musicians in Navan but they always had to go further afield , The Latern has opened it's doors to more original stuff.

I was heavily involved in the beginning of it to get the venue up and running and to promote local acts that were writing their own material, that then progressed into touring acts, it just blow up!

They're have always been these acts waiting to be unveiled and since The Latern has opened it's pumped fresh life into the music scene. People who wouldn't have had a chance to perform, suddenly there is this stage for them, gives them a chance, it's come on leaps and bounds...

When did you first start getting into music?

I was very young, I was about five, I was singing before I was talking. I was always involved in music from a very young age, always involved in singing, like singing in the choir. A couple of years later I joined the local brass band and started playing the cornet, the equivalent of the trumpet. Then I got a scholarship to Finian's in Mullingar when I was 13. I would have spent five years there. Music, it was all I knew how to do, all I was ever good at.

Why has this ventured worked?

Because it's eliminated alot of compromising out of the equation, it's a good and bad thing I suppose, you always have to compromise. I've been producing my own stuff of late, the writing is more mature. When I was younger, it was alright but it was kinda what everyone else was doing. Where's now, with this, fair enough it might not be every ones cup of tea but it's much more personal, so the writing is more developed then previous projects.

Are there any artists that have a similar sound to yours?

I suppose instrumentally some kind of reference to Duke Special, but an element of Ryan Adams. Its quite difficult to pinpoint because what i do varies, vary from Amy Winehouse sound to like Mike Jagaur vocals so its varied. Like the Kings of Leon, its an amalgamation of everything, i know that sounds cliche, but I've just had alot of influences along the way.

The stones where such an influence on some kind of level, the like of Pink Floyd, Thin Lizzy, Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, pearl jam, all that kind of stuff.Early 90's, blur for their invention, their sound. Of coarse classical and jazz. I studied classical music so i learned how to structure and put together instruments. Tom Waits, Jeff Buckley, Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan. All the classic song writers, even tom petty in his own right. A broad influence across all genres.

You new EP released March 6th is called "Hired and Fired" and featured the song by the same name. Is there any story behind this track?

It was written two years ago before all this recession stuff, it was about not being able to hold down a job. I never took any job seriously because it wasn't what I wanted to do, a means to an end, couple of quid, drinks at the week end.I never took any job seriously so its just about that.

Initially it was recorded in Dublin and LA and was called great beliefs, its was more rock, totally different, but then i changed and re recorded a year later and changed it, put a clarinet solo in it, wrote it on piano, changed the key, kept the lyrics and vague vocal line but totally change it, and called it Hired and Fired. I figured it was a good name for the song and the EP.

What does the future hold for you?

Warm up gig for the tour in The Button Factory on the 20th of February. I've alot of radio things coming up, like regional stations, I'll be on LMFM on the 6th of March and The Sunday Night Acoustic Session on FM104. Some gigs happening in England, but they'll be confirmed for after the Irish Tour in April. The album will be released early 2010 so keep an eye out for that and for updates check out the myspace or simonfagan TV on youtube which has videos of live shows and behind the scenes footage.

The View Which Bitch? reviewed

2009-01-30T09:24:00.000-08:00

This is the follow up album to The Views successful debut album, “Hats off to the Buskers” but unfortunately, two years in the making, their latest efforts just don’t live up to it.

The band from Dundee have lost a lot of their original charm and seem to have replaced their simply catchy, upbeat athems with mundane pop rock tunes.

Despite fellow Scot Paolo Nutini featuring on tracks “Shock Horror” and “5 Rebbecca's”, the album just doesn’t quite deliver. However, despite this band bashing, “Unexpexted” is worth a listen.

Bruce Springsteen Album review

2009-01-30T09:23:00.000-08:00

“You cant start a fire without a spark” and Springsteen defiantly has that spark. He is a legend, his song writing, his voice, the album is perfection.

Springsteen 24th studio album, “Working On a Dream” was released last Friday to the delight of many, including me. He performs on the album with the unmistakable E Street Band.

The opening track “Outlaw Pete” which is an epic folk tune introduces the tone of the entire album, which is one of touching and heartfelt songs, including the bonus track, “The Wrestler” from the Oscar nominated film.

The Zombies gig review

2009-01-30T09:21:00.000-08:00

I feel like I’m channeling my father when I say this but, they don’t make band like this anymore....

The Zombies are one of those bands, from a series of highly successful bands that emerged in the 60’s, but unlike fellow UK rockers, The Beatles or America’s, The Kinks, they never quite reached the height of their success. Relasing classic tracks, their tunes enimating vintage rock perfection were life anthems for many. That was then and this is now, and they’re still managing to draw a crowd.

The Zombies played in Whelan’s and put on an unbelievable show. Interacting with the fans gathered and detailiing their successful career through andedotes and song. It was like being transported back to where sit down gigs were cool and covers of Motown made you sing out loud, they were great entertainers for the crowd that was predominately made up of men in their 50’s possibly recapturing their youth.

Whelan’s was transformed for the night with tables and chairs on the dance floor, lit by candle light. It was a combination of the show man antics of the band and the audiances enthusiasim that made for such a great gig.

Rod Argent on organ and vocals and Colin Blunstone on lead vocals are the two remaining members of the original line up. They were accompanied on this tour by the new line up of Jim Rodford, formerly of The Kinks and Steve Rodford his son on drums along with an impressive Keith Airey on guitar.

The unmistakenable vocals of Blunstone opened with “I Love You” and one of my favourite tracks “Rose for Emily,” his voice smooth and flawless. The stage was full of the energy of the rock talents of Airey and the epic organ solos from Argent, to the pleasure of the crowd.

Their track “Time of the Season” was also recieved with cheers of adoration. It was a hit for them, in 1968 in the US and was rejuvenated lately and put back into the public mind when Bulmers used it for their ad campaign, so both old and new fans could appreciate.

They preformed songs from their 1968 album “Odessey and Oracle” right the way through to the present day album. The five piece did amazing cover tracks including their penultimate track, “God Gave Rock ‘n Roll to You.”

Argent and Blunstone reformed the band in 2001 and began touring, releasng “Live at the Bloomsbury Theatre, London” which received glowing reviews the world over.

Many artists today have a huge respect for the band and the music they’ve been producing for decades, Foo Fighter’s Dave Grohl has admitted that they have a huge affect on his sound along with Paul Weller of The Jam.

Only their second time to play in Dublin, they certainly knew how to win over the crowd with Argent performing a unique rendition of “Molly Malone” on organ, a perfect ending to a perfect gig. Only a few weeks into the year and this could very well be the gig all other gigs are compared to, already my favourite of 2009.

Foggynotions are to blame for a string of amazing gigs this past year, let’s hope they keep these superb acts coming.

Check out both foggynotions and The Zombies on myspace.com

Lady Gaga The Fame

2009-01-30T09:19:00.000-08:00

Lady Gaga first came to my attention when she had a cameo in The Hills on MTV, little did I know that she’d soon release an album in the US and worldwide bursting with the catchiest tunes known to man. She’s credited with writing all her own songs, including the popular “Lets Dance” which is riding high in Irish Charts and “Poker Face,” the album’s second track. It’s an amazing pop album, living up to her debut single. Something tells me Lady Gaga isn’t just going to be a one hit wonder and 2009 could be her year, she’s definitely starting it off in style by touring with New Kids on the Block!

Animal Collective Merriweather Post Pavillion

2009-01-30T09:15:00.000-08:00

It’s three weeks into January and this may very well be my album of the year already. A follow up to their last and seventh album, Strawberry Jam, Animal Collective have managed to yet again produced a truly stunning album, with creative tracks as always. Spacey repetitious beats that work to create some truly classic psychedelic beats spanning the entire collection. Animal Collective are hard to slot into any one particular genre because their sound is so unique, the best thing to do its go out and have a listen for yourself.

The track on the album that stands out would be “My Girls.”

Cathy Davy Interview

2008-11-26T10:48:00.000-08:00

Q1. Are you happy with how your last album “Tales of Silversleeve” turned out and do you think your sound has changed much since “Something IIk”?

Yeah yeah it has changed. I'm very happy with it though. But now after it being released for a year, I'm sick of it and I want to do a new thing. I'm happy with the jump I made, from not being happy with something to an album I'm proud of. I got a great confidence boost from that album. Making something I was happy with and being able to tour it for a year that has been a huge, it has made me improved, not even just musically just with everything.

Q2. You’re playing Navan next month, how do the small venues around Ireland compare with playing the likes of The Olympia or Tripod?

It’s different, like this month and last month I was doing really small venues, with a small stripe down band and it’s been an absolute joy. I’ve never done small venues and been confident enough to play like I deserved to be on stage or that I have a presence. The smaller the venue, the more you can hear the crowd and people moving around, the more you feel you have to perform, going up and singing in bigger venues, you have this big sound to blast out the noises. When it is all taken away and striped down you’re left with the bare essentials and you have to rise to that and I've been really enjoying that growth of having to become someone that people want to come see and hear. It’s more demanding, you’re so exposed, I love that challenge,

Q3. Irish female artists are doing amazing stuff at the moment, why do you think there is an increase in female musicians at the moment?

I don't think there has been, there has always been artists, like Sinead O' Connor, Gemma Hayes, Nina Hines, there have been loads, there is always new artist male and female. They were there 10 years ago, people are just getting more exposer these days, and I think it's an equal increase in all musicians

Q4. Do you think networking sites like myspace have helped new artists?

It has helped artists, maybe not record sales, but it has definitely helped musicians and artist get recognition on their own terms, it’s wonderful, it’s an absolute gift for someone like me.

Q5. Did you ever see yourself winning the likes of the Meteor Awards or having sold out gigs all over Ireland, is this a dream come true for you?

It’s not really a dream come true. Everything has been a slow progression, I never would have had my sights set on awards, I find that cringy but just having tours set up and just being a headline artists a big thing for me that's all I ever wanted and not playing supports for ever more, being able to do my own tours, weather they're tiny or bigger, it just means people are solely coming to see you, it’s the best thing in the world.

Q6. Who were your influences growing up?

I listened to a lot of Simon and Garfunkel, it was one of the only records in the house, later on I got really into Bert Backarack, very much so. I tended to listen to whatever my friends were listening to for fear of not fitting in, but I've forgotten all that now. Would have listened to old songs my granny would teach me and that was about it.

Q Which Irish artist are you listening to at the moment?

Let me think, Lisa Hannigan would be one of them, The Villagers, Halves. The Villagers supported them, Halves are brill. You get lost in their music.

Chinese Democracy Guns N' Roses

2008-11-26T10:47:00.000-08:00

The eagerly anticipated album is finally here, following huge delays on its release date. Despite the pre conception that this album would be mediocre at best, I was pleasantly surprised that the album boasts some really great tracks. The only remaining original member, Axl Rose hasn't lost his innate charm, distinct vocals or his ego.

The 14 track album has everything you'd expect from a hard rock album and sounds like Guns N' Roses albums of old. They haven't tried to delve into nu metal or copy any of the newer rock acts in their stylings, it is just a huge rock album featuring tracks with massive guitar solos. Even with the odd and surprising ballad and techno tracks "If The World", the album as a whole is good. Songs to especially note are "Madagascar" and "Catcher in the Rye." It is worth the 13 year wait and was released the 23^rd November.

Day and Age The Killers

2008-11-26T10:45:00.000-08:00

The Las Vegas quartet have released their album "Day and Age Vertigo" following the hugely successful "Sam’s Town" back in 2006 and "Hot Fuss" in 2004. There is really something infectious about The Killers sound, you don't want to love them but you inevitably find yourself singing along to their classic anthems “All These Things That I've Done” and “Somebody Told Me” and there new album is no different. Human was their first stunning single from the album and is still riding high in the charts. One of the highlights of the album, which echoes the catchy “Mr. Brightside”, is “A Dustland Fairytale.” One listen to this album and you’ll be smiling like you mean it!!! The album was released the 24^th November.

The Smiths

2008-11-18T13:19:00.001-08:00

The Smiths have released "The Sound Of The Smiths'"album. Like any other good greatest hits album, they've really chosen the best tracks produced over the years, with the unforgetable voice of Morrissey accompanied by Johnny Marr who supervised the mastering. It's a must have for the collection and makes for easy listening from start till finished. The Smiths really are up there with the best rock acts to emerge from England so it's no surprise that this is a terrifc album with a pefect combination of their popular upbeat tracks and the more solum numbers. The album is flawless with my favourite Smiths tracks, live, acoustic and b-side songs. It was released November 11th

Kerrang Album 2008

2008-11-18T13:17:00.000-08:00

Kerrang Album 2008

Kerrang The Album 2008 is a two disc rock album released in the run up to Christmas Many compilation albums are guitly of starting out great and then there is a slow decline into obsucre songs , but this album manages to put both mainstream and rock faourites on the album, including great athems from Enter Shikari, My Chemical Romance and 30 Seconds to Mars. The artists spanning the two discs range from vertern rockers Greenday to newcomers Black Tide. So from start to finish the album makes for a great listen. Most memorable tracks on the album would have to be Pendulum's "Propane Nightmares" and Kids in Glass House's "Give Me What I Want". My advice, play it loud!

Josh Ritter Interview

2008-11-17T07:04:00.000-08:00

He is a huge talent, with a huge Irish fan base. He played the Crawdaddy Tent at Electric Picnic this year and is to play two sold out shows in Vicar Street accompanied by a 24 piece Orchestra, this month. I got a chance to speak with the enthusiastic and enigmatic Josh Ritter...

Q1. First off, what did you think of the US Election Results?I thought they were fantastic. I was out canvassing myself for Obama, going door to door in Philadelphia, making sure everyone knew about him. I was fully into it. It's an amazing experience, there is a certain belief restored, this is the country I believe in. I'm very happy, it's such an exciting time.

Q2. Are you looking forward to coming to Ireland again in December, two sold out shows, that's impressive! Yeah I'm excited it's going to be such a weird show. Like the orchestra, I can definitely add it to the list of things I thought id never get to see, its amazing I'm really excited. It's going to be weird because it's a standing gig, but with an orchestra so I'm really curious to see what it will be like. The sound is going to be great, I just can't wait. It's a huge thing, kind of selfish, but you know if you get the chance.

Q3.How was Electric Picnic this year, how does it compare to other shows you've played around the world? Epic, what a beautiful night. I played it two years ago as well. Its something else, I love the tents and how people aren't taking the event super seriously. They're there to have a good time and enjoy, it really gives you an opportunity to go out there and play as hard as you can and not really worry about breaking something or messing up in some way, its really an award for everything else I have to do during the year.

Q4. You have a huge following here in Ireland, did you ever think it would get to this point? I've never really had the scope and imagination to understand where things could really go, I just keep my head down working on songs, working on what you're doing and really putting effort into creating something, weather its a record or a performance, the one thing you're trying to do is build some tracks for the people who come out to a show, when you're not on stage you're working hard to create something new, time and patience goes into it, so most of the time I'm not really looking up. Then suddenly you see, that there's an effect, that you're having an effect, it's really gratifying, its incredible. You can't really go out there and make people come to your shows, you just have to keep doing what your doing and hopefully people will respond. I'm having an amazing time right now, I'm totally enjoying it.

Q5.When did you decide to give work and concentrate on music full time? I was ready to quit my job before any of this, I did all kind of jobs, like I'd work for a week or a few days and then I would quit and go work on music. I never had a desire to get stuck doing something that I didn't want to do, didn't want to be doing something just because I felt I needed to. Luckily I could do that, I didn't have other obligations that I needed to fill, so as soon as I could I started singing full time and I've been doing that for 6years now. I'm proud of that

Q6. What's your favourite track from" Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter"?
Fun tracks, its like trying to name your favourite child! Its hard to pick favourites, they change at different times. "To the Dogs or Whoever" Is the one I enjoy most consistently. But a lot of the stuff off that album takes me out of my comfort zone and really changed the way I've performed. Its really fun, you get a chance to push yourself outside what you normally used to operating. But yeah it is a song that is kind of big and bold and funny. I'm working on a new record right now. It's getting louder so its a lot of fun.

Q7. How do you think you sound has changed since your first album?
It's gone down some odd roads. Things have an effect on your style of playing, like even when you're in your apartment and there are people above you, you play quieter because they rap on the floor or the ceiling. Trying to get you to shut up. It leads you to sing quiet songs, it's amazing how your immediate environment can change what you're doing. We kind of forget sometimes that were the products of our environment. As we grow up the smallest changes in the places we are and the people we know can cause us to have completely new and different reactions and cause totally different types of music.

Q 8.How are you planning on spending Christmas?
I going to spend Christmas with my grandma down in Oregon. She's 94 and going to go down there and hang out with her and the whole family is going to be there so it's going to be terrific. I'm very excited, the usually good stuff like turkey. It's so nice to be heading back to family and all that.

Smithfield Horse Fair

2008-11-17T07:01:00.000-08:00

Smithfield Horse Fair Set to Continue

Attempts by Dublin City Council to cease trading of horses in Smithfield have again failed.

Dublin City Council attempted to relocate the traditional fair in Smithfield with legal action this month. The proposed new site for the fair was in the Ballymun area where there is a strong tradition of rearing and breeding horses. The groups involved in the Smithfield fair have refused to move. The traders are totally opposed to the move. They are adamant they have every right to buy, sell and convene in Smithfield.

Under Irish Law, the case for the fair falls under Old Marketing Right. It would be very difficult for Dublin City Council to win a court case, despite possible health and safety concerns. These health and safety concerns regarding the fair have escalated following an incident in 2002 when a horse bolted onto the Quays and crashed into a car.

Other concerns with the fair are that it is not currently licensed. It is lightly monitored with some Garda supervision and a representative of the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) being present. It is difficult for the Council to communicate with the traders, as there is no particular governing body for the traders. 'Smithfield is an uncontrolled and unmanaged market for the sale of horses & ponies from a little as €100 to anyone from 10 to 12 years old", said a representative from the DSPCA.

It is argued accidents involving the horses could possibly be prevented with appropriate management. Dublin City Council did become involved in the management of the event but withdrew in 2004 on the back of health and safety concerns. "On health and safety grounds Smithfield to day is not a suitable location for a horse market", said Orla Aungier from the DSPCA.

The planned move to a private venue would mean that Gardai's involvement and DSPCA's monitoring role would be minimal. The major concerns of the Council and the DSPCA is the welfare of the horses. This is not the first attempt to cease horse trading in Smithfield. In January 2002 the fair went ahead when the traders defied the City Council's attempts to suspend it. A further attempt was made in May of 2002 to relocate the Horse Fair. The organisers of the fair are adamant they will keep trading in Smithfield. It has been around since the 17th century. Horses are bought and sold on the first Sunday of every month in Smithfield Square. They claim the Smithfield Horse Fair is one of Dublin's oldest and proudest traditions. Despite Dublin becoming more and more urbanised, with offices and apartments being thrown up in every nook and cranny of the city, many claim there is still room for this unique event on the Smithfield cobblestones.

Horse owners and breeders from all over Dublin and further a field gather to barter over horses. Not only that, it is an excuse to talk shop and tell stories of old. The Horse Fair however comes under fire from local groups who claim it is dangerous, cruel and a nuisance. The Smithfield residents are often in conflict over respecting the traditions that exist in the area versus the mess that is left behind after every fair, which the Council is left to clear up. Conor Markey, a local resident said "it's time the market went, it's just cruel at this stage, the horses are walked to here for miles without any proper equipment, and it's not fair on the poor creatures."

Redevelopment of the Smithfield area began in the 1990's. It is still under construction in terms of traffic and infrastructure. Although the event is often accused of being unregulated and dangerous, it is a social event and a huge tourist attraction. Speaking to local resident Sorcha Murtagh "if you live around the area you know that it takes place every month so you deal with it. I love seeing the horses and everyone gathering together. There's something so nice about it. It's unique; where else would you get it?"

For the time being the future of the Horse Fair at Smithfield is safe despite Dublin City Council's attempts to have it relocated. Many Smithfield residents are more then happy to see it stay.

The Aftermath Interview

2008-11-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

Fiona Donnellan talk to Johnny Cronin the Lead Singer of Irish Band The Aftermath

Q. You guys have been getting alot of attention lately, with Phantom FM's First Friday gig in Andrew's Lane a fortnight ago, how are you feeling about it?

We did that two Fridays ago, wed about 450 in the house, it was a great night. Wed Mark Carrolin. It was a bit intimidating going on after Mark Greeny from JJ72, they were playing with Binder from the frames, who'd be the best drummer in Ireland, so we went on after them, they rocked and we were happy enough with our set, I loved jj72 when I was younger, we went off a few days after to Berlin to Popcom with them so we kept on the gargle. But yeah it was a great night, phantom are brilliant for Irish bands, it's hard enough to get played, well we're doing school of rock with 2fm down in Cork, but djs like Ray Foley and Ann Marie Kelly are great for playing outside Dublin, but other then that its very hard for an indie band to get on mainstream radio. You can be from Carrick-Macross or Mulligar, the likes of Ham Sandwich and The Flaws and then go up to Dublin and there will be an audience there for you cause they've heard you on Phantom.

Q. How did you guys all get together to form the band?

Well my brother and me moved back to Ireland about 6yrs ago, I was a singer songwriter over in Leeds I decided f**k this I'm going home. I'd had enough of England. My brother was in college with two of the lads form the Keiser Chiefs, so we played with them in their former band. We started working on our album and then came back over, our base player actually still lives in Leeds, he'll be flying over for our gig in Navan. I became friends with him through a fas music course over here, we've 3 top twenties behind us no so that's a solid line up. We've to keep it going now, we've our single coming out in November and were playing with The Stunning the 20th of December it should be a good one to end the year. I love The Stunning, they're nice people.

Q. So you get on with lads from The Stunning, does its make a huge difference when you get to play with bands you respect and like?

It really makes a difference when you're playing with people who have an ego. Like when I was younger that's what I really wanted to be a real rock and roll star. We played with Mundy earlier on this year, Mundy is a real gentleman. And we supported the Goo Goo Dolls in the Ambassador, that was a great one, they had 10 security guards with them. Which was mad, they didn't really need it, the likes of Ronan Keating was there like.

Q. The Who and The Pixies are huge influences on the band. Who are your personal Influences?

Aww man there's so many of them the Beatles, were named after a rolling stones album. Serge Gainsbourg, he's a French singer whose song got banned. I love him cause he kind of got older and his songs got saucier and his lyrics got saucier he's still almost rebelling like a teenager. I love U2, Van Morrison, The Frames, Lenard Cohen, David Bowie, they'd be major influences, but yeah every time I put on Serge Gainsbourg it reminds me why I want to do music. And Mick Scott and Nick Cave, his songs get better with age. That's what wed be striving for so please god this is early days. Like The Frames about 5 years ago I played a gig with Glenn to about 20 people and to see him at the Oscars, that's where there's magic, you never know what could happen, just never give up you know. Its either this or pulling pints

Q. How are you feeling about playing in Navan?

Ye were playing in two weeks time, a show there in the Back Room Session with Sean Walsh. We played with him last time in Le Cheile in Oldcastle, he's doing really great work there in Navan, and he has the likes of The Coronas and Cathy Davy playing. Sean is competing with major labels and of coarse with the recession people will go back to the gigs, getting back into the pub.

My own family emigrated in the 80's because of the recession, to Leeds, because there was no work. A lot of my mates work in construction and they're emigrating, which is quit scary, I was saying to The Blizzards the other day that they should go to Australia, because with the amount of emigration, they'd fill a room in Sydney. The amount of Irish who have emigrated.

Q. Are you planning any European tours?

Well yeah were touring but we were out in Germany getting some gigs there so its just trying to put the album out, like with did Greece twice last year so please god well be releasing the album in Greece too. It's great in Greece they're every youngster playing mandolin and music 'till six in the morning, it'd be like going to a pub in Kells and all the youngster dancing to trad music at six in the morning, but yeah they've kept their identity. The people are lovely, the most genuine people. Like Ireland is a great factory for making music but I think you have to get out of Ireland like Snowpatrol, U2 and The Frames, makes it somewhere else, because it can get very small, keep gigging and wandering around or people will get sick of hearing you each week.

Q. There's a clip on your MySpace page of the lads from the Mighty Boosh with your album. How did that come about?

Well we met them in Leeds, Julian used to live there, just gave them the album and recorded it, it's had more hits on youtube then the album. I love the Mighty Boosh. I didn't manage to see them when they were here in September, but my brother Michael went to see them in the Olympia. I've seen them in England before the second series I love, more then the third one. It's amazing,

Q. What are the plans for the future?

Well we're recording the new album with Noel Hogan from The Cranberrys. We're going over to Halsa Studios in Berlin, where Snowpatrol new album, David Bowie and U2 recorded. Our single is out in November. And we're going to be on Podge and Rodge in November too. And playing with The Stunning in December in Tripod.

Carney's Fate

2008-11-11T08:15:00.000-08:00

Mr Stephen Carney's fate is now in the hands of the jurors, as concluding evidence was heard in the Central Criminal Court today. He is on trial for the murder of his girlfriend, Ms Amanda Jenkins.

The Jury of 12, heard statements from the prosecution and opposition in the Mr Carney case. The Jury must now being deliberation.

The Dublin man is accused of murdering his girlfriend in October 2007 by manual strangulation in their North Dublin apartment.

In a confession by Mr Carney to Gaurdi, he spoke of how he had killed Ms Jenkins but he denies murder. He told Gaurds that he had strangled Ms Jenkins in their apartment on Anna Livia Street, following an alleged argument. He failed to ring emergency services or attempt resuscitation on the evening in question and it wasn’t until two days later that he alerted Gaurds that she was dead..

Mr Carney said he had returned to the apartment sober, but later changed his statement and claimed he arrived home after drinking in a local pub. The pair had begun arguing over cannabis, she then allegedly hit him across the face with an open hand, he put his hands around her neck and strangled her to death on the sitting room floor.

When family and friends had made attempts to get in contact with Ms Jenkins, Mr Carney told them she was sleeping and that the battery on her phone was dead, claiming, "she's grand."

The defence council, Michael O'Higgins SC, claimed provocation. Provocation concludes that Mr Carney experienced a sudden loss of self control. This meant he couldn't stop himself from killing and that their argument had provoked him to act out, "I think my mind just went blank. I just lost it. I just put my hands around her neck.” They also claimed that Mr Carney never intentionally meant to kill Ms Jenkins.

The prosecution said that Mr Carney's actions suggest that he in fact intentionally set out to kill Ms Jenkins. It was reveled in evidence that Mr Carney's movements on the day of the murder were slightly erratic and out of character, much of this evidence was presented in photographs and video footage. Mr Carney went drinking in two pubs in Dublin, including Mc Cauley's and then to a party. Prosecution referred to it as a "drinking spree", despite Mr Carney being sober for three months prior.

The other evidence in the case were pictures of the accused, taken in the police station when he was taken into custody. The photographs showed marks on Mr Carney's face. These marks were consistent of scratch marks. Mr Carney also had cuts on his neck, which he told Gaurds were from his attempt at suicide following the incident.

Mr Justice Paul Carney resided over the case, which has been running since Monday. The jury of eight men and four women retired today to decide on the case’s outcome. They have to decide whether they can say beyond reasonable doubt that the murder of Ms Jenkins was premeditated or if he’ll be charged with manslaughter.

Let the Readathon Begin.....

2008-11-03T02:01:00.000-08:00

As the MS Readathon kicked off today, schools, libraries and bookstores nationwide throw open their doors with an aim to raise funds for Multiple Scierosis (MS) Ireland through the involvement of kids in sponsored reading.

Now in its 21st year, MS Readathon Ireland launched its 2008 campaign, which will run from October 17th to November 17th across Ireland. It will hope to improve on the success of previous year's attempts, by raising more then 1.4 million euro in sponsorship. Over 31.000 readers took part in the event last year to raise much needed funds for MS Ireland.
Since MS Readathon began, success has invariably followed, with an average of 25,000 children and 710 schools taking part each year, they have managed to raise just over 10 million euro since it began.
MS Readathon is a sponsored read for young children and is mainly aimed at children in primary school but all are welcome to get involved. Participants register with MS Readathon and get sponsored for every book they read. A simple, novel idea and one that could have started to trip and faulter in this computer age, but the charity is growing every year, with increased numbers getting involved.
MS Readathon has grown from strength to strength since it began in 1988, this year both TV and sport celebrities, along with personalities, such as Cecilia Ahern, Laura Woods, Gordon D'Arcy, Aidan Power, Oisín McCann and Judy May Murphy will get involved to help promote reading amongst the nation and also highlight the worthy cause, MS Ireland.More then 7000 people and families around Ireland currently suffer from MS. MS is a progressive and neurological condition that can affects people's health dramatically. It can mean loss of function and some find it hard to manage and cope with the effects and so MS Ireland provides services to help the families of people suffering from the disease.

Although, many MS sufferers can function perfectly normally with the disease MS Ireland can still provide support for dealing with it. MS Readathon can help provide funding to deliver this invaluable service. Cheryl Gunning, MS Readathon, manager along with her team are bidding to make this the best year to date, with huge prizes being offered as incentives to kids and schools, such as computer and equipment. Prizes will be announced on national television in December when all the results have been tallied. With these great prizes on offer, it's no wonder so many schools have decided to get involved. The team has organized events all over the country in conjunction with schools and libraries to encourage children to get reading and get them excited about books. Events will be running all month to coincide with the Readathon.

You can sign up to get involved in the Readathon though the website www.msreadathon.ie or by phoning 1850 650 950. Children can sign up individually or through their school by getting a form and getting started. Entry forms are also available form bookshops and libraries around the country through out October and November.

Interview With Seth Lakeman

2008-11-03T01:58:00.000-08:00

The UK singer, songwriter, is credited with bringing folk music to a whole new audience. He was nominated for a Mercury award in 2005 for his debut album "Kitty Jay" and he released his eagerly anticipated album "Poor Man's Heaven" in June to coincide with his tour this November around Ireland and the UK. Introducing the "Poster Boy of Folk," Seth Lakeman.

Hey Seth, you're over to play in Dublin, November 15th, do you come to Dublin often?

Yeah, I come over quit a bit, I played Whelan's a few times, I've played on my own, played the violin there. I played Vicar Street, I've been there a good few times, yeah, I played with Brian Kennedy in the Olympia, he's cool, lovely guy.

You were born into a musical family, and you were brought up on folk music, if you weren't doing this, what could you see yourself doing?

It's hard to say really, maybe selling Christmas trees, I worked in that, or ripping up carpet I did that for a job before. But to be honest I've always played music, Its a big part of what I do, big part of my life so I'm sure id be doing something in the music industry.

There is often a stigma that surrounds the idea of folk music, even contemporary folk music, do you do anything to combat this stigma or do you even care?

Well I've always been part of folk festivals. The influence of traditional music has always been there. I think I manage to draw from that and push the boundaries a bit further and really just use the kind of energy I have as a performer and a writer to convey that.

Folk songs often tell a story. What is the story behind your new single "Soloman Browne?"

It is a story from back in 1981, when a boat went out to sea to try and save this other vessel that was in a lot of trouble, in a real bad way, taking on a lot of water. But, unfortunately both of them were lost and 16 men died that day trying to save them, but it really shook the whole community, this tiny fishing village in Cornwall. My father told me this story. It's really affected all the people around this areas. If you can imagine, it would be like if it happened in Dublin. It really shook everyone, anyway, it really inspired me to write about it, it's inspiring.

Do you think there is a growing market for folk music at the moment?

Yeah I really think young people are getting into it. In this country, definitely, without a doubt. And I'm really glad to be part of that. The way people are getting excited. It's a really good time for it at the moment. Who were your influences growing up?I guess mainly friends and family from an early age, but artists like Richard Thomson, Randy Newman, Neil Finn, Tom McConvil, and Frankie Gavin. Then Christy Moore is a great songwriter and I would have listened to Paul Simon growing up as well, I guess.

Who do you think is a good role model for young people these days?

Katie Tunstil, she's cool, clean and really good, she can play, she can sing, she can write, she's got the whole package. Then, there are people like Damien Rice, Damien Dempsey, he's a friend of mine, I think he's a good role model, he's a real cool guy.

You've played in a band and solo, what are the major differences and which do you prefer?

They're both so different, really different, the band are great. Playing with a band is great 'cause you feed off each other. I wouldn't say it's more powerful playing on your on, its different, like I'd pick different songs, I'd play more ballads if I was playing on my own. It's a whole different dynamic to playing in a band. I prefer playing in a band as I said.

Seth plays the Academy November 15th as part of his Poor Man's Heaven Tour. Check out his myspace for more details http://www.myspace.com/sethlakeman or his website sethlakeman.co.uk for more details.

Radio: Active Review

2008-11-03T01:57:00.000-08:00

Harry, Danny, Dougie and Tom have produced yet another great album, crammed with hits. McFly may be considered just another manafactured boy band but they're so much more. With the release of their 5th album, the lads have grown in popularity but also their sound has matured. They wrote and produced every song on the album, " Radio: Active", this was made possilbe because McFly recently left their record lable to start their own lable so they could have more freedom with their sound. This is really apparent on their album with Tom and Danny writting the majority of the tracks. Still the same upbeat catchy tunes that McFly have always produced but with afew other more edgey numbers included in the amazing two disc album. Most noteable "Lies" which was released last week. Catch McFly's live show, November 11th in The RDS, Dublin.

The Cure 4:13 Dream

2008-11-03T01:56:00.000-08:00

English rockers, The Cure were one of the definitive rock bands of the 20th century, both here and in the US. However, the phrase "quit while you're ahead" springs to mind when I listen to the 13th studio album release from The Cure. Don't get me wrong, 4:13 Dream is a good album in isolation, but when it's a predecessor to great albums boasting some of The Cure's legendary songs such as "Boys Don't Cry" and "Lets Go To Bed", it cannot compare.The band have been around since 1976, so it's no wonder their sound is no longer as fresh and energetic and it once was. That's not to say that there aren't some good tracks on the album. Songs like "The Only One", released in May and "The Perfect Boy", the latest single from the album, are great energetic tracks, with the quintessential Cure guitar injection. The Perfect Boy is by far the best thing about the album.4:13 Dream was released October 28th

Aoibheann O'Hara

2008-11-03T01:55:00.000-08:00

Aoibheann O'Hara hails from Ashbourne, Co. Meath. She is a budding
young actress who finished a run of Oscar Wilde's "Ideal Husband" in
the Abbey Theatre Dublin in September, only to begin working on
"Everybody Loves Sylvia", starting in The Project on the 24th of

November.

Aoibheann's talents not only lie in theatre but in film too. She has

appeared in some high profile movies over the years, most famously

Aeon Flux along side Charlize Theron.

When I spoke to Aoibheann recently I asked her which she preferred,

film or theatre; "I'm comfortable with theatre but I'd love to do more

film to develop my skill, film can be exciting, they're both very
different."

Aoibheann's love for acting started from a young age when she began
speech and drama lessons in St. Mary's National School in Ashbourne.
She thanks her teacher Patrica Smith for sparking her interest in
drama, "we used to have a little end-of-term play, and we entered
Feis, I felt at home doing it and happy with myself".

She admits it was daunting going to competitions against other

schools, but that Ashbourne always did quite well, giving Aoibheann
more confidence on stage. Speaking about drama, "I went on to get

private lessons from Patrica in Curragha, a small group of us would
go. I did that all the way up to first year of secondary school."

Following speech and drama lessons throughout primary school,

Aoibheann headed to secondary school in Loreto, Navan. She continued

to pursue her interest in arts and drama by attending Trinity College

Dublin and studying Drama Theatre and German. Throughout college

Aoibheann was heavily involved with the Drama Society "Players" and in
her course there was a direction option so "I used to act in
productions".

Aoibheann's interest in German lead her to Berlin for two years

following her arts degree. "While in Berlin I happened upon a theatre

company, called Platypus so I worked for that, it was a children's
theatre company that traveled all around Berlin." Aoibheann also
worked with an English speaking theatre while in Berlin and made her
professional debut staring in "Top Girls." However, Aoibheann soon
realised that Germany might not be the best place for an acting career
to flourish so she left.

When I asked Aoibheann if acting had always been something she wanted
to do she told me that she'd always been passionate about it, but it
was "an all or nothing kind of thing, acting is a hard profession to
succeed in so you really need to be sure that you are passionate about
it."

From speaking with Aoibheann, passion is something that she has so

it's no wonder that following her stint in Berlin Aoibheann realised
that acting was definitely what she wanted to do with her life.

Instead of returning to Ireland, she applied for drama school in South
London. London has a huge acting history with theatres in every corner
of the city, the perfect place for any actor. The Academy of Live and
Recorded Arts (ALRA) accepted Aoibheann and offered her a scholarship
to study and "that was the decision made."

It looks like Aoibheann has made the right decision with a string of

movie and theatre roles under her belt, years of study and training,
Aoibheann O'Hara looks set to rule the stage at The Project, this
November.

Everybody Loves Sylvia runs in The Project until the 6th of December.

Reply Forward

Keane "Perfect Symmetry"

2008-10-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

The third album from British Indie group, Keane may shift from their trademark piano driven songs of the past, but over all the album is lyrically great and catchy as hell. This self produced album contains 11 adventurous songs, incorporating synths, bongos, saxophones, plus a lot more emphasis on guitars, including electronic baselines.

The album is uplifting and a worthy successor to their massively successful debut album “Hopes and Fears” and follow up album “Under the Iron Sea” in 2006.

Keane are often criticized for being a very commercial and branded band but their brave new exploration of glitzy 80’s tunes, huge ballads, polished harmonies and a nu rave influence makes the album exciting, especially with memorable tracks like Spiralling.

The album was released October 13th

"House Bunny" Review

2008-10-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

From the people who brought you “Legally Blonde” comes this silly yet likable comedy, “House Bunny” starring Anna Faris of Scary Movie Fame.
The movie is about a Playboy Bunny Shelley (Faris) who is kicked out of the Playboy Mansion. With no money and no where to go, the ditzy blonde signs up to be a House Mom for the college sorority Zeta Alpha Zeta. Once inside the house, she proceeds to inspire and transform this bunch of misfits, from dorky to beautiful through a series of montages, in the hope of recruiting 15 more house members to avoid being shut down.
The jokes may be predictable and the point of the story unclear and contradictory and yet there is something endearing about it. It’s a decent rom com, with Friar’s comic talents shinning through. The film also stars Bruce Willis’s daughter and Superbad’s Emma Stone, with a cameo from the ever indulgent Hugh Hefner.

Keane "Perfect Symmetry"

2008-10-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

Fly Me To The Moon Review

2008-10-13T15:30:00.000-07:00

The story sees three flies stowing away on the Apollo 11 along with Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, to have the adventure of their lives, to the moon. The 3D animation in this movie was amazing. Compared with 3D movies of the past, they really seem to have perfected it. Thank god for the animation though because the storyline was non-existent, it was joke free and compared with Pixar creations like Nemo and Monsters Inc. animated flies and maggots aren’t cute!
The character development was lazy, such as the single Mom, the geeky kid, appropriately named I.Q. Then there is the token “Fat Fly” that they poke fun at for eating too much but then turn it into an opportunity to talk about the problem of child obesity! To add to the obscurity of the movie there is a segment at the end where Buzz Aldrin comes on screen to confirm that, yes the US landing on the moon was in fact real.
All in all, the 4 year old who went with me to see it wanted to leave and didn’t even crack a smile. So despite the animation, the theme song from Frank Sinatra and voices from Christopher Llyod, this movie failed to impress me and the box office in its opening week in Ireland.

This Will Destroy You Whelans

2008-10-13T14:37:00.000-07:00

I cannot think of a better way to spend a Sunday evening than listening to the unique stylings of experimental rock quartet, “This Will Destroy You”. Their sound is not for the light hearted but this Texas born band seemed to grabbed the attention of everyone in a packed Whelan's on October 12th. They played songs from their first album Young Mountain and songs from their more technically mature, self titled, second album released earlier this year. They also promoted their current album "Field Studies" which is a joint venture with band Lymbyc System, who have a more electric, synthesized sound and who toured with them around America.

The show was impressive, the support acts managed to create the perfect atmosphere for “This Will Destroy You”, to quit literally, destroy the audience. The band took over the stage, their presence was amazing and the audience fell silent as they created these powerful post-rock, uplifting songs, with dense drums and guitars. The band were completely enthralled in their performance, you could feel their intensity, they barely acknowledged each other on stage but yet they were completely in tune with each other making their delivery flawless.

They are often compared to bands such as "Explosions in the Sky" and "Mogwai" purely because they use similar criteria for song creation, using captivating instrumentals, starting off soft and cascading into an epic conclusion. It's no wonder "Explosions in the Sky" were commissioned to create the soundtrack for the Film "Friday Night Lights" because like "This Will Destroy You" they have this cinematic quality to their sound.

“This Will Destroy You” formed in 2005 and is made up of Chris King and Jeremy Galindo on guitar, bass player Raymond Brown and Andrew Miller playing drums.

The band came on stage at about 920pm following support from fellow Texas band Mom and Dublin based band, Halves. Mom played a short set of what they describe as electro acoustic trance music. The duo were indeed multi talented playing violins, guitars and a cello to create beautiful and ambient sounds. The real surprise of the night, however, was Halves made up of Brian Cash, Elis and Tim Czerniak, Dave Scanlon and Sarah Pratt. They have played Electric Picnic the past two years and have played a handful of gigs around the country so it was great to eventually witness them first hand. It was worth the wait, they were remarkable, the stage was a hive of activity as they created their sound with drums, guitars, bells, vocoders, syths and a cello, to name afew. Their set was perfect, each song leading seamlessly into the next, starting out slow with the sound steadily gaining momentum, ending in an explosion of huge guitar and drum anthems.

“This Will Destroy” are completing their European tour over the next month with Mom. Their latest album is available through their my space page www.myspace.com/thiswilldestroyyou

If you missed your chance to see Halves at Electric Picnic or In Whelan's this time around then they play a solo show in Whelan's on November 22^nd and they play along with Bell X1 in Vicar Street, November 11^th.

Sweet Taste of Rejection

2008-10-06T04:50:00.000-07:00

Artwork not selected for the "178th Royal Hibernian Academy Annual Exhibition" was being returned to artists at the academy today. Both Irish and International artists gathered to pick up their rejected pieces.
Each year thousands of hopeful artists submit artworks including painting, sculpture, architecture, graphic art and photography to the academy, eager to have them included in the galleries annual exhibition, which this year runs from November 11th to December 13th. Over 500 artworks are featured in the exhibition, including open submissions and works from established and invited artists. The unselected pieces however, which do not meet RHA criteria, are returned to the artist.
Now in its 178th year, the exhibition always attracts huge numbers of revelers and with this year's exhibition coinciding with the launch of the new and redeveloped facilities at the RHA, the organizers are hoping that interest in the event will increase.
The aim of the RHA is to improve the public's understanding and appreciation of art through their approach to visual arts, curating exhibitions, art education and collection programmes such as this exhibition.

Under the idea of one man's trash is another man's treasure, The Bad Art Gallery had the innovative idea of using the RHA rejected pieces of art in their own exhibit, suitably entitled, "RHA Unselected Show".
The Bad Art Gallery are hosting the show from the 16th of October in their Gallery on Francis Street. They invite artists whose pieces have been rejected by the RHA to exhibit their art.
The Bad Art Gallery's mission is to increase awareness of art. The Gallery's aim to make art more accessible and affordable to everyone and to reduce the persona, which exists, that art is exclusive.
The gallery itself was once a carpet warehouse, so its boasts high ceilings and walls, the open space makes for a perfect setting to feature any works, the stark white walls, a suitable backdrop for this colorful exhibition.
The idea for the show stems from the French equivalent "Salon des Refuses" established in Paris in the 19th century, where rejected art work from "Academy des Beaux Arts" were invited to display at Salon des Refuses. During this era in France, Realism and Impressionist artist were rejected because they did not follow the rules of traditional academic painting. Instead, Impressionists relied on short free brush strokes, vibrant colors and open composition to create works they felt were more true to nature.
Famous artists who exhibited at the Salon included Manet and Monet, so it seems that The Bad Art Gallery are trying to imitate this, with a chance of maybe discovering talented Irish artists.
During the mid 20th century, the RHA would have been seen as an institute almost hindering creativity and modernism within the Irish art world, much like the French, in relation to the radical Impressionists. Nowadays however, the gap between the ideals of the RHA and The Bad Art Gallery has closed, both groups are now striving for the same outcome, to develop art through education and innovation.

Review of The Dynamics Gig at the Spiegeltent in the Iveagh Gardens as part of the Fringe Festival.

2008-09-24T04:17:00.000-07:00

The Fringe Festival took place all around Dublin from the 6th to the 21st of September. The festival saw everything from graffiti exhibitions to great gigs and theatre. The Fringe Festival takes place every year and is proving a great success, getting more and more popular each time.

Several gigs took place in the Spiegeltent this year, including The Dynamics. The set up in The Iveagh Gardens, off Harcourt Street, was idyllic, it was essentially a festival feel minus the mud, the wellies and was right in the city centre.

The band that headlined the penultimate night of the Fringe Festival was deservedly, The Dynamics. The Dynamics describe their sound as reggae soul. The band is made up of five members, three talented vocalists and two members working solely on production. They formed back in 2003 when they met at a party and have been playing and touring the world ever since, with their unique and energetic style.

It was their first time to play in Ireland but considering how well they were received on Friday night I doubt it will be the last we see of The Dynamics. The bands stage presence was energetic and vibrant, immediately engaging the audience, allowing the madness to ensue...

If you can imagine a fusion of old school reggae and classic songs from the likes of Madonna, Bob Dylan and The White Stripes, then you've got the right idea. Leading lady, Mounam, was so vovally strong, she would put Whitney to shame. Her renditions of soulful songs were near perfect and she took songs like "7 Nations" by the White Stripes in a whole new direction.

However, it wasn't just the amazing vocal talents of the band that kept me captivated, it was the fact that in keeping with the reggae culture, the stage and the entire Spiegeltent transformed into a huge party!

After the show I spoke with the lead singer, she said, "one of my favourite things about the Irish audience is the fact that they are all so much into the party spirit, it made performing so enjoyable". She also admitted "we've made four attempts to play in Ireland over the years, we're delighted to finally get the chance to play here". Well we were delighted to have you!

This gig coinsides with the release of their album "Version Excursions" which is released at the beginning of October. It will feature both cover tracks and original material from the band, and is certainly worth checking out.

For more information check out their myspace and website myspace.com/thedynamicsound and thedynamics.free.fr

The Dynamics may seem like a hard act to follow but the band that expertly followed suit were Trojan Sound System from London, who are no strangers to Dublin.

Like The Dynamics, they are heavily rooted in reggae history, but yet bring a unique style of reggae funk. The band formed in 2004 and is made up of Earl, Daddy Ad, Superfour and Chuckie on lead vocals. Clearly not overly concerned with their entrance, the foursome haphazardly made their way on stage and proceeded to create music late into the night.

With a more typically classic reggae style, their set was mellow and relaxed. Their passion for reggae was obvious and transcended through their own brand of reggae inspired songs.

It you want to check out Trojan Sound System, then check out their myspace, myspace.com/trojansoundsystem or trojanrecords.net/

IMMA 17th Sept 08

2008-09-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

IMMA is located in the idyllic settings of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham and what better medicine then an amazing group of galleries set within a 17th century, architecturally beautiful building.

The exhibition that stood out for me was "Order. Desire. Light Exhibition of Contemporary Drawing", which was housed in the new gallery. Pieces within this exhibition were playful, minimalist and hugely varied, with artist from worldwide within the collection. Also a huge range of mediums were used including candle wax!

However, the exhibition of Janaina Tschäpe entitled Chimera, was by far my favourite space within the museum. The exhibition was based on Chimera, meaning fabled beast and also aimed to create an environment of dream and fantasy. Artist Janaina Tschäpe does just that, using photography, paint, video techniques. The whole exhibition is surreal and visually appealing, with huge canvases and a creative mix of mediums to create a color explosion.

My favourite piece was Botanica 2004/5 which was 14 digital prints of plants, but with a twist. The German born artist has fused plants with aluminous playdough. As odd at this must sound it really created a group of fantastically animated images. She fuses something natural and seemingly mundane like a plant and adds bright colours of pinks, yellows and blues to make them look like something from a story book or straight out of Tim Burton's imagination.

IMMA is open everyday, bar Mondays, which I learned the hard way and its free in, so its defiantly worth the visit!

Skewville at Gallery Number One

2008-09-17T07:14:00.000-07:00

Gallery Number One on Castle Street was host to the art works of talented Graffiti Duo Skewville from New York. It was their first exhibition in Ireland and the Gallery's unique setting was the perfect space for their quirky Graff pieces.

The pair meshed the idea of New York meets Dublin, graffiti hasn't necessarily been in Dublin's culture as long as New York, graffiti is rooted in New York's history, originally thought to be vandalism or a nuisance and slowly becoming an art form. However, with talented graffiti artists popping up everywhere around Dublin there seems to be a similar natural progression happening here.

The pieces in the exhibition were all paint on wood canvases pieces including wooden sneakers that were in the gallery but also dotted around Dublin, hung over power cables. The gallery had a film documenting the wooden sneaker's locations around Dublin playing on a screen in the centre of one of the rooms.

The exhibition was well worth seeing, the canvases were fun, full of color and big, bold images sparsely set against a white backdrop. The Gallery itself was an ideal location, as the artists and the space complimented each other well because they are both dripping in pop culture.

Cois Fharraige

2008-09-15T11:43:00.000-07:00

Cois Fharraige was amazing 5th/6th/7th Sept 2008

I arrived down to Kilkee, Co. Clare on the Saturday of the festival, thankfully missing out on the rain of Friday night. Now imagine mediocre music, Kilkee's finest pubs, sea, surf and sunshine! It was perfect.

The ticket price covered entry into the music tent, but you'd to organise camping yourself and the Kilkee Community were more then happy to accommodate, albeit over charge for this service!

The line up for the festival wasn't exciting but the beauty of this festival was that it didn't have to be, the madness that ensued the Saturday night on the main streets of Kilkee made up for it. People were literally spilling out of all the pubs on to the street and two lone Gaurds didn't even attempt ruining people's buzz, they didn't stand a chance.

Supergrass headlined on Saturday night along with Sea Sick Steve, who had quit the following, post his Oxegen performance. He got the crowd going, in true Hillbilly style, with help from a bottle of whiskey! After that Supergrass banged out the annoyingly addictive tracks.

All in all, the whole weekend was surprisingly amazing! My expectations weren't high, I figured it was just going to be loads of surf wannabes, you know the groupies that discovered that surfing was cool a couple of years ago and proceeded to kit themselves out in hawaiian flowers and the most expensive surf gear know to man. However, as I said, the crowd was just there for a good time, nothing more.

The Hurling final added to the craic on the Sunday afternoon, and Travis wrapped up the festival on the Sunday evening just nicely. I think it will only get bigger and better......

Harlan Coben is sound

2008-09-14T11:38:00.001-07:00

Harlan Coben is essentially a crime novelist but on paper he is so much more, hes a suspense creating genius. If crime novel writing was a Circus, he'd be the Ring Master. His characters are lovable in all their flaws, and they help immediately drag you head into his world.

The layout of his books are similar in so far as it starts with several different people all with seemingly separate lives that all are intricately linked in a dramatic finale. The only thing I would say is the fact that read in quick succession the book's layout can become quit monotonous. My suggestion is to space them out.

All in all though Coben's writing skills are close to perfection. If you're into reading a book in 24hrs because you can't put it down then Coben is the way to go.....

Start out with "Tell No One", probably one of Coben's more famous books with was adapted into a movie.

NoAge

2008-09-14T11:24:00.001-07:00

Review Of NoAge

Whelan’s 20^th May 2008

Whelan’s smaller venue upstairs is an amazing little hide away, with a host of great bands playing there this month. It’s such an intimate venue, with only enough room for a handful of eager music lovers and then the girls who follow hot music loving boys around.

If you can imagine standing in your grannies sitting room, listening to two Americans creating music with a guitar, drum kit and a lot of distortion then you’ve got the right idea. NoAge describe their sound as experimental powerpop punk, id describe it as amazing. Despite hearing a buzzing noise for 24hours after the gig, it was well worth it just to hear them playing memorable tracks from both their first and second albums.

Although NoAge played in Dublin last year, they only played support to the fellow LA band Mika Miko (also worth checking out) but this year they’ve embarked on a solo European tour and have definitely picked up some new fans along the way. With a similar sound to Ohio based band Times New Viking, who play Andrews Lane this Monday, its an underground sound that seems to be getting some attention from Irish fans.

Welcome Friend

2008-09-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

Sweet Books and Cupcakes is my Blogspot for everything from book reviews to music news!!!!!!!