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Author: Breffni Banks

IMRO and Law Society Annual Copyright Lecture Announced

IMRO and the Law Society created the Adjunct Professor of Intellectual Property Law position in response to the fast-changing digital landscape and the inevitable effects on copyright law and practice.

One of the highlights of this initiative is the IMRO/Law Society Annual Copyright Lecture. This year’s lecture will take place at 6pm on May 1st, 2024, in the Law Society’s offices in Blackhall Place. The lecture will be delivered by Dr Mark Hyland, the IMRO Adjunct Professor and the topic of this year’s lecture will focus on AI and its impact on copyright and intellectual property.

A panel of experts will discuss the topic in more detail following the lecture. Professor Eleonora Rosati, Jeremy Godfrey and John Phelan have accepted our invitation to sit on this year’s panel. Professor Rosati is a Professor of Intellectual Property Law at the University of Stockholm and is a Co-Director of the University’s LLM in European Intellectual Property Law programme. She is also one of Europe’s foremost experts in the field of copyright law and has written specialist textbooks on the CDSM Directive, copyright, and the CJEU. Jeremy Godfrey is the Executive Chairperson of Coimisiún na Mean who will be regulating, guiding and developing this space and John Phelan is the Director General of the Global Music Publishers association, based in Brussels and many of his members will directly experience both the positive and negative sides of AI.

The event will be chaired by Senator Malcolm Byrne.

If you are interested in attending please register here.

Once Upon A Time… is the new album from… The Swedish Railway Orchestra via Blowtorch Records

Once Upon A Time… is the third collaboration between TSRO and Galway-based independent label Blowtorch Records, following up 2022’s acclaimed Dance To The Drum Machine and last year’s Connotations EP.  Recorded and mixed between Ireland and Spain throughout all of 2023, it is the most intriguing record yet from the electronic outfit.

“The album took an unusually long time to make”, Smith says of the record. “I wanted to get everything right. It’s got hints of dance-punk, some psychedelia, some melodic verses and some interesting lyrics all over it. I’m so proud of it.”

The lyrical topics vary quite drastically across the album. From album opener, The Chelsea Hotel, with its New York City daydreaming psychedelic imagery to lyrics of a political persuasion such as on the track Once Upon A Time In Palestine.

Once Upon A Time… will be released digitally on all streaming sites worldwide and on a delicious violet transparent 12” vinyl.

Connect with TSRO

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

The Cooleys are Back with an Energetic & Driving Revival of the Age Old Folk Song ‘Paddy On The Railway’

An energetic and driving revival of the age old folk song, ” Paddy On The Railway “.

After national and international success on the air waves with their last 2 releases; a reimagined take on ‘Grace’ and the breathtaking cover of Joy Division’s iconic hit ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart ‘, The Cooleys are back with the lead single from their debut EP ‘Dearly Loved’.

‘Paddy on the Railway’ is dedicated to their departed and dearly loved friend and flute player Danny Doyle who features on the track and the EP is titled in his honour.

It’s a lively Irish shanty that tells the story of a young man’s departure to America during the Irish famine years of 1841 to 1849. Influenced by the Wolfe Tones’ recording on their album ‘Across the Broad Atlantic,’ this upbeat rendition of the traditional ballad infuses the tale with a spirited energy, capturing the optimism and determination of those seeking a new beginning across the ocean. With its infectious rhythm and spirited melody, the song celebrates the resilience and hope of the Irish diaspora, embodying the enduring spirit of a people determined to forge a brighter future despite adversity.

Recorded and produced by Dave Molloy, The Cooleys continue to push the boundaries of creativity with another refreshingly original take on this beloved folk classic, showcasing the band’s unbridled musical prowess and inventive spirit.

About The Cooleys

The Cooleys are a boundary-pushing music collective from Ireland, known for their innovative approach to sound and fearless exploration of genres. With a penchant for originality and reinvention of classic Irish folk and ballads, along with their original work the band continues to captivate audiences with their unique musical vision. At the core of this band is Dylan Pearse and Barry Kieran.

Barry, steeped in the ancient history of the fiddlers of Oriel, is known for his work with award-winning contemporary folk act Kern and for his essential part in SJ McArdle’s critically acclaimed song cycle Port.

Dylan Pearse is a singer/songwriter and song collector of note, a road warrior who has cut his teeth in pubs and clubs around Ireland. His recently released debut album ‘Songs from the North Country’ is an absolute ‘gem’, regarded by some to be as important as albums such as ‘Penguin Eggs’ by Nic Jones and ‘Bryter Later’ by Nick Drake. It has received much acclaim from a multitude of well regarded internet and national radio broadcasters.

For more information, follow them on:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Spotify

Kildare Band Blandad Release Latest Single ‘Japanese Housewife’

BLANDAD are a 5 piece hardcore/grunge band from Kildare, Ireland.

They formed in 2022 as various members of previous bands (In The Space Between, She Speaks, Drink Puke Dead, Club War) who found a common love for heavy, energetic punk and big grunge soundscapes.

They are currently writing and recording their debut EP, with a couple of singles already under their belt.

Expect wild, hard hitting hardcore sounds and shoegaze aesthetics.

Blandad are : Dan Shanahan (vox), Wayne Macmanmon (guitar), Dean Lane (guitar), Paul Hughes (bass) and Jamie Harrison (drums)

www.blandadband.com

Irish Harper-composer Aisling Lyons Releases Contemporary Harp Single ‘Sunbeam’

Irish harpist, concertina player and multi-award-winning musician and composer, Aisling Lyons is set to release her latest single, ‘Sunbeam,’ a heartfelt and original contemporary harp composition. The single is a poignant tribute to her late friend Sarah and showcases Aisling’s emotive musical storytelling.

Written by Aisling, ‘Sunbeam’ is a musical reflection inspired by the profound emotions experienced after the passing of her dear friend. The composition beautifully captures the essence of memories and the healing power of music during times of loss.

Produced by Ben Wanders in Limerick, ‘Sunbeam’ boasts a rich and evocative sound, showcasing Aisling’s virtuosity on the harp. The collaboration with Wanders brings a unique blend of contemporary elements to the composition, with all sounds created by the harp.

Gráinne Beth Enright, known for her exceptional design work, has contributed a visually striking artwork for ‘Sunbeam,’ further enhancing the overall sensory experience of the single.

Aisling Lyons, with a decorated musical career and multiple awards to her name such as being nominated in last year’s RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards, is currently immersed in the creation of her second harp album. ‘Sunbeam’ serves as a glimpse into her evolving musical journey and artistic expression. 2024 sees Aisling travel to Australia, the U.S, Germany and Brittany for various festivals and performances.

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‘Sunbeam’ is set to be released on March 15th and will be available on all major streaming platforms.

Connect with Aisling Lyons

Website | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

Lewis Barfoot Releases ‘Ancestors’ in Recognition of International Women’s Day

“In addressing and bringing into light the shameful treatment of women in Irish history and in affording voice for their emancipation and empowerment, Barfoot, might just be one of the most important voices in contemporary Irish music”FATEA Magazine

Ancestors is the latest music video from Cork based contemporary folk artist Lewis Barfoot and South Korean visual artist Narae Kim. It was filmed entirely on an iPhone amidst the breathtaking Sheep’s Head in West Cork. It is a mystic, majestic video and feels like a sacred healing ritual. Ethereal overlays, purifying elements of water and stunning shots of Lewis moving in nature coalesce to create a mesmerising, almost dreamlike, visual experience.

Scheduled for release on International Women’s Day, the video pays homage to the strength and resilience of Irish women throughout history who have paved the way for freedom, without necessarily experiencing it themselves. Ancestors is a heartfelt tribute to these women and their enduring legacy. It is taken from Barfoot’s sophomore album HOME, released in November 2023, and features guest vocalists Kerry Andrew (aka You Are Wolf), Sarah Dacey, MaJiKer, Ben See, Ellis Kerkhoven, Bren Ó Ruaidh, Elisabeth Flett and Justine Grounds.

“She sings like an angel, plays like an inspired Orpheus, and her lyrics are as uncompromising as reinforced concrete. Lewis has done it again. HOME is a stunning album”At The Barrier

This is the third collaboration between Lewis and Narae Kim. Their last work was the superb animation Fisherman which premiered at the Cork International Film Festival (Nov 2020) and went onto screen at Irish Film London (Dec 2020), St Brigid!s Film Festival (2021), Cruinniú na nOg (2021), Chicago Irish Film Festival (2021). Irish Film Institute (2021), Athens International Film Festival, Ohio (2021) and The Still Voices Festival (Nov 2021).

www.lewisbarfoot.com

IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year Awards 2024 Winners Announced

On Tuesday 5th of March, IMRO hosted the 2024 edition of the Live Music Venue of the Year Awards, at the Sugar Club, Dublin.

The short list of nominees were selected by over 20,000 IMRO members with a public vote then awarding the National Live Music Venue of the Year 2024 accolade to The Imperial Bar, Co. Cavan.

Eleanor McEvoy, IMRO Chairperson said of the awards, “I’m delighted for these well deserving winners this evening. They are the life blood of the Irish music industry, providing the means, the ambiance and the environment to hear music the way it is truly meant to be heard – live on stage in front of an appreciative audience.”

Winners in the regional categories include:

Dublin – Vicar Street

Rest of Leinster – Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray, Co. Wicklow

Connacht – Hawk’s Well Theatre, Sligo Town, Co. Sligo

Munster – Dolan’s, Limerick City, Co. Limerick

Ulster – McCafferty’s Bar, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal

Dublin: Vicar Street – ©Glen Bollard
Rest of Leinster: Mermaid Arts Centre – ©Glen Bollard
Munster: Dolan’s – ©Glen Bollard
Ulster: McCafferty’s Bar – ©Glen Bollard

All Together Now received the award for IMRO Music Festival of the Year, while Beyond the Pale was honoured as the IMRO Small Music Festival 2024 recipient at the event.

Music Festival of the Year: All Together Now – ©Glen Bollard
Small Music Festival of the Year: Beyond the Pale – ©Glen Bollard

The team from Electric Picnic was also recognised and awarded as the IMRO Tech Crew of the Year.

Best Tech Crew: Electric Picnic – ©Glen Bollard
Best Tech Crew: Electric Picnic – ©Glen Bollard

Performances on the night came from Qbanaa, EFÉ, Big Sleep and DJ Maria Lawlor.

Qbanaa – ©Glen Bollard
EFÉ – ©Glen Bollard
Big Sleep – ©Glen Bollard
DJ Maria Lawlor – ©Glen Bollard
Qbanaa – ©Glen Bollard
EFÉ – ©Glen Bollard
Big Sleep – ©Glen Bollard
Qbanaa – ©Glen Bollard
DJ Maria Lawlor – ©Glen Bollard

Hot Press’ Stuart Clark also gave special commendations, presenting awards to Dolan’s, Mike the Pies, and the Hot Press Live Music Venue of the Year for 2024 to 3Olympia Theatre.

Hot Press Award: Dolan’s – ©Glen Bollard
Hot Press Award: Mike the Pies – ©Glen Bollard
Hot Press Award: 3Olympia – ©Glen Bollard

Safe Gigs Ireland and shesaid.so Dublin were also in attendance on the night. Shesaid.so is a global community comprising women, gender nonconforming individuals, and allies in the music industry. Both organisations share a commitment to fostering a safer and more inclusive environment in the music and nightlife sectors. Safe Gigs Ireland focuses on eliminating discrimination and violence, while shesaid.so works towards supporting diversity and inclusivity in the music industry. Together, they contribute to creating a positive and respectful atmosphere for all attendees.

Safe Gigs – ©Glen Bollard
Safe Gigs – ©Glen Bollard

IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year 2024 Winners

IMRO National Live Venue of the Year 2024 – The Imperial Bar, Co. Cavan

IMRO Dublin Live Music Venue of the Year 2024 – Vicar Street, Dublin

IMRO Rest of Leinster Live Music Venue of the Year 2024 – Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray, Co. Wicklow

IMRO Connacht Live Music Venue of the Year 2024 – Hawk’s Well Theatre, Sligo Town, Co. Sligo

IMRO Munster Live Music Venue of the Year 2024 – Dolan’s, Limerick City, Co. Limerick

IMRO Ulster Live Music Venue of the Year 2024 – McCafferty’s Bar, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal

IMRO Music Festival of the Year 2024 – All Together Now

IMRO Small Music Festival of the Year 2024 – Beyond the Pale

IMRO Tech Crew of the Year Award 2024 – Electric Picnic

Hot Press Live Venue of the Year for 2024 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin

IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
IMRO Venue Awards – 5th March 2024 – ©Glen Bollard
Big Sleep – ©Glen Bollard

#IMROVenueAwards

www.imro.ie

Adoption in Plenary of European Parliament’s Own-Initiative Report on the Evaluation of the Geo-Blocking Regulation

Although this was an own-initiative report from the Parliament and therefore without any legislative impact, it has a particular political importance, since the European Commission is due to prepare its review on the Geo-blocking Regulation in 2025, and it has been asking the AV sector to bring new solutions, projects or ideas that would lead to, (where possible), less or no geo-blocking of  AV content, and indicating that in absence of such measures the Commission would need to take legislative action in the review process.   The report adopted by the leading IMCO Committee asked for the prohibition of geo-blocking in the field of the AV sector and the inclusion of AV services into the scope of the regulation at the forthcoming review.  However, following an extensive campaign organised by the AV sector this provision was reversed at the Plenary vote, and the final text no longer asks for such an inclusion, even noting that geo-blocking is needed to ensure cultural diversity and the business model in the AV sector.

Note that the various committees already had an understanding not to extend the scope to the music sector since all music content is already available across the EU without any issues, and any remaining geo-blocking practices, where they exist, serve to consumers’ advantage. This was also the finding of the dedicated expert study commissioned by the Commission several years ago, to which GESAC contributed.  GESAC also worked extensively at the committee level to keep music out of the scope of other music rightsholders and to support the efforts of the AV sector.

Political Agreement on the European Media Freedom Act

The provisional agreement reached in the “trilogue” at the end of last year needs to be endorsed by the Council and the Parliament once the text has been finalised at a technical level.  It will then be formally adopted by both institutions hopefully in spring of this year. It will bring a legal framework for all types of AV or print media companies – a first in EU legislation. While aiming to ensure media freedom and pluralism, it also raises some questions regarding intervention in journalistic and editorial decisions of media companies at the EU level. While the political agreement is achieved, several issues are still to be finalised at a technical level, and stakeholders in the field have mixed views on the outcome.

Line Up for the National Concert Hall’s ‘Tradition Now’ Multi-Room Festival Confirmed with Performances by John Francis Flynn, Bláth na hÓige, Ruth Clinton, Niamh Bury, Thomas McCarthy, Edwina Guckian and more

  • Tradition Now’ Festival to feature: John Francis Flynn, Bláth na hÓige, Ruth Clinton, Niamh Bury, Thomas McCarthy, Edwina Guckian and more
  • National Concert Hall – multi-room concerts and informal sessions  
  • Friday 3 and Saturday 4 May 2024   
  • Tickets: Friday Concerts €27 | Saturday Concerts €30 | Limited Weekend Ticket for All Concerts €50 
  • On Sale Wed 28 February 10amNCH Box Office 01 4170000 / nch.ie

Today the National Concert Hall is pleased to announce the 13th instalment of its Tradition Now Festival, presented in association with the Arts Council. An immensely popular multi-room bi-annual event celebrating the continual evolution of traditional music whilst honouring its roots, this summer’s Tradition Now Festival features main stage performances by 2024 RTE Folk Award nominees Bláth na hÓige featuring some of Irish best sean-nós singers, together with singer Ruth Clinton who presents songs in the traditional or folk idiom from her new book This Fearless Maid II on Friday 3rd May on the main stage. The evening will see additional concerts taking place in more intimate spaces throughout the NCH featuring artists: English progressive songwriter Jim Ghedi, Passing on the Songs with folk singer and collector Thomas McCarthy and sean-nós dancer Edwina Guckian.

On Saturday 4th celebrated folk singer John Francis Flynn takes to the main stage with additional concerts in smaller venues throughout NCH by artists to include one of the most exciting new voices on the Irish folk scene: Niamh Bury; multi-instrumentalist and singer who has carved out a place as a unique voice in American music Cahalen Morrison, and Dublin based singer and fiddle player Helen Diamond.  Both evenings will be complimented by the NCH’s John Field Room Sessions, creating a relaxed informal atmosphere to enjoy.

Garnering a growing audience since its inception, Tradition Now has developed into an established series showcasing innovation and diversity in traditional music in all its forms while celebrating and championing its roots, heritage and traditions.

Robert Read, CEO National Concert Hall: “Supporting innovation and exploration in traditional music and the arts plays an important part in our collective shared understanding of Irish identity, heritage and legacy through music, dance and storytelling. We are pleased to partner with The Arts Council in bringing together a diverse and talented line-up for this iteration of Tradition Now which showcases and celebrates the breath of talent in the traditional music of today while looking to the future”.

Maureen Kennelly, Director of the Arts Council of Ireland: “The traditional music, song and dance of Ireland continues its exciting journey of exploration, collaboration and innovation, while remaining true to its grassroots origins. The traditional arts is a living tradition, with unique regional styles and accents – it has influenced other traditions and has been itself influenced over time. We are delighted that this partnership with the NCH continues to bring rich & diverse traditional music to new audiences.”

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Dublin-based folk singer and multi-instrumentalist John Francis Flynn’s latest album Look Over The Wall, See The Sky has just been nominated for the RTÉ Folk Award Album of the Year. His debut album I Would Not Live Always won great critical acclaim, including being The Guardian and MOJO magazine’s Folk Album Of The Year. He won Best Singer and Best Emerging Artist at the 2021 RTÉ Folk Awards.  While supporting Lankum on their 2019 UK tour he caught the eye of Geoff Travis and Jeannette Lee who signed him to Rough Trade imprint label, River Lea. He is also a member of celebrated traditional group Skipper’s Alley.

Bláth na hÓige is an exciting new song collaboration featuring some of Ireland’s best young singers. Under the musical direction of Síle Denvir and Colm Mac an Iomaire, the Bláth na hÓige ensemble showcases the multi-faceted talents of Caoimhe and Séamus Ó Flatharta, Méabh Ní Bheaglaoich, Cathal Ó Curráin, Megan Nic Ruairí, Piaras Ó Lorcáin and Máire and Étáin Ní Churraoin.  They are nominated for Best Folk Album and Best Folk Group in the 2024 RTE Folk Awards.

Ruth Clinton is an artist and musician. She is a member of traditional singing group Landless, co-founder of the Sacred Harp Singers in Dublin and also works as a collaborative duo with artist Niamh Moriarty. For Tradition Now Ruth and Cormac MacDiarmada (Lankum, Poor Creature), Sinead Lynch (Landless) and Consuelo Breschi (Varo, Landless) will present songs from her new book, This Fearless Maid II. Following on from the first volume, published in 2016, this collection presents songs in a traditional or folk idiom, which challenge patriarchal power and feature women in active roles.

Tradition Now sees Studio performances by Thomas McCarthy and Edwina Guckian on Friday 3 May and Niamh Bury and Cahalen Morrison on Saturday 4 May. Thomas’ concert, titled Passing on the Songs sees the renowned Traveller singer explore the tradition of passing music and song onto the next generations and Edwina will bring her revered dancing – which has seen her share the stage with Altan, De Danann, Dervish and more – to the Studio. The following night, Dublin musician Niamh Bury brings songs from her highly-anticipated new album Yellow Roses to the NCH after a sure-to-be stellar set from Northern New Mexico’s finest export Cahalen Morrison, who is equally at home on guitar, banjo, mandolin, singing three-part harmony or unaccompanied.

Meanwhile the Kevin Barry Recital Room plays host to Jim Ghedi on Friday and Helen Diamond on Saturday. Jim hails from Sheffield and although clearly well versed in the history of folk music, he stands out as a potential torch bearer for a new generation of respectful yet experimental performers. Helen is a singer and fiddle player from Dublin, her playing is influenced most strongly by the music of South-West Donegal, but also takes inspiration from old-time American music.

The John Field Room plays host to the beloved John Field Room Sessions over the two nights.

Tradition Now will continue in the Autumn 2024 at the National Concert Hall. Details to be announced later in the year.

TRADITION NOW – NATIONAL CONCERT HALL

Friday 3 May 

Main Stage:  7.30pm – 8.30pm Ruth Clinton | 9pm -10pm Bláth na hÓige   

The Studio: 7pm Edwina Guckian | 9.30pm Thomas McCarthyPassing the Songs

Kevin Barry Recital Room: 9.15pm Jim Ghedi 

Saturday 4 May  

Main Stage: 7.30pm -8.45pm John Francis Flynn

The Studio: 7pm Cahalen Morrison | 9.30pm Niamh Bury

Kevin Barry Recital Room: 9.15pm Helen Diamond 

Ticket Information: 

Friday 3rd May – Day Ticket €27 | Saturday 4th May – Day Ticket €30

Limited Weekend Ticket Available (for 3rd & 4th May) €50 – entitles the ticket holder entry to all Tradition Now concerts.

10% Discount for Friends of NCH and Groups of 10 or more.

www.nch.ie

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