Author: Zoé Piater

“Happiness” is a song by Scottish band The Blue Nile, written by Singer Paul Buchanan and produced by the band. It was released in 1996 as the lead single from their third studio album ‘Peace at Last’. “Happiness” went into the top 100 in the UK singles chart and remained there for a number of weeks.

Camilla began singing Happiness with her band Dogtail Soup, a group created by herself and her late husband Colin Vearncombe (aka Black), Fergus O’Farrell and Maurice Seezer of O’Farrell’s legendary Irish band Interference. Paul Tiernan and several other members of the Interference collective quickly completed the line up.

An immediate favourite with the audience, it remains in the live set to this day, whether she is singing with Dogtail Soup, Interference with Glen Hansard or Solo. It has now found its place within her extraordinary body of work … ‘Mamasongue’.

‘Mamasongue: Source’ the album was released to much critical acclaim in May 2023, a double CD recorded live over two days in the world renowned Grouse Lodge Recording Studio. A twenty five track, two hour odyssey sung in six different languages, Mamasongue the Show weaves music from distant lands, and just around the corner and is brought to the stage by Camilla Griehsel, acknowledged as one of Ireland’s most versatile and passionate singers. Camilla sings songs that transcend the constraints of culture, time and place showing that a song’s true meaning can be deeply felt, regardless of its language.’

“Music speaks to us directly, it’s powerful and immediate, sidestepping all boundaries and defences, and reminds us of the connections between us all. The wish for Mamasongue is to bring people together to recognise our shared humanity and remember that we all come from the same source.” CG

Camilla is releasing her recording of ‘Happiness’ this week in the run up to bringing her show to the Cork Opera House on May 12^th where she will be accompanied by world class musicians Niwel Tsumbu on guitars and vocals, Concord Nkabinde on bass guitar and vocals, Eamonn Cagney on hand drums, percussion and vocals and Johnny Taylor of the Johnny Taylor Trio on Piano, Keyboards and vocals, along with some very special guests.

‘Happiness’ is essentially a gospel song, once described as ‘a hymn to triumph over adversity’ by Adrian Dawson of ‘The Stage’ magazine.

HAPPINESS Video on YouTube

https://youtu.be/1mbQpZjG0EY?feature=shared

Camilla Griehsel ‘s ‘MAMASONGUE’ Live in The Cork Opera House on 12^th May 2024, for one night only.

Tickets are AVAILABLE NOW from The Cork Opera House Box Office.

Irish born and Berlin based COMA_54, known for their unique blend of grunge, desert rock, and shoegaze with catchy pop melodies, is set to release their first single in two years. Titled “Rapture,” the track promises to captivate audiences with its alternative 90s grunge sound infused with modern twists. This release marks the beginning of a series of three releases planned for this year by the band. Produced by esteemed Irish producer Ciaran O’Shea, whose portfolio includes work with renowned acts such as Cyclefly, “Rapture” promises a sonic experience that seamlessly blends the nostalgic vibes of 90s grunge with contemporary sensibilities.

“Rapture” is not just a return for COMA_54 but also marks their debut collaboration with Berlin-based independent label ORIAN Musik, further solidifying their presence in the German music scene. The partnership between the band and the label signifies a new chapter for COMA_54 as they continue to evolve their sound and expand their reach. The track incorporates searing guitar riffs and an unflinching rhythm section, underpinned by deceptively catchy vocal melodies.

COMA_54 have already made a splash on the live music scene in Germany, headlining festivals in Schwerin, Munich and Berlin. Recent performances in Berlin’s Cassiopeia club have seen them grow a reputation of being one of the best live bands on the scene. With several more dates in the book, they will look to further this reputation very soon.

“Rapture” is scheduled for release on April 26, 2024, across all major streaming platforms. With its powerful blend of grunge, desert rock, and shoegaze elements, coupled with infectious pop melodies, the single is poised to make waves in the alternative music scene.

Beardfire Recording & Rehearsal Studios are teaming up with Jawdropper Music PR & Management and The Workman’s Club to offer the independent artists of Ireland a chance to have their music recorded, publicized and performed on stage.

Breaking out and getting heard takes time, talent and dedication, it also requires investment in equipment, recording, and publicizing! With a combined prize of over €2,000 on offer, we hope that we can do something small to help support Irish independent artists, both directly to the winner of the contest, and in bringing attention generally to the needs of indie artists.

For more info, visit Beardfire Recording & Rehearsal Studios & Label (@beardfiremusic) • Instagram photos and videos.

The world-renowned Cork International Choral Festival is set to take centre stage next week, with over 5,000 participants from across the Globe due to bring their musical talents to the city.  Billed as one of Europe’s most prestigious choral events, the festival, now in its 69th year, runs from 1st – 5th May, The spectacular 5-day event, which runs over the May Bank Holiday weekend, will feature hundreds of national and international choirs and a lineup of exciting performances and workshops. With over 90 venues hosting gala performances, competitions, fringe concerts, and free public performances, there will be music everywhere you turn in Cork city and county.

Highlights of the 2024 programme include the popular Afternoons in the Atrium at Clayton Hotel, the Cobh Fringe Festival featuring choirs at scenic locations, and a new venue at the Marina Market. The festival will also feature the prestigious Fleischmann International Trophy competition, the Cork School of Music Symphony Orchestra, and performances by renowned choirs like the State Choir LATVIJA and Chamber Choir Ireland. The festival also features the exciting finale of Ireland’s Choir of the Year competition, showcasing the best Irish choirs alongside international talent. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking to experience something new, the Cork International Choral Festival invites you to get involved and participate in the various workshops, events and performances on offer.

Tickets are still available for a select number of performances including:

Opening Gala Concert featuring the Cork School of Music (CSM) Symphony Orchestra and Fleischmann Choir who will present Stanford at 100 – Stabat Mater, the composer’s iconic piece. Wednesday 1st, 8pm, Cork City Hall.

The hotly contested annual Fleischmann International Trophy competition, which offers audiences the opportunity to hear some of the world’s top amateur choir’s competing for one of Europe’s most prestigious choral prizes. Saturday 4th at 3pm & 8pm, Cork City Hall. 

One of Europe’s most well-known choirs, The State Choir LATVIJA’s concert is one not to be missed. The renowned choir is internationally acclaimed both for its academic excellence as well as its innovative projects. The choir has participated in recordings produced by Naxos, Warner Brothers, Harmonia Mundi, Wergo and Ondine. 7.30pm, Thursday 2nd, Cork City Hall.

Chamber Choir Ireland will give the premier performance of the winning composition of the 2024 Seán Ó Riada composition competition. 7.30pm, Friday 3rd,  St. Finbarre’s Cathedral 

Ireland’s Choir of the Year Final, 9.30am, Sunday 5th, Cork City Hall

Closing Gala – a joyful and colourful celebration with international choirs that will mark the end of a superb festival. 8pm, Sunday 5th, Cork City Hall

Free events include: 

Afternoons in the Atrium, Clayton Hotel – Saturday 4th at 12.30pm and Sunday 5^th May 1pm.

Choral Trail – a unique and exciting opportunity for choral music lovers to experience the magic of choral performances in unexpected and delightful locations – see below for times and locations. Listings also available on www.corkchoral.ie/

The Cobh Fringe Festival which will see choirs singing in locations such as St. Colman’s Cathedral, Christ Church, The Heritage Centre, Bandstand on the Promenade and Several local Schools. This year for the first time will see a nighttime concert hosted in Cobh from 7.30pm in St. Colman’s Cathedral, with choirs from Iceland, Latvia and Estonia performing.

A new venue for 2024 will see choirs singing at the Marina Market on Saturday 4^th May from 12.40-4pm.

With an eclectic array of international competitions and musical styles set to be performed over the five days, Cork is certainly the place to be for the sweet sounds of music in the run-up to and during the May bank holiday weekend.

The Cork International Choral Festival is supported by the Arts Council, Fáilte Ireland, Cork City Council and Cork County Council, with the Irish Examiner, The Echo and Cork’s 96FM as media partners,

Festival Tickets will be live on www.corkchoral.ie

Beginning his artistic journey in 2018 Rikshaw quickly made a name for himself with a sound based around the trap genre. Synergizing hard-hitting rap flows with catchy melodic hooks RikShaw jumped in and out of many different sounds taking his inspiration on board but always adding something unique and personal to the sound. Continuing to release regularly throughout his music career he garnered some media attention and accumulated high streaming numbers with every release. After 2 release projects in 2022 “Damage Control” & “Limited Edition,” RikShaws contact releases finally halted.

After a long hiatus from releasing, RikShaw began 2024 with his first single in almost 2 years “Where Has the Time Gone.” He is beginning to re-ignite the flame that sparked constant releases from his earlier days. Returning to the stage as a more mature and reflective artist, this version of RikShaw may be a little different than his earlier nonchalant fun tracks but the quality of music remains the same.

Taking heavy inspiration from The Weekend, Rikshaw’s upcoming new single ‘Waterfall’ delivers a somber embrace of nocturnal confines.

“I have had a lot of highs and lows in the last few years and sometimes cannot help focusing solely on the lows. This sometimes takes control and can leave me feeling trapped and lost. Embodying these silent struggles.” – Rikshaw on the track.

Waterfall dives into the depths of where they can take you. This track really unveils the labyrinth of lost time and inner turmoil. This dark cadence that is so relevant was made in hopes that it can take you along with Rikshaw for these few minutes of the song and when it finally wraps up it might feel like there is a light at the end of that tunnel.

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Living In My Fantasy is all about dreaming big in love and then facing the harsh reality check. Toshín tells a story we’ve all been through—thinking we’re on a romantic date only to find out it’s not what we imagined. It’s a song that hits home for anyone who’s ever had a crush or daydreamed about love, only to have their hopes dashed. With its heartfelt lyrics and catchy beats, it’s like Toshín is singing our own love woes. So, when you listen to Living In My Fantasy, you’re not just hearing a song, you’re feeling like Toshín gets you.

Toshín, led by the dynamic vocals of Tosin Bankole, delivers electrifying performances that span the spectrum from the soulful resonance of Aretha Franklin to the infectious funk of James Brown. With a captivating stage presence, Toshín has graced the lineup of Ireland’s premier music festivals, including Electric Picnic, Beyond the Pale, and All Together Now, leaving audiences spellbound with their soulful sound. Noteworthy performances include supporting acclaimed artists such as Macy Gray, Staple Jr Singers, Corrine Bailey Rae, and Kurt Elling, as well as commanding sold-out headline shows at prestigious venues like Dublin’s Whelans and The Grand Social.. With a plethora of new releases and an eagerly anticipated album on the horizon, Toshín is poised for a monumental year in 2024.

UPCOMING LIVE SHOWS

The Sound House Dublin, May 17th

The Lark Theatre, Balbriggan, May 25th

3Olympia Dublin, May 26th

DNA Art Club Berlin, June 12th

Bar Bobu Berlin, June 13th

Irish pop sensation KEHLI is thrilled to announce her first headline show of the year in her hometown of Dublin, at the renowned Workman’s Club on Saturday May 11th, 2024.

Returning to the Workman’s Club after a slew of releases last year, KEHLI was named as ‘One To Watch’ by the Official Charts UK and included in several Spotify editorial playlists such as New Music Friday and New Pop UK. Her music was also championed by Irish radio including FM104, RTE 2FM, iRadio, Spin1038 as well as UK support BBC Radio 1 and it’s esteemed Future Pop playlist across a number of her releases.

Ahead of her highly anticipated release titled ‘Like U Need Me’ in May, this live show promises to be an energetic, fun, and eclectic mix of her previous hits as well as sneak peeks of new music from her forthcoming EP, set to drop later this year. Showcasing KEHLI’s crystalline vocals over vibrant live beats and infectious hooks, the performance will feature

KEHLI alongside her band, with special guests to be announced.

Tickets on sale now (HERE).

Hozier continues to make history becoming the first Irish artist in 34 years to hit #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with his latest single “Too Sweet”.

Hozier joins an extremely elite group of just three other Irish Artists to hit #1 in the US Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart – Gilbert O’Sullivan (1972), U2 (1987) and Sinéad O’Connor (1990).

In a message posted on his Instagram last night, Hozier says “I’m taken massively surprised by it. I just want to thank you so so much for your support. I’m so thrilled that you’re enjoying ‘Too Sweet’ and it means the world to me.”

Since its release last month, “Too Sweet” has been climbing the charts around the world, also hitting #1 in the Irish, UK, Australian, New Zealand and Canadian Singles charts.

With over 3.2 Million Irish streams to date on Too Sweet, it has remained at the top of the Irish Singles Chart for a second consecutive week and has now also been certified DOUBLE PLATINUM in Ireland.

The Unheard EP contains four brand new songs, originally recorded during the sessions for latest chart-topping album Unreal Unearth. These include ‘Too Sweet’, ‘Empire Now’, ‘Fare Well’, and ‘Wildflower and Barley’ featuring Canadian Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and activist, Allison Russell. Speaking on the new tracks, Hozier says: “These are songs that might’ve made it to the circles of gluttony, limbo, violence and the outward ‘ascent’ respectively but could not for different reasons. I’m very glad I’ll get to share them with you.”

In August last year Hozier scored his third consecutive Irish #1 and his first ever UK number 1 with that very third studio album Unreal Unearth. The Irish superstar has cemented himself as one of the greatest songwriters in his field with a record that spawned world class tracks in “Eat Your Young,” “All Things End,” “Francesca” & “De Selby (Part 2)”. He outsold the entire UK Top 5 combined in release week and also scored his first ever number 1 album in the Netherlands and top 5 spots in the USA and Germany.

This summer will see Hozier perform outdoor shows, including a sold out headline show at Dublin’s Marlay Park on July 5^th with special guests Lord Huron and Brittany Howard, plus a sold out date at London’s 45,000 capacity Finsbury Park on July 7th – which will be his biggest UK headline show to date. This follows what was an incredible 2023 on the live circuit which included a triumphant surprise set at Glastonbury, an acclaimed sold-out show at Dublin’s Malahide Castle, and over a million tickets sold worldwide for his sold-out headline tour, which saw him conquer arenas including x3 shows at Dublin’s 3Arena.

FOLLOW HOZIER:

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter | YouTube

When Next We Meet, Raheen House, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary

Weekend and Day tickets are now on sale, from €35 plus booking fees

www.whennextwemeet.ie/tickets

When Next We Meet is set to take place on the idyllic grounds of Raheen House Clonmel once again, for its third annual celebration of Irish artists this June bank holiday weekend. Having already announced a stacked line up for its main stage featuring award winning folk artists Ye Vagabonds and Susan O’Neill, indie giants Bell X1, rising talent Rachael Lavelle and Tipp/Dublin based artists Cormac Looby & The Line, organisers are excited to reveal the artists performing live on the all new Hidden Gems stage.

Since its inception in 2022, When Next We Meet has been committed to showcasing the best of local Irish artists, and this year’s line-up on the Hidden Gems stage continues that ethos. Local artists have been a cornerstone of the festival since its inception in 2022. The Hidden Gems stage represents a reimagining of the festival’s local artist platform, evolving from acoustic performances and DJ sets into a fully-realised showcase nestled under a stretch tent in the stunning walled garden. The intimate setting offers a platform for artists to present their music authentically, in front of a captivated festival audience.

“We’ve been set on amplifying local artists here in Clonmel at both the festival and beyond since before we launched in 2022. Support from Clonmel Credit Union and Tipperary Museum of Hidden History has empowered us as organisers to give these acts a platform where they can present their work authentically, as they want it to be heard. As artists ourselves, we’re aware that stripped back sets are part and parcel of the gig, but we’re happy with the direction Hidden Gems has taken this strand of When Next We Meet”, Kate Twohig, festival co-director.

Amongst the acts set to play the Hidden Gems stage are indie rock newcomers MDR straight off the back of their debut headline show in Cyprus Avenue. Their yet to be released tracks promise to captivate audiences with raw energy and infectious melodies. Folk favourites The Cedartowns known for their well-crafted original songs are set to excite festival goers with their genre-blending sound featuring the blood harmonies of sisters Michele and Mary Nugent.

Briars describe themselves as original Irish music, making alt folk noises in Cork City with a South-Easterly accent. That accent would be the impenetrable Carrick-on-Suir accents of lead writers Mick Grace and Paul O’Shea. Ruairí de Leaster has been an accomplished writer from a young age, fronting many successful and bands and duos. He’s shared staged with Duke Special, Lisa Hannigan, Jerry Fish and Foy Vance, showcasing his stage presence of true passion.

Returning to the festival for the third time is Clonmel native Eve Whelan whose soulful vocals and captivating performances have earned her acclaim at events like Other Voices of UCC and Clonmel Junction Festival. The Wood of O are an alternative folk group led by singer-songwriter Breege Phelan and songwriter/composer Will McLellan, promising haunting melodies and intricate arrangements that will resonate long after the festival ends.

Rouding up the lineup is Seánie Birmingham, a Dublin-based folk artist form Mullinahone, Tipperary. His expressive lyrics and intricate musical arrangement cultivate unique soundscapes which seek to feelings of heartbreak, anxiety and acceptance. With influence ranging from Sufjan Stevens to Adrianne Lenker, Seánie’s performance is sure to be a highlight of the weekend.

Clonmel Vinyl, a collective of local vinyl DJ’s will host the after party, which takes place in the hotel, with a very limited capacity and one promise – no cameras.

With it’s line-up now complete, When Next We Meet is set to be an unmissable celebration of Irish artists this June 1^st and 2^nd at Raheen House, Clonmel.

Weekend and Day tickets are now on sale, from €35 plus booking fees, with very limited availability. Head to www.whennextwemeet.ie/tickets

Follow When Next We Meet on Instagram, Facebook, and X/Twitter.

Supported by Camida, funded by Tipperary County Council and Creative Ireland.