‘The Body’ is the second single from John Blek’s new album ‘Thistle & Thorn’ which was released on the 1st of February. It was recorded in Louisville, Kentucky with guest vocals by the ethereal Joan Shelley and guitar from Alan Lomax Archive curator Nathan Salsburg.
“I wanted to tell the tale of the strong woman. The woman who acknowledges the situation she is in and choses to do something to change it. It is a story of matter over mind“
The album ‘Thistle & Thorn’ was recorded between Clonakilty, Co. Cork and Louisville, Kentucky during the early part of 2018. It features numerous collaborations with longtime musical partners Brian Casey and Davie Ryan as well as the aforementioned Joan Shelley and Nathan Salsburg.
‘Salt in the Water’ from Blek’s last album Catharsis Vol.1, was nominated for Song of the Year at the International Folk Music Awards 2018 at Folk Alliance International in Kansas City. It’s been a busy few years and it shows no sign of letting up. Endless tours and recording in Ireland, Europe, UK and USA keep the Irish troubadour busy.
He is a master storyteller and an inspiring live performer. His beautiful fingerstyle guitar and joyous vocal weave a tapestry that is as poignant as it is skilful. He is a true artist.
Gigs:
Thurs 7th Mar – Borris House, Carlow Fri 8th Mar – The Washerwoman, Ballina/Kilaloe Sat 9th Mar – Ubh, Newbridge Sun 10th Mar – The Blackgate Cultural Centre, Galway Sun 24th Mar – Coughlan’s Bar, Cork Mon 25th Mar – The 19th Hole, Clonmel Fri 29th Mar – The Weir Folk Club, Midelton Sat 30th Mar – Leap Castle, Roscrea Sun 31st Mar – Connolly’s of Leap, Leap