‘Isle Of The Eagle’ is an album of new and traditional music, spoken word and storytelling recorded on Achill Island by a group of Achill based musicians.
Musician Graham Sweeney is a passionate advocate of his native place, and was inspired to embark on this project when one of the remaining great storytellers of the island, John ‘Twin’ McNamara introduced him to an Achill song, ‘Isle Of The Eagle’ written by the governess of the Pike Estate, Glendarary in the 1800’s.
Graham and his Glasgow based producer, John Michael Berry, whose family also hail from Achill, were struck by the many island connections to the title track. This led them to record a full album of songs and stories with the cream of Achill musical talent.
Musicians and instrument makers have gravitated to Achill for years, many of whom have contributed to this album. Renowned harpist Laoise Kelly, German cellist Claudia Dunkleberg, and Japanese fiddle player Lisa Fukuda joined Achill musicians Diarmuid Gielty, Alan Hughes, Des Cafferkey, Caoilte O’Cuanaigh, Leah Mc Namara and uilleann piper Johnny Butler for the recording. The Album was mastered in April 2023 by Head Engineer Alex Borwick at Grouse Lodge Recording Studios.
The project began before Covid lockdown and had to be deferred, but recording of the album resumed in late 2021 all over the island – from firesides in homes and school classrooms, to local pubs. Graham recorded ‘True Born Achill Man’ by poet and storyteller Francie McNamara (RIP 2022) overlooking Keem Bay.
Achill Island has always attracted artists, including the writers Graham Greene, J. M. Synge, Heinrich Boll, and painters, Paul Henry and Camille Souter. Film-makers have also been inspired by the dramatic landscape of the island, using the breathtaking backdrop in the award winning films The Banshees of Inisherin and My Sailor, My Love.
‘Isle of the Eagle’ will be released on August 11th.
