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

March 7, 2024

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.

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