NTB at the NCH, 19 June

Thanks to Niall Toner (left) for this report and pictures of the Niall Toner Band in recent shows, including a major event at the National Concert Hall, Dublin:

I attach a photo [below] of the audience, taken from the stage at the National Concert Hall on Saturday 19 June during the concert for the 65th birthday of Aung San Suu Kyi. There were 970 pay-ins and 150 guests, mostly Burmese in traditional costume. This was one of the most receptive and appreciative crowds NTB have ever played to, and if anything, it proves my long-held theory that original string-band/ bluegrass/ country music (call it what you will!) has a much wider appeal than is generally believed.

I would also say that performing under these conditions, with superb sound, wonderful lights, perfect stage and great dressing room facilities all contribute to making the entire venture so worthwhile. The concert was filmed by a Norwegian TV Company, and is being streamed in to Burma all this week. There were also a number of photographers on hand, and Faiz Farrelly took some superb shots [e.g. of Niall, at the head of this post, and the NTB on stage, below].

On Sunday we had a totally different experience when we played the Phoenix Park for Cycle in the Park Day. The audience was mostly mobile, cycling around on their bikes, but the sun shone, and folks really enjoyed the music.

Thursday night was another contrast when we played the Annual Cadbury's Hoedown in the luxurious Druid's Glen Golf Club and Hotel in Co. Wicklow. The crowd entertained themselves by riding mechanical bulls, milking mechanical cows, and shooting bandits and outlaws... We managed to escape with our lives and instruments intact.

Niall Toner Band website; MySpace; Roots Freeway

Dick Gladney and friend visit the mummified basses of pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings