More detached notes

Thanks to Roger Ryan of the Country Music Association of Ireland for the December 2013 issue of his 'Country Cuts' newsletter. This is reproduced verbatim on the BIB, and can be reached through the link in our right-hand column.

One of Roger's news items announces a return visit by Sligo-based Rackhouse Pilfer on Saturday 21 Dec. to the Rockies Club, Church Road, Cork, where their show earlier this year was sold out. Roger adds: 'This is the start of the Christmas holidays so there should be great craic at the Rockies. As usual there's no cover charge. Refreshments will be served and the show will start at 9.00 p.m.' More details and links can be found on Ray O'Brien's 'Bluegrass in Ireland' Facebook page.

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The BIB mentioned yesterday the highly favourable review in the latest British Bluegrass News for the new EP by Lands End - so thanks again to Ray O'Brien for passing on the following news from Richie Foley of Lands End.

Richie, who accompanied Niall Toner on mandolin in the USA this autumn, has just finished recording a version of Niall's instrumental 'Burren backstep' (see the BIB for 9 Nov.). It's a fine version, and can be heard on 'Bluegrass in Ireland' or on SoundCloud. The musicians are Richie himself (mandolin), Sam Rose (guitar, double bass), and Paddy Kiernan (5-string banjo).

'Burren backstep' will also be the theme tune for Niall's RTÉ Radio 1 show 'Roots Freeway', which is back on air on 7 December.