Donal Lunny, Coolfin and the idea of a modern Ireland

Andrew Curry writes: Donal Lunny has been at the heart of innovation in Irish music for 50 years, as a musician, arranger, and producer—since founding Planxty with Christy Moore, Andy Irvine and Liam O’Flynn—and later with The Bothy Band and... Read more →


Ainsley Hamill: a fabulous Scots voice telling stories in song

Andrew Curry writes: The Scots singer Ainsley Hamill seems a bit of a well-kept secret, at least judging from her Spotify hits, but it’s not clear why. Her latest record, Fable, is her third solo record, and she’s been in... Read more →


He Mistook Her for a Swan: a rare gem from Canada

Steve Peck writes: As a musical explorer, one of my greatest joys is to find an exceptional act that lies off the beaten path. For the last four years, I’ve been an avid follower of He Mistook Her for a... Read more →


Song of the Day: Bill Barclay and Mr Sax. In search of a singer and a song

Bill Taylor writes: take it from me, when you’re getting well into your 70s, it’s a bonus if you can remember what you had for breakfast. Don’t push me on that, though I know it always includes coffee. And as... Read more →


Hands across the water: introducing Steve Peck, the new man on our block

Colin Randall writes: we are delighted to present our new North America editor, Steve Peck. He succeeds Bill Taylor, whose superb writing will nevertheless continue to grace our pages. Steve is an American with a deep knowledge and love for... Read more →