Usher’s Island brings together two generations of the finest and most influential Irish traditional musicians, stretching back to the acclaimed 1970’s era of Planxty, through Andy Irvine and Dónal Lunny, and the Bothy Band, through fiddler Paddy Glackin. They follow the last incarnation of Planxty, which ended in 2005, and later LAPD – Liam (O’Flynn), Andy, Paddy and Dónal. This next chapter, which began with shows in January 2015, brings in renowned players from the 1990’s generation, with Mike McGoldrick (Capercaillie, ex-Flook and Lunasa) on flute, whistle and uileann pipes and John Doyle (ex-Solas) on guitar and vocal. Both also play in The Transatlantic Sessions and as a trio with John McCusker.
The music combines the excitement of the 1970’s traditional Irish groups with a modern sensibility informed by a range of influences. There are lively sets of traditional tunes, including tunes from the Goodman Collection, from Donegal fiddle playing brothers John and Mickey Doherty, and from Chieftain’s fiddler Sean Keane. The songs range from fresh takes on the traditional Molly Ban, The Wild Rover and Bean Pháidín – which Dónal Lunny revisits 44 years after recording it with Planxty – to captivating originals by Andy Irvine and by John Doyle.
Named after one of Dublin’s quays, they released their debut album in 2017 prior to which Johnny Whalley caught their live performance at FolkEast in 2016, declaring their performance “One of the most memorable sets of songs and tunes I’ve had the privilege to hear”.
They have five dates lined up in November, so now here’s your chance to catch one of the live highlights of the year.
Usher’s Island UK Dates Nov 2021
Wed 24 Nov – STAMFORD, Stamford Arts Centre – www.stamfordartscentre.com
Thur 25 Nov – LONDON, Kings Place – www.kingsplace.co.uk
Fri 26 Nov – BURY, The Met – www.themet.org.uk
Sat 27 Nov – LIVERPOOL, The Philharmonic – www.liverpoolphil.com
Sun 28 Nov – CANTERBURY, Gulbenkian Theatre – www.gulbenkian.co.uk