Big Listowel Launch Planned for Shannon Vale CD

The CD cover shot at Kate Browne's in Ardfert.
The CD cover shot at Kate Browne’s in Ardfert.
Photograph: Dragan Thomas

Following on from their St. Patrick’s Day performance at Áras an Uachtaráin, Kerry’s award winning Shannon Vale Céilí Band will launch their debut album at 8pm in the Listowel Arms Hotel on this Saturday night June 7th.

‘Shannon’s Lovely Vale’ takes it’s title from a newly composed tune by renowned musician and composer, Maurice Lennon, of Stockton’s Wing fame. Having composed this piece in honour of the band, Lennon also features as guest artist on this recording. The album includes music and song of North Kerry, much of which previously has been unrecorded.

The band comprises an impressive line-up of musicians featuring Sheila Garry and Colm Kissane (Fiddles), Marianne Browne (Flute/Whistles), Joe O’Sullivan (Flute/Vocals), Mike Collins (Banjo/Mandolin/Flute), John Collins (Drums), and Patsy Broderick, formerly of Arcady, features on Piano. Critically acclaimed accordionist Danny O’Mahony is the driving force behind the band. The combined result is a powerful and dynamic overall sound, enriched by the spectrum of individual styles and a shared appreciation of the North Kerry tradition.

Members of the Shannon Vale Céilí Band who will launch their debut CD in The Listowel Arms Hotel on Saturday night at 8pm. Included are: Brothers,Michael and John Collins, Sheila Garry, Colm Kissane, Marianne Browne, Danny O'Mahony, band leader; Joe O'Sullivan and Patsy Broderick.
Members of the Shannon Vale Céilí Band who will launch their debut CD in The Listowel Arms Hotel on Saturday night at 8pm. Included are: brothers,Michael and John Collins, Sheila Garry, Colm Kissane, Marianne Browne, Danny O’Mahony, band leader; Joe O’Sullivan and Patsy Broderick.

The original band was formed in Ballyduff in 1960 by Dr. Mick Sweeney. Following the revival of the Shannon Vale by leader Danny O’Mahony in 2009, they have since achieved huge success including winning the coveted title of All-Ireland Senior Céilí Band Champions at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2011.

The album will be officially launched with an array of special guest artists who will appear in concert on the night. The list includes: Maurice Lennon, Cyril O’Donoghue, Johnny ‘Ringo’ McDonagh, Nan Tom Taimín de Búrca, Sliabh Luachra Set Dancers, Oireachtas winning sean-nós dancers Proinsias & Breandán Hernon and world champion dancers Niamh O’Brien and Tomás Ó Sé. The night will be rounded off by a céilí and all dancers are welcome.

Upcoming performances by the Shannon Vale include: Féile Chnoc na Gaoithe, Tulla, Co. Clare (28 June); Munster Fleadh, Killarney, Co. Kerry (19 July); Feakle Festival, Co. Clare (8 August); Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Co. Sligo (16 August). See website for further information.  ‘Shannon’s Lovely Vale’ is now available to purchase/download exclusively from: www.shannonvaleceiliband@gmail.com or contact band leader Danny O’Mahony with any further queries on  087-2338598

 “Enduring vigour and elegance from the rich musical tapestry of North Kerry; Music of heart & soul;  As good as it gets”.   (Joanie Madden – Cherish the Ladies)