Linda Coogan Byrne and her team over at WhyNotHer have put together a startling report on the state of the Irish Singles Chart over the last 20 years and how it practically ignored Women and BIPOC. It's an incredible piece of work, one that, had all things been fair and equal, should never have had to be complied. Unfortunately, like most things, the Irish Music Industry isn't a fair and equal place... Anyway, don't take my word for it, click here to read the report.
The first Skylarks Music Club event was such a success, they decided to do it all again! There was an all new line-up for Skylarks 2, headlined, this time, by the amazing Niamh Farrell of Ham Sandwich fame. So, on with the show. First up on the night was local singer, Amy Dillon . What a wonderful voice she has, married with some beautiful songs. Next up on the night was Rhob Cunningham . Now, I’d never heard of Rhob before, but I definitely want to catch him live again. Great stage presence, fantastic songs and a wicked sense of humour! OK, I’ll be honest here… I heard the words Guitar Virtuoso and my eyes glazed over… I fully expected some classical guitar set, but boy was I wrong when Shane Hennessy started playing! Absolutely incredible playing, just phenomenal! Finally it was time for the headliner on the night, the wonderfully talented Niamh Farrell of Ham Sandwich . Niamhs set was a tribute to Karen Carpenter and it was just beautiful to hear the audience