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Iarla O’Lionáird & Steve Cooney
Moving on Music & An Droichead in association present Iarla Ó’Lionáird & Steve Cooney.
Iarla O’Lionáird grew up and learned his craft in the musical heartland of Cúil Aodha in the West Cork Gaeltacht. Iarla Ó’Lionáird’s acclaimed solo work acclaimed work fuses the traditions of sean-nós with modern electronic music and soundscapes. He has most recently released the acclaimed solo album Foxlight on Realworld Records. Iarla is best known as singer of the twice Grammy-nominated, Afro-Celt Soundsystem and most recently he has created the new band The Gloaming.
Born in Melbourne, Australia, Steve Cooney started his professional musical career at the age of 17, playing for a while in the US before returning home. In 1981 he bought a one-way ticket to Ireland, where he busked for a few months, before joining Stockton’s Wing as bassist. Since then he has popped up all over the place, with a major contribution to Sharon Shannon’s first album, and performances and recordings with Dermot Byrne, Altan, Martin Hayes and others.
Photo gallery
Production Info
Vocals – Iarla O’Lionáird
Guitar – Steve Cooney
Reviews
“One of the most dramatic voices in contemporary music”.
The Guardian
“O’Lionáird’s real triumph is his voice: as soft as a feather bed and as
searingly sharp as a blade when the mood calls.”
The Irish Times
“His voice will astound you. It soars – and it’s as profound, simple and
beautiful as wild horses… Genius is the operative word here.
Traditionalists will be spellbound, newcomers will be intrigued and
wanna-bes will change careers. Count yourself lucky to hear an artist like
this once in your lifetime.”
Time Out, New York
“The finest sean nos singer to be found anywhere in these islands today.”
Hot Press
“You won’t forget the voice. A quiet storm.”
Mojo