Peter Mulvey and Clive Barnes in Ballymore

After somewhat of an hiatus the acoustic gigs in Ballymore are set to recommence. They will be somewhat less frequent than before as the original venue in the Ballymore Inn is not so readily available or so suitable since the renovations there.

Most of the artists who play the acoustic circuit feed off listening audiences in the more intimate venues. Some of the upcoming gigs will be in Mick Murphy’s Bar (venues don’t come much more intimate) and others will move to Hollywood.

This Monday night sees the return of two of Ballymore’s favourites.

Peter Mulvey is perhaps one of the greatest acoustic talents to emerge from the US in the past fifteen years. Honing his skills on the streets of Dublin during the mid 90s while on student exchange in Maynooth, and in the subways of Boston, down in which he recorded a truly live album, he has developed a unique guitar style over which are laid vocals with a depth and lyricism rarely found in these days of throw away pop.

His live performances are deeply engaging for he is possessed of a rare ability to truly reach out and draw in his listener. There is something charismatic about the man and yet something quite ordinary. Perhaps its because he is a genuinely nice guy – there is no attitude here, just a joy in performing and meeting the folks who come to listen. Peter has a special regard for Ballymore (or "Ballymore Eus-tat-ché" as he calls it) and is the title of the final song on his current release "The Knuckleball Suite".

Clive Barnes is one of our own. Hailing from Enniscorthy Clive aligned himself with the blues tradition at an early age and has become one of the most proficient players of lap and standard guitars on the world stage. Indeed he is a master musician.

With a smoky vocal and well crafted songs Clive has built a reputation at home and particularly in the US where he has toured extensively.

Both performers are remarkable entertainers and far more accomplished and seasoned than many of their contemporary thirty-somethings.

Clive will open Monday’s show in Mick Murphy’s Bar with a short set, followed by Peter for a full set. Both artists will then play the final set together.

Gig starts at 9:30. Come early as seats are at a premium!
For more details of this and upcoming gigs call Larry Roddy on 045 864017 or myself on 086 3270780.

See you there.

Roy Thompson.