Paul will retrace first musical steps
When Paul Durney steps out on the stage of Kilcullen's Town Hall Theatre on January 18, he'll be repeating something he first did back in the mid-70s as a youngster taking part in the famous Kilcullen Capers, writes Ray Kelly.
He probably didn't realise then that he would end up making his living as a musician, but that's exactly what happened. For many years now he has been a professional busking singer and guitarist, touring towns and music festivals in Germany where he lives.
Since 2007 he has been the front-man for a band called Fleadh, German based and with a multinational membership but specialising in Irish style music and song. Under his pseudonym Saoirse Mhór he joined Fleadh founder Frank Weber (pipes), Frank Dürschner (banjo, mando), Tommy Gorny (guitar), Marcus Eichenlaub (fiddle) and the recently-joined bass player Karl Schramm.
Fleadh have produced two studio albums and have won awards in both Germany and in Ireland for their cheeky yet respectful mix of songs and traditional Irish music. Their current work, The Cleggan Bay Disaster, earned them Best Folk Album & Best Folk Song 2013 at the German Pop & Rock Awards.
The same album contains five songs written by Paul, including the title track — a song relating a fishing tragedy that hit Connemara in 1927. The album has received very positive reviews from folk critics in Germany, France, and England. None other than the Irish Music Magazine gave the album its blessing.
The band have played in Germany, Poland and Switzerland and recently shared the stage with top Irish Folk band Goitse.
On the stage on January 18, Paul will no doubt be recalling his apprenticeship with local bands of the era, when they practiced in the Tennis Club and the JFK Hall. He also took part in the Kilcullen Drama Group production of Marie's Wedding, directed by Paddy Melia.
Support on the night is by local musicians Kieran Behan and Mary Poole, ably assisted by Rory Healy and Aidan Flynn.
Mark the date in your new 2014 diary. The concert starts at 8pm and admission is €10. Tickets available from Ray 087 2636375 or Kieran 087 9655286. Enquiries to livebytheliffey@gmail.com.
