Mary Coughlan in the BAG

It's been some years since Mary Coughlan played Ballymore Eustace, but that's about to be put to rights, writes Roy Thompson of the Ballymore Acoustic Gigs. Mary makes her triumphant return to Mick Murphy's Bar, on Monday next, 24 November. Doors open 8.30pm; Gig 9.30pm sharp. Admission €15 at the door.

Mary Coughlan's songs remain a testament to her seemingly timeless and endless talent. Her smoky, bluesy, boozy drawl has always been a seduction, no matter what the subject. The vocal marrying of sardonic wit, visceral rage, orgiastic between the sheets passion, the tenderest of sorrowful regrets; this is Mary’s talent. Regardless of the elements she chooses to manipulate with flawless ease, Mary’s voice has always been an unforeseen, sudden seduction. This is why she is so loved.

Throughout the over 25 years of her quite extraordinary recording career Mary has drawn heavily from her legendary heroes; Billie Holiday’s grievous, teary outpourings, the husky flirtations of Peggy Lee, Van Morrison’s soulful wails, the defiant chanteusery of Edith Piaf. All are present and correct in her delivery. Even so, Mary, with her naked honesty makes every song her own; they belong to her and nobody else.

Mary will be joined, on piano, by James Delaney. Put simply, James is perhaps the finest keysman on the Irish music scene, and the perfect sideman for Mary Couglan's Jazz/Blues/Soul set list.

This will be a memorable show in the intimate surroundings of Mick Murphy's, so come early, bring a friend, and enjoy one of the greatest female singers that Ireland has to offer.