Luka Bloom in the BAG

Before he upped sticks and moved to Clare a few years back, I used regularly meet Luka Bloom walking in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of Pollardstown Fen, not far from his hometown of Newbridge, writes Roy Thompson of the Ballymore Acoustic Gigs.

There, we'd chat about that place; about life, and about the music. He'd heard what I was doing with BAG, and was supportive and encouraging. I suggested he might play the gig himself, sometime.

One Monday night he arrived in to catch a gig — Maria Doyle Kennedy, and Kieran Kennedy — and afterwards came to me and said he'd love to come back and play it himself. Well, he did; the place was packed to the rafters, and it was a terrific night.

Some time has passed since, and the time has come for Luka Bloom to return to BAG; he has a brand new album, just released, called 'Refuge', so you could consider this its Ballymore Eustace launch!

To avoid disappointment, you are advised to arrive early. Capacity is limited to about 50 people, seating is limited, too. From some parts of the bar, the view of the stage is restricted, so to get the best spots, you'll need to be toward the head of the queue.

Mick Murphy's Bar, Ballymore Eustace; Monday 11 December; Doors 8:30pm; Admission €15 at the door.