It’s been a long, long time, but, just like riding a bike, you never forget how to do it.
I’ve just played my first full-band gig in several decades and it was a blast from start to finish. The venue was The Button Factory in Temple Bar, which is truly superb – great stage, a sound and lights crew who really know their stuff, and very comfortable seating at two levels with perfect sightlines and sound. The occasion was a preview of the material which will be released at the start of August.
We played 14 songs, largely drawn from An Irish Life and The Sad Pursuit, and the musicians who contributed to the recordings were all present and correct on the night. The core line-up included Dick Farrelly on guitar, Ger Farrelly on drums, Cian O’Mahony on bass and vocals, Ellen O’Mahony on keyboard and vocals, and Carla Ryan on vocals. (Ellen and Carla also did the opening set which gave me a tough act to follow.). We were augmented by Richie Buckley on sax, Dave Fleming on double bass and Don Knox on violin.
It was very special to see so many friends in the huge crowd, and most of all to see the full original Sidewinder line-up together for the first time in 36 years .
I categorise myself as a 1970’s singer-songwriter, so I wanted to recreate the experience of the type of gigs I enjoyed in the 1970s. whether as a band member or as a fan. I think we managed to do that, and I’ve been overwhelmed by the very positive reactions I’ve received.
The entire gig was filmed and, in the coming weeks, some of the songs will start appearing on the site.
If you were there, thanks for playing your part – if you weren’t, watch out for the videos and enjoy!