John Blek
Born in the North Co. Cork hinterland John Blek is an Irish troubadour in the truest sense of the word. Dedicating himself to his craft and the development of his own new tradition whilst remaining true to those who have gone before him.
With a voice that can go from an intimate whisper to a room rumbling roar Blek can steal an audience away.
Needle of Death - Bert Jansch
Bert Jansch's style of playing is something I will forever aim for but I know I'll never achieve. One of my favourites and the occupier of the largest section of my record collection. I could have chosen any number of songs but I love in this song how the guitar doubles the vocal melody.
The Blues Run The Game - Jackson C.Frank
A heartbreaking song that I love to sing. I recorded a version of this for a collective album from Some Rise Some Fall. I think this Jackson C. Frank version was produced by Paul Simon. Again some tasty acoustic guitar.
Beasley Street - John Cooper Clarke
This guy is the epitome of cool. I got to see him perform live at the now defunct Pavillion in Cork City maybe 10 years ago. It blew my mind, so quick witted, insightful and visceral. Beasley Street is a great example of JCC in his flow.
Shake The Dust - Anis Mojgani
Not a song technically but a recording that could save a life. This poem is a panacea. I adore the sentiment and sincerity of delivery. I stumbled across it about 15 years ago and I've probably listened to it at least once a month since then.
Two Headed Boy - Neutral Milk Hotel
I can't help but shout along with this. It carries so much angst and honesty in it's surrealism. I feel like a teenager every time I hear it.
Four Winds - Bright Eyes
Again, such incredible lyrical flow on this one. A great modern American lyricist. I used to listen to Cassadega on the bus to college. It kept me fighting!
Seven Spanish Angels - Willie Nelson & Ray Charles
A song from my childhood. My dad had a tape of all these Willie Nelson duets in his van. This was one of them. I still sing it from time to time. I knew every word to every song on that album.
Operator - Jim Croce
Another songwriter from my childhood. Great songs, great playing and singing. Jim Croce knew all the moves and could stitch together such beautiful pieces.
Ghosts - Lau
A modern classic I think. Written by Kris Drever and performed here by Lau. Simple, poignant and beautiful.
Out On The Weekend - Neil Young
I bought Neil Young's Harvest album when I was 15 after hearing so many grunge bands name checking him. From listening to the record I couldn't understand the link. It wasn't until I found Crazy Horse that I got it. I fell in love with this album anyway. Out On The Weekend is the opener. That dry seventies production seems alien in a time when reverb is fashionable but it is so good. Neil Young is and will always be one of my favourite songwriters.
