Saville (2000 Session)

From Dublin, Saville were Ken O’Duffy (vocals / guitar), Tosh Flood (electric guitar / moog / piano / backing vocals), Vin Duffy (bass guitar / backing vocals) and Joe Fitzgerald (drums). They recorded their first session for Dave Fanning in 1995 and this second session in June 2000. Engineer on the session was Philip Cooke and mixing was by Paddy McBreen. Photo by Joe Fitzgerald. The missing fourth track is ‘I’ve Lost Touch With The World’. Ken has just released a new single ‘Calypso‘ on Bandcamp.

Friday Night Song (2000)

There’s No Getting Over You (2000)

Somnambular Ballad (2000)

The Kid Sisters (Demo)

The Kid Sisters were Debbie Schow (vocals, guitar), Dik Evans (guitar), Alan Taffe (bass) and Johnny Bonnie (drums). The band was active from 1986 to 1989 when they changed their name to Screech Owls and moved to London. Debbie and Dik were the two constants in an ever evolving lineup which featured at various times members of The Slowest Clock, The Real Wild West, The Gorehounds and Those Handsome Devils. Debbie has since returned to Joshua Tree in the US something which is evident from her photography. She occasionally posts about her life in music, somethingwe always enjoy, maybe she’ll write for us or even better feature in our favourite podcast. In addition to the Kid Sisters demo recording we have included a live Screech Owls review from Hot Press.

Sniper On The Freeway (Demo)

 

Screech Owls (The Attic, Dublin)

While everyone else in Dublin was taking a crash course in petrol bomb manufacturing or else double-bolting their houses against those who had, The Screech Owls spent Hallowe’en creating their own verbal pyrotechnics courtesy of the “spoken word” musings of charismatic lead Owlette Debbie Skhow who was the star of a show that was never really allowed to ignite the way it should have.

For two reasons; firstly, a PA which should have been arrested at the end of the night and charged with conspiracy to obstruct the course of a good gig; and secondly, an attendance which would make Valentia Island look like Bangladesh.

But those who did darken the door had a treat (as opposed to a trick) in store for them in the shape of The Revenants, whose low key support slot left me with a grin on my face that some might describe as ‘shit-eating’. Debbie led the chorus of approval and, later on, was in the enviable position of being able to summon Stephen Ryan to the stage to tune her guitar for her.

But it would be unfair to dwell on the technical difficulties that surrounded the Screech Owls tonight at the expense of the songs themselves, which show Skhow to be one of the most interesting and intriguing songwriters around. Songs like the opener ‘Ghost’ or ’29 Palmtrees’ are charged with the same narrative bent of, say, Laurie Anderson, but without the avant garde pretensions, without the conscious aspiration that what she’s doing is ‘art’.

The excellent single, ‘Desert’, closed the show, a purple-hearted gem which sees Debbie using the landscape of her native California as a metaphor for her father’s misguided attempts to turn the clock back on his life.

It’s when you hear songs like these you wonder just why everyone stayed away.

Nick Kelly

Verta-Ray (1993 Demo)

Verta-Ray was a short-lived band based in Dublin. The lineup featured Brian Murray (vocals), Ian Beesley (guitar), Joey Wilson (bass) and Bryan McMahon (drums), The band recorded a 3-track demo in 1993 featuring; ‘What Are You Waiting For’, ‘You Don’t Understand Me And I Know That You Never Will’ and ‘If Not Now Then When?’. Joey and Bryan would later go on to form the much loved Future Kings Of Spain. Thanks to Pat Barrett and irishmusicdb.com for the bio and Jamesomcm for the photo.

“Verta-Ray (named after Matt Verta Ray from Madder Rose) Recorded in July 24/25 1993 in Sun. Our first time in a studio. Lorcan Cousins on the desk. He told us Lee Ranaldo was in the day previously. Could’ve been a spoof. It impressed us anyway. We’d no idea what we were doing. We were 9 months old. Our first band etc. It cost a small fortune; we were 4 full time students! Peter Collins (filling in for Dave) gave it the first spin. Jim Lockhart called us later offering a Fanning Session. February 1994 the first on their new 24 track desk. We thought we’d “made it”. We hadn’t.”

Anyone got the 1994 Fanning Session?

verta-ray – ‘what are you waiting for’ (1993)

The Blades (Complete 1981 Session)

Thanks to the continued efforts of Dan Hegarty we now finally have the complete 1981 session for Dave Fanning by The Blades. The band at that time were; Paul Cleary (vocals & guitar), Brian Foley (bass) and Jake Reilly (drums). The Blades of course play The Academy, Dublin on March 19th.

This Sunday at 10pm Dan Hegarty has a treat in store for fans of Power Of Dreams with an hour long documentary on their debut album ‘Immigrants, Emigrants and Me’.

Downmarket (1981)

Me & My Girl (1981)

Tears That Tell The Truth (1981)

Empty Shell (1981)

The Castanedas (1992 Session)

From Carlow, The Castanedas were Eric Cole (guitar/ lead vocals), Jim Jordan (guitar), Colm Walsh (bass) and Eric Murray (drums). Thanks to Dan Hegarty for rebroadcasting this session on Tuesday 25th January. According to Dan the session was recorded for Dave Fanning on November 13th 1992. Eric Cole now lives in Brisbane, Australia and Eric Murray is currently in the U.S. The newspaper clipping is from The Sunday Times.

Present (1992)
So Soon (1992)
Mind The Gap (1992)
Happy Bus (1992)

Ronnie Spector (1990 Interview)

Sometime in 1990 Ronnie Spector visited Dublin for the second time. On the first occasion she and The Ronettes were ably supported by The Rolling Stones. On this occasion however she was in town to promote her recently published memoir ‘Be My Baby: How I Survived Mascara, Miniskirts, and Madness’. Ronnie sadly died this week at the age of 78. In tribute Dave Fanning revisited that 1990 interview on his show yesterday. Ronnie & The Ronettes played at the National Concert Hall on January 21st 2019, Ronnie performed at The Helix on December 14th later the same year.

Ronnie Spector interview (1990)

Ill Dependents (1996 Session)

Ill Dependents were the recording project of Hazo aka Paul Hayes a DJ, producer and rapper from Galway. They recorded this session for Dave Fanning in 1996 and released 3 EPs between 1998 and 1999. Scan courtesy photographer Paul McCarthy of a feature in Trace Magazine (1988) written by Will Ashon. Thanks to Dan Hegarty and Ian Wilson for digging this out of the RTE vaults.

Storm Comin (1996)

Dream Process (1996)

Many Disconnected (1996)

Rare (1995 Session)

From Derry, Rare were Mary Gallagher (vocals), Locky Morris (bass), Seán Ó’Néill (guitar) and David Whiteside (drums). They released a single ‘Set Me On Fire’ on Setanta Records (1990) but waited six years before the next on Equator Records (1996). In March 1995 they recorded this session for Dave Fanning. It was repeated by Dan Hegarty on 16th October 2021. Photo courtesy irishmusicdb. Their 1996 single ‘Something Wild‘ never fails to cheer me up but the final track of this session is fast becoming a new favourite. If anyone has more details on the band, what they did or what they are now doing please get in touch.

Same As Always (1995)

Rollercoaster (1995)

One Kiss (1995)

Slow Rider (1995)

Dave Fanning: Classic Irish Tracks Uncovered

They say that buses come in threes, I wonder does the same apply to podcasts? We recently raved about a podcast revisiting classic Irish albums, well Dave Fanning has been looking at classic Irish tracks. Something Happens!, The Frank & Walters, The Saw Doctors and The Cranberries have featured so far and each installment is well worth a listen. Tom Dunne needs to write that Warren Zevon tour exposé but in the meantime catch his weekly ‘Music & Me‘ column in The Irish Examiner. And finally, this week’s classic Fanning session on the Dan Hegarty show is from Bawl (1996). Incidentally Something Happens!, The Frank & Walters, The 4 Of Us, Hothouse Flowers and An Emotional Fish all play Feile Classical this Thursday in the 3 Arena.

Noel Hogan: ‘Linger’ by The Cranberries

Leo Moran: ‘N17’ by The Saw Doctors

Paul Linehan: ‘After All’ by The Frank & Walters

Tom Dunne: ‘Parachute’ by Something Happens!

PBR Streetgang (Session)

From Northern Ireland and with 3 releases on Terri Hooley’s Good Vibrations, details are once again annoyingly sparse for today’s session from PBR Streetgang. Please get in touch if you have any information. Update: Thanks to Stuart Bailie we now know the band were fronted by Colin Crooks later of The Graceland Conspiracy and The Dollybyrds. 

Listen

Talking To You

Running Into Dust

These Days

Good Sons (1990 Demo)

The beauty of a track like today’s is that it makes for an easy post. We have no information beyond what is on the tape inlay – the band name and the fact that it is a demo courtesy Dave’s outro. The track name is a guess as is the year. Hopefully someone out there will know more and come to the rescue. Things are moving at a snail’s pace round here, motivation is not very high. There might be posts on the way on The Kid Sisters, The Black Sessions and PBR Streetgang but don’t hold your breath. Incidentally The Pale track is a demo recording of ‘Butterfly’. The Wishing Stones session can be found here.

Deep Blue Sea (1990 Demo)

Junkster (1995 Session)

From Dublin, Junkster were Deirdre O’Neill (vocals), Aidan Lane (guitar), Mick Creedon (guitar), Graham Darcy (bass) and Donal McParlin (drums). They released an eponymously titled album on RCA in 1997 but saw greater success in the US than on these shores. O’Neill, Darcy and Lane were previously in The Joys. More details on irishrock but as always please get in touch with memories and corrections. Thanks to Dan Hegarty for rebroadcasting. The first two tracks appeared on the debut album, ‘Silver Boy’ was never released. Pete Holidai produced the session and co-produced the album in Woodstock. For more details have a listen to Dee talk to Dan as part of his ‘For The Record‘ series.

Going Down (1995)

Twister (1995)

Silver Boy (1995)

Blue In Heaven (1985 Session)

From Churchtown in Dublin, Blue In Heaven were Shane O’Neill (guitar/vocals), Eamonn Tynan (guitar), Declan Jones (bass) and Dave Clarke (drums). Shane, Declan and Dave were previously in Amuse with Dave Long (Into Paradise). Shane, Declan and Dave would later form The Blue Angels with Quentin Cowper and Eamonn Tynan. Shane and Dave teamed up again in Supernaut and in May 2021 released an album ‘Moll & Zeis‘. Photo by Mary Lee (c) RTÉ Stills Department taken backstage at ‘Self Aid‘ (1986). Thanks to Dan Hegarty for continuing to plough through the archive and of course to the oracle himself Ian Wilson. Be sure to check out Mike McGrath-Bryan‘s radio preview in the Irish Examiner every Saturday as he has the inside track regarding what sessions will feature on Dan’s show. Check out this recent interview with Dan on the RTE Studio8 sessions.

Across My Heart (1985)
Brings Me Closer (1985)
Like A Child (1985)

Manhole (1995 Session)

From Cork, Manhole were Dick (vocals), Gussie (bass), Glen (keyboards), Gilbert (guitar) and Montage (drums). They featured on the Ten By Ten compilation which was the subject of a recent B-Side the Leeside profile in the Irish Examiner. Incidentally the Examiner has been doing sterling work of late, their radio preview of a Saturday is a first port of call to see which archive sessions will feature on Tuesday’s Dan Hegarty show. For further Manhole recordings check out Gus on Soundcloud.

Medicine

The Denim Queen’s Wet Dream

Submarine

Leisure Explosion

The Frank and Walters (1997 Acoustic Session)

In 1997 The Frank and Walters released their second album ‘Grand Parade‘ on Setanta Records. A couple of weeks earlier on June 17th they dropped into 2fm to record an acoustic session for the Dave Fanning show hosted by deputy Pat O’Mahony. This session was detailed extensively in Hot Press magazine by Peter Murphy and can be read here. The band at the time were Paul Linehan (vocals/bass), Niall Linehan (guitar) and Ashley Keating (drums). All but 3 of the tracks featured on ‘Grand Parade’ the exception being the final track ‘Restraint’. Should anyone have a better copy of the session or a full recording of ‘Landslide’ please drop us a line.

Indian Ocean

Little Dolls

Landslide

Restraint

Sissy (1999 Session)

From Carlow, Sissy were from left to right Justin Kelly (guitar), Fergal Barry (lead guitar), Claire Noons (vocals), Sean McMahon (bass) and Padraigh Comerford (drums). They recorded a 4 track session produced by Paddy McBreen for Dave Fanning in 1999 of which we have the first two numbers. They were one of 6 Irish bands chosen by 2FM to go to Eurodisney in Paris to play shows over St Patrick’s week. Fergal, Sean and Padraigh went on to form Le Mons and later The Lemons. Fergal Barry died tragically in Prague in 2005 and is still sadly missed by Pádraigh and Sean. If you have the remaining tracks or any press reviews please get in touch.

Intro

Novelty (1999)

Crazy Time (1999)

Real Wild West – Live at Eurorock (1987)

“Dublin’s most uncompromising rockers” Dave Fanning

From Dublin, Real Wild West were Charlie Rafferty (bass & vocals), Paul Murtagh (guitar), Robbie Warren (drums) and Ian Smith (trumpet). Thank you stilpix for the very cool poster for a gig in The Project with The Golden Horde, Guru Wierdbrain, The Amazing Colossal Men and Duane Ripley and his Gogo Set. Fondly remembered by respected opinion Real Wild West recorded an album for Setanta Records which unfortunately never saw the light of day. Thanks to Cork Zine Archive for the tape recording.

An Emotional Fish (1989 Session)

Formed in 1988, An Emotional Fish were Ger Whelan (vocals), Enda Wyatt (bass, keyboards), David Frew (guitars) and Martin Murphy (drums). Martin Murphy sadly passed away in 2017. The band released 3 albums, ‘An Emotional Fish’, Junk Puppets’ and ‘Sloper’. Ger Whelan continues to perform as Jerry Fish & The Mudbug Club. A big thank you to Dan Hegarty & Ian Wilson for digging out this 1989 session for Dave Fanning. Be sure to tune to Dan’s show this Sunday at 11pm on 2fm when he talks to Steve Murray on the 25th anniversary of the release of Rollerskate Skinny’s opus ‘Horsedrawn Wishes’.

Anyway (1989)
All Night Long (1989)
Hallelujah, Love & Stuff (1989)
Strange Things (1989)

JJ72 (1998 Session)

JJ72 were formed in 1996 by Mark Greaney (vocals, guitar) and Fergal Matthews (drums). They were later joined by Hilary Woods (bass). They released albums in 2000 and 2002 and a third was recorded but never released at which point the band called it a day. On Tuesday 9th February Dan Hegarty revisited their 1998 Fanning session featuring all four tracks ‘Oxegen’, ‘Undercover Angel’, ‘October Swimmer’ and ‘Bumble Bee’. The show is available on the RTE radio player here (link to 2XM repeat on 10th Feb). Hilary Woods is a critically acclaimed solo artist releasing two albums in 2020.

Oxegen (1998)

Undercover Angel (1998)

October Swimmer (1998)

Bumble Bee (1998)

A House (1997 Session)

We didn’t know there was a 1997 Fanning session by A House so were very pleasantly surprised when Dan Hegarty gave it a long overdue outing on his show last night. Recorded just before the band broke up it features new versions of one song from each of the first 4 albums. We hope Dan plays the fourth track ‘Violent Love’ at some point and will update this post if he does. If you haven’t already checked it out we recommend Fergal Bunbury‘s latest musical project FBU62.

Endless Art
I Want To Be Allowed To Love You

13 Wonderful Songs

Blink (1992 Session)

Blink are Dermot Lambert (guitar, vocals), Robbie Sexton (keyboards), Brian McLoughlin (bass), Barry Campbell (drums). Blink were signed to major EMI and released three albums. In 2020 they released a 25 track compilation of demos and outtakes called ‘A Demo Of The Universe’. Dermot Lambert was previously in Empty Shell and then with Brian McLoughlin in Rex & Dino. Check out this excellent recent interview for Nessymon. Dermot is active as a solo artist and has a popular show ‘Garageland’ on RTE 2XM promoting new Irish music. Thanks to Dan Hegarty of RTE 2fm for airing as part of his Tuesday night archive session feature.

Cello (1992)

It’s Not My Fault (1992)

Ed’s Got A New Car (1992)

 

The Conspiracy (1989 Session)

The Conspiracy were Greg Pearle (vocals), Eamon Mitchell (guitar), Keith Geraghty (bass) and Michael Dunphy (drums). There was at least one further track in this 1989 session but unfortunately our tape ran out. We do have a demo ‘Say Goodbye’ which we’ll save for a future post. Eamon Mitchell kindly shared some memories with us on facebook..

The band formed in 1988 out of the ashes of the defunct indie band No Time To Cry. We performed supporting gigs in the Baggot Inn, The Tivoli and The Underground. We played a venue in Galway called Riffs beside where Monroes is now. We won a Battle of the Bands hosted by Leslie Dowdall in Raheny in 1988. We then recorded some demos in Temple Lane Studios. In 1989 we recorded a session for the Dave Fanning RTE 2FM radio show. By summer 1989 we had a loyal following and started headlining our own gigs in the Baggot Inn and Charlie’s on Aungier Street. Charlie McGettigan took over as manager and the band got some high profile gigs supporting Aslan (without Christy). At one point Paul McGuinness came to the Baggot to check us out. Alas London was calling and the band packed up and headed for the big smoke. With a new manager and a management contract signed the band set out to play the Rock Garden in Covent Garden, the Mean Fiddler in Harlesden supporting The Dixons where after our set Dave Fanning burst in with cans of Castlemaine XXXX for the band raving about the gig. The band supported The Fat Lady Sings in the Borderline before heading back to Dublin disheartened and still under contract. While licking our wounds we auditioned for The Commitments.We performed 2 songs for Alan Parker and he said he liked the band the best out of all the auditions but alas we were a rock band and The Commitments were to be a soul band. The band limped on during summer of 1990 and with in house fighting and the dreaded musical differences we broke up in July 1990 not before our swansong gig in Charlie’s supported by a very young Pale and a very very young Lir…time to pass the torch.

Servant (1989)

Ten In The Night (1989)

Rock and Popular Music in Ireland: Before and After U2

We were first reminded of this publication on the occasion of Gregory Gray‘s passing and the excellent Tom Robinson tribute. One of the people Tom spoke to was Noel McLaughlin, co-author with Martin McLoone of an academic publication on Irish music ‘Rock and Popular Music in Ireland: Before and After U2‘. We tracked down a recording of the 2012 interview with the authors on the Dave Fanning show and promptly did nothing more. Reading an excellent piece by Colm O’Callaghan for the Blackpool Sentinel ‘The Rats vs Ireland’s Showbands‘ however reminded us again of the book and the interview. We don’t have a copy but our local library does so we were able to read the chapter on Gregory. Posting the interview now for posterity.

showbands
them / van morrison
the method
sean campbell ‘english blood, irish heart’
rory gallagher
u2
horslips
sinead o’connor
gregory gray

Dave Fanning’s Irish Show (March 1983)

Today we have a treat, a 45 minute recording of the Dave Fanning show from March 1983 courtesy the Irish Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Dave announces he is playing Irish tracks only and plays a number of sessions and even a demo we’d never previously heard from Blue In Heaven. There is one track we haven’t been able to identify so if you know your 80s Irish rock then please put us out of our misery. Updating year from 1984 to 1983 based on Evan’s comment.

u2 – surrender
max – song number 6 (session)
undertones – you’re welcome (live)
the outcasts (1981 session)
auto da fe – bad experience
some kind of wonderful – do you read my letter
pop mecanics – round & round (1984 session)
blue in heaven – say (demo)
blades – revelations of heartbreak
cuba dares (session)
?
microdisney – hello rascals
gerry cott? – ballad of the lone ranger

Davy Dunne & The Boyband Three (2001 Session)

Davy Dunne & The Boyband Three were Davy Dunne (vocals, guitar), Martin Quinn (guitar), James Quinn (keyboards), Derek Finnegan (bass) and Andrew Quinn (drums). They recorded this 2fm session for Dave Fanning on Sep 10th and 11th 2001. Davy also recorded a session with The McCluskey’s if anyone has a copy.

My Hurting Ways (2001)

Bitter Hole (2001)

Talkin Bout A Doobie (2001)

I’m Just Not Myself Today (2001)

Fanning’s Fab 50 (2017)

Here it is folks, the Fab 50 as broadcast by Dave Fanning on December 23rd and 24th 2017. Still one or two missing track names, please send us any corrections and we will update. We hope to publish our own #altfab50 before year’s end featuring the fave 2017 tracks from readers and friends of the site so stay tuned..

Listen back to the Fab 50 via the RTE Player: part 1 and part 2.

50. rag’n’bone man – human
49. mic christopher – heyday
48. red hot chilli peppers – scar tissue
47. flaming lips – do you realise?
46. david bowie – where are we now?
45. bon iver – holocene?
44. johnny cash – hurt
43. the national – the system only dreams in total darkness
42. lcd soundsystem – someone great
41. war on drugs – red eyes
40. gorillaz – feel good inc
39. mgmt – electric feel
38. raconteurs – steady as she goes
37. coldplay – fix you
36. bellx1 – the great defector
35. kasabian – fire
34. kings of leon – use somebody
33. arcade fire – intervention
32. the national – bloodbuzz ohio
31. daft punk – get lucky
30. amy winehouse – rehab
29. the temper trap – sweet disposition
28. mgmt – kids
27. arcade fire – everything now
26. u2 – every breaking wave
25. yeah yeah yeahs – maps
24. kurt vile – pretty pimpin
23. the national – fake empire
22. coldplay – yellow
21. radiohead – everything in its right place
20. florence & the machine – dog days are over
19. eminem – lose yourself
18. arctic monkeys – fluorescent adolescent
17. bon iver – skinny love
16. franz ferdinand – take me out
15. mgmt – time to pretend
14. hozier – take me to church
13. future islands – seasons waiting on you
12. foster the people – pumped up kicks
11. london grammar – strong
10. arctic monkeys – do i wanna know?
09. arcade fire – rebellion
08. elbow – one day like this
07. arcade fire – wake up
06. the white stripes – seven nation army
05. the strokes – last night
04. arctic monkeys – i bet you look good on the dancefloor
03. kings of leon – sex on fire
02. lcd soundsystem – all my friends
01. the killers – mr brightside

The Switch (1987 Session)

Thanks to Ian Wilson we know The Switch recorded a 4 track session on Feb 23rd 1987. That is the sum total of our knowledge so hopefully you can help us out with further details and a band photo.

The first votes in the inaugural Fanning Sessions #AltFab50 Readers Poll have been submited, we would love to hear your 3 fave songs of 2017. While you’re at it submit them to Fanning’s Fab50 and you might win tickets to the Electric Picnic.

She Rises Over Heartache (1987)

Cover Charge  (1987)

Perfect Description (1987)

Stay (1987)

A Cow In The Water (1991 Demo)

From Blarney in Co.Cork, A Cow In The Water were Aidan O’Connell (vocals, guitar, trumpet), Dion Harley (bass), Rory Looney (percussion), John Mollaghan (trumpet, keyboards) and John O’Shea (guitar).

To mark the 20th Anniversary of Aidan’s passing, the band are reuniting on Dec 9th to host a special evening at the Crane Lane Theatre Cork as a fundraiser for suicide awareness.

Update: Evening Echo profile.

Memphis (1991)

Fab 50 vs Festive 50 – 2017 Readers Poll?

It’s that time of the year again, where we moan about how Fanning’s Fab 50 isn’t what it used to be. John Peel had the right idea with the Festive 50 – choose 3 favourite tracks released in the past year. We’d love to hear Dave play a show of his favourite tracks of the year. Anyway if the readers of a certain blog were to email, tweet or facebook their top 3 we could come up with our own Festive 50 to be published round about when Dave breaks out the eggnog. Anyone up for it?

The Saviours (1988 Session)

From Portstewart & Portrush, The Saviours were left to right; John “Junior” Young (bass), Rory Fidgeon (guitar), Paul Gault (vocals), Philip Cartin (drums) and Tim Brolly (guitar).  They had previously recorded a number of demos as The Subterraneans but changed their name due to the Dublin act of the same name. They later became Mystic Reign and recorded further demos and released 2 tracks on compilation tapes from Helden Fanzine. This session for Dave Fanning was recorded on 15th Feb 1988.

Bone Shakin Baby (1988)

High Risk Activity (1988)

Crime Of Passion (1988)

Mr Nice Guy (1988)

New Holland (1985 Session)

We have minimal information on this session from New Holland. They won a Battle of The Bands competition in the Ivy Rooms  judged by among others Dave Fanning and Dave G Kelly with the winning prize the opportunity to record a session. If anyone can name the band members or provide a photo please get in touch.

Take Your Time (1985)

Weekend (1985)

The Strait (1985)

The Tower (1985)

Backwards Into Paradise (1986 Session) revisited

The ever reliable Blackpool Sentinel yesterday published another excellent read on local favourites Into Paradise. As serendipity would have it we also just received a recording from Colm in Arklow of a session previously posted but now with better audio so we’ve decided what the heck. The session recorded for Dave Fanning on Jan 13th 1986 featured 3 further tracks which we’d love to hear – ‘Alone Again’, ‘A Good and Honest Man’ and ‘John’. Incidentally does anyone recognise the guest host sitting in for Dave? We have it on good authority that it could be Fachtna O’Kelly but stand to be corrected. Update: Thanks to Colm we have a further track.

She Falls (1986)

A Good And Honest Man (1986)

Cry Before Dawn (1984 Session)

From Wexford, Cry Before Dawn were Brendan Wade (vocals, acoustic guitar, uileann pipes and whistle), Tony Hall (electric guitar), Vince Doyle (bass) and Pat Hayes (drums). On June 25th 1984 they recorded 3 tracks for the Dave Fanning show; ‘Follow Me’, ‘Cry For Me’ and ‘Pain Of Life’. Thank you Colm for digging out the session track and to IrishRock.org for the photo.

Follow Me (1984)

Strangewaze (1992 Session)

From Tullamore, Strangewaze were Jason Rabbitte (vocals & guitar),
Ferg Lenihan (bass & vocals), Soup (guitar) and Mark Molloy (drums & percussion).

For What It’s Worth (1992)

Mr Limelight (1992)

Planet Pain (1992)

The Other (1992)

 

In Tua Nua (1988)

This unreleased track by In Tua Nua was recorded live on the Dave Fanning show when the band dropped in to celebrate the launch of their second album ‘The Long Acre’ in late 1988. In Tua Nua are about to set out on their first Irish tour since that same year.

Jealous Knife (1988)

Intoxicating Rhythm Section (1990 Session)

We’ve been sitting on this one a little while holding out for a band photo so thank you Colm Walsh for coming up with the goods.  From Athy, Co Kildare, Intoxicating Rhythm Section (also known as IRS) were at the time of the photo; Mick O’Rourke (guitar), Steven Mangan (vocals), Robbie Robinson (drums), Sean MacMahon and John Byrne. This differs from the lineup detailed on our previous post so hopefully someone in the know can fill in the blanks and tell us who played on the 1990 Fanning session.

Bomb Belfast With Love (1990)

She’s My Jesus (1990)

Strange Fruit  (1990)

The Dadas (Session)

The Dadas were Andy Fitzpatrick (vocals, guitar), Gráinne Tiernan (backing vocals), Maelíosa Tiernan (backing vocals), Brian O’Connor (keyboards), Dan Stuttard (bass) and Ciarán Lally (drums). Andy Fitzpatrick is a long-standing member of The Harvest Ministers as well performing as a solo artist. As luck would have it both acts have just released new albums, Andy’s is ‘Antoinette Plaza‘ whilst The Harvest Ministers have released ‘Back to Harbour‘. Watch The Dadas perform ‘Skyscrapers’ here.

Dandruff

Early Days

Good To Be Happy

Mercy Mercy

Tiberius Minnows (1992 Session)

Formed June 1987 in Coalisland, Co. Tyrone, Tiberius Minnows were Michael Rafferty (vocals), Paul Maynes (guitar), Kevin Carson (bass), Barry Corr (keyboards) and Stephen O’Sullivan (drums).  The band reconvened as The Minnows a number of years ago and are currently putting the finishing touch to their debut album. If anyone knows the year of this Fanning session please set us straight..

A Song Called Love

Elephant Man

New York City

Roonkin

Bruce Wayne Experience (Session) / Cloudberry Blog

Today’s post was inspired by the Cloudberry Records blog, a site dedicated to digging out indiepop new and old, unearthing quite a few gems from bands close to our hearts. Roque specialises in forensic research on occasion following up with interviews, e.g. Sean A McDermott of Mickey Rourke’s Fridge. Many of the Irish bands featured have appeared here but others like the Bruce Wayne Experience prompted a visit to the attic.

The Bruce Wayne Experience were a 5 piece active from 1988 – 1991. The lineup was David O’Connor (vocals), Steve O’Connor (guitar), Steve Connaughton (bass), David Houlihan (keyboards) and Woppy (drums). The band featured on the 1990 compilation ‘Something New, Something Blue‘.

I Only Wish

Better Left Unsaid

If Only

Irish bands featured on the Cloudberry Records blog – please let us know if we’ve missed any.

Azure Days
Bruce Wayne Experience
Cherry Brogues
Cliff Edge Panic
Crocodile Tears
Cuba Dares
Cypress Mine!
Donnelly Brothers
Donnelly Brothers (Interview)
Empty Shell
Feargal is the Applejack
Guernica
Hasbeens
Holsteins
Outpatients
Premonition
Red Circus
Rex and Dino
Scale the Heights
Shocking Stockings
Skips
Sleepwalkers
Slowest Clock (Interview)
Wilder
Wilderness Years
Wrong Door Raid
Gradapenda Rosindale

Check It Out (RTE Guide, 31 March 1989)

A Dave Fanning piece in the March 31 1989 edition of the RTE Guide promoting a new TV show ‘Check It Out’ which will feature 2 tracks each from 14 up and coming acts. Dave details the bands in alphabetical order but runs out of space after 7. The profiled 7 are Belsonic Sound, Blue in Heaven, The Big Noise, The Carrellines, The DixonsThe Dixons, The Fireflys, The Golden Horde. The remaining 7 were Interference, Missing Link, Paul Cleary & The Partisans, Stars of Heaven, The Stunning, The Swinging Swine and Swim. Thanks to Dave for digging out and scanning this article.If you like retro scans be sure to check out Brand New Retro.

Andy White (1989 Session)

From Belfast, Andy White recorded a Fanning session on December 4th 1989. Andy has just released a career spanning box set and is on tour in the UK  before playing Whelan’s on December 29th. Andy will be the focus of an hour long profile on the Tom Robinson BBC Radio 6 Music show on Saturday December 3rd at 9pm.

6 String Street (1989)

The Pale Moonlight (1989)

Raspberry Beret (1989)

Your Cheating Heart (1989)

Vision Of You (1989)

Hinterland (1990 Session)

Donal Coghlan who sadly passed away and that prompted a trip to the attic to look for a copy of the Hinterland Fanning session. Recorded in studio 8 on May 16th 1990 the session features Donal Coghlan (vocals, bass, keyboards), Gerry Leonard (guitar) and Wayne Sheehy (drums). For more on Hinterland start here.

God’s Reverb (1990)

Reporter  (1990)

Stanley’s Minutes (1990)

Desert Boots (1990)

My Little Funhouse (1991 Session)

Kilkenny’s My Little Funhouse were formed by Alan Lawlor (vocals), Anthony Morrissey (guitar), Brendan Morrissey (guitar), Gary Deevy (bass). They later recruited Derek Maher (drums) who left in 1993 to be replaced by Graham Hopkins (drums).

Catholic Boy (1991)

Rachel (1991)

Raintown (1991)

The Sweetest Dream (1991)

Hoover Clinic (1990 Session)

From the northside of Dublin, Hoover Clinic were from right to left Kieran Dalton (guitar), Dermot Behan (guitar), Alan Caffery (lead vocal & bass) and John Lawlor (drums). This Fanning session was recorded circa 1990.

Runaway (1990)

Funky Love (1990)

Conscience  (1990)

Scandal  (1990)

Dan Hegarty – Buried Treasure Volume 2 (2016)

Hard to believe it’s been a year since 2fm’s Dan Hegarty published his first book ‘Buried Treasure‘. 12 months on Dan is back with Volume 2 and the standard is just as high. We won’t spoil the surprise but we thought you might like to know which Irish acts feature.

Dan chose albums by Lethal Dialect x JackKnifeJ, Something Happens!, Stano, Cuckoo, The Edge, Japanese Popstars, Nina Hynes, Kid Silver, Melodica Deathship, The Frank & Walters, Colm Mac Con Iomaire, The High Llamas, Dr Strangely Strange, Electric Penguins, The Immediate, Scheer, Interference, The Fat Lady Sings, Hinterland, Funeral Suits, Mark Geary, Cane141, Joe Chester, Jape, Jacknife Lee, Sultans Of Ping, The Thrills, Giveamanakick, Snow Patrol, The Hormones, Sleep Thieves, U2. In addition there are features on Setanta Records and God Is An Astronaut.

Dan’s guest contributors (who themselves make for an interesting list) chose; One Day International, Jinx Lennon, Declan O’Rourke, The Stunning, Perry Blake, The Divine Comedy, Paul Brady, The Plague Monkeys, Goodtime and David Holmes.

The book is out now on Liberties Press and will be in your local bookstore by the end of the month.

Dan Hegarty – Dave Fanning interview (2016)

Ian Dury – Dave Fanning Interview (1981)

Shortly after Ian Dury’s death in 2000 following a long illness, Dave Fanning paid tribute by broadcasting a 31st July 1981 interview with the singer-songwriter. Thank you John for digging out the recording.

Ian Dury Interview (1981)

 

Neuro (Session)

From Waterford, Neuro were Aeon aka Shay Morris (vocals), Paul Butler (guitar), Ciaran Barry (bass) and Pat Grant (drums). Photo by band manager Eoin Ronayne and courtesy irishrock.org. Their debut single ‘Nairobi’ released in 1982 on WEA was recorded at Windmill Lane and produced by Barry Devlin. Paul Butler is currently active with Propeller Palms.

Lost In The Crowd

New Age

Nairobi

Plastic

The Village (1985 Session)

From Waterford The Village were Paddy Jacob (vocals), Mick Heery (guitar), Paul Condon (bass) and Paul Moyser (drums). They recorded this session for the RTE Radio 2 Dave Fanning show on November 19th 1985. Photo courtesy irishrock.org. Watch them perform single ‘Mental State’ on RTE show ‘Visual Eyes’ here. Updating 9/10/2017, had incorrectly labelled ‘Life is a Stranger’, adding correct track, thanks Colm.

Life Is A Stranger (1985)

June In Me (1985)

Fear of Time (1985)

Sacrifice (1985)

Uaneen Fitzsimons Tribute (2000)

When we first heard about this particular tape we thought it was a recording of an Uaneen show but it turned out to be 45 minutes of a Dave Fanning tribute to Uaneen broadcast a month after her tragic death. It makes for sad listening but is also very touching and so we have decided to share. We hope her friends and family do not mind us sharing, please let us know if this is not the case. If anyone has a nice recording of an Uaneen show we’d love to share that also. Uaneen of course needs no introduction, she was the face of ‘No Disco‘ post Donal Dineen and host to her own RTE 2FM show in the slot after Dave Fanning. ‘No Disco’ also paid tribute with a special show compiling many of her interviews.

Uaneen Fitzsimons Tribute on Dave Fanning Show (2000)

The Sultans of Ping F.C. (1993 Session)

The Sultans of Ping F.C. recorded this, their second session for Dave Fanning in January 1993. At the time the band was Morty McCarthy (drums), Pat O’Connell (guitar), Niall O’Flaherty (vocals and harmonica) and Alan McFeely (bass).

U Talk 2 Much (1993)

Armitage Shanks (1993)

Karaoke Queen (1993)

A House (1987 Interview)

How do I casually mention that Mr Dave Couse is back on our airwaves from Monday 3rd November filling in for Paul McLoone on TodayFM? How about another Dave Fanning interview? This one features ‘I Think I’m Going Mad’ (live), ‘Call Me Blue’ (brand new single out 11th July), ‘You Break Me Up’ (live), ‘Heart Happy’ (live) and ‘Plain or Pearl’ (another of the 4 tracks from the 12″). Check out Dave 3rd – 13th November 9pm-midnight on TodayFM.

A House interview Dave Fanning (1987)

The Forget Me Nots (1990 Session)

From Dublin, The Forget Me Nots were Michelle Burrowes & Eithne Flynn (vocals & rhythm guitars), Maurice McGrath (lead guitar), Cormac Colman (bass guitar) and Justin Healy (drums). They recorded this Fanning session in 1990 and it was produced by Ian Wilson & Jim Lockhart. In 1991 Mark Walsh (bass) joined the band and in between, Tony McGuinness (Aslan) toured and played on some of the album (‘Hullabaloo‘) recordings.

Shake The Halo

What Am I Gonna Do About You

Home

Beck & Call

The Subterraneans (1992 Session?)

From Artane, Dublin, The Subterraneans were Derek Barter (bass/vocals), Paddy Brady (guitar), Mitchel O’Connor (guitar) and Colm Coughlan (drums). Thanks to Padser Dalhoun for photo and lineup. We’re guessing that this is a session and that it dates from 1992 so if anyone can confirm or correct please do!

L – R Colm Coughlan, Derek Barter, Paddy Brady, Mitchel O’Connor

Rubbernose (1992)

Where’s The Hook (1992)

Showdown (1992)

Mahogany Men (1993 Session)

From Cork, Mahogany Men were Myles Horgan (lead vocals/guitar), Cormac Curtis (guitar), Danny McElhinney (bass) and David Tinsley (drums). They recorded this session for Dave Fanning in January 1993.

Emily Dickinson (1993)

Unicorns (Do Not Exist) (1993)

Grow Your Own (1993)

Hello How Are You I Am God (1993)

The Pale (1991 Session)

The Pale were formed in Dublin in 1990 by Matthew Devereux (vocals), Shane Wearen (mandolin) and Sean Molloy (bass). This Fanning session recorded for RTE in 1991 was their first ever recording and the only one to feature the original band lineup. This is the first time since they were recorded that the band have heard these tracks which were never released or indeed recorded again. The Pale are playing Hard Working Class Heroes on the 3rd October in the Mercantile, Dame Street, Dublin.

Opium Poem (1991)

Cynical Sun (1991)

Ventriloquist (1991)

Big Country – Dave Fanning Interview (1986)

One good interview begets another. Recorded during the same tour as the recently posted Mickey Bradley interview, here are Stuart and Ian from Big Country on RTE Radio2 with the venerable Dave Fanning on November 26th 1986. Thank you to the kind reader who dug this out.

Big Country – Dave Fanning Interview (26.11.1986)

The Mary Janes (Session)

From Dublin, The Mary Janes were Mic Christopher (vocals, guitars), Simon Good (guitars), Karl Odlum (bass) and Steven Hogan (drums). Mic Christopher tragically passed away on 29th November 2001. The Mary Janes released two albums ‘Bored Of Their Laughing‘ (1994) and ‘Sham‘ (1998). Both are available on Bandcamp. Mic Christopher’s solo album was released posthumously on his one year anniversary but  completed to Mic’s instructions by Mic’s sister and friends. The 2019 documentary ‘Heyday: The Story Of Mic Christopher‘ is an excellent watch and gives a lovely introduction to Mic by his friends. It can be watched on the TG4 player here for the next 33 days.

Instigator

Taken In

Friends

Trilogy

The Brilliant Trees (Session)

From Finglas in Dublin, The Brilliant Trees were Alan Hoey (vocals, guitar), Tony Barrett (guitar), Sid Barrett (bass) and Dave Farrell (drums). We had previously featured one track from this Fanning session albeit a very lo-fi recording. We are no longer certain however from which year the session dates. There was a further track ‘Slavedriver’ on this particular cassette which may or may not be part of the session..

If I Die

Home

I Know You Know

Candy Apple Red – Snakeskin

Candy Apple Red were a Dublin 4 piece featuring Dave Dorgan (vocals), Gerry Fahy (guitar), Eamonn Elliott (drums) and Damien Byrne (bass). This track reminds the writer of The Stars Of Heaven and so jumped straight to the top of the pile. If anyone has a band photograph please get in touch. The artwork is the inlay for the tape containing this track. If you click on it you should land on our facebook page where you will find many more Fanning tapes. Your mission should you chose to accept it is to peruse same and tell us what bands/tracks should feature next.

Snakeskin (1993?)

Tears Of Lost Children (1989 Session)

This Fanning session was recorded on 9th October 1989. That is the sum total of our knowledge at this time.. the usually reliable irishrock.org has no listing. Update: Thanks to a comment from Paul we have the band lineup – Ray Colman (vocals), Ed Thornton (guitar),  Phil Garry (bass) and Johnny Brewer (drums). Thank you KillianM2 for digging out the band photo!

Speak To Me (1989)

Nine Blind Years (1989)

Tripwire (1989)

Secrets (1989)

The Elite (1989 Session)

The Elite recorded this Fanning session on 25th September 1989. According to irishrock.org the frontman is Derek Dempsey. Further details of the band personnel and a picture would be gratefully appreciated.. Now might also be a good time to mention the Irish Metal Archive.

1. Never Surrender (1989)

2. All I Ever Wanted (1989)

3. Bad Attitude (1989)

4. Rock’n’Roll Woman (1989)

Here’s a video recording of the band performing ‘Bad Attitude’.

The Skips (1989 Session)

Today we have 2 tracks from the Ian Wilson produced 1988 Fanning Session by The Skips. The Skips were Amanda Claxton (vocals), Derrick Dalton (guitar), Pete Corrigan (bass) and Darren Nolan (drums). Derrick Dalton sadly passed away in 2008.

What Do You Mean (1989)

You’re In Love (1989)

Giant (1989 Session)

From Dublin, Giant were Niamh McDonald (vocals), Susan Kavanagh (vocals), Ken Haughton (guitar), Joe McDonnell (bass) and Ronan Buckley (drums). Thanks to Eddie Joyce for the picture, check out irishrock.org for more band details. This Fanning session was recorded in autumn 1989.

Promised Land (1989)

Crocodile Tears (1989)

Big Mouth (1989)

The Devil (1989)

The Frames – Another Love Song (Demo)

Ahead of their upcoming Whelan’s gig this Monday here’s a demo recording of ‘Another Love Song’ by The Frames. At a guess this dates from 1990.

Another Love Song (Demo)

Bobby Womack (1944 – 2014)

Sad news, Bobby Womack has left us. Dave Fanning interviewed him a year ago and played this short excerpt on his show today.

Bobby Womack (excerpt 2013 Dave Fanning interview)

Burning Embers (1986 Session)

Image via IrishRock.org

I’ve been trawling the archive for something vaguely related to Sir Henry’s in Cork, the subject of an upcoming exhibtion at UCC Library hence today’s post. Burning Embers were Sean O’Neill (vocals), John Poland (guitars), Niall Macken (keyboards), Mel Poland (bass), Gordon Ashe (drums). They recorded this session for Dave Fanning on November 17th 1986.

Champagne & Toffee (1986)

Waiting (1986)

The Blood Game (1986)

Tower Of Babel (1988 Session)

From Dublin Tower Of Babel feaatured Mark Lawlor (vocals), Paul Lacey (guitar), Martin Creighton (bass) and Eamonn Elliot (drums). They recorded this Fanning session on April 18th 1988. Paul Lacey and Martin Creighton were previously members of Ambition In Glass. Martin Creighton sadly passed away in 2006.

Near Dark (1988)

Conceal Me (1988)

Shed My Skin (1988)

Doctor Millar and The Cute Hoors (1990 Session)

Doctor Millar and The Cute Hoors are Sean Millar (vocals/guitar), Phil Martin (guitar/fiddle), Mark Megannety (bass) and Mark Hugget (drums). They recorded a Fanning session on 23rd April 1990 featuring 4 tracks: ‘Hand Me Down’, ‘Sappho Smile’, ‘Nail Me To A Saviour’ and ‘My Lover Has Got No Soul’. Sean Millar, named one of Ireland’s greatest songwriters by Hot Press, released his sixth album ‘C48‘ to acclaim last year. NEWS UPDATE (7.11.2016): The Cute Hoors have just released their first new material in 25 years, ‘You Are Not My Kind‘ out now.

My Love Has Got No Soul (1990)

Fountainhead (1990 Demo)

Recorded between December 1989 and an unknown date this demo from Fountainhead was played by Dave Fanning on his RTE Radio 2 show presumably sometime in 1990. The band was essentially Pat O’Donnell and Steve Belton although there were a number of live lineups. I suspect this is track is quite rare so enjoy.. Thanks to Owain for digging this out.

Black Cloud (1990)

The Dixons (1991)

The Dixons have already featured but we came across this pair of tracks from 1991 we thought you might like. The band featured Niall Toner (vocals/guitar), Alan Montgomery (bass/piano/vocals), Ed McGinley (guitar/vocals) and Joey Pleass (drums/vocals).

‘She Belongs To Me’ / ‘I’d Love To’ (1991)

At Gunpoint (1986 Demo)

From Dublin, At Gunpoint were Karl Walsh (vocals), Didi Cassidy (lead guitar), Woppy McGrath (rhythm guitar), Sam Cregan (bass) and Alan Shaughnessy (drums). At Gunpoint recorded a Fanning session in 1987 but this track is from their 1986 demo. Photo courtesy irishrock.org.

All Go Away (1986 Demo)

Real Wild West (1987 Session)

This 1987 Fanning session by Real Wild West is their second and was recorded on 4th May 1987. Real Wild West were from Dublin and featured Charlie Rafferty (bass & vocals), Paul Murtagh (guitar), Robbie Warren (drums) and Ian Smith (trumpet). Photo via this YouTube video of ‘The Sixties’.

Chappaquiddick Bridge / Hello Joe / Captain Of Your Ship / Burn, Burn, Burn (1987)

‘The sessions that give bands a break’ (Irish Times 1990)

The Fanning sessions, which give new bands valuable airtime and a professional demo tape for nothing, are 10 years old this month. Michael Cunningham reports.

Here’s a great article from a 1990 issue of The Irish Times as the Fanning sessions were about to turn 10. Michael Cunningham of The Irish Times interviews producers Ian Wilson and Jim Lockhart and studio engineer Paddy McBreen. We learn that the bands receive a fee of £200 and that the contract forms still refer to “The Dave Fanning Showband Recordings”. I don’t think they got a copy of the tapes for nothing though, someone please correct me if I am wrong.

GUAVA (2000 Session)

From Galway, GUAVA were active from 1997 until 2000. The band featured Dave Garol (vocals, guitar, electronics), Maria Shiel (vocals, guitar, bodhran), Joe Keane (bass), Mark Dempsey (guitar) and Ryan Lacey (drums). They recorded this session for Dave Fanning in 2000.

Funk #1 Instrumental / Modification / Slow Down / See Down Here (2000)

Missing Link (1988 Session)

From Dublin, Missing Link were Jimmy Tague (vocals), Gerry Bennett (guitar), Dave Morrissey (keyboards), Charlie Bennett (bass), Donal McPartlin (drums). Thanks to IrishRock for the photo. This Fanning session was recorded on 14th June 1988.

Back Of My Mind / Maybe I Will / Shake It Up / Wrong Impression (1988)

Belsonic Sound (1988 Session)

This is the second Fanning session by Cork outfit Belsonic Sound and was recorded on 20th June 1988. The band featured Finny Corcoran (guitar & vocals), Gene Russel (bass), Jim O’Mahony (keyboards) and John McCormack (drums). Thanks to ‘Cork Bands of The 80’s‘ for digging out the photo.

Sex Cells / Alcohol / We’ve Gotta Get Out Of This Place (1988)

Blue In Heaven (1988 Session)

Blue In Heaven hailed from Churchtown in Dublin and featured Shane O’Neill (guitar/vocals), Eamonn Tynan (guitar), Declan Jones (bass) and Dave Clarke (drums). They recorded this session on 15th July 1988.

Red Dress / Hold On / Come Back / Try A Little Love (1988)

The Would Be’s (1988 Demo)

The Would Be’s are no strangers round these parts but this track was a welcome surprise. It’s a demo version of ‘Must It Be’ featuring a male vocal and it’s impressive how good it sounds. The Would Be’s are undergoing something of a renaissance reforning and releasing an excellent album ‘Beautiful Mess‘ in 2013. They play The Dock Arts Centre, Carrick On Shannon on March 21st.

Must It Be (1988)

The Kendalls (1988 Demo)

From Walkinstown in Dublin, The Kendalls were Johnny McMahon (vocals), Ben Rawlins (guitar), George Murphy (bass) and Alan Biggs (drums). Thank you Harry and Sarah for filling in the details.

A Place In The Sun (1988)

Tru’penny Opera (1988 Demo)

Yesterday we had a session from Wexford’s Tru’penny Opera and today we have a demo track and bio uncovered as part of that investigation.

Homecoming (1988)

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Courtesy of YouTube we also have two RTE TV recordings; ‘Brilliant Field’ was recorded live in Clonard Community Centre for the Bibi Baskin Show on October 24th 1988 and broadcast on October 27th. ‘Solo On The Corner’ was recorded to backing track in Montrose Studios on December 20th 1988 for JoMaxi and broadcast on January 9th 1989.

Tru’penny Opera (1988 Session)

On 29th June 1988 Dave Fanning broadcast 4 session tracks by Wexford’s Tru’penny Opera. The fourth of these ‘If You Were Right’ featured previously in demo form and now thanks to a kind reader we have three tracks from the session. The band were Michael Egan (guitars, vocals), Paul Merrigan (saxophone), Peter Murphy (drums), Noel Quaid (bass), Maurice McNamara (keyboards) and John Murphy (mandolin, harmonica). On the way home from recording the session the band suffered a car accident which sidelined two members for several months. Thanks to Paul Byrne for digging out the photo and bio, more of which to feature when we post a further demo track ‘Homecoming’.

Road To Mandela (1988)

Last Night I Dreamt (1988)

Souls Are Closer (1988)

The Fountainhead – All Is Red (Demo)

From Dublin, one lineup of The Fountainhead according to irishrock.org was Pat O’Donnell (guitar), Steve Belton (guitar), Phil Rennicks (keyboards), Willie Demange (bass/synth) and Peter McKinney (drums). Essentially though the band was a duo around based around Pat O’Donnell and Steve Belton who appear in any publicity photos I’ve seen. This particular track is not listed in the band discography and could be a demo, hopefully a reader can help fill in the blanks.

All Is Red (1983?)

The Pink Hurts (1986 Demo)

From Skerries in Co. Dublin, The Pink Hurts were Derek Kavanagh (guitar/vocals), Lilian Kavanagh (keyboards), Michael O’Reilly (bass) and Brian Kavanagh (drums). Thanks as always to irishrock.org for the bio and photo.

Newspapers (1986)

A Touch Of Oliver (1991 Session)

From Limerick, A Touch Of Oliver were Diarmuid O Sullivan (vocals & guitar), Hugh Mulqueen (lead guitar & backing vocals), Brian Corr (bass, keyboards & backing vocals) and Willie Banks (drums). Their 1991 Fanning session featured ‘Candy Bottle Green’, ‘Boulder Dust’, ‘Golden Valley Reserve’ and ‘Mind Bomb Trial’.

Candy Bottle Green (1991)

Mind Bomb Trial (1991)

Golden Valley Reserve (1991)

Boulder Dust (1991)

Leo O’Kelly (1984 Session)

From Carlow, Leo O’Kelly is a member of folk duo Tír na nÓg with Sonny Condell of Scullion. O’Kelly (guitar, vocals, violin) recorded this solo Fanning session on 18th December 1984 featuring three tracks; ‘Cinema’, ‘The Window’s Not High Enough’ and ‘Get Into Focus’. We have two of these tracks for you today. Keep an eye on this site for news of upcoming Leo / Sonny / Tír na nÓg gigs.

Cinema (1984)

The Window’s Not High Enough (1984)

The Swinging Swine (1988 Session)

The very first artist to feature on this site was Galway band The Swinging Swine. The lineup that recorded today’s session were (I hope) Joanne Loughman (vocals), Eamonn Dowd (guitar, vocals), Doug Steen (lead guitar), Hugh O’Carroll (fiddle), John Lalor (bass) and Billy Geraghty (drums). The session was recorded on 16th March 1988. Eamonn Dowd plays O’Keefe’s, Clonmel 21st Feb and Tom Steele’s, Ennis 22nd Feb 2014. Joanne Loughman featured on a track on David Long‘s solo album last year.

I Won’t Be Home Tonight (1988)

All You Need Is Love (1988)

This Wicked World / Everything Will Shine (1988)

33rd Hurricane (1990 Session)

An early 33rd Hurricane – Finbarr & Denis Doherty, Neil & John McGrory

From Inishowen in Co.Donegal, 33rd Hurricane were Finbarr Doherty (vocals, guitar), Liam Bradley (drums, backing vocals), Delilah Cuddihy (keyboards, backing vocals), John McGrory (guitar), and Neil McGrory (bass). Finbarr Doherty released his third solo album ‘Skyscrapers’ in 2011. Check out previous posts on the band here

Ships & Planes (1990)

Do You Know (1990)

Shotgun Blast (1990)

Buffaloes (1990)

David Byrne (1988 Interview)

In 1988 shortly after the release of ‘Naked’ the album that was to prove the last Talking Heads release, Dave Fanning sat down in London with David Byrne for an extended interview.

David Byrne (1988 Interview)

The Pleasure Cell (1986 Session)

From Dublin, The Pleasure Cell were Noel Green (guitar & vocals), Dermot Reid (bass) and Will Walsh (drums). They recorded a Fanning session on 5th May 1986 featuring 3 tracks; ‘Keeping The Secret’, ‘Nuclear Device’ and ‘Father Dear’. The tape we have lists a different name, ‘Uniformed Man’ for the third track. If anyone has further details please let us know. Check out this 1987 video of ‘She’s Just A Girl’ for RTE’s ‘Visual Eyes‘.

‘Keeping The Secret’ (1986)

‘Nuclear Device’ (1986)

‘Uniformed Man’ (1986)

The Furious Colour (Demo)

The Furious Colour recorded a Fanning session on 30th June 1986 featuring 3 tracks, ‘Torn Apart’, ‘Carrion’ and ‘Closer’, the last of which is particularly strong and can be found here. This track is from a demo recorded by the Cork(?) band which featured Kieran Kennedy, Dave Horner, Shay Fitzgerald and Gerry O Connor. I’m guessing Dave played this in 1986 but some further detective work may be required. I will of course update with your feedback and photos..

‘In Vain’ (Demo)

The Groove

From Limerick The Groove were a five piece featuring Alan Cheevers (guitar & vocals), Paul Healy (vocals & guitar), Bryan Healy (bass), Charlie Smith (trumpet) and Brendan Wallace (drums). The band won the RTE Borderline band of 1987 competition and as part of their prize released a single ‘Blue Blue Monday’ on EMI Records which reached 19 in the Irish charts. That same year also saw the band performing at one of Ireland’s biggest open air gigs supporting David Bowie at Slane. Sadly Alan Cheevers passed away in 2000. They recorded one Fanning session on 20th May 1986 featuring three tracks; ‘Since You’ve Gone’, ‘Skin Deep and ‘Another Number’ which we have yet to track down. Check out the Limerick Library archive for more rock articles.

Preacher’s Paradise (1988)

The Screech Owls – Sniper On The Freeway

Recorded from the Dave Fanning show this track may or may not come from the demo pictured above. The Screech Owls were Debbie Schow (vocals, guitar) and Richard G. Evans (guitars). Special guests on the demo at least were Brian Neavyn (bass) and Dave Burke (drums) of The Slowest Clock. Check out Hey Toreador here.

Sniper On The Freeway (1988)

Interference (1988 Session)

Interference in 2007 – Fergus O’Farrell, Paul Tiernan, Marja Gaynor, Bertrand Galen (c) Jason Lee

In 1988 as far as I can make out Interference were Fergus O’Farrell (vocals, piano & guitar), James O’Leary (guitars,) Maurice Culligan (piano, keyboards), Kevin Murphy (bass, cello), Cal MacCarthy (drums), Colm McCaughey (fiddle). They recorded this Fanning session on 10th February 1988. Also worth checking out is ‘A Talent for Life – The Fergus O’Farrell Story‘ an RTE Radio 1 documentary.

Interference (1988) courtesy Interference Archive

Raise The Blade (1988)

Ordinary Man (1988)

Perfection (1988)

One Deaf Ear – Mother’s Day (1986)

Don’t have many details of this recording from One Deaf Ear but an RTE Visual Eyes recording of ‘True Colours‘ was popular so you might enjoy hearing this. From Belfast the band were Michael Madden (vocals, guitar), Brian O’Cuinn (bass, synths), Sean Quinn (synths, vocals, sampler) and Gerard Campbell (drums).

Mother’s Day (1986)

Fanning’s Fab 50 (2013)

50 black keys – gold on the ceiling (2011)
49 o emperor – contact (2013)
48 beth orton – call me the breeze (2012)
47 little green cars – harper lee (2013)
46 pixies – debaser (1989)
45 villagers – becoming a jackal (2010)
44 killers – smile like you mean it (2004)
43 the national – afraid of everyone (2010)
42 the frames – revelate (1995)
41 pearl jam – black (1991)
40 u2 – beautiful day (2000)
39 massive attack – unfinished symphony (1991)
38 artic monkeys – do i wanna know (2013)
37 lcd soundsystem – all my friends (2007)
36 hozier – take me to church (2013)
35 arcade fire – reflektor (2013)
34 led zeppelin – stairway to heaven (1971)
33 new order – blue monday (1983)
32 midlake – roscoe (2006)
31 pink floyd – comfortably numb (1979)
30 the national – demons (2013)
29 bruce springsteen – thunder road (1975)
28 depeche mode – personal jesus (1990)
27 rolling stones – sympathy for the devil (1968)
26 lou reed – walk on the wild side (1972)
25 hot chip – boy from school (2006)
24 my bloody valentine – sometimes (1991)
23 david bowie – life on mars? (1971)
22 stone roses – i am the resurrection (1989)
21 smashing pumpkins – 1979 (1995)
20 bruce springsteen – born to run (1975)
19 arcade fire – wake up (2004)
18 the white stripes – seven nation army (2003)
17 nirvana – smells like teen spirit (1991)
16 rolling stones – gimme shelter (1969)
15 radiohead – paranoid android (1997)
14 the smiths – how soon is now (1984)
13 smashing pumpkins – bullet with butterfly wings (1995)
12 pink floyd – wish you were here (1975)
11 u2 – with or without you (1987)
10 the beatles – a day in the life (1967)
9 the smiths – there is a light that never goes out (1986)
8 elbow – one day like this (2008)
7 the national – fake empire (2007)
6 jeff buckley – hallelujah (1994)
5 daft punk – get lucky (2013)
4 joy division – love will tear us apart (1990)
3 u2 – one (1997)
2 u2 – bad (live) (1985)
1 radiohead – creep (1993)

The Ramones (1985 Interview)

In June 1985 Dave Fanning interviewed one of his self professed favourite bands The Ramones. The band was in Dublin to play two gigs in the TV Club on June 24th and 25th as part of their ‘Too Tough To Die’ tour. The original recording can be found here.

The Ramones (1985 Interview)

The Strong Are Lonely (1986 Session)

From Offaly, The Strong Are Lonely were Ciaran Guinan (vocals), Tom Jamieson (drums), Daragh Connolly (keyboards), Finn Corrigan (keyboards/guitars), Kieran Egan (guitars), Ronan McDermott (bass). They recorded a Fanning session on 24/02/1986 featuring: ‘Paranoid Man’, ‘Wasted Time’ and ‘This Way Up’. While at RTE mixing the session, they had a visit from Paul McGuinness of U2 and Mother Records. A possible one-single deal with Mother was mooted, but never materialised. The band describe the following track as from the Fanning session so I’m going to post and hope someone can shed some more light.. Finn, Ciaran and Tom were to later form Clark’s Gable.

Vicious Circle (1986)

Wasted Time (1986)

Fanning’s Fab 50 (1989)

It’s that time of the year folks – voting is now open for Fanning’s Fab 50. I do wish Dave would restrict voting to music released in the last 12 months, next best thing would be for bands to put the word out to their fanbase that they cast a vote for a particular track, isn’t it time that the Fab50 got some social media pimping?

Today we have two sections of the 1989 Fab 50 for your listening pleasure. Part one alone is worth checking out for Golden Horde frontman Simon Carmody’s guest appearance fresh from a Van Morrison gig to give an impromptu review!

If anyone has any further Fab 50 contibutions either recordings or listings please get in touch..

50 Pink Floyd – Another Brick In The Wall
49 The Primitives – Sick Of It
[ Simon Carmody reviews Van Morrison ]
48 Morrissey – Ouija Board
47 The Clash – Lost In The Supermarket
46 The Cult – Fire Woman
45 Bob Dylan – Desolation Row
44 Sugarcubes – Birthday
43 Sex Pistols – My Way
42 R.E.M. – Finest Worksong
41 Jimi Hendrix – All Along The Watchtower

Fab 50 (1989) Part 1

40 The Wonderstuff – Unbearable
39 The Beatles – Strawberry Fields Forever
38 Lou Reed – Walk on the Wild Side
37 Thin Lizzy – The Boys are Back in Town
36 U2 – Unforgettable Fire
35 The Smiths – How Soon is Now?
34 The Waterboys – The Whole of the Moon
33 John Lennon – Imagine
32 U2 – New Year’s Day
31 The Doors – Light My Fire
30 The Hothouse Flowers – Don’t Go
29 A House – Call Me Blue
28 The Wedding Present – Kennedy (via comment)
27 Talking Heads – Psychokiller
26 Van Morrison – Coney Island
25 The Stone Roses – She Bangs the Drums
24 Simple Minds – Belfast Child
23 U2 – With or Without You
22 Something Happens – Beach
21 The Cure – Catch
20 The Smiths – This Charming Man
19 The Jesus and Mary Chain – Some Candy Talking
18 The Golden Horde – 100 Boys
17 R.E.M. – It’s the End of the World
16 The Dead Milkmen – Punk Rock Girl
15 The Dixons – I Have Fun
14 The 4 of Us – Drag My Bad Name Down
13 U2 – The Sweetest Thing
12 The Pogues – Thousands Are Sailing
11 Waterboys – Raggle Taggle Gypsy
10 New Order – Blue Monday
09 The Smiths – What Difference Does It Make
08 An Emotional Fish – Gray Matter
07 The Fat Lady Sings – Arclight
06 Something Happens – Forget Georgia
05 R.E.M. – World Leader Pretend
04 U2 – Dancing Barefoot
03 The Cure – A Forest
02 Joy Division – Love Will Tear Us Apart
01 U2 – Bad (Live)

Fab 50 (1989) Part 2

Indian (1996 Session)

From Sligo, Indian recorded a Fanning session on 30/11/1996 which was produced by Ian Wilson. The band lineup was Martin Harte (keyboards), Joseph Hunt (lead vocals), Christy Behan (drums, vocals), Gerry Sweeney (lead guitar), Leon Donnellon (bass) and Declan Harrison (semi-acoustic guitar). Martin and Joe were previously in Absolute Zero, while Christy was a member of Those Nervous Animals. The band were active from 1995 until 2000 and have just announced their first gig in 15 years on 21st December 2013 in Shenanigans of Sligo.

Lonesome Heart Attack (1996)

Space Walkin Girl (1996)

Bang Bang Gun (1996)

Beautiful (1996)

Raw Novembre (1993 Session)

From Mullingar, Raw Novembre were formed by Martin Kelly (vocals), Kevin Kelly (guitar & bass), John Jackson (drums), Kelvyn Stanley (bass). Paddy Muldarry (drums) later took over from John.

Execution (1993)

God And Me And Liberty (1993)

Nothingness (1993)