Ruefrex (1983 Session)

One of the most successful and at the same time overlooked of the Northern Irish punk bands, Ruefrex were formed in 1977 and released their debut single ‘One By One’ on Good Vibrations in 1979. It was to take some 4 years before they were invited to record a session for Dave Fanning which they did on July 11th 1983. The lineup for the session was Allan Clarke (vocals), Jack Forgie (guitar), Tom Coulter (bass) and Paul Burgess (drums & vocals). Lyricist Paul Burgess has just released a memoir ‘Wild Colonial Boys: A Belfast Punk Story‘ which sets the record straight, ruffling one or two feathers along the way. Essential reading as far as we are concerned.

Paid in Kind (1983)

Correct Your Fireside Manner (1983)

The Wild Colonial Boy (1983)

The Stunning (1987 Session)

The Stunning need no introduction. Formed in Galway in 1987, they are/were Steve Wall (vocals & guitar), Joe Wall (bass), Derek Murray (guitar), Cormac Dunne (drums), Donal Duggan (saxophone) and Jimmy Higgins (trumpet). Steve and Cormac were previously in New Testament. Steve recently featured in an enjoyable and frank episode of Paul McDermott’s podcast ‘To Here Knows When – Great Irish Albums Revisited‘. This particular track from their 1987 session for Dave Fanning turned up recently on the Dan Hegarty show in the archive session slot of a Tuesday evening. The Stunning head out soon on a short and in all probability sold out Irish tour.

The Stunning – Wang Dang Doodle (1987)

The Black Velvet Band (1989 Session)

The Black Velvet Band were Kieran Kennedy (guitar,vocals),  Maria Doyle Kennedy (vocals), Shay Fitzgerald (bass), Liam Murphy (guitar) and Dave Horner (drums). They released two singles and an album ‘When Justice Came’ on Mother Records in 1989. This recording of a track from their second Fanning session in 1989 featured recently in the archive session slot of the Dan Hegarty show.

The Black Velvet Band – When Justice Came (1989)

Schtum (1994 Session)

From Derry, Schtum were Christian McNeill (vocals & guitar), Ivan Birthistle (guitar), James Cunningham (bass) and Rory McCarron (drums). They recorded a session for Dave Fanning in 1994, one year before the release of their debut album ‘Grow’. Once again credit to Dan Hegarty for continuing to mine the RTE session archives. See also ‘Almost Famous (A Brief History Of Derry Music)‘ by Kevin Magee.

Last Of The Sad Song (1994)

Sky Diver (1994)

The Thrills (2001 Session)

From Blackrock in Dublin The Thrills were Conor Deasy (vocals, guitar), Daniel Ryan (bass), Padraic McMahon (guitar), Kevin Horan (piano, organ, synths) and Ben Carrigan (drums). They recorded a session for Dave Fanning in 2001 which Dan Hegarty kindly dug out on his show recently. Their debut album ‘So Much For The City’ was released in 2003 which gave Ed Power an excuse to interview the band for this extensive article in The Independent. The Thrills were also the focus of a recent Dan Hegarty documentary ‘So Much For The City’ which can be found here.

Don’t Change (2001)

Bass Odyssey (1999 Session)

From Cork, Bass Odyssey were Alan O’Keeffe, Chris O’Driscoll (MC Strict) and Graham Finn. Finn was previously a member of Emperor of Ice Cream. The session was broadcast by Dave Fanning on February 15th 1999. Thanks to Dan Hegarty for airing this track ‘Poncherello’ on a recent Tuesday as part of his weekly trip into the Studio8 session archives. For more on the band’s story read the excellent ‘B-Side the Leeside: Bass Odyssey’s ’90s drum ‘n’ bass classics‘ as part of an Irish Examiner feature series. The second session track was ‘Twilight’. Thanks to Irish Music Central for the session details.

Poncherello (1999)

Dark Room Notes (2009 Jenny Huston Session)

A couple of weeks ago we stumbled across a session track from Dark Room Notes for Alison Curtis of TodayFM. Now a kind reader has sent in another track this time a cover of ‘Heartbeat City’ recorded in session for Jenny Huston of 2fm in March 2009. Dark Room Notes were Ronan Gaughan, Ruairi Ferrie, Arran Murphy and Darragh Shanahan (drums).

Heartbeat City (2009)

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)

Female Hercules (1993 Session)

From Dublin, Female Hercules were Michael Connerty (vocals & guitar), Aengus Hennessy (guitar), Reynald Masson (bass) and Dave Liston (drums). They released two EPs on Blunt Records in 1994. Reynald died in 2012. Pictured is a ‘DropOut’ article written by Eamon Crudden, clipping courtesy Abstract Analogue. This session was recorded in March 1993, rebroadcast by Dan Hegarty in 2022.

Point Of No Return (March 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)

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)

Bawl (1996 Session)

From Dublin, Bawl were Mark Cullen (vocals, guitar), Darren Cullen (guitar), Stephen McBride (bass) and Jason Cullen (drums). This session was recorded for Dave Fanning in May 1996 and rebroadcast by Dan Hegarty on October 27th 2021. Shortly after recording this session they released their debut album ‘Year Zero’. Circa 1999 they became Fixed Stars and in 2000 added A House alumni Martin Healy and David Morrissey to become Pony Club. In 2010 Mark Cullen formed The Unruly Trinity with Simon Quigley and Colm Keegan. Thanks to irishmusicdb for the photo and band chronology.

Older & Older (1996)

Beyond Safeways (1996)

Mistake (1996)

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

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)

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)

 

Mary Stokes Band (1989 Session)

Formed in 1987, The Mary Stokes Band were from left to right Beki Brindle (guitar), Mary Stokes (vocals), Dermot Stokes (piano), Dave McGuinness (drums), Joe Lahart (bass) and Brian Palm (harmonica). They recorded a Fanning session in 1989, the producer was Jim Lockhart. Some 33 years and 10 albums later the band are still going strong. They are currently recording a new album.

I certainly remember the day. Other than the sense of disbelief that we would go for five tracks – that was considered outrageous! … We took one break when the guitar player did an overdub on ‘Tough Times’, returning to the studio to record the next three tracks in one take each… road hardened, we were playing really comfortably as a unit! The engineer and Jim were somewhat agog…

Tough Times (1989)
Same Thing (1989)
Crazy About You (1989)
The Blues Aint Nothing (1989)
Fine Mellow (1989)

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)

Wilt (2000 Session revisited)

From Kilkenny, Wilt were Cormac Battle (vocals/guitar), Darragh Butler (drums) and Mick Murphy (bass). They recorded a session for Dave Fanning in 2000 two tracks of which ‘Peroxatine’ and ‘Radio Disco‘ were released on a limited edition version of ‘Bastinado’. Cormac and Darragh were previously members of Kerbdog who recently announced vinyl reissues of albums ‘Kerbdog’ and ‘On The Turn’. Thanks to Alan Lee and Brendan for the tracks and Pete for the prompt.

Never A Friend (2000)
I Want It All (2000)
Peroxatine (2000)

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)

Let Evening Bring Them Home: The Story of the Jubilee Allstars

We’ve been taking a trip down memory lane for reasons to be explained at a later date but we rediscovered this hour long documentary featured as part of the excellent Great Irish Bands series over on Dublin Opinion. Hats off to the producers, we would love something similar on any number of bands, The Stars Of Heaven anyone?

Jubilee Allstars were Niall McCormack (vocals & guitar), Barry McCormack (vocals & guitar), Fergus McCormack (vocals & bass) and Lee Casey (drums). They recorded this session for John Peel on Jan 11th 1987.

The Hellfire Club (1989 Session)

 

It’s been too long, thank you Paul McArdle of The Hellfire Club for kicking us into renewed action. The Hellfire Club were Tom Doyle (vocals/guitar), Joe Ussher (lead guitar/vocals/piano), John Doyle (bass), Paul McArdle and later Mark Downing (drums). They recorded a Dave Fanning session in studio 8 on March 14th 1989. There were 4 tracks put to tape that day, one of which can be found here. We are now posting the three remaining tracks. Last but not least, thank you Thomas Erbsloh for your awesome tape archive.

Come With Me (1989)

Blind Ambition (1989)

Sweet Smell of Success (1989)

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)

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)

 

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), Finn (Bernard) McGinn (guitar, pictured) later replaced by 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

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)

We recently posted a Tom Dunne tribute to 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 RTE 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)

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)

Something Happens (1995 Acoustic Session)

Recorded live on the RTE 2FM Mike Moloney show June 21st 1995. Something Happens! are Tom Dunne, Ray Harman, Alan Byrne and Eamonn Ryan. Check out Tom Dunne nightly 10pm – midnight on Newstalk.

Fishboy (1995)

Pray (1995)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 Fat Lady Sings – Man Scared (1988)

This particular recording by The Fat Lady Sings was presumably made live in studio while the band were interviewing with Dave Fanning.

Man Scared (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)

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)

David Long (Dan Hegarty 2fm Session 2/12/13)

On 2nd December 2013 Dan Hegarty broadcast an all new session from David Long of Into Paradise. David was accompanied in Studio 8 by Joe Fahey of Luggage. Here’s what the RTE 2fm website wrote:

It’s quite likely that David Long’s album ‘Water Has Memory’ won’t feature alongside names like Arcade Fire, Rudimental, and Foals in the numerous end of year album polls. Don’t let that put you off; Long’s debut ranks among the finest domestic albums of the year. After spending the late 1980s and early 1990s as vocalist with Into Paradise, David Long returned with new songs, and a new sound.

Dog Times (2013)

Since Yesterday (2013)

Antelope (2013)

On Waiting (2013)

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)

Pet Lamb (1993 Session)

From Dublin, Pet Lamb were at the time of this recording – Brian Mooney (vocals, guitar), Dylan Philips (vocals, guitar), Kevin Talbot (bass) and James Lillis (drums). Update: Thank you Paul Shanahan for the missing track ‘I Got Played’.

I Got Played (1993)

Insult To Injury (1993)

In A Pit (1993)

Grinning Sadist (1993)

Microdisney (Unidentified Tape)

The following tracks by Microdisney turned up on the same cassette that featured the recently posted Cypress Mine! session so that puts the date of broadcast circa 1986. Both tracks appeared on ‘Everybody Is Fantastic’ (1984), ‘Dig Me Up’ reworked as ‘Dreaming Drains’. The first 3 Microdisney were recently reissued on Cherry Red Records featuring Peel session tracks and B sides. Two further previously unavailable tracks ‘Victory’ and ’12 Novembers’ can be found on the Reekus Records compilation ‘Too Late To Stop Now‘.

Dig Me Up

Idea

Belsonic Sound (1986 Session)

From Cork, Belsonic Sound were Finny Corcoran (guitar & vocals), Gene Russel (bass), Jim O’Mahony (keyboards) and John McCormack (drums). This is the first of two Fanning sessions the band recorded, Jim has the other so hopefully will be able to post that soon.

Long Defeat (1986)

Blinded (1986)

Seperate Reality (1986)

Uncertain Trumpet (1987 Session)

From Portstewart in Co.Derry Uncertain Trumpet were formed by Donal Boyle (guitar/vocals) and George Nelson (bass) when Perfect Crime split in 1985. They were joined by Chris Fawcett (oboe/sax) and Niall Brolly (drums). This Fanning session was recorded on 9th and 10th February 1987 and featured  Keiran McGrillis (drums/guitar) and Budgie Diamond (percussion/drums). George Nelson died tragically in a road accident in 1989 returning from a gig in Belfast. Ian Wilson supplied the uilleann pipes on ‘Prevail’. Kieran played acoustic guitar on Heartland with Budgie taking over on drums. Thank you Mark Lundy for additional detail. See also the IrishRock entry.

Strapped To An Armchair (1987)

Heartland (1987)

Marie Celeste (1987)

Prevail (1987)

Bam Bam & The Calling (1987 Session)

Bam Bam & The Calling are a 4 piece from Derry featuring the talents of Paul PJ McCartney (guitar, vocals), Tom Doherty (drums), John McCloskey (guitar) and Joe Brown (bass). They recorded this Fanning session on Jan 19th 1987. The band is still known to perform every couple of years and Joe Brown is currently active with veritable Derry supergroup The Gatefolds. To these ears at least the never before heard ‘Road Of The Lonely’ is a lost classic. Enjoy.

Road Of The Lonely (1987)

Only Sing (1987)

Scraping Off The Shine (1987)

Secret Meeting (1987)

Bam Bam & The Calling will play ‘A Night For Sean’ on Friday 20th September 2013 upstairs in The Gweedore Bar, Derry..

In early July the Semple family lost a dear loved one and a true gentleman, Sean and a lot of folk in Derry and further afield lost a great friend. . We’re honoured to be asked to play at this night in his memory. .Please come along and share it with us.

The Crocodile Tears (1987 Session)

The Crocodile Tears were from Ballinteer in Dublin and featured Brendan Tallon (guitar/vocals), Brendan Berry (guitar/vocals), Barry Woodley (bass) and Shane Rafferty (drums). They recorded this RTE Fanning Session on 9th November 1987. Thanks to IrishRock.org for the biographical details. If anyone has a band picture please drop us a note. The band changed bass player in 1988 and became The Coletranes.

Goodbye Susie-Ann (1987)

Tuesday Morning (1987)

Susie Sweetness (1987)

The Candyshop (1987 Session)

The Candyshop were Stephen Robinson (vocals), Dave Dorgan (guitar), Declan Mulligan Mark Byrne (bass) and Sean Ryan (drums). They featured previously in the form of a live rehearsal tape but today we have their 1987 Fanning session recorded on the 12th October of that year. Band picture anyone?

Railway Station (1987)

This Town (1987)

Things Have Changed (1987)

Jesus Station (1987)

Echoes Of Pink Whispers

Echoes Of Pink Whispers featured Lesley Kane (vocals,guitar), John Healy (vocals), David Healy (keyboards), Paddy Mc Cormick (bass), Aidan Whelan (guitar) and Sean Ryan (drums). They recorded a Fanning session on 3rd April 1986 featuring the tracks ‘The Whole World Cried’, ‘Charm’, ‘Suburbia By Night’ and ‘Synthetic Tribes’.

Charm (1986)

Suburbia By Night (1986)

Cypress, Mine! (1986 Session)

From Cork, Cypress Mine! were Ciaran O’Tuama (vocals), Ian Olney (guitar), Denis O’Mullane (bass) and Mark Healy (drums). They last featured here a mere 4 years ago and now finally we have uncovered the elusive Fanning session. Thank you to the owner of this tape whose shoebox of cassettes means activity around these parts is about to pick up. This session was recorded on 21st April 1986.

I remember that session in RTE for a few reasons. One was they had to change a plug and had to send for an electrician as no-one else was allowed do it. We also had our own engineer with us and they wouldn’t let him touch any of the gear. We needed reverb in the studio we were in and they had to ring someone and have the reverb re-routed from one of the other studios to the one we were in. I still have no idea how they did that. Top that off with “you can’t have a copy of what you just recorded …” and you have a memorable day right there 🙂

Mark Healy

The Wait (1986)

Jeffrey St Ledger (1986)

Niall O’Flaherty’s Porsche (1986)

Puppy Love Bomb (1994 Session)

From Dublin, Puppy Love Bomb were formed in 1991 by Marc Carroll (vocals, guitar), Alan Cullivan (bass) and Neil Dowling (drums). The band released 3 singles on Rough Trade in 1994 – ‘Too Busy Thinking’, ‘Not Listening’ and ‘Bobby Milk’. This session for Dave Fanning on RTE 2fm was recorded in July that year. ‘Almost A Star’ was later rerecorded as ‘Radio Stars’ for the debut of Marc Carroll’s subsequent band, The Hormones.

“We just did three weeks in Europe with Sugar,” Marc says with a smile, “and that personally has been the biggest thing in my musical career, because of my love of Bob Mould and Husker Dü. The very last night in Leeds, he joined us onstage and we all played ‘Ticket To Ride.’ And the place was electric. And the last time Bob Mould had joined a band was with REM in Los Angeles. So, here he was with three knackers from Dublin. So, that was really good.”

Hot Press (16/11/1994)

Almost A Star (1994)
I’m Not Listening (1994)
I Don’t Want To See You (1994)

The Shanks (1992 Session)

Photo (c) Siobhan Bardsley

Formed in Newmarket, Co.Cork in 1991, The Shanks started life as a four piece with Tim Murphy (guitar, vocals), Eoin O’Sullivan (guitar), Mick Hayes (bass) and Niall Lynch (drums). Murphy left in 1992 with ? taking over on vocal duties and the band continued as a 3 piece until 1999 releasing two albums; ‘The Prawn Lawn’ (1995) and ‘Brang’ (1999). ‘The Prawn Lawn’ featured at number 17 in ‘Cork’s Top 50 Albums‘ as chosen by wearenoise.com. The date/year of this Fanning session has yet to be ascertained..
Update: Patrick Feehan has confirmed the year was 1992.

Update: Loads more in this post on the Songs To Learn And Sing website.

The Pool

Stink

Nowhere Left To Go

Babbling Brook

Cactus World News (1985 Session)

Apologies for the relative silence of late, the tape supply has dwindled somewhat so we are now reliant on excavations from the field. If you have any tapes in the attic why not dig them out and see what you can find?

As is now tradition on a bank holiday, Dan Hegarty recently dug out this Cactus World News session for Dave Fanning from the RTE archives. We had already posted one track from this session but are now reposting with the full session.

State Of Emergency (1985)

Worlds Apart (1985)

Pilots Of Beka (1985)

LMNO Pelican (Session)

From Cork, LMNO Pelican were left to right; Derry Callanan (bass), Fergus Keane (guitar), Patrick Garrett (vocals) and now sadly deceased, Brendan Butler (drums). They recorded this four track Fanning session at a guess in 1991, the final track ‘Appleskin Thin’ has yet to be located. Derry, Fergus and Pats are currently attracting attention on the national airwaves with ex Rulers Of The Planet men Niall Lynch and Dave Senior as Jonny Rep.

‘Toys’ (1991)

‘Ennehy Fish’ (1991)

‘Call Yossarian’ (1991)

Cyclefly (1997 Session)

Cyclefly were Declan O’Shea (vocals), Ciaran O’Shea (guitar), Nono Presta (guitar), Christian Montagne (bass) and Jean-Michel Cavallo (drums). Hailing from Cork, the band released two albums ‘Generation Sap’ (1999) and ‘Crave’ (2002). According to a comment this RTE 2FM Fanning session dates from 1997 – thanks Christian!

World Eater (1997)

Before I (1997)

Bubble Fly (1997)

The Hitchers (1997 Session)

The Hitchers June 1997 L-R Hoss Carnage, Niall Quinn, Andy Gallagher, Eric Fitzgerald

From Limerick, The Hitchers were Andy Gallagher (vocals, guitars), Niall Quinn (vocals, drums), Hoss Carnage (bass, vocals), Eric Fitzgerald (guitars, vocals). Past members include Eoin O’Kelly (vocals 1989-91), Brendan ‘Benny’ McCormack (guitar 1989-90), Frank Ryan (bass 2000-01), Donnacha Twoomey (guitar 1989). They recorded this Fanning session in 1997 and it was re-broadcast on the Dan Hegarty show in 2006 as part of his ‘Classic Session’ series. Niall Quinn is currently active with Theme Tune Boy who are about to release an album ‘Return of the Living Dead’ on 4-3-3 music on January 19th 2013. The album launch party takes place the same day in The Blind Pig, Thomas Street, Limerick.

Human Skull (1997)

You Can Only Love Someone (1997)

U Can Du (1997)

At The Seaside (1997)

The Jimmy Cake

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Formed from the ashes of Das Madmen in 2000, The Jimmy Cake recorded this Fanning session circa March 2002. When broadcasting the session Dave complained that ‘Limestone Tiger’ was the longest session track ever recorded. The current band lineup is Paul G. Smyth, Lisa Carey, John Dermody, Dara Higgins, Vincent Dermody, Thomas Parkes and Patrick Kelleher. The band are currently running a campaign to fund their fifth album ‘Popular Music’ so please show them your support. Thanks to Dara for digging out the session and the photos.

Death Fall Priest (2002)

Eye Of The Cowboy (2002)

Limestone Tiger (2002)

It’s A Tightrope

It’s A Tightrope were Kevin Jennings (guitar), Franck Jouneau (drums) and Jean-Pierre Fradet (bass). Maurice Czerniak (bass) was a founding member before emigrating to the U.S. This Bill Graham article from 1981 gives us some background on the band. It’s A Tightrope recorded a Fanning session for RTE on 17th August 1981. The tracks performed were:

1.Oh my darling
2.Murder on the TV
3.Soho 
4.So
5.Happy ever after

The band won a place in semi-finals of the 1982 Battle of the Bands which was held in London. They played a residency in the Parliament  Inn on Wednesdays and supported Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark at the National Stadium on 21st December 1981. If you have a copy of this or indeed any other unpublished sessions please get in touch.

Toasted Heretic (1991 Session)

From Galway Toasted Heretic were Declan Collins (guitars), Neil Farrell (programming, keyboards & backing vocals) and Julian Gough (vocals). Other members Breffni O’Rourke & Aonghus McMahon “couldnt afford the train fare”. Engineer was Paddy McBreen, Ian Wilson produced.

Another Day Another Riot

Satellite Dishes

Don’t Scuff My Tan

Galway and Los Angeles

Microdisney (1981 Session)

http://bubbyworld.com/microdisney/band.jpg

Formed in Cork before relocating to London, Microdisney were Cathal Coughlan (vocals), Sean O’Hagan (guitar), Mick Lynch (vocals), Jack Walsh (bass), Dave Galvin (drums). They recorded a Fanning session on 31st March 1981 featuring four tracks – ‘Cack Hand’, ‘Let’s Get Married’, ‘Mitchelstown’ and ‘Victory’. One track from this session and an interview have already appeared here and today we have two further tracks from the session. According to wikipedia the band played a one-off gig at Nick Allum’s 50th birthday party featuring Cathal Coughlan, Sean O’Hagan and Jon Fell (bass) with Fatima Mansions Nick Allum (drums) and High Llamas Rob Allum (drums/vocals).

Leper (1981)

Cack Hand (1981)

Power Of Dreams (1989 Session)

We have already featured the 1991 Power Of Dreams Fanning session but today we have a single track from the band’s 1989 session. Recorded on 24th April 1989 the session featured ‘Mother’s Eyes’, Best Friend’, ‘A Little Piece of God’, ‘Fine Time’ and ‘Angel’. If you have a recording of the remainder of this session we’d love to hear from you. Power Of Dreams reformed in 2010 for a series of shows to honour the 20th anniversary of the release of their debut album, ‘Immigrants, Emigrants And Me’. They released a best of album later that year, called ‘1989 – The Best Of Power Of Dreams‘. There are rumours the second album ‘2 Hell With Common Sense‘ may also receive the 20th anniversary treatment and meanwhile Craig Walker is busy with latest project Mineral, Keith with Being Cool Is Lonely and Ian with Sultans of Ping.

Power Of Dreams (C) Peter Anderson

‘A Little Piece of God’ (1989)

Rocky de Valera & The Rhythm Kings (1981 Session)

We originally featured Rocky de Valera and The Rhythm Kings eighteen months ago when we posted a track from the band’s 1981 Fanning session. Today we have two further tracks from that very session. The last we heard from Rocky or Ferdia MacAnna as you may know him a band was being assembled for at least one reunion gig. Further details remain elusive but as soon as we have them you’ll be the first to know, meanwhile why not check out Rocky De Valera and the Gravediggers over at u2theearlydayz.com.

’54-46′ (1981)

‘Ain’t Got No Home’ (1981)