Aig an taigh
Aig an taigh As the title suggests, Aig an taigh was recorded at home. During the pandemic, we had time to reflect and learn. My husband (Noel Eccles) and I had never spent so much time together nor collaborated in such limited circumstances. Voice and percussion might not be the first combination you think of, but we decided to sit down and figure
Aig an taigh As the title suggests, Aig an taigh was recorded at home. During the pandemic, we had time to reflect and learn. My husband (Noel Eccles) and I had never spent so much time together nor collaborated in such limited circumstances. Voice and percussion might not be the first combination you think of, but we decided to sit down and figure it out. Niamh O’Brien and I regularly tour Germany, but as tours were cancelled due to Covid-19, we decided to record a concert at home together to connect. Recording ourselves, we were out of our comfort zone: I felt a need to get back to my roots. We looked at songs familiar to me, some puirt-a-beul (dancing songs), and songs by Irish songwriters I know and love before adding new ones. I feel a real sense of gratitude for where we live in Co. Wexford; the landscape surrounding us is inspiring, so we let it take a hand in guiding us. (For the accompanying concert film footage, I even bought a drone and taught myself how to fly.)
The album is dedicated to Paddy Moloney.
Noel and I both worked extensively with Paddy. Initially, he was my boss, but latterly he was my friend. I learned so much from working with Paddy and The Chieftains. He was driven, passionate, full of mischief, dedicated, talented, and a natural collaborator; he introduced me to a world of music, musicians, singers, and dancers. I am so grateful, and Paddy, you are sorely missed.
Musicians: Alyth McCormack - vocals, harmonium Niamh O’Brien - harp, backing vocals Noel Eccles - marimba, vibraphone, clock chimes & all other percussion Eoghan O’Neill - bass