When I look back over my blogs since the new website was launched, most of them seem to be somewhat retrospective, and the photo I'm including here is no exception ! Somebody once told me that meeting your heroes could be a dangerous thing, but I'd have to say I have found that to be untrue. Certainly, in the case of Bill Monroe, Del McCoury, Ricky Skaggs, Sam Bush, to drop but a few names, my experience has been the direct opposite. That was also the case when I met Larry Sparks backstage at the recent Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Festival in Kentucky. Larry was very willing to talk, and as you can see, he was also delighted to pose for a photo with yous truly.
This coming Saturday, myself and Clem and Dick make the welcome journey to Islandbridge in Dublin to play at the Commercial Rowing Club. I remember many fine gigs at this venue back in the 60s when they were competing with the Garda Rowing Club, just up the River from there. One such gig that left a lasting impression on me was hearing Andy Irvine do a solo show in which he performed a fine repertoire of Old Timey Country songs by the likes of Burnette and Rutherford, Charlie Poole, Grayson and Whitter and Woody Guthrie. You will be able to judge just how deep that impression on me was if you can come along on Saturday night. Doors 8.30pm and show at 9.30pm. Best, Niall.
