Staten Island Irish Fest

Just got back from the Staten Island Irish Fest. The oppressive heat was probably only one of several factors that contributed to the low attendance. One of two weekend highlights was that I heard a band called Shilelagh Law for the first time. They had two good songs that have the potential to be "great" songs. The verses in question were "Meet me at McClean" a tip of the hat to the Irish American experience in the Bronx, and "Christmas in NY" a sad but defiant ballad about the 911 attack on Manhattan. The second highlight was a nice chat with the irrepressable Seamus Kennedy who was also performing at the event. He is currently busy promoting his new book and then leaves for an Irish tour within the next week or two.

Chicago Gaelic Park

I felt the line up at Gaelic Park was a little light this year. Weather was good but attendence was off on Saturday and Monday. Strangely Sunday had the biggest crowd. I went into the North Stage tent on Sunday night to watch a bit of the Black 47 set. While the rebel rousing lads put on a sterling performance as usual, I was still able to walk half way up to the front, this was the first time I have ever been able to do that at Gaelic Park's North Stage during a prime slot performance. The Makem and Spain brothers were there as were Seven Nations. Interestingly Seven Nations played the same North Stage on Saturday night, slightly more people than Black 47 but again there was room in the tent which is unusual. Were you there, what were your thoughts?

Jacksonville Irish Fest.

Well the Jacksonville Irish Fest (JaxFest) took place in late April. They scored most of their points for having a top notch entertainment line up. Seven Nations kicked things off on Friday night with a concert featuring the Jacksonville Orchestra. On Saturday entertainment included Black 47, local lads Rathkeltair, The Tossers, LA's Young Dubliners and Florida's own Seven Nations. This intrepid reporter was impressed by a particular Screamin Orphan's song entitled "My Radio". The drummer from Screamin Orphans really is a talented girl who could go a long, long way. Were you there? What did you think? It seemed to me the attendence was down on last year, any thoughts? Was it not advertised enough?