This new recording of traditional Irish music presents Irish cultural heritage in a fresh and creative context while remaining steadfastly loyal to the music, song and dance traditions of past generations. Caroline Keane and Tom Delany have been performing together for a number of years and are both founding members of the powerful quartet FourWinds. Renowned for their unmistakably energetic playing which transports the listener in a whirlwind of musical euphoria, this album stands as the latest testament to their musical virtuosity.
Having spent the last number of years living in communities where traditional music is at the heart of daily life, this album reflects the beautiful richness of Clare, Limerick and West Kerry Music.
“We wanted to illustrate the last four years of music together; our friends, our travels and our homes are all intrinsic to this recording project”, says Caroline.
Having grown up in Limerick, Caroline has a very fond affinity with the music of her own home county. Living on the Dingle Peninsula for the last number of years, the local music has also put an influential stamp on her unique style of concertina playing. Tom’s music is heavily influenced by the “travelling style of piping” and his dynamic playing echoes the music of North Clare and Ennis where he moved after completing his studies.
“We both studied at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, at the University of Limerick. We started playing music there and we were both very attracted to those different styles, it’s great to blend and interweave our influences.”
Performing with the band FourWinds has seen Tom and Caroline entertain audiences worldwide; including Dublin Irish Festival, USA, Goderich Celtic Roots, Canada and Woodford Folk Festival, Australia (attended by over 125.000 people every year).
For this duet album they focus on melodies and tunes that relate to home. “We picked tunes which we learned from our friends and from our musical heroes.” The repertoire chosen encompasses traditional tunes and also some more recent compositions by pillars of the tradition such as Richie Dwyer, Paddy
Keenan and Maurice Lennon. The record also features an exciting selection of Tom and Caroline’s own melodies.
This new release features an incredible cast of guest musicians such as Donogh Hennessy, Cyril O’Donoghue, Robbie Walsh, Elaine Hogan, Brian O’Loughlin and Laura Kerr. “It was important to us to have some of our friends on this recording, they are all true masters of their instruments as well as incredibly nice people”, laughs Caroline.
Never Say Goodbye, Say Good Luck, captures the music of two young master musicians in their prime; embracing culture, music, friendship and life.
“This duo combines the effortless exuberance of youth with the precision and depth of mature performers. The album is a delight from start to finish. Very danceable tunes, reflecting the bubbly and engaging personalities of Caroline and Tom.” – Gerry O’Connor
Artists’ website: https://www.facebook.com/KeaneDelanyMusic/
The album launch gig – well, a taste of it:
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