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Wednesday, July 18, 2007 

One of the worst things about living in Dublin is that you become very lazy when it comes to finding new music. In my defence, it’s possible to go into town almost any night of the week and find a decent gig without very much effort at all. Recently though, as a result of writing this blog, I have decided to spread my musical wings in an attempt to unearth some musical treasures from the rest of the country.

For the first in this "Beyond the Pale" series of blogs, I’m going to start with Westmeath, a county, according to Wikipedia at least, famous for cattle, lakes, pewter and élan. Famous Westmeath people include Michael O’Leary and the man with the largest collection of female underwear in Ireland, Joe Dolan.

However, you’ll be glad to know that Westmeath has much more to offer Irish music than dodgy cover versions of Blur songs. My Fallen Empire are a seven-piece band capable of sounding like your favourite song and yet nothing you’ve ever heard before. I had the pleasure of supporting My Fallen Empire in a previous life and the sheer verve that Eddie Keenan and co. put into their live performances is something to behold. Currently writing and recording for their debut album, My Fallen Empire have almost limitless potential. Hopefully, 2007 will see that potential come to fruition.

Another of Westmeath’s rising stars is Peter Doran, described to me by one music insider as "the greatest songwriter Ireland has ever produced!" While I’m not quite in agreement as yet, there is a certain magical quality about Doran’s music that sets him apart from every other guy with a guitar and a tune. Of course, as with all the best singer-songwriters, Doran benefits from the band he surrounds himself with; Gerard Toal (Cello) and Johnny Owens (Violin) deserving particular credit. That being said it is Doran himself who writes the songs and his debut album "Wood" showcases his aptitude in this regards with the aforementioned "Wood" and "Treasure Chest" being the two best examples of his undoubted talents.

Below is a live version of "Wood" for your enjoyment.

Who am I missing?  Does Westmeath have any more musicians/bands I should know about? If you know of any, please spread the word by commenting below.

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