New Road

North Kerry Piper Leonard Barry is releasing his second CD entitled New Road in September 2013. This new album explores Leonard's musical journey, reflecting both the music he has played and the musicians who have influenced his work. The recording features Traditional Music from North Kerry, Sliabh Luachra and West Limerick; areas where Leonard learnt much of his music but also includes music from other parts of Ireland. The music includes some pieces from Kerry and also features tracks learned playing since his teens throughout Ireland. The wide range of influences is reflected in the choice of tracks, which include the slow air O'Rahilly's Grave, composed for the poet Aogan O'Rahilly (1675-1729) who was born in the townland Sharanaveel in the Sliabh Luachra area. Another track is the Set Dance Planxty Davis which was composed by Thomas O'Connelan, also known as Killicrankie it was composed to honour the Battle of Killiecrankie which took place on July 27th 1689 in Co. Sligo. Of the reels, slides and jigs there is a selection learned from great Kerry musicians such as Johnny Leary, Julia Clifford, together with tracks learned from musicians participating on the CD. There is a set of hornpipes from Co. Clare gained from the fiddle playing of the late Junior Crehan, as well as a tune composed by Belfast flute player Hammy Hamilton who now resides in Cuil Aodha Co. Cork. The combination of solo, duets and ensemble playing highlights the complexity of the uilleann pipes. Some of Ireland's best musicians are involved including John Carty (banjo), Rick Epping (harmonica and concertina), Seamie O'Dowd (guitar), Cathy Jordan (bodhran), Conor Byrne (flute), Andy Morrow (fiddle), Tony Byrne (guitar), Cyril O'Donoghue (bouzouki) and Tony O'Connell (concertina). As one can see Leonard draws on the diverse individual and regional styles of the guest artists and surprises the listener with instrument combinations that are rarely heard together - like harmonica and pipes. As a collection the music draws from the Traditional sources, using an innovative and energetic approach whilst staying true to their roots. Leonard's first CD entitled Mind the Pipes was released in 2002 to critical acclaim, being mentioned amongst the top CDs in The Irish Times (2002). Leonard has recorded and performed with many leading artists including Luka Bloom, John Martyn, and John Spillane amongst many others. Leonard has performed at various festivals internationally including the Tonder Folk Festival (Denmark), Hong Kong Folk Festival, and the Shetland Folk Festival. Leonard would like to acknowledge the financial support of the Arts Council of Ireland without whose support this project would not be possible.