Nu Roots to Bridgwater

Eleanor McEvoy
& The Tim Edey Band
Bar 27
Bridgwater
10 February

A Sunday lunchtime date with Eleanor McEvoy. prior to her forthcoming Australian tour.
A very light a spacious bar, with plenty of tables, easy chairs and stools, greeted us when we arrived. These were quickly filled as other music lovers came in willing to forgo their Sunday roast. in exchange for Sarnie's' and a pint or two, And good Folk and roots music. The Show promoted locally by Midnight Mango is part of Nu-Routes.
A network of folk music promoters dedicated to bring together outstanding musicians.

We were warmed up gently for the first 40 minutes, with some superb flamenco guitar work by Terence Vaughn. Very relaxing for a Sunday afternoon.



After a short break, the 4 musicians were invited on stage. Eleanor took centre stage and after the customary "How you all doing"
They opened up with the Tim Edey composition 'Radio 2 comes to Kerry' A lively opening number to introduce us to the themselves & their instruments.

Fiddle, Harmonica, Guitar & Cajon Drum.

We then had the infamous reel, ( the on in 'E') Wrong So Wrong, and
a lovely piece, called Loraine's Dream. Which had everybody moved.
Before Eleanor left the stage.

We were taken on a world tour courtesy of 'The Odyssey' taken from the excellent album 'Farrago'

Brendan Power, then took centre stage giving us a couple of bluesy numbers. One dedicated to Eleanor. Saying It's not only women who have hearts. Two more reels then from Tim Edey on accordion and Lucy Randall on Bodhran. before Brendan joined for last one before another interval.

'Real Blues Reel'



After a short break. Eleanor returned on her own to give us 'I'll be Willing' and 'Ave Maria'

And then re; reference A "plastic soup" of waste floating in the Pacific Ocean is growing at an alarming rate and now covers an area twice the size of the continental United States.



We were treated to a brilliant cover (with an extra verse penned by Eleanor) of Barry McGuire's

'The Eve of Destruction'



Tim, Lucy, & Brendan then rejoined to perform 'To Sweep Away A Fool' and a new one, from the next and 7th Album. 'Old New Borrowed and Blue' wittily penned by the brilliant Dave Rotheray.
Finishing off with Dylan's 'I'll be your baby tonight'

And for the encore after excellent reception. from an enthusiastic and knowledgeable audience. They then pulled out the stops with
'Trad 'N' Blues'



A couple of friends said to me after the Brewhouse gig last May. How they would of preferred her with a band. Well folks this was it.
Four brilliant musicians in their own right. (we had touches of magic from them all individually) came together. And it married perfectly.



What a way to spend your Sunday afternoon. (I'm usually watching the football) The Promotion of this event, & future presentations, tell me that I'll be spending more time at Bar 27. and finding -
Nu routes to Bridgwater.


The Musicians

Eleanor McEvoy - Vocals, Fiddle & Electric Guitar
Tim Edey - Acoustic/Bass Guitar & Accordion
Brendan Power - Vocals, & Harmonica
Lucy Randall - Bodhran, Cajon, & Tambourine

Links to this post;

Eleanor McEvoy
Eleanor on MySpace
Tim Edey
Midnight Mango

Eleanor on the Balcony

'Eleanor McEvoy'

THE BTV MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS 2007

Ms. McEvoy came to Taunton

After years of badgering her, as regular readers will know, I've always had to travel to see this talented lass. Eleanor McEvoy finally played in my home town on 17 May, ably supported by Amy Newton. They were playing at the Brewhouse Theatre as part of the Spring Folk series.

It was very pleasing to see the theatre almost full (capacity 350) Which suprised me. The Brewhouse doesn't seem to do very much in the way of advertising – ‘though I had helped by dragging 23 friends and family along - some of them kicking and screaming! We all met up outside on a lovely spring evening, then made our way in to the auditorium for a 7:45 start.

Amy Newton, looking like a North Devon surfer girl, was on first. A waif of a girl with a soft, but gutsy voice and crisp guitar playing, she performed songs from her two Albums 'Lost for words' and 'Which Hand', in a half hour set. Wonderful jaunty songs with great titles - especially 'Dan', her closing number, which created much merriment as we had a 'Dan' in our party.

'Lost for Words' - she wasn't! 'Didn't like you anyway' - We did!

Those of you lucky enough to have Glastonbury tickets, check'er out – Enjoy.

By way of a change now, having reviewed Eleanor on several occasions, always with indulgent praise, I thought it only right to hand the review over to someone who hadn't seen/heard of her before ...

So over to you Pete ...

Walking in from stage right to somewhat muted applause (perhaps, like me, some of us thought she was a roadie! - sorry), she came to the mike saying "Hi, I'm Eleanor McEvoy. Please give me a warm welcome!" - we did of course.

Surrounded by a circle of instruments, she strapped on a bass guitar and with no introductions launched straight into the set with 3 numbers - one being Nick Lowe's 'Failed Christians'. It's somewhat unusual to see the Bass alone used as vocal accompaniment,
but it worked extremely well.
To close a short first set, prior to the interval, six stringed electric guitar replaced the four string bass.
Consuming a couple of very quick beers and with Tim still 'avin a fag, the bell goes, signalling end of interval.

Returning to our seats, Eleanor soon re-enters and, continuing to demonstrate her versatility, plays the opening number on mandolin. Lovely refreshing sound - another one or two on this wonderful instrument wouldn't have been amiss.
Ms McEvoy next switched to acoustic guitar, an instrument she's obviously very comfortable with, as she manages one song using it as a percussion instrument! She played several numbers from her latest Album 'Out There' and included in this section was Frankie Miller's 'Darlin''. She made an observation about the said artist, but unfortunately it fell mostly on deaf ears -

I reck'n per'aps we're not quite up-with- the-times down 'ere in Zummerzet!
Two more songs I must mention are 'Non-Smoking Single Female’ and a cover of 'Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)' as done by the late-greats Marvin Gaye and Robert Palmer, a brilliant song on a topic close to my heart.

Eleanor has undoubted musical ability as a solo performer, although to me, several songs sounded like they were building up to the point where the rest of the band joins in! - I reckon that'd be great - just an idea!
Completing the tour round the circle of instruments, we then had some songs on fiddle - I loved her use of the bow like a drumstick on the strings for 'Wrong So Wrong'.

The evening was brought to a lively end with her jaunting up the auditorium steps, still playing the fiddle - an excellent conclusion to an enjoyable gig.

Pete Morley

That was a great review.

For another glowing tribute go to the Somerset County Gazette

Bewley's Cafe. The cream at the top

If you haven't guessed already. I can't get enough of Eleanor McEvoy. So when I found out that I had an extra day off this week. I was straight on the Ryan Air site, booked a hotel (please I hope it's OK) Then waited for the day to arrive.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eleanor McEvoy,
Bewley's Cafe Theatre,
Dublin,
1st March 2007.

I was up early leaving the house in the capable hands of Plasterers. I headed to Bristol Airport, via Temple Meads.
Travelling light, and with my on-line boarding pass in hand, I sailed (or should that be flew) through. Everything on time. (even the train) I was in Dublin City centre in no time.

And I can honestly say that the Hotel Issac in Store St. was excellent. Bit of a shabby area, the city Dart ran just outside my window.
But the Staff there, the Cleanliness, and Character of the place, made it a good choice. And it's ideally situated between O'Connell Street and tonight's venue.
An afternoon of Guinness tasting then ensued. (one is never enough) washed down with a bowl of Irish Stew. I felt relaxed, as I waited for the evening with eager anticipation.

The Venue tonight, situated in Dublin's Main Shopping thoroughfare, Grafton Street. Bewley's Cafe. This “Oriental” coffee house was first opened in 1927 and has become part of the fabric of the capital city’s cultural and political history, famed as a meeting place for poets, writers and alike. With a cafe/ bistro downstairs & a Restaurant on the first floor and on the 2nd floor was the Bewley's Cafe Theatre
I bought another pint of the "Black Stuff" and went upstairs early, as I needed a ticket. I was met by the promoter/sound engineer for the night. I had e-mailed Keiron Black prior to traveling, so when I said who I was, and where I'd come from. He invited me in early. In to a very intimate and cosy room, with a dozen candle lit tables, and maximum capacity of 50.

With the support act was just finishing his sound check.
Eleanor passed through. She was naturally surprised to see me.
We had a quick chat about her forth coming Australia tour and of course her visit to Taunton in May (get your ticket here)
After she'd gone, I had to return down stairs for a refill. As a drinker, I did find a couple of drawbacks of the venue. No.1. The Guinness pump is on the 1st floor, secondly the loo is in the basement, and of course NO SMOKING. outside for us social pariahs. But I guess that's something I'll have to get use to, when England's smoking ban comes in to effect on July 1st.

With the room two thirds full. Robin James Hurt. The support act sauntered to the stage at 8:40. Singing songs reflecting his Scottish Homeland. With the cappo fixed permanently down the neck of the Guitar. His finger work was superb. along with clever lyrics. he had the audience spell bound.
Click the link and listen to 'Spiders Legs' and Hexamshire Lass.
A real joy, and a really nice fellow to boot. I could of listened to Robin all night.
His six songs tonight.

1. All The Way Down
2. Dowie Dens of Yarrow
3. Bogey's Bonnie Belle
4. O' Raging Fortune
5. Spiders Legs
6. Hexamshire lass
(dedicated to former Hexhamshire lad Pete Doherty)

But of course I was really only here for the main act.
So after a trip once more into the bowls of the building.
I was ready for Eleanor McEvoy.

We were treated to twenty-one songs of of flawless quality.
(with a small break mid way) As usual most of the numbers were there from 'Out There' and 'Early Hours.' The recent albums.
The ease at which she switches between the instruments on the small stage, is amazing. Tonight, we had a Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Mandolin, and Fiddle.
There were a couple of surprises tonight. Half way through the first set she launched in to 'I'm happy just to dance with you'
a Lennon/McCartney number which fitted in perfectly within the set.

At the start of the second set Eleanor did mention about this chap who follows her, and had been to many gigs in England. And he's here tonight. So yours truly had to take a bow.

Back to the music. Eleanor has also recently been doing other covers, namely Joni Mitchell's 'Cary' and Bob Dylan's 'I'll be your baby tonight' For these two numbers announced that with the small audience it would be better if I was down with you. So bringing her Guitar down, she sat next to me in the middle of the room. It was spine tingly perfect. We all joined in with "Baby Tonight"
It was music as it should be.
Back on stage we had couple of Reels on fiddle to finish. Leaving the stage to gushing praise and applause from the small, but appreciative audience.

After wishing her Bon Voyage. She's off to Australia on Sunday.
(If you're reading this in the Antipodes, you're in for a treat and
Upcoming Shows can be found at the MySpace site) I made made my way back to the Hotel, in the knowledge that her next gig on the British Isles will be in my home town.
A wonderful night. treated to two fine artist. in an excellent venue.
My house was plastered, I was plastered, but deliriously happy.

The Set List

Little Look
Easy in Love
Fields of Dublin 4
Quote Unquote
Mercy Mercy Me
I’m Happy Just To Dance With You
Territory of Poets
I'll be Willing
The Way You Wear Your Troubles
********************
Suffer So Well
Days Roll By
Whisper a Prayer to the Moon
Did You Tell Him
Non Smoking Single Female
Only A Woman’s Heart
Isn't it a Little Late
Cary
I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight
Wrong So Wrong
Paddy Cathy's Reel
plus one other Reel that
even Eleanor forgot the title
So we'll just call it a Reel in 'D'

Oh What A Week That Was

Monday 8th Jan.

The man from the Brewhouse Theatre, Taunton, delivered the brochure for the forthcoming Spring season at my local Arts Centre. Imagine my delight when I found out the talented Irish Singer-songwriter Eleanor McEvoy was to play ( at long last) in my home town in May.

Wednesday 10th Jan.
Bought tickets

Thursday 11th Jan.

Thought it only right to thank her in person. So it’s off to Swindon to see Eleanor, where she was supporting Homespun, at the start of their UK tour.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Eleanor McEvoy & Homespun
The 12 Bar,
Swindon
11 Jan. 2007


I arrived in Swindon mid afternoon on a extremely windy day.
And as previous readers will know that on my travels I always seem to find ropey Hotels to stay in. I failed miserably this time, as I stayed in a very comfortable, though lacking in character. Holiday Inn.

I found the venue, looking like, and indeed was, an old Irish Ale House. A comfortable Bar at the front with the Hall set behind.
Not for the first time I arrive early. Just myself and the genial barman for a good half hour.
As arranged, I met the much traveled Martin & Sue Hutton, who had come down from Essex. (they travel all over for gigs)
We had time for a couple of beers, while we waited for the room to open.
As we waited for the first act there were probably only 35-40 people in. though all where friendly. I met Julia and Mum along with Chris who came in later. It was like the start of a new season , friends meeting up again after the Hols.
Eleanor spotted us just before going on, expressing her delight in seeing us there. (She’s no longer shocked at the distances we travel)
And I was able to express my delight when talking to her about the up and coming Taunton gig.

Eleanor came on, looking resplendent in a bluish flowery jacket with golden thread embroidery. I’m no fashion guru, see for yourself.

The set consisted of 9 songs all bar one on acoustic guitar. the last number on mandolin.
A long drawn out note to try and get the audience attention introduced the first number “I’ll be willing”
Then it was straight into the Bluesy number “The way you wear your troubles”
It was at this point that I looked round to see Dave Rotheray watching from the Bar and also A lot more people had come in. In fact it had become quite busy. ( comfortably packed).
The Celtic Tiger song was next “Fields of Dublin 4” So called as

Dublin 4 is a very affluent area of said city. Much laughter when she asked if Swindon had a similar postcode area.

I don’t know what the performers think. I know they play and get paid. There was quite a lot of chatter from the audience, and when your there to listen it can be a little off putting.
The remainder of the set was over fairly quickly. I think due to the fact no one was listening there was not much talk between numbers.

It was however good to see Eleanor again. She puts a lot of emotion into her songs, and with her Irish accent , the stories within her songs are beautifully told. Case in point the stripped down version of Marvin Gayes “ Mercy, Mercy Me” A song about the Planet and what we’re doing to it.
A quick thanks, and CD’s are for sale at £15 and the set was done.

A brief break. Time to get a refill. and It was time for Homespun.
The stage cluttered with nick-knacks, (standard lamps, dumb waiters, and nodding dogs)

As the band entered the stage. Something was amiss, Clare Mactaggart, was missing. Another lass, Ros Stephen was in her place. A Bittersweet Violinist. And at very short notice she fitted in well.

I found out later that Clare was about to give birth. So Best Wishes Girl. Good luck.

I love the informality of Homespun sets, and this was day one of a 15 day tour. All the numbers for the band, are penned by
Dave Rotheray. And each have a small tale on how they came about.
The second number (a new one) “My Sorrows learned to swim” must of had a certain Paul Heaton in mind. Drowning his sorrows.

Another new one was “ Short Story“ did indeed have a short story to tell. Dave would make a good dead-pan comedian, especially when, at Eleanor's expense, quipped the price of their Cd's there were only a fiver each. Buy one of hers, and three of ours.

Two other new songs were on the list,. however one “Footsteps” was aborted after a few bars, when they for got how it went. I’m sure it’s a good tune - but not tonight.There was one other cock-up.
On “Unfortunately Young” The first song they ever did as a band, Alan Jones completely missed his Guitar solo. But like true professionals. they re-did it. So "Jonesy could have his bit in the spotlight

Special mentions should go to
Melvin Duffy on Pedal Steel Guitar, who gives this band it’s unique sound, and this is beautifully complimented with Gary Hammond's soft style on Percussion. And of course Sam Brown is just perfect. An absolute joy.




All the songs , bar the four new ones come from their first 2 Albums.
A third is on it’s way in March/April
And I am looking forward to having it in my collection. Though I might well Download it, then it could possibly get in the charts.
The set finished with the usual encore. Lindisfarne’s
"We shall Swing together” a great sing along song to finish the night .
(and not a homage to Saddam)


The set might of finished , but the evening was not.
I had another chat with Eleanor re her forth coming Australian tour, and of course the Taunton gig
17 May at the Brewhouse Theatre. tickets on sale now.

I then did my bit as roadie. Helping the band load the van, before coiffing a few more ales.

But Guys I wont give up the day job. as long as you don’t give up yours. An exceptionally Good night, with Good Friends, Good Ale and Great Music.

Do visit their MySpace sites Eleanor McEvoy & Homespun
Also Bittersweet Which I believe is one of Ros Stephen's other projects.

7 Nights in October

A few days ago, Whilst checking my E-Mail as usual, I found that fellow fans of Eleanor McEvoy, Martin & Sue Hutton ( who I met in Wolverhampton) had posted an account of their trip round Britain, to the followers of Eleanor McEvoy. With their kind permission, I am reproducing it here. It just goes to show what fans will do in the quest for seven pleasant evenings, great music, and friendship.

We're back home, and recovering from a holiday of a lifetime.

We can hardly believe that eight days seemed to pass so quickly especially when you consider all that we packed in. Yes, if you haven't guessed by now, we are the folks Eleanor talked about in her recent pod cast. The planning started some time ago when we decided that the joy of seeing Eleanor and the destinations on her UK leg of her tour had us hooked.

The adventure really started on Thursday 5th setting off from deepest darkest Essex and driving the 213 miles to Chester. Despite the rain we managed an open top bus tour of Chester and had the full devoted attention of the tour guide as we were the only one's on tour. Alexander's in Chester was an excellent location and a very well attended evening. We were both worried and amused when in the second half she declared that after a conversation with the promoter in Arran no tickets had been sold. Of course we knew that at least two had been sold or at least that's what we hoped as the arrangement was to collect at the venue.
We could hardly resist at the end of a superb performance letting her know that we too were Arran bound. Much to Eleanor's amazement.

The journey to Arran was long and took most of the day on Friday, but we managed to get there in time for the 15:00 ferry. On arrival we had some more concerns, a notice that ferries may be delayed or cancelled due to bad weather greeted us. Something that wasn't accommodated in our tight schedule! Fortunately the ferry was prompt and we just hoped that the 'Tour Bus' had made it too. If we were thinking of a song to sum up Arran on Friday it was definitely
'The Rain Falls'. Torrential rain fell most of the afternoon and drenched us on our way to eat at a local restaurant.

The McAlpine hotel, venue for the concert and our room for the night was just yards from the ferry terminal. The highlight of the hotel was the hospitality and the enthusiasm of Tam the hotel manager and promoter for the evening. Tam had an incredible sense of humour and this was evident in the sign displayed at reception -
'Any unattended children will be sold as slaves'
The audience was small but not exactly just the two of us, about 30 people in an airy ballroom in the hotel with a magnificent mirror.

We managed to fight through the crowds and get a table in the centre at the front and our quest for the day was rewarded with a fantastic performance including our request from the Chester Set of
'To Sweep Away A Fool'.
The audience were very appreciative and it was pleasure to have no background distractions of a bar in the same room, which usually brings with it washing glasses and stocking up.

Saturday morning the sun shone on Arran revealing the true beauty of the Island and encouraged us to take a short walk along the coastal path. But no time for resting when you're OUT THERE on tour!

We boarded the ferry and bid farewell to Arran. Next stop Coatbridge.
A much shorter journey once we had reached the main land but complicated by a SatNav failure. Resorting to a manual option of a map book and road signs we successfully reached the Georgian Hotel. Once again venue and our bed for the night.
We had expected to eat in the bar before taking our seats but had taken no account of Scotland playing France at football and a 5pm kick-off didn't make eating in the bar a peaceful choice.
So we set off to see what Coatbridge (small suburb of Glasgow) could offer and the best we could find was a kebab supper (i.e. with chips). We guessed that France had scored with the roars and cheers from the bar, but the match ended 1-0 to Scotland.

The venue for the concert was a large function room at the side of the hotel with a bar. The audience were the largest and the noisiest of the tour and the promoter even had to ask people to be quite during the first support act. (well done that man)
As Eleanor took the stage they were far quieter. She was brave enough to sing 'C'est bien' in the second set, but it was well received particularly as the Scots had won.

The journey was getting shorter each day. Sunday 8th October and Edinburgh was our destination. Just a 40 minute drive and no boats! We had decided that Sunday required some luxury for us and we checked into the Sheraton Spa and spent most of the afternoon indulging in pure relaxation in the Spa.
After dinner in the hotel we walked the rain drenched street of the Holyrood district and after asking directions from a couple of students we found the Cabaret Voltaire club. A small venue with no windows, which appeared to beset in the vaults of a tall granite building. The audience were quiet and very appreciative and some had travelled far. A man buying CDs after the concert had travelled down especially from Aberdeen (about a 4 hour drive) and was quite a recent follower. In fact he had heard the Out There CD in a music shop and was immediately enthralled.

Our own discovery of Eleanor had been while she was supporting the Homespun tour in 2005, and we were delighted to hear an acoustic version of 'Effortless Cool'. We were also surprised to hear her sing

'I Hear You Breathing In' from Yola, which we hadn't heard live before.

Monday 9th October and heading back to England. We had more travelling today to get down to Doncaster and the A1 provided us with a scenic journey through the borders. Unfortunately not both of us could attend the concert in Doncaster as an Open University exam needed Sue to be in London. We had told Eleanor in Edinburgh, so she wasn't too surprised when Martin attended with another woman - his sister who lives near Doncaster. She had a wonderful evening and got her copy of 'Out There' signed for her birthday.
Recognised a few people from the Wath-Upon-Dearne festival in April and Ruth joined Eleanor on stage for a duet of 'Only a Woman's Heart'.

The Hull venue was the smallest. The New Adelphi Club is situated in a residential area of Hull quite close to Pearson Park. The crowd was few in number (about 35), but they were appreciative and there was plenty of banter, particularly when Eleanor asked if an Irish woman with a van would be required to pay a parking ticket. We were rewarded for our request in Arran and Eleanor finally played an excellent version of 'Trapped Inside' -a delight!
Perhaps in recognition of the local connections with Homespun she also played a Homespun number, 'You Are Here'. We had hoped that Dave Rotheray would make an appearance but unfortunately, he wasn't in town.

Thursday 12th October. And we had finally reached the last destination of the tour (for us anyway) in Wolverhampton. We thought it only right that just before the concert, at The Little Civic, that we presented Eleanor with a token of our appreciation.
And the most appropriate gift was a 'Set List bag'.
The bag contained a bottle of Beaujolais Wine, Jameson Whisky, Champagne, Coffee, Milk and of course Bread. In return she played
'Its mine', 'My Own Sweet Bed Tonight' and 'Biochemistry'.

We were also thrilled to hear 'Memphis Tennessee'

and 'Stray Thoughts' for the first time on this tour.

We never tired of seeing Eleanor play for 7 nights and there were always changes to the set list. In total we must have heard about 40 different songs with regular appearances of 'Fields of Dublin 4',

'Suffer So Well', and her latest single 'Non Smoking Single Female'.
It was all the fun we had expected it to be.

And of course the finale was to arrive home, and find that we had even got a mention on Eleanor's latest Pod cast.
What a holiday!

Sounds absolutely Great.

So like Martin & Sue and my self you'd like to become a follower, go to the Eleanor McEvoy site and join.
You can also hear some of her music and the mentioned pod cast on her MySpace site before you go and pester your local record shop.

And of course if you'd like to join us and see her 'Live'.She will supporting Homespun on some of their gigs in January 2007 in the UK.

Out There, One Night In October

Eleanor McEvoy,

The Little Civic,

Wolverhampton.

12 October 2006

Having arrived early in Wolverhampton. I checked into my so called Hotel. Why I always seem to choose grotty dives to stay, I don't suffer so well. It was, however, central and within easy reach of the Railway and The Little Civic. Which I found easily.

And where tonight I will be willing to see Eleanor McEvoy.

Days have rolled by, One year since I saw this Irish song'stress, and with her new album just released ( see Review) Call it biochemistry, but I knew I had to be there.

I made my way to the venue an hour prior to the time stated on my ticket of 7.30. I stepped inside to a very sparse bar/ booking hall. but when I made my way upstairs to where Eleanor was finishing her sound check, I walked in to a room that had the feel of a well used music venue. Stage at the front, with tables and chairs in close proximity. A dimly lit chandelier overhead and small bar at the back. But what gave this venue it's feel was all the posters of bands past and present, bringing back memories in some, and who? in others.

Inside I met fellow followers Martin and Sue, who I knew from previous Gigs, along with Clare, who recognised me from another. Prior to the start and we positioned ourselves at the front.

As I have read in a previous review of this tour. All her instruments were placed in various parts of the stage. Eleanor bounded on to it at 8.50 picked up her Acoustic Guitar, and after a blast of feedback, and, a request for the background music to be switched off,

( at least we could tell it was live) The Evening commenced.

After her second number. "It's Mine", one I hadn't heard live in a while, Eleanor stopped and said "I must show you this" and she produced a gift bag from behind her on stage.

It was a present from Martin and Sue.

They had been to every gig on this tour and had given her this gift containing Items contained in her lyrics. First out of the bag was a bottle of Beaujolais Wine, mentioned in the last song, then a bottle of Jameson's, and a bottle of Champagne. together with some bread and tea. Eleanor gave references to each item as the evening progressed.

And progress it did with her moving seamlessly from number to number, instrument to instrument. There was one moment when she had to pause to re-tune. She said we were so kind, to which one wag shouted, "Get on with it" which brought a smile to everyone there.

One thing this lass doesn't do is stop. Even during the break she was selling her albums at the back. Signing, and chatting to us all. which wasn't difficult as there were only 30-35 people here, (poor promoting) but it had a wonderful intimacy about it.

Just a shame the record company wouldn't let her sell the new album, but there was plenty from the back catalogue, and a lots were sold.

The evening, like most of her sets, is over too soon, finishing tonight with a Bob Dylan song. No Encore tonight...shame. But It was one of my most enjoyable in her company. Her versatility on so many different instruments, the lyrics and the stories. So quote unquote.

I Hope it ' isn't too late' before I see her again.

I can only apologise for the blatant use of song titles in the making

of this review. Oh and one last thing.

If ever you're needing accommodation in the Wolverhampton area, Don't stay at the Fox Hotel.

That was the only negative thing during my stay.

The Little Civic Set List.

PART ONE

Acoustic Guitar

1. I’ll Be Willing
2. It's Mine
3. Non Smoking Single Female
4. Quote I Love You Unquote
5. Memphis Tennessee

Bass Guitar

6. Little Look

Electric Guitar

7. Mercy Mercy Me
8. My Own Sweet Bed Tonight
9. Territory Of Poets
10. The Way You Wear Your Troubles

PART TWO

Acoustic Guitar

11. Fields Of Dublin 4
12. Did You Tell Him
13. Biochemistry


A cappella

14. Stray Thoughts

Mandolin

15. Suffer So Well

Fiddle

16. Driving Home From Butlers
17 Paddy Cathy's Reel
18 Wrong So Wrong

Acoustic Guitar

19 Isn’t It A Little Late
20 Only A Woman’s Heart
21 I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight

Chester 5 October Review By Graham Ashmore

Eleanor on MySpace

My Eleanor Gigs ( a potted history)

With apology's to Graham (see THE SHED) Ashmore. I thought I'd also list the gigs I've seen Ireland's finest singer song writer Eleanor McEvoy

As I mentioned in a previous blog I first stumbled upon Eleanor in 1994 at my first Glastonbury festival it was June 26th @ 4:30 on a hot Sunday afternoon. It was the start of the Britpop era. I'd just been moshing at the NME Stage watching Tiny Monroe, & Echobelly (with the luscious Sonya Aurora Madan) and had time to kill before the late, great, Johnny Cash performed on the Pyramid Stage.
So there I was taking a break from the sun, when this Lass came on stage with her band. Two things I can remember are that Mike Scott quested with her and the catchy lines from one of her songs

"All I need is just a piece of your time And a bottle of Beaujolais wine"

And that was that.

I did buy the album a couple of weeks later, but I had no idea I was to see or hear of her again.

Now fast forward to 2003. In the intervening years I got myself a PC, got on line absentmindedly typed Eleanor's name into Google, joined the Followers list, and purchased "Snapshots, and "What's following me" Through the site I saw that she was playing down my neck of the woods. (Well 35 miles south) in Topsham, Devon. A quaint village on the outskirts of Exeter. I knew it was easy to get there but how about getting home, as a non-driver it ain't easy. But the gig is in a Hotel. Problem solved. The gig on Saturday February 15th was in the Malt House of the Globe Hotel. This was the "Yola" tour with Brian Connor on keyboards. Eleanor and Brian had a certain chemistry that made the evening. Got chatting to them both in the Hotel bar afterwards.and over breakfast.

I think you could say I was hooked.

The following week it was the Hi-Fi show at the Marriott Hotel in Bristol. With Friends Rob & Amy Howlett. Eleanor was there to pick up the record of the year for Yola, and played 2 x 25 minute slots. Was able to purchase Yola on Vinyl, and get it signed. Eleanor remembered me. Think I'm becoming a Groupie. Her word not mine
The next time was with Cousin James and his girlfriend Sophie at the Half Moon Pub in Putney, London. On St Patrick's Night 2004. A Fantastic Night with Good company, plenty of Guinness and great music supplied by Eleanor and Brian. Good chin-wag with both afterwards. Stayed with James that night in Stevenage. An extremely late night. Especially as I was at work in Taunton the next day.

June 2004 The Arc. Trowbridge, Wiltshire an Art Centre Theatre was the next venue as part of the Village Pump Festival. My mate Jon Doel came up with me. No Brian at this gig. Just Eleanor, Guitar and Fiddle. Great acoustics but not the greatest atmosphere a bit staid. You felt if you tapped your feet you'd be frowned upon. But at least I've introduced another person to her music.

Now the sixth encounter on 25 January 2005 was one of the best. A triple bill with Eleanor on 2nd with Homespun headlining. Arrived in Worcester and found my cheap B&B. Then ticket in hand headed in to town. As it was Burns Night I went to the local pub to have Haggis, Neeps & Tatties.

Blow me. Sat at next table are Dave Rothery and Sam Brown from Homespun. The Marrs Bar was only a short walk away, Nobody on door and I could hear familiar music playing Eleanor doing her sound check. Excellent just walked in to say Hi. And was greeted like a friend. First band was the Jayne Powell band Eleanor was excellent that night. Pity I was on my own. Thankfully I had company during Sam and Dave's set, the lass herself. And I think we both loved the set with their quirky numbers. Enjoyed the informal after show milling about just general chit chat. Attempted to act as roadie afterwards. Then back to the B&B having been to the best gig I'd been to in some time.

Now I'm not a political animal, certainly not a socialist, or an ardent unionist. So a Trade Union Rally would normally leave me cold. Until today.
When the website says Eleanor, & Billy Bragg are playing only 50 miles from your front door, you just have to be there. The TUC summer festival was the next gig on 17th July 2005 in Tolpuddle, Dorset.
Gorgeous weather, the stage set outside adjacent to the Martyrs Museum. Found a space on the grass. Eleanor sitting with her daughter Sarah Jane, no more than 6' away. Was introduced to her partner Mick. Nice fella.

Was able to tell both that the next time I'd see her will be in her home town of Dublin. Enjoyed the rest of the music, some political speeches, and soaked up the sun.

Then just under 5 weeks later it was to Ireland to see one special night.

See my previous posting.

I Will no doubt be updating this post shortly, because on 16th October, it's back to the Marrs Bar.

postscript: and I did go to the Worcester Gig along with Murray from Cheltenham, met up with Graham & Jenifer. It was a super evening, even got a name check during the set.

Check out the review in the Shed Extention

Eleanor McEvoy - Her songs and Music

I've been a Fan of Eleanor since 1994 when I stumbled across the acoustic tent at Glastonbury Festival.
And a member of Eleanor's Fan Club for the last 4 years finding out about gigs and reading other people's reviews sometimes replying. I have been to a few over the last few years, so when the news was posted that she was playing in her home town of Dublin with the RTE Concert Orchestra during my annual leave, I just had to go. A cheap return on RyanAir, a guest-house booked, and concert ticket purchased, sorted.
I then Contacted the followers @ eleanormcevoy.org to see if anybody was going and we arranged to meet up in the Sinnotts Bar off Stephens Green prior to the concert. It was there I met up with Brian & Pauline Greene check out Brian's Blog & Brian's Pod Radio site also Graham & Jennifer Ashmore Graham's Blog and Graham's Shed
Well worth a browse.

Usual pleasantries and a few pints of the Black stuff, then on to the National Concert Hall. Brian called out to one guy en route who I found out was David Brophey our conductor for the evening running through Stephens Green with half an hour before the show. We also met up with Brian Connor who played keyboards with Eleanor on "Yola".
Also two more Followers who put my trip from Taunton in the shade. Anna & Inga came all the way from Boston

We all found our seats in different areas of the auditorium. I was sitting side on, in the gallery.
The orchestra took their places, and the lights dimmed.
The concert began.

1: Overture: Only a Woman's Heart
Eleanor's best known song performed with gusto by the Orchestra. Eleanor had asked them to go for it when they played this instrumental version of the song, a perfect start.

2: You'll Here Better Songs (than this)
Eleanor sang the first line off stage and the appeared stage left Great title, Beautifully sung

3: I'll Be Willing
Taken from the album Early Hours stunningly arranged

4: Not Quite Love
A simple fast paced number David Brophey our conductor had arranged for her. Spot on.

5: Whisper a Prayer to the Moon
From the album What's Following Me.
Here we were able to hear the vocal backing of
Liam Bradley sitting stage left. I've always enjoyed this number, and tonight didn't disappoint.

6: Did You Tell Him
Straight in to this number a favourite by all
from the album Snapshots getting the full orchestral treatment.

7: Something So Wonderful
A powerful song done as a duet with Liam Bradley
and dedicated to Tom Hyland of the Free East Timor Campaign.

8: Memphis Tennessee
Chuck Berry's song taken from the album Early Hours
Eleanor does the vocals justice by slowing it down a notch

9: Territory of Poets
One of my personal favourites, given the full treatment on the Brass and Percussion The Orchestra went off section by section leaving the string section to close the number

Interval
The smoke and pee break and a quick word to one of the Ushers and I was able to reposition myself in the stalls

1: Famine 1848
I think this was the first time I've heard this number.
Taken from a limited edition of What's Following Me.
Beautifully arranged

2: The Rain Falls
Eleanor sang a a furious pace, wonderfully arranged by
David Brophy and the Tubular bells at the end of the number segued nicely
in to.....

3: Anach Cuain
An old Gaelic song taken from Early Hours
about a ship wreck off the west coast of Ireland

4: Please Heart Your Killing Me
Co written with American county legend Rodney Crowell from the Snapshots album
Full treatment given here the Brass section in full glory

5: Driving Home to Butlers
Eleanor was driving home from the Butlers pub in
Co. Wexford, when she came up with this slow air.
Even the string section applauded at the end of this number.

6: Easy In Love
A Quirky number from the album Yola.
About couples in love Bogey n' Bacall, Scarlet and Red.

7: Isn't It A Little Late
In recent times Eleanor has just used her guitar to knock out the beat So to hear it given full Percussion treatment
was in deed a real treat.

8: Easy To Lose Hope
The last number. It's finishing so soon
This is Eleanors tribute to Veronica Guerin.
Powerful and simply wonderful

Encore
Only a Woman's Heart
The one that'll pay the pension.

There should of been more.
Although there were two curtain calls, it was over

One truly magical evening
and one I won't forget in a hurry

We all met up afterwards in the foyer. All eulogizing the evening. Eleanor came out to be congratulated by many.
A team photo was arranged,
Brian, Graham, Anna & Inga, myself along with the
star of the night
The evening was at an end the others disapeared
and then it was off to Hourigan's pub.
for the after show party.

But that another tale......