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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast featured are The Irish Pagen School Podcast & Celt in a Twist. We have included more new album releases. The articles this week are about Star Wars bung dubbed into Welsh, the economic boost for Northern Ireland from hosting the Fleadh, & a journey of recreation on a replica of a 10th century boat. The festival spotlight shines on the Milwaukee Irish Fest talking place August 13 – 16 at Henry Maier Festival Park in Milwaukee, WI. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #769: CELTIC ROVER ON THESE WATERS

• Jim Moray, Seán Heely, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Avourneen, Maggie MacInnes, Slugger's Rule, Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall, Skara Brae, Natalie Padilla, Kevin Meehan, Brad Tuck, Drumspyder, Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia, MacCumhaill and the Gang
• A huge Celtic thank you to every patron of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. You are the reason this show stays free, week after week, year after year. Your support keeps independent Celtic musicians in the spotlight and keeps this whole community thriving.

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Celtandes – by The Lady Victoria
• Live At Derby Irish Center – by Kenn Gordon & 1916
• Argyle Street – by Tapper Harvie
• Celtic Fantasy: Haven of the Honeyed Light – by YUNOKIA
• Wilder Rose – by Yessica Woahneil
• Turn the Tide – by Mystic River

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THE IRISH PAGAN SCHOOL PODCAST: READING THE CAULDRON OF POESY

• The Cauldron of Poesy is one of the most powerful and misunderstood texts in Irish spiritual tradition. In this video, Jon O’Sullivan of the Irish Pagan School reads the full translated poem and offers grounded insight into its meaning. Is it really about mystical energy centres – or something much deeper? Learn how this ancient wisdom speaks to growth, knowledge, and becoming your best self through sorrow and joy.
• Includes full reading from the Liam Breatnach translation (Ériu, Vol. 32, 1981), and a practical interpretation rooted in native Irish Pagan practice.

Listen here

STAR WARS DUBBED IN WELSH FOR THE FIRST TIME TO CELEBRATE LANDMARK ANNIVERSARY

• Star Wars is to be dubbed into Welsh for the first time as the classic film prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year.
• Welsh language broadcaster S4C and Creative Wales announced the project, in partnership with Lucasfilm and Disney, at the National Eisteddfod on Tuesday.
• The Welsh language version of Episode IV – A New Hope will broadcast on S4C and its platforms from Christmas Day…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: AUGUST 4 2026

• Small pipes, Border pipes, Uilleann pipes, Northumbrian, Galician and of course, Highland pipes. Smoke 'em if you got 'em! This hour has plenty o' pipes and fiddles, banjos and some spicy zydeco accordion. Homegrown Celtic too from Haggis X-1, The Mahones and The McDades.Come get your weekly hit of Celtivity with Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

FLEADH SET TO BRING £52M ECONOMIC BOOST TO NORTHERN IRELAND

• HOSTING the 2026 Fleadh is expected to bring an economic boost of £52m to Northern Ireland.
• Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is underway in Belfast this week, with the city hosting the annual celebration of Irish music and culture for the first time.
• The event, which runs from August 2 – 9, will draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city over the coming days.
• It will also deliver “significant economic, cultural and tourism benefits across the North”, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said.

To read more, go here!

THE 10TH CENTURY CELTIC VOYAGE TO THE ISLE OF MAN

• People in Castletown have had a glimpse of life a thousand years ago after a 10th Century replica boat visited the Isle of Man's ancient capital.
• The 12m (39ft) vessel is predominantly made of leather and is named after Saint Brioc, who travelled from Aberystwyth to Brittany in medieval times.
• The 12-strong Breton crew, and a dog, are visiting Celtic nations on their epic journey towards the North Sea.

To read more, go here!

MILWAUKEE IRISH FEST

• Each year, they depart from Ireland and lands beyond, some crossing the North Atlantic to American coastlines, some venturing even further. Colorful and charming, they travel in groups and as families, carrying a natural sense of return as they reach their destination.
• We’re speaking of puffins, of course, but the very same could be said of those who make the journey to Milwaukee Irish Fest.
• No matter where you’ve traveled from, sé do bheatha ‘bhaile (shay doh vaha wallya). Welcome home.
• Entertainers you can see are Acme Fiddling Company, Ally the Piper, Atlantic Wave, Billow Wood, Blackthorn Folly, Caoimhe Ní Mhaolagáin, Ceol Cairde, Derek Byrne and Paddygrass, Eileen Ivers, Gaelic Storm, Hearthfire, Ogham, O'Darby, The Drowsy Lads, and many more!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

August 6, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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This week's journey rambles from an English rover to a horned god of the old woods, then across the black river to a Barra Gaelic song carried down through generations. Fourteen tracks of fiddle, whistle, pipes, and rowdy pub harmony travel from Boston to Newfoundland to the shores of Australia. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #768. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Jim Moray, Seán Heely, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Avourneen, Maggie MacInnes, Slugger's Rule, Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall, Skara Brae, Natalie Padilla, Kevin Meehan, Brad Tuck, Drumspyder, Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia, MacCumhaill and the Gang

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Ken Spencer

0:14 – Jim Moray “Spencer The Rover” from Gallants

4:25 – WELCOME

6:02 – Seán Heely “Cernunnos : An Dia Adharcach (The Horned God)” from Dramagical

15:02 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald “Ar Baile (Our Village)” from Christina

19:48 – Avourneen “Cunner Point Across the Black River” from Way Stations

24:27 – Maggie MacInnes “Nì Mhic Ailein, na bì' n èud rium” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

28:32 – FEEDBACK

29:28 – Slugger's Rule “Juice of the Barley” from Clusterfolk

32:22 – Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall “The Primrose Road / The Tramp / Martin Wynne's” from Copley Street 2

35:51 – Skara Brae “Craic Addict” from The Mists of Time

39:08 – Natalie Padilla “Seedskadee” from Paths and Places

42:15 – THANKS

43:44 – Kevin Meehan “The Glasgow Set” from Spanish Point

49:17 – Brad Tuck “I've Been Told” from On These Waters

53:11 – Drumspyder “The Dunmore Lasses” from Kenning

57:13 – Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia “Reel Set” from Start the Fire

1:00:11 – CLOSING

1:01:10 – MacCumhaill and the Gang “Dreams of Nevermore” from 2

1:04:43 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: the sun and the wind never send you a fuel bill.

Last year, solar and wind grew fast enough to cover all of the world's new electricity demand, and they're still the cheapest new power ever built. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history, and their costs keep falling while fossil fuel prices swing with every crisis.

Choose clean energy, and ask your leaders to do the same. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like “Celtic music”. Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!A huge Celtic thank you to every patron of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. You are the reason this show stays free, week after week, year after year. Your support keeps independent Celtic musicians in the spotlight and keeps this whole community thriving.

Being a patron means more than helping the music along. You get the episodes early and ad – free. You get exclusive songs, behind – the – scenes stories, and a warm circle of fellow Celtic music lovers who show up every single week. You help decide which artists get heard, and you become part of something far bigger than a playlist.

If you have been listening for a while and wondering how to get closer to the music you love, there is a seat waiting for you. Come find your place at the table over at SongHenge.com.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd here once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast we feature are Traveling in Ireland & Copperplate Time. The articles we showcase are about the live broadcast of Belfast’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, a Cornwall village that is “like stepping back in time”, & the Irish Arts Center in New York. We have a list of new albums. The highlighted festival is the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival taking place at Lions' Harbour Park in Goderich, ON, Canada. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #768: OLD SALT ON THE HIGHLAND ROAD

• Mary – Grace Autumn Lee, Open The Door For Three, Almost Seamus, Juha Rossi, Avourneen, Rogue Diplomats, TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta – Hull, The Bilge Pumps, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Release the Craicen, Medusa's Wake, Bang on the Ear, Pressgang Mutiny, Maggie MacInnes, Marc Gunn, Almost Seamus, Avourneen, Rogue Diplomats, The Bilge Pumps, Medusa's Wake, Bang on the Ear, Cathinca, Juha Rossi
• Thank you to all of our Patrons

Listen to the Show

Episode Photo

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Cheek to Cheek – by The Derry Aires
• The Harbinger Suite: Vol 1 – by The Harbinger Suite
• Looking at the Stars – by Joseph Linahon
• Put Your Paw in Mine – by Raven & Goose
• Celtic Fantasy: Observation of the Astral Tide – by YUNOKIA
• Whistle This – by Karen McChesney

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: MOTORHOME TRAVEL IN IRELAND: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU RENT

• Motorhome and campervan travel in Ireland has grown a lot in recent years, and this guide covers what first-timers actually need to know: vehicle size, where you can legally park overnight, and the apps that make it easier. Whether you're weighing a motorhome trip against a rental car or already sold on the idea, this should help you figure out how to do it well.

Listen here

DETAILS CONFIRMED FOR LIVE BROADCAST OF BELFAST’S FLEADH CHEOIL NA HÉIREANN

• DETAILS have been announced for the live coverage of the upcoming Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann which will be held in Belfast for the first time.
• The annual celebration of traditional Irish music, song and dance gets underway from August 6 to 9, and TG4 will be broadcasting the action live from the city.
• The Irish language broadcaster will broadcast live at 9.30pm on each of the four nights of the festival.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 543

• BOTHY BAND, MOVING CLOUD, DAVE SHERIDAN, DERVISH, CATHERINE McEVOY, BRENDAN McGLINCHEY, DUCK BAKER, ELAINE REILLEY & DAITHI GORMLEY, DEIRDRE SCANLAN/SOLAS, TRIAN, JACK TALTY, OPEN THE DOOR FOR 3, MACALLA, MICK CONNEELY & DAVE MUNNEELY, BILLY McCOMISKEY, ANDREW MURRAY, DERVISH, TIM BUCKLEY, THE ROCHES, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

MOVE OVER PORT ISAAC, THIS PRETTY CORNWALL VILLAGE THAT’S ‘LIKE STEPPING BACK IN TIME’ IS WELL WORTH A VISIT

• If you're planning a trip to Cornwall this summer, it's likely you'll be including a visit to a picturesque harbour town during your time there. While many visitors to the county often choose to visit famous towns such as St Ives, Padstow and Port Isaac, if you love the characterful feel of Port Isaac, but want somewhere with a little bit more of a chilled out vibe, we've got another town to put your radar – Polperro.
• Located on the south-east coast of Cornwall, in-between Looe and Fowey, this car-free village is like stepping back in time to a more traditional Cornwall, which is steeped in rich maritime history, perfect for a day trip or a cosy weekend away by the sea.

To read more, go here!

IRISH ARTS CENTER UNVEILS ITS MOST AMBITIOUS SEASON YET FOR 2026-27

• Irish Arts Center has announced a sweeping 2026-27 season that will bring some of Ireland's most celebrated living artists to New York. The programming arrives five years after the opening of the organization's new building on 11th Avenue and spans theatre, dance, music, literature, and visual art.
• The centerpiece of the season is a double bill from Galway's Druid theatre company, presenting J. M. Synge's “Riders to the Sea” alongside Shakespeare's “Macbeth” from February 18 to March 21. The production served as the highlight of Druid's 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025 and earned a five-star review from The Guardian, which praised the show for “showcasing the artistry of this tight-knit ensemble and the excavatory lens of Hynes.” Director Garry Hynes returns to IAC following the sold-out run of Beckett's “Endgame” in 2025, this time leading a cast of 11 actors including Marty Rea as Macbeth and fellow Tony winner Marie Mullen as Lady Macbeth.

To read more, go here!

GODERICH CELTIC ROOTS FESTIVAL

• The ultimate Celtic experience on the shores of Lake Huron
• The entertainers you will see are Brian Taheny, Jess & Richard Arrowsmith, Maggie’s Wake, RUNA, Rakish, TULUA, & many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 30, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Gather up your packs and lets hit the Highland Road. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #768. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Mary – Grace Autumn Lee, Open The Door For Three, Almost Seamus, Juha Rossi, Avourneen, Rogue Diplomats, TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta – Hull, The Bilge Pumps, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Release the Craicen, Medusa's Wake, Bang on the Ear, Pressgang Mutiny, Maggie MacInnes

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: James Stovehouse

0:08 – Mary – Grace Autumn Lee “Helen Burns': Black Pat's/Over the Moor to Maggie's (Reels)” from Eyre

4:52 – WELCOME

6:21 – Open The Door For Three “Farewell, Lovely Mary/The Lizzes” from A Prosperous Gale

11:11 – Almost Seamus “Old First Ward” from Almost Seamus

14:28 – Juha Rossi “Miss MacDermott (Princess Royal)” from O'Carolan Tunes on Mandolin

17:07 – Avourneen “Stony Steps” from Way Stations

22:00 – FEEDBACK

25:18 – Rogue Diplomats “Mary Mac / Drunken Sailor” from Whiskey Picnic

28:30 – TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta – Hull “The Bunch of Keys” from Tippy Taps

32:31 – The Bilge Pumps “Old Salt” from Greatest Hits, Vols I – VII

36:57 – Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca “Lyke – Wake Dirge” from Fabula Feminae – EP

41:49 – THANKS

43:38 – Release the Craicen “Ode to Our Lost Fiddler / St. Anne's Reel” from Live! Songs on a Boat

48:04 – Medusa's Wake “Irish Sky” from Rascals and Rogues

52:23 – Bang on the Ear “The Black Tar Fiddle Set” from Highland Road

56:22 – Pressgang Mutiny “TEU” from Departure

1:01:15 – CLOSING

1:02:07 – Maggie MacInnes “Toiseach na Tràghad” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

1:06:23 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like “Celtic music”. Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week, including this one. Your support doesn't just fund the show, it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes. Audio engineering. Stunning graphics. Weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine. Show promotion. And most importantly, buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists like the ones you heard today.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

All of this lives over at SongHenge.com.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Isobel McMahon messaged on Patreon: “I appreciate this clear statement on AI.”

Jordan Reeder sent a photo: “Hi, just wanted to show what I was doing while enjoying the awesome music on the podcast… one of these days I’d love to submit some of my music. Maybe after I chop my way through this pile of firewood!

Alex Meyers emailed from Toronto: “Politically neutral Irish music does not exist. Hi Marc, I started listening to the podcast seven years ago as I took my newborn son for long walks with wireless speakers perched on his stroller so he could listen too. Now with two boys we frequently listen while we have breakfast.

In a recent episode you responded to yet another listener who told you to stick to music and leave the politics alone. I am always impressed by how resolute you are in the face of these cynics, you never try to soften the message of peace, compassion, and inclusion.

Also, I've always found it hilariously ironic that someone would say “leave out the politics” about IRISH music, 1/3 of all Irish songs are about oppression and kicking out the British. Have these people never listened to The Wolfe Tones or The Cranberries?

Speaking of which, I highly recommend you check out the Irish rap group Kneecap. They perform in Irish/Gaeilge and English and deserve massive credit for popularizing Gaeilge. They are firmly on the side of the oppressed from Ireland to Palestine and their latest album is “Fenian”, which should tell you something about their politics.

Keep up the great work!”

View Details

Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd again. This week we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We have also included episodes of Folk on Foot & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles are about Ireland’s cultural heart, historic Scottish pub Joseph Pearce on Elm Row’s reopening, and a cottage on Welsh’s clifftops. We have a list of new albums. The festival we highlight is the Dublin Irish Festival taking place July 31 – August 2, 2026, at Coffman Park in Dublin, OH. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #767: WATER-BOUND FOR IRELAND

• Arise & Go, Boxing Robin, Blackwillow Starling, Tulua, Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan, Leevy, Colin Steele, CaliCeltic, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, River Driver, Dropkick Murphys, Sean Griffin
• A special thanks to our newest Patron: Manuel Duarte

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Naebams Bouzoukis – by the naebams band
• In The Wild – by Kenn Gordon & Raven
• We Are Gordons – by Kenn Gordon & Raven
• Medieval Bard Songs in the Gothic Castle – byAndrei Krylov
• A Little Shire for a Big Hobbit – by Atmospheric Mood
• Liffey EP – by Liffey
• Fairy Tales – by Jura Dja
• Dark Fairy – by Gary Stadler & Ffion Elisa
• Green Field Promise – by Polly Musichantres
• Celtic Fantasy: Study on the Celestial Branch – by YUNOKIA
• Tríd an bhForaois Tine – CHARITY FOR THE FONTAINEBLEAU FOREST – by Tristan an Arzhig
• Keltic Drive – by Keltic Drive
• Essential Arthur – by Arthur Davenport

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

FOLK ON FOOT: BOB COWEN AND JOHNNY FLYNN AT THORNBOROUGH HENGES

• We’re going back to Neolithic times with the award winning author Rob Cowen (“Common Ground” and “North Road”) and his friend the actor and singer Johnny Flynn. For two thousand years the Thornborough Henges in what is now Yorkshire were used as ceremonial spaces and later became Bronze Age burial grounds. As we walk through these enormous circular monuments, Rob explains why he’s fascinated by their history and Johnny sings songs of burial and deep time. The pair reflect on their approach to creativity and shared passion for music.

Listen here

WHERE THE WILD ATLANTIC MEETS IRELAND'S CULTURAL HEART

• IF YOU come by the Rosslare ferry, you arrive at the outskirts of Tipperary and a sign declares: “Welcome to Tipperary. You’ve come a long way”. But you've still some way to go before reaching Galway.
• On the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is about an hour’s drive from Shannon Airport. Ireland West Airport Knock is also around an hour away by road. Or fly to Dublin and enjoy one of Ireland's finest cross-country drives, taking nearly three hours across the heart of the country.
• As the song says: “From Bantry Bay up to Derry Quay, and from Galway to Dublin town.”

To read more, go here!

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY: SHOW NO 592

• Crawford and Vallely, Corrina Hewat, Conal Ó Gráda, Simon Thoumire, Jim Sutherland, Paolo Nutini, The Glengarry Bhoys, Laurence Nugent, Isaac Alderson, Dave Curley, Tarahan, Alana Wilkinson, The East Pointers , Bua, Chris Stout, Catriona McKay, Blazin' Fiddles, Brian Finnegan, Ali Levack, Gina Jeffreys, Brendan Quinn, Anna McGarrigle, Kate McGarrigle, Craobh Rua, Ímar, Kathleen MacInnes, Hanneke Cassel, The McGoldrick Family, Karen Marshalsay, Seamus Egan, Barrule , TRIP, The Canny Band

Listen to the Show

FIRST LOOK INSIDE HISTORIC SCOTTISH BAR AHEAD OF IT REOPENING AFTER MAJOR REFURBISHMENT

• A much-loved Category A listed Edinburgh pub will reopen following a major refurbishment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs.
• The investment has turned Joseph Pearce on Elm Row into a ‘top-class’ neighbourhood pub with a stunning new décor.
• The landmark pub formally opens its doors at 12pm on 24 July following nearly seven weeks of closure for the extensive works. Edinburgh born-and-bred Paul Henderson – a local resident and former regular – is moving from a career in social care to take the reins as the new operator running Joseph Pearce on behalf of Star Pubs.

To read more, go here!

LITTLE COTTAGE ON TOP OF WELSH CLIFFTOPS WHERE DAREDEVILS COME FROM ACROSS THE WORLD TO THROW THEMSELVES OFF

• If location is king to create a memorable property then this pretty white-washed stone cottage can easily accept a crown for being a beachside beauty but with a truly unique neighbour.
• The cottage can boast a wonderful location on the cliff-top above Abereiddy beach, a quiet cove on the north Pembrokeshire coast but it's not just a mesmerising sea view as a backdrop and rugged rocks in the foreground at this traditional Welsh cottage, or the one minute walk to the beach, that make its location exceptional.
• On the far side of the small cove, accessed via a wooden bridge is a man-made feature that has been overwhelmed by nature to create a place where people come from countries around the world not just to visit but to experience.

To read more, go here!

DUBLIN IRISH FESTIVAL

• Experience the music, dance and culture at the award-winning Dublin Irish Festival, July 31 to August 2, 2026. Since 1988, the first weekend in August has been reserved for what is now one of the largest Irish Festivals in the world. This annual event transforms the city of Dublin, Ohio, into a lively and colorful tapestry of beloved Irish traditions. Within the swell of music and dance, festival-goers can also explore the richness of Irish culture through savory foods, delicious Irish whiskeys, history re-enactors, hands-on workshops and several athletic demonstrations.
• Some of the entertainment acts you will see are Eileen Ivers & The Brigideens, Gaelic Storm, SCYTHIAN, Ally the Piper, Fanore, The Prodigals, All Those Who Wander, Brigid's Cross, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 23, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

A playlist that goes from the Snug all the way to the Shannon. Blackwillow Starling brings Lughnasadh morning vibes, River Driver takes us to Donegal Bay, and Leevy delivers that Top Road energy. Plus new music from Sean Griffin to close things out. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #767. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Arise & Go, Boxing Robin, Blackwillow Starling, Tulua, Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan, Leevy, Colin Steele, CaliCeltic, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, River Driver, Dropkick Murphys, Sean Griffin

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Emily Huffman

0:10 – Arise & Go – “Munlochy Bridge / The Editor's Favourite / Portencross Castle / MacKinnon's Other Rant / Attwood O'Connor's / Dr. Alasdair MacKenzie's / The Lassie's Fashion / The Primrose Lass” from Moments of Light

5:48 – WELCOME

7:13 – Boxing Robin – “The Scots Guards Set” from Land of the Noon – Day Moon

11:17 – Blackwillow Starling – “Lughnasadh Morning” from Thornaeppel

16:33 – Tulua – “Ebb and Flow / Dawn of Dara / Scartaglen (Waltz / Jigs)” from In The Snug

21:54 – Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan – “The Broad Majestic Shannon” from The Great Irish Songbook Vol 2: Poets & Storytellers

26:04 – FEEDBACK

27:53 – Plastic Free July

30:46 – Leevy – “The Top Road Band” from Baile Mhúirne or the Soldiers March the Paps of Anú

34:45 – Colin Steele – “Elgin Laddie” from Stramash II

39:49 – CaliCeltic – “The Humours of Whiskey – Stick to the Craytur – Paddy's Panacea” from West of Shannon

44:21 – THANKS

46:11 – The Tan and Sober Gentlemen – “Waterbound” from Veracity

48:28 – River Driver – “Donegal Bay”

52:34 – Dropkick Murphys – “Chesterfields and Aftershave” from For The People (Expanded Edition)

56:59 – CLOSING

57:42 – Sean Griffin – “People Are Mad” from People Are Mad

1:00:44 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like “Celtic music”. Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week, including this one. Your support doesn't just fund the show, it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers, all while spotlighting artists like Arise & Go, Tulua, Dervish, and the rest of this week's lineup.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes. Audio engineering. Stunning graphics. Weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine. Show promotion. And most importantly, buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists like the ones you heard today.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

All of this lives over at SongHenge.com.

A special thanks to our newest Patron: Manuel Duarte

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jonathan Dyer emailed: “Hey Marc, Thank you thank you.

Lovely programme as always (I’m currently listening … as far as Dál Riata so far… whilst sending the final DDP and artwork off for the album. So it’s really finished.… and trying not to melt in the unseasonably weather that we’re really not cut out for. Much love”

John Mahony messaged on Patreon: “Mark, thanks and bravo for the stand on AI. It seems it's getting harder and harder to avoid, let alone the impact on the environment and people's jobs in other fields. Let's keep finding ways to support real people making real music! Slainte!”

John Sharkey White, II messaged in response to the Plastic Free July PSA: “Hi Mark, I was listening to one of your latest podcasts and, as a physician, thought I could add to your discussion of plastics. I wanted to share some important health information about plastic containers. New research shows that tiny pieces of plastic — called microplastics — may be getting into our bodies more than most people realize.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are very small plastic pieces, usually smaller than a pencil eraser. They break off from larger plastics over time. Scientists have found these particles in human blood, lungs, liver, and even in unborn babies. This means most people are already being exposed.

How Do They Get Into Our Bodies?

Plastic food and drink containers are one of the main sources. When plastic containers get scratched, worn out, or heated up, they can release tiny particles into your food or drink. Bottled water and packaged foods are also common sources. Plastics also contain added chemicals — like phthalates and bisphenols — that can leak into what you eat and drink.

Why Does It Matter?

Scientists are still learning how harmful microplastics really are, but early studies suggest they may cause inflammation, cell damage, and problems with the immune system. Some research also points to possible links with heart disease and reproductive health. Most experts agree that more studies are needed before we fully understand the risks.

What Can You Do?

The good news is there are simple steps you can take to lower your exposure:

• Switch to glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers when you can
• Never microwave food in plastic — heat causes plastic to release more particles and chemicals
• Use a reusable stainless – steel water bottle instead of single – use plastic bottles
• Cut back on bottled water
• Try to buy food with less plastic packaging
• Throw away old or scratched plastic containers
• Dust and vacuum your home regularly — microplastics can float in the air too

You probably can't avoid microplastics completely, but these small changes can

make a real difference while scientists continue to study the long – term effects.”

View Details

Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again with your weekly newsletter. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Streams of whiskey. A waltz in the Gaelic tongue. A flame called Lasair burning through it all. This week's episode takes you from Loch Maree to the streets of Toulouse, fifteen artists strong. Let's go. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #766.The other podcasts featured are Celtic Source & Celt in a Twist. Our articles this time around are about Afro-Gaelic music, King Charles’s visit to the Isle of Man, and Harris Distilleries new Whiskey. Per usual we have a list of new albums. The spotlight shines on the United Irish of Dayton Festival. The festival takes place July 24 – 26, 2026 at the RiverScape MetroPark in Dayton, OH. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST # 766: STREAMS OF WHISKEY

• The Here & Now, Trouz Bras, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Mairi McGillivray, The McDades, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Hildaland, Mànran, Seán – Pól Ó Peatáin, O'Konrads band, Jiggy, Tara's Folk
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• À l'accordage ! – by Level Encre
• Ravenmere – by Anu
• Celtic Healing: Spark of the Inner Crystal – by YUNOKIA
• Across the Giant's Causeway – by Shepherd's Pipes

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

CELTIC SOURCE: THE OLDEST WELSH FAIRYTALE EXPLAINED: ELIDY…

• The story of Elidyr and the Tylwyth Teg is the oldest Welsh fairy tale on record. It tells of a boy's journey through ancient liminal spaces, encountering a deep realm of where the fairies have their own high ideals and ethics. But what does this story actually mean? What does it tell us about encounters with the extraordinary, about truth, childhood, and lost wisdom?

Listen here

AFRO-GAELIC BEATS TO BRING AFRICAN AND IRISH RHYTHMS TOGETHER IN HAMMERSMITH

• A UNIQUE musical collaboration celebrating the shared rhythms of Africa and Ireland is set to take to the stage at the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith this month.
• Afro-Gaelic Beats, curated by Osibisa frontman Gregg Kofi Brown, will see African grooves combine with Irish traditional music in a special concert on Saturday, July 18.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: JULY 14, 2026

• Join us for some fresh greens this week from The Cloverhearts, The Ollam, Edmonton family band The McDades and Scots bard Cabbie Drennan with a drink along, sing along. Check out Celt In A Twist with Patricia Fraser at a new time, new day and new station; FM96.1, Tuesdays at 9pm.

Listen to the Show

KING CHARLES SURPRISES LOCALS BY SPEAKING MANX DURING HISTORIC ISLE OF MAN VISIT

• King Charles showcased his linguistic prowess during his inaugural visit to the Isle of Man as monarch, even joking about “massacring” the Manx language.
• He addressed the island’s parliament, Tynwald, in the ancient Manx tongue, which is currently experiencing a revival.
• Acknowledging “Manx Language Year – Blein ny Gaelgey,” he lightened the mood by quipping: “So I very much hope I have not succeeded at this point in massacring this wonderful celebration of your language…!”

To read more, go here!

HARRIS DISTILLERY TO RELEASE ISLE OF HARRIS WHISKY – AN ‘EXCITING NEW CHAPTER’ FOR ISLAND BUSINESS

• After more than a decade of distilling, Isle of Harris Distillery has announced the launch of a new signature single malt Scotch whisky that captures its distinctive island character.
• Proudly made entirely on the Isle of Harris, the new core expression encapsulates the lightly peated, fresh and vibrant island style created by the team of local distillers and blenders behind Isle of Harris Gin and The Hearach Single Malt Whisky.

To read more, go here!

UNITED IRISH OF DAYTON CELTIC FESTIVAL

• Saturate your senses in the sights, sounds, and tastes of our Celtic heritage. Discover the magic that keeps people returning to Dayton’s Celtic Festival year after year. Come and experience the rich traditions that we Celtic folk hold dear to our hearts.
• Some of the entertainment acts you will see are Gaelic Storm, Socks In the Frying Pan, Bastard Bearded Irishmen, Dogwood Road, Larry Fortson, Father Son and Friends, The Roving Rogues, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 16, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

Streams of whiskey. A waltz in the Gaelic tongue. A flame called Lasair burning through it all. This week's episode takes you from Loch Maree to the streets of Toulouse, fifteen artists strong. Let's go. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #766. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

The Here & Now, Trouz Bras, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Mairi McGillivray, The McDades, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Hildaland, Mànran, Seán – Pól Ó Peatáin, O'Konrads band, Jiggy, Tara's Folk

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Amy Bradley

0:10 – The Here & Now – “Lovely Miss Gunning” from Ladybird

4:37 – WELCOME

6:16 – Trouz Bras – “Quand J'etais Jeune / Birthday Dance” from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany

12:58 – Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca – “Dúlamán” from Fabula Feminae – EP

15:41 – Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal – “The Flogging Reel” from From Kolkata to Dublin

18:08 – Mairi McGillivray – “‘S Mor mo Churam” from Mo Thìr

21:07 – FEEDBACK

24:36 – The McDades – “Gaelic Waltz Part 1” from Thread The Light

26:08 – Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan – “Laoidh a' Choin Duibh (the Lay of the Black Dog)” from The Heroic Ballads – Laoidhean nan Gaisgeach – EP

31:15 – Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer – “Kahlua” from Come Bring With A Noise

35:22 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald – “A' Mheanbh – chuileag (The Midge)” from Christina

38:07 – Hildaland – “Sandy's Waltz (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)” from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) – EP

41:19 – THANKS

43:18 – Mànran (feat. Ruairidh Gray) – “Loch Maree Islands” from single

46:17 – Seán – Pól – “The King of The Fairies” from single

49:30 – O'Konrads band – “Streams of Whiskey” from Streams of Whiskey

52:05 – Jiggy – “Lasair”

56:32 – CLOSING

57:31 – Tara's Folk – “How many Roads” from remember how we fall

1:01:45 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like “Celtic music”. Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!We’re approaching 21 years of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Since day one, this show has relied on the generosity of kind people like you. You inspire me to keep hunting down new music, interviews and stories from our community. So I can keep sharing this show with you. I am so grateful to you. Thank you so much.

As a patron, you get episodes before regular listeners. You get patron – only episodes like the Highlight Reel that came out last week. You get to vote in the Celtic Top 20 to help us collect the absolute best songs and tunes of the year into one magnificent end – of – year episode. And you keep this show running.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Ashley Paskill emailed in response to my question of how you celebrate Celtic culture through music. She wrote: “I listen to Celtic music in the car. When I give people rides, we get to share the music! It is always so powerful to hear friends mention how particular songs meant so much to them growing up and connect with them on that level.”

Heidi Murphy sent a picture: “Sorry. Just found this note. So I'm attaching that picture now. It's 2026 and this year I celebrated by going to see Danu and then by playing bodhran and tin whistle at home. Let me just say Danu was magnificent. LOVED it!!!”

Kelly Garrod emailed: “Hi Marc,

The music featured on your podcast has always been wonderful with good information from your comments. I prefer listening to the version with comments rather than the music only. I believe you do a good job of featuring wonderful Celtic music, featuring new artists that I might otherwise never hear while providing comments on both the music and views of the world. The comments are concise, do not distract from the overall experience of the podcast and relevant to many of the stories in the music you feature.

This is to let you know that I appreciate your political comments with your perspective on various topics. In today’s political world, I believe it is important to articulate those viewpoints on any platform we have. Since I keep a low social media profile, and have limited options, I am pleased to support one that I regularly support.

As a Patreon of your podcast for many years, I plan to keep supporting your work for many years to come. Please keep doing the good stuff you are doing! Thanks”

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Céad Míle FáilteHello all, it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts featured are Traveling in Ireland & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles we spotlight are about an appeal to save a catholic church, your chance to live in a Welsh Castle, & saving the Christmas lights at Angarrack. The highlighted festival is the Madison Irish Fest taking place July 10 – 12, at Fête de Marquette, McPike Park in Madison, WI. We have also included more new Celtic albums. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #765: FORTUNE’S STORMWRECKED FAIRIE’S

• Tulua, Alisa Marie, Maggie MacInnes, Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Jim Moray, Avourneen, Seán – Pól O Peatáin, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Christine Weir, Colin Steele, Slugger's Rule, Tan & Sober Gentlemen feat. Mason Via, Bang on the Ear, Some One's Sons, Margaret Davis, Marc Gunn, Tulua, Alisa Marie, Maggie MacInnes, Jim Moray, Avourneen, Christine Weir, Colin Steele, Bang on the Ear
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more per month: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Music for the Church of the Wailing Banshees – by Chris Crilly
• Tales of the Forest – by Anu
• Greatest Australian Songs Volume 1 – by Stringybark Band
• Greatest Australian Songs Volume 2 – by Stringybark Band
• Medieval Fantasy Tavern Music Collection for Dnd & Rpg – by Andrei Krylov
• Songs of Lughnasadh – by Chuck Bramlet
• Celtic Healing: Illumination of the Azure Grotto – by YUNOKIA
• Train Tracks (Songs of the Rails) – by Vox Nimbus

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

NATIONAL LEPRECHAUN MUSEUM TALKING STORIES

• Welcome to the next and final episode of Season 3 of the National Leprechaun Museum's podcast, The Storytellers.
• In Episode 13 of this season we discuss the next category of story required by the Filí (the bards) to know to earn their title. This category is Births!

Listen here

TOWN IN IRELAND BANS DRINKING IN PUBLIC PLACES AS OF TODAY 7/7/2026

• A TOWN in Ireland has banned public drinking from today.
• New alcohol bye-laws for Tuam in Co. Galway came into effect this morning, making it illegal to drink alcohol in public places.
• Galway County Council have introduced the new legislation, formally titled the Control of Consumption and Possession of Alcohol in Public Places Bye-Laws 2026, following concerns flagged around the impacts of alcohol being consumed in public areas…

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE PODCAST 319

• GERRY DVER, TEADA, BEN LENNON & TONY O’CONNELL, DAN BROUDER & ANGELINA CARBERRY, NORAH RENDELL, PATSY MOLONEY & JOHN REGAN, RONAN BROWNE & PETER O’LOUGHLIN, DAVE SHERIDAN, BOBBY CASEY, TIM DENNEHY, BOBBY & SEAN CASEY, KEVIN ROWSOME, CIARAN GALVIN/DANU, SORCHA COSTELLO, MICK O’BRIEN & CAOIMHIN O’RAGHALLAIGH, CAOIMHIN O’FEARGHAILL & PADDY TUTTY, JOHN & JACINTA McEVOY, & SÉAMUS ÓROCHÁIN & BRID O’DONOHUE

Listen to the Show

NOT SHREWSBURY, LEOMINSTER OR ROSS-ON-WYE — THE FAIRYTALE TOWN NEAR WALES WITH ONE OF UK'S BEST HIGH STREETS

• Many of are spending considerable sums on expensive holidays this summer but you can enjoy an equally enchanting experience right here in the UK. With an abundance of spectacular locations to explore, there are lots of delightful towns perfect for a brief getaway but this treasure, not far from the Welsh border, merits being at the absolute top of your itinerary.
• This ancient market town is packed with character and as you wander through its centre you'll discover a stunning blend of medieval, Tudor and Georgian architecture. It has been recognised by The Guardian among Britain's 10 “best independent high streets”, not solely for its appearance, but for being “full of cool independents rather than the usual chains”…

To read more, go here!

New initiative encourages children to explore Isle of Man's libraries

• Families are being encouraged to explore the island's public libraries this summer through a new literary adventure celebrating reading, Manx culture and language.
• The new Library Discovery Trail (Cassan Cronnee Lioarlan) has been created through a partnership between the island's six public libraries in Douglas, Ramsey, Peel, Port Erin, Castletown and Onchan.

To read more, go here!

CLEVELAND IRISH CULTURAL FESTIVAL

• John O’Brien, Sr. gathered a group of friends and founded Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival in an effort to showcase, and thereby preserve the many traditions of his native land. Enlisting a group of incredibly dedicated volunteers, John realized his vision for Cleveland Iirsh Cultural Festival in 1982. During its two day run, that first festival drew more than 3,000 visitors.
• The festival committee met soon after the crowds dispersed to evaluate and develop the event for the following summer. Their continual dedication has since produced one of the premier Irish festivals in the United States. The exponential growth of the festival stands as testament to this. In 1985 the event expanded to three days. In 1991, it finally outgrew the small wooded venue used during its first 9 years, and so relocated to The Berea Fairgrounds.
• Some of the entertainment acts you will see are Ally the Piper, Brigid’s Cross, The Elders, The High Kings, Reverie Road, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 9, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Grab your pint and settle into the snug, because this week's show is stacked with fairies, rovers, and one seriously stormwrecked lass. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #765. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Tulua, Alisa Marie, Maggie MacInnes, Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Jim Moray, Avourneen, Seán – Pól O Peatáin, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Christine Weir, Colin Steele, Slugger's Rule, Tan & Sober Gentlemen feat. Mason Via, Bang on the Ear, Some One's Sons, Margaret Davis

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Morgan Ging at Ballykeefe Distillery

0:47 – Tulua – “Michael Relihan's / Rigney's / Cap and Bells (Reels)” from In The Snug

4:07 – WELCOME

5:30 – Alisa Marie – “King of the Fairies: Ambient Forest Mix” from King of the Fairies: Ambient

Forest Mix (2 – Track Single)

7:41 – Maggie MacInnes – “Nì Mhic Ailein, na bì' n èud rium” from Uiseagan Bharraigh

11:46 – Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau – “Soucy” from Écoutez tous

15:21 – Jim Moray – “Fortune Turns The Wheel” from Gallants

18:16 – FEEDBACK

25:54 – Avourneen – “Lakes of Killarney” from Way Stations

30:03 – Seán – Pól O Peatáin – “Amergin”

34:34 – MacCumhaill and the Gang – “Andy's Bar” from 2

42:05 – Christine Weir – “Stormwrecked” from single

46:35 – Colin Steele – “Declaration of Arbroath” from Stramash II

55:18 – THANKS

57:11 – Slugger's Rule – “I'm a Rover” from Clusterfolk

59:53 – Tan & Sober Gentlemen feat. Mason Via – “Rock Salt and Nails”

1:03:13 – Bang on the Ear – “XX (Twenty)” from Highland Road

1:06:17 – Some One's Sons – “The Boom is Back (Radio Edit)”

1:09:40 – CLOSING

1:10:46 – Margaret Davis – “Seagull of the Land – Under – Waves” from The Elder Lass

1:13:32 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.

Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like “Celtic music”. Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today’s show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!We’re approaching 21 years of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Since day one, this show has relied on the generosity of kind people like you. You inspire me to keep hunting down new music, interviews and stories from our community. So I can keep sharing this show with you. I am so grateful to you. Thank you so much.

As a patron, you get episodes before regular listeners. You get patron – only episodes like the Highlight Reel that came out last week. You get to vote in the Celtic Top 20 to help us collect the absolute best songs and tunes of the year into one magnificent end – of – year episode. And you keep this show running.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends who pledge $30 or more per month: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Laura Grantham replied to my email about ‘How do you celebrate Celtic culture through music?’. She wrote: “I practice my Irish by listening to Celtic Music as gaeilge at least once a week”

Kent Hansen emailed: “Dear Marc and Todd,,

I've been listening to the Irish and Celtic music podcast for years now using Podbean as my pod catcher but every once and a while it doesn't seem to get the current show, right now the most recent one they have is April 2nd.

I realize that there's other ways to listen to the podcast but I'm also trying to listen to every old one I can and I still have a couple of hundred to go through and I'd hate to start over. Not sure how any of that works, but in the very least I thought you should know.”

And finally, just after our July 4th celebrations…

Patrick VanHorn emailed: “Keep speaking up for America. Hi Mark, I’ve been a listener for years, albeit always for free. But today, after listening to episode 749 – Celtic Protest Songs – I knew I had to finally become a paid subscriber. Thank you for introducing me to new Celtic performers. And thank you for speaking up for America. Slainte!”

CASTRO DE BARONA

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Céad Míle FáilteHello all, it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We do have a Highlight Reel for our patrons. The other podcasts featured are Traveling in Ireland & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles we spotlight are about an appeal to save a catholic church, your chance to live in a Welsh Castle, & saving the Christmas lights at Angarrack. The highlighted festival is the Madison Irish Fest taking place July 10 – 12, at Fête de Marquette, McPike Park in Madison, WI. We have also included more new Celtic albums. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST HIGHLIGHT REEL 5.3 – 752-757

• Cherish The Ladies, Release the Craicen, Heather Dale, Eimear Arkins, The Bow Tides, Arise & Go, Wolf Loescher, Arise & Go, Carroll Sisters Trio, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Mànran, Dropkick Murphys, The Here & Now, Santiago Molina, Cedar Dobson, The Irish Lassies, Bealtaine, Sora, Boxing Robin, Gillian Boucher & Bob McNeill, & Fialla
• A special thanks to our Patrons!!!

Listen to the Show – (Patrons Only)

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Worth The Risk – by The Consequences
• The Last Druid – by Celtic Melodies
• North-West Passage – by North of Argyll
• The Price for Progress – by CK Fusion
• The Road To The Hall – by David Duncan Mackay
• Living My Life – by Diaspora
• Angufied – by Captain Angus
• This Is How I Fight – by Mîndäl
• Celtic Healing: Light of the Violet Trance – by YUNOKIA
• In The Stillness Of The Stars – by Margee Minier-Tubbs, Premik Russell Tubbs

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: SIP YOUR WAY AROUND THE RING OF KERRY: A WHISKEY LOVER’S GUIDE TO IRELAND’S MOST SCENIC DRIVE

• The Ring of Kerry is famous for dramatic coastlines, mountain passes, colorful villages, and unforgettable views. It's one of Ireland's most iconic driving routes – and for good reason. But beyond the photo stops and scenic overlooks is another experience that rewards travelers willing to slow down…

Listen here

APPEAL TO SAVE BIRMINGHAM'S HISTORIC IRISH CATHOLIC CHURCH

• FOR MORE than 175 years, St Joseph's Catholic Church in Nechells has stood as a symbol of Birmingham's Irish story.
• Built to serve Irish families who fled the Famine, the church has welcomed generations of people, and has marked countless baptisms, weddings and funerals.
• But now the historic church is falling apart.
• A structural inspection has found its bell tower to be unsafe, leaving the main entrance closed and repairs costing up to £350,000.

To read more, go here!

Jock's Celtic Calamity: Show No 589

• Cróga, Admiral Fallow , The Black Family, Pipers, Sam Barber, The Tannahill Weavers, Ryan Young, Laurence Nugent, Isaac Alderson, Dave Curley, Tallymoore, Blackwater Céilí Band, Scythian, Damien O'Kane & Ron Block, Anúna, Michael McGlynn, Méav Ní Mhaolchatha, Buíoch, Hannah Read & Michael Starkey, The Longest Johns, Charlie Oriain, Wayne Gratz, Cloudstreet, Beltaine, Ashley Davis, Ceolbeg, Fay Hield, At The Racket: John Carty, The Selkie Girls, Cara, Niall and Cillian Vallely, Qristina & Quinn Bachand, Paula Macaskill, Tabache

Listen to the Show

COULD YOU LIVE IN A 200-ROOM CASTLE? THE NATIONAL TRUST IS OFFERING A CHANCE TO MOVE IN

• Have you ever wanted to live in a 200-year-old gothic castle with dozens of acres of gardens and woodland to roam around?
• The National Trust is offering a rare opportunity to live and work in one set on the edge of Eryri National Park in north Wales…

To read more, go here!

FAMOUS CORNWALL CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT ANGARRACK AT RISK AFTER STORM GORETTI DESTRUCTION

• It's famous far beyond Cornwall, but at serious risk after Storm Goretti. ‘This is something truly special for our community and beyond, and we don't want to lose it'…

To read more, go here!

MADISON IRISH FEST

• Madison Irish Fest has long celebrated Irish culture in song, dance, crafts and spoken word. The Fest this year features a strong line-up of Celtic music favorites from Wisconsin, the US, and Ireland. Bands include Irish traditional music, Irish rock and Irish Blue Grass.
• Join us for a spectacular celebration of Irish culture and dance at the Madison Irish Fest – on the Main and Cabaret stages – at McPike Park during the Fête de Marquette celebration.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are 3 Pints Gone, Conor Mallon Band, Jeff Olson, Lillies of the Midwest, Lochanside, SlipJig, The Kissers, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

July 2, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

Céad Míle FáilteHello our wonderful readers, it is Todd once again with your weekly dose of Celtic news. IN this issue we a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast we showcase are Erin’s Isle & Celt in a Twist. The articles highlighted are about the island of Jersey, Maggie O’Farrell, & The island of Little Haven. Per usual there is a list of new Celtic albums. The featured festival is the Kincardine Scottish Festival & Highland Games taking place July 3 – 5, at Victoria Park and surrounding areas in Kincardine, Ontario, Canada. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #764: DANCING IN BELFAST

• Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Mary Beth Carty, Trouz Bras, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Hildaland, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan, Blackwillow Starling, Darren Flynn, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Celtic Cross, Bang on the Ear, Shades of Green, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Margaret Davis
• A special thanks our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Off The Floor – by Roblo's Rock
• Sunset Magic Tales of the Gothic Medieval Castle – by Andrei Krylov
• The Return to Camelot – by Tales of Avalon
• The Iron Path – by Techcowgirl
• Bodhránaidheacht 1 – by Feirdia Ní Mhocháin
• Gweiddi Dros Ynys Môn – by Ceoltóir Doinsiún
• The Mystic Muses: Live from New Zealand 2026 – by Melissa Cox
• Celtic Healing: Whispers of the Amethyst Lake – by YUNOKIA
• Folk Songs and Dances – by Mattea Saayman

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

ERIN’S ISLE: SAVING DONKEYS & CHANGING LIVES IN IRELAND

• Ireland’s donkey sanctuary is not an easy place to get to. Liscarroll is 100 miles from Galway and 48 miles from Cork. But that is where the donkeys have room to run and where they they can retire in safety.
• There are about 150 donkeys living there. And these are just a part of the overall rescue effort that houses 1500 donkeys at the sanctuary’s collective properties around the country. But Liscarrol is where you can visit those fuzzy-faced donkeys.

Listen here

AN ISLAND ADVENTURE IN GLORIOUS JERSEY WHICH WAS WELL WORTH THE WAIT…

• JERSEY is an island that I have always wanted to visit.
• I have friends, you see, who have been there and have fed back glorious reviews.
• One friend in particular spent a very long chunk of time living there, having visited for a holiday from Ireland and deciding to stay. That was a few years ago now, but it has always stuck in my mind.
• The fact that my friend, who likes a lot of the same things that I do in life – including, although not necessarily in this order, seafood, beaches, family time, wine and holidays, was so enamoured with this island that she chose to stay for a significant amount of time, entirely off the cuff, well I’m not ashamed to say that that left me with serious FOMO…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST JUNE 23, 2026

• Dervish draws deep from the well of Irish tradition on their latest collection from The Great Irish Songbook Volume 2. Meanwhile The Ollam take trad someplace else entirely, featuring John McSherry and groovemonster Joe Dart. This hour features fresh track from Trouz Bras, North America's keepers of Breton music heritage and Newfoundland's Rum Ragged take us down The Road To Lushes Bight. Lard Tunderin', it must be Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

MAGGIE O'FARRELL ON HOW FAMILY HISTORY INFORMED HER NEW NOVEL: ‘THESE ARE MY PEOPLE'

• On 16 March, just after 8:30am, I switched on Radio 4’s Today programme and there, live from Los Angeles, waiting for a limo to take her to the post-Oscars Vanity Fair party, was Maggie O’Farrell. I can’t say I know her very well, but I know her somewhat better than I do Jane Fonda, Nicole Kidman, Mick Jagger, Timothée Chalamet, Sam Altman, Larry David, Javier Bardem and all the rest of the A-listers she would soon be moving amongst…

To read more, go here!

THIS FISHING VILLAGE HAS A SANDY COVE, SEASIDE PUB AND SEAFOOD SANDWICHES

• Found in a scenic fold of Pembrokeshire’s craggy coastline, Little Haven isn’t trying to impress you, and that’s exactly why it does.
• This tiny fishing village has an unpolished charm, with lovely pubs, seafood sarnies, and a pretty cove that fills and empties with the tide. In the warmer months, locals and visitors spill out onto the slipway with ice creams and pints, giving the place a low-key buzz…

To read more, go here!

KINCARDINE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

• Celebrating over 25 years, our award-winning festival has welcomed thousands of visitors from all over North America to the beautiful lakeside town of Kincardine to join us in celebrating all things Scottish.
• Proud to have received the Tourism Recognition Certificate from the Municipality of Kincardine!
• Some of the entertainers you will see are 54·40, Schiehallion, Glengarry Bhoys, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 25, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

Céad Míle FáilteHello our wonderful readers, it is Todd once again with your weekly dose of Celtic news. IN this issue we a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast we showcase are Erin’s Isle & Celt in a Twist. The articles highlighted are about the island of Jersey, Maggie O’Farrell, & The island of Little Haven. Per usual there is a list of new Celtic albums. The featured festival is the Kincardine Scottish Festival & Highland Games taking place July 3 – 5, at Victoria Park and surrounding areas in Kincardine, Ontario, Canada. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #764: DANCING IN BELFAST

• Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Mary Beth Carty, Trouz Bras, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Hildaland, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan, Blackwillow Starling, Darren Flynn, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Celtic Cross, Bang on the Ear, Shades of Green, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Margaret Davis
• A special thanks our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Off The Floor – by Roblo's Rock
• Sunset Magic Tales of the Gothic Medieval Castle – by Andrei Krylov
• The Return to Camelot – by Tales of Avalon
• The Iron Path – by Techcowgirl
• Bodhránaidheacht 1 – by Feirdia Ní Mhocháin
• Gweiddi Dros Ynys Môn – by Ceoltóir Doinsiún
• The Mystic Muses: Live from New Zealand 2026 – by Melissa Cox
• Celtic Healing: Whispers of the Amethyst Lake – by YUNOKIA
• Folk Songs and Dances – by Mattea Saayman

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

ERIN’S ISLE: SAVING DONKEYS & CHANGING LIVES IN IRELAND

• Ireland’s donkey sanctuary is not an easy place to get to. Liscarroll is 100 miles from Galway and 48 miles from Cork. But that is where the donkeys have room to run and where they they can retire in safety.
• There are about 150 donkeys living there. And these are just a part of the overall rescue effort that houses 1500 donkeys at the sanctuary’s collective properties around the country. But Liscarrol is where you can visit those fuzzy-faced donkeys.

Listen here

AN ISLAND ADVENTURE IN GLORIOUS JERSEY WHICH WAS WELL WORTH THE WAIT…

• JERSEY is an island that I have always wanted to visit.
• I have friends, you see, who have been there and have fed back glorious reviews.
• One friend in particular spent a very long chunk of time living there, having visited for a holiday from Ireland and deciding to stay. That was a few years ago now, but it has always stuck in my mind.
• The fact that my friend, who likes a lot of the same things that I do in life – including, although not necessarily in this order, seafood, beaches, family time, wine and holidays, was so enamoured with this island that she chose to stay for a significant amount of time, entirely off the cuff, well I’m not ashamed to say that that left me with serious FOMO…

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST JUNE 23, 2026

• Dervish draws deep from the well of Irish tradition on their latest collection from The Great Irish Songbook Volume 2. Meanwhile The Ollam take trad someplace else entirely, featuring John McSherry and groovemonster Joe Dart. This hour features fresh track from Trouz Bras, North America's keepers of Breton music heritage and Newfoundland's Rum Ragged take us down The Road To Lushes Bight. Lard Tunderin', it must be Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

MAGGIE O'FARRELL ON HOW FAMILY HISTORY INFORMED HER NEW NOVEL: ‘THESE ARE MY PEOPLE'

• On 16 March, just after 8:30am, I switched on Radio 4’s Today programme and there, live from Los Angeles, waiting for a limo to take her to the post-Oscars Vanity Fair party, was Maggie O’Farrell. I can’t say I know her very well, but I know her somewhat better than I do Jane Fonda, Nicole Kidman, Mick Jagger, Timothée Chalamet, Sam Altman, Larry David, Javier Bardem and all the rest of the A-listers she would soon be moving amongst…

To read more, go here!

THIS FISHING VILLAGE HAS A SANDY COVE, SEASIDE PUB AND SEAFOOD SANDWICHES

• Found in a scenic fold of Pembrokeshire’s craggy coastline, Little Haven isn’t trying to impress you, and that’s exactly why it does.
• This tiny fishing village has an unpolished charm, with lovely pubs, seafood sarnies, and a pretty cove that fills and empties with the tide. In the warmer months, locals and visitors spill out onto the slipway with ice creams and pints, giving the place a low-key buzz…

To read more, go here!

KINCARDINE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

• Celebrating over 25 years, our award-winning festival has welcomed thousands of visitors from all over North America to the beautiful lakeside town of Kincardine to join us in celebrating all things Scottish.
• Proud to have received the Tourism Recognition Certificate from the Municipality of Kincardine!
• Some of the entertainers you will see are 54·40, Schiehallion, Glengarry Bhoys, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 25, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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From Québécois fiddle fire to a Highland fairy lullaby, this week's Celtic journey takes you from County Clare to Brittany and beyond. New music, fresh voices, and a few surprises. This is the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #764 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau, Mary Beth Carty, Trouz Bras, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Hildaland, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan, Blackwillow Starling, Darren Flynn, Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald, Celtic Cross, Bang on the Ear, Shades of Green, MacCumhaill and the Gang, Margaret Davis

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:07 – Alexis Chartrand & Nicolas Babineau “Lebreux” from Écoutez tous

3:11 – WELCOME

4:14 – Mary Beth Carty “Mary Anne” from single

7:59 – Trouz Bras “Life is for Living” from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany

11:57 – Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan “Bàs Osgair (the Death of Oscar)” from The Heroic Ballads – Laoidhean nan Gaisgeach – EP

16:59 – Hildaland “The Watchman's Polka (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)” from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan) – EP

20:21 – FEEDBACK

21:26 – Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca “Onder de Linde (Unter der Linden)” from Fabula Feminae – EP

26:13 – Dervish featuring Aoife O'Donovan “Jackie” from The Great Irish Songbook Vol 2: Poets & Storytellers

29:36 – Blackwillow Starling “Woodland Green” from Thornaeppel

32:16 – Darren Flynn “Pinebox” from (single)

35:52 – Donnie ‘Large' Macdonald “An Greusaiche (The Cobbler)” from Christina

39:26 – THANKS

41:43 – Celtic Cross “Dancin' Belfast” from Dancin' Belfast – Single

45:16 – Bang on the Ear “My Bonnie Lassie” from Highland Road

48:15 – Shades of Green “I'm Drunk (Yo – Ho!)” from Single

50:46 – MacCumhaill and the Gang “Crathadh t'Aodaich” from 2

53:49 – CLOSING

55:18 – Margaret Davis “Highland Fairy Lullabye” from The Elder Lass

58:55 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy isn't just good for the planet. It's good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Now is a good reminder of what we stand to lose — and what we're fighting to protect.

The science is clear. Human activity is driving climate change. Record heat. Rising seas. Disappearing seasons. And yet too many politicians would rather protect billionaire energy interests than help working families lower their bills.

Real change starts when we stop letting the ultra – rich write our energy policy. Support clean energy. Reduce your waste. Talk to your elected leaders. Every choice moves us toward a future that's more affordable, more free, and a planet that can actually breathe.

The power to fix this is ours. Let's use it.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!This show exists because of you. Every episode… the music, the production, the Celtic Music Magazine, the effort to find and support independent artists from around the world. It all runs on the generosity of our Patrons of the Podcast.

Your support pays for audio engineering and graphics. It helps us buy music directly from independent Celtic artists. It keeps this community growing week after week.

And in return, you get something good. Early access to episodes. Music – only editions. Free downloads. Exclusive content. And the power to vote for your favorite tracks, which shapes the show in a real way.

A special thanks our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

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Céad Míle FáilteTodd here again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other showcased podcasts are Celtic Source & Copperplate Time. The articles featured are about an activist being honoured, a young poet and spoken worf, & Tartan Army. We have new albums as well. The highlighted festival is the Ohio Scotish Games taking place June 26 -27 at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea, Oh. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #763: CELTIC BLOOD AND BURNING ROADS

• Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The Byrne Brothers, serious kitchen, Jared Bogle, Matt and Shannon Heaton, Ockham's Razor, Runa, Hounds of Finn, The Horsenecks, Skyrie, Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, Jarmila Xymena Gorna, The McDades
• A special thanks our newest Patron of the Podcast: John W

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• The Dream – by Anu
• Dance of the Spiritwild – by TOFIE
• Tree of Life (Sketches 2026)j – by Owen Vaughan Hanner
• The Quiet Collection: Celtic – by Bill Lollar
• Tales From The Glen – by Bang On The Ear
• Secret Oaks – by Secret Oaks

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

Celtic Source 78: The Oldest Welsh Fairytale Explained: Elidy…

• Get the short guide ‘The 5 Keys of Celtic Myth' here: https://celticsource.online/the-5-keys-of-celtic-myth/ The story of Elidyr and the Tylwyth Teg is the oldest Welsh fairy tale on record. It tells of a boy's journey through ancient liminal spaces, encountering a deep realm of where the fairies have their own high ideals and ethics. But what does this story actually mean? What does it tell us about encounters with the extraordinary, about truth, childhood, and lost wisdom?

Listen here

ACTIVIST HONOURED FOR ‘DEDICATING LIFE' TO IRISH COMMUNITY IN BRITAIN

• COMMUNITY activist Angie Birtill has been honoured for ‘dedicating her life to community, solidarity and social justice’.
• Born into a Liverpool Irish family in the 1950s, where her Co. Meath-born mother was working as a nurse, Ms Birtill has gone on to become one of the longest-standing activists among the Irish community.
• In the 1970s, Ms Birtill moved to London, where she was elected a councillor in Kilburn and later joined the London Irish Women’s centre in Hackney.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 540

• BOTHY BAND, GATEHOUSE, BRIAN CONWAY, SEAN TYRRELL, KEVIN GLACKIN & RONAN BROWNE, SEAN TYRRELL, McCARTHY FAMILY, TOMMY McCARTHY & LOUISE COSTELLO, PATSY MOLONEY, ROSIE STEWART, BOTHY BAND, PADRAIG RYNNE, DEZI DONNELLY, LISA KNAPP, JACK E McAULEY, RALPH McTELL, BERT JANSCH, BOB DYLAN & JOHNNY CASH, TIM O’BRIEN, GOITSE, THE VOICE SQUAD, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

POETRY IS MY THERAPY – I HOPE PEOPLE HEAR MY ACCENT AND FEEL INSPIRED

• A young poet who calls the spoken word her “biggest form of therapy” says the growing popularity of sharing poetry online is because people “have a lot to say”.
• Georgia Griffiths, 26, from Merthyr Tydfil, said writing poetry helped her to make sense of the world in today's “very political climate”.

To read more, go here!

TARTAN ARMY'S ‘NO SCOTLAND, NO PARTY' CHANT WILL ‘NEVER BE FORGOTTEN' IN US CITY

• The Tartan Army have been well received after they based themselves in Providence for the World Cup. The skirl of bagpipes has become a familiar noise in the US city after thousands of members of Scotland fans flocked there for the World Cup.
• A representative from a Rhode Island visitors' organisation joked she can hear bagpipes “in my sleep” as buoyant punters base themselves in the New England city during the tournament.

To read more, go here!

OHIO SCOTTISH GAMES & CELTIC FESTIVAL

• GATES OPEN FRIDAY AT 4:45PM AND SATURDAY AT 7:30AM FOR MORNING COMPETITION. ENTERTAINMENT BEGINS AROUND 10:30AM
• The Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic Festival is held on the 4th Saturday every June.
• The Games runs under The Scottish American Cultural Society of Ohio, Inc (SACSO).
• Established in 1977, this long standing event is presented by members of The Ohio Scottish American Cultural Society of Ohio, an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of their proud Scottish Heritage and ancestry.
• The Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic Festival highlights the traditional dance, music and athletics of the ancient highland games while celebrating the cultural of the Celtic nations. This event is for the enjoyment of all Scots and friends as well as to introduce the Scottish Arts and traditions to the community.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are The Prodigals, Sweet Killarney, Trio 42, Geordie Symes' Pirates Smallpipe Group, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 18, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

Celtic music is always burning somewhere. Today we fan the flame with new sounds from Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The McDades, Skyrie, and a whole lot more. This is the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #763 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The Byrne Brothers, serious kitchen, Jared Bogle, Matt and Shannon Heaton, Ockham's Razor, Runa, Hounds of Finn, The Horsenecks, Skyrie, Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, Jarmila Xymena Gorna, The McDades

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Sean Heely and Beth Patterson “Aux Nachitoches” from Stir the Blood to Fire

3:32 – WELCOME

7:58 – The Byrne Brothers “Waikiki Reel (Finn Byrne) Seanamhac Tube Station Reel [Traditional]” from Living the Dream

11:27 – serious kitchen “wind that shakes the barley” from on the mash

15:42 – Jared Bogle “The Orphan / The Black Rogue (Jigs)” from The Old Road Home

19:02 – Matt and Shannon Heaton “P Joe Hayes #2/Cottage in the Grove/Mother and Child (reels)” from Whirring Wings

23:05 – FEEDBACK

24:02 – Runa “For All That You Do Set” from When The Light Gets In

29:35 – Hounds of Finn “Where It Burns” from Gravity Pulls

34:06 – The Horsenecks “Jinny Lin's Tune” from In the West

36:42 – THANKS

37:43 – Ockham's Razor “Murmuring” from Secrets and Silence

42:00 – Skyrie “Solid Ground” from Hunger Road

47:01 – Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer “Pyramid Bourrée” from Come Bring With A Noise

50:48 – Jarmila Xymena Gorna “Escape – Dihangfa” from Single

56:24 – CLOSING

57:46 – The McDades “The Lily of the West” from Thread The Light

1:01:57 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy is the single most powerful tool we have to fight climate change. Solar, wind, hydro – every kilowatt of clean power displaces the fossil fuels warming our planet. The big picture matters. So do the small choices you make every day.

This week's tip comes from the 5 Rs of Sustainability: Refuse. Before you buy something new, ask yourself if you actually need it. Every item you don't buy is one that never had to be made, shipped, or eventually thrown away. Refusing is the most underrated act of sustainability there is. Start there. Your wallet and the planet will both thank you.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

CHANGE IN WHO IS PLAYED ON THE PODCAST, NO AI MUSIC, FOCUS ON PERFORMING BANDSSomething important happened recently. I received my first – ever submission from a Celtic “band” that was 100% AI – generated.

Honestly? It sounded good. And I was grateful the artist, Emma Rove, was completely open about it. The music and the vocals were AI. I couldn't tell.

But from the early days of this podcast, my goal has been to promote indie Celtic artists. I'm updating that for the future. My goal is to promote performing indie Celtic artists.

This actually works well for me. I'm not a fan of most “Celtic Music” on YouTube. It's usually electronic and orchestrated. Not my thing.

So if the artists aren't performing, I probably won't play them on the podcast.

Hopefully that makes for a better show all around. Thanks for your support.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!This episode exists because of our amazing Patrons of the Podcast. Every month, they chip in to keep this show running – covering audio engineering, graphic design, Celtic Music Magazine, and letting me go out and buy music directly from independent Celtic artists like the ones you just heard.

Want in? It's simple. Step one: head to SongHenge.com. Step two: pick a support level that works for you. Step three: start enjoying the perks. That means early access to new episodes, music – only editions with no talking, free downloads, exclusive content, and even voting rights to help shape the show.

Slàinte to every single Patron. You make this possible.

A special thanks our newest Patron of the Podcast: John W

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

View Details

Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again with your weekly news from the world of the Celts. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast & Pub Songs & Stories. The other featured podcasts are In tune with Tradition & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The articles are about a new podcast for Foinneóg: 75 Bliain Ag Fás, RTÉ producer Cliodhna Ní Anluain’s new book, and the St. Magnus Festival. The festival we spotlight this week is the Halifax Celtic Cultural Festival, Which takes place June 17 – 21, 2026 at the Halifax City Hall in Wednesday for the flag raising, followed by The Old Triangle for Giving Celtic Context, then at Spatz Theater Thursday – Sunday. All in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #762: SOCKS IN THE FRYING PAN INTERVIEW

• Socks in the Frying Pan, Téada, Amadan, Old Man Flanagan's Ghost, The Celtic Kitchen Party, Brobdingnagian Bards, The Gothard Sisters
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Irish Piano Music for Saint Patrick's Day – by James Woodward
• Blarney Stoned – by Blarney Stoned
• Tha Mi Saor (I Am Free) – by Karen McChesney
• Celtic Acoustic: Lanterns of the Hidden Alley – by YUNOKIA
• The Last Horizon – by Old Gods Covenant
• Roses – by Stephanie Irvine
• Twilight in the Valley – by The Undead Association
• Sunny – by Fae Wiedenhoeft

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

Pub Songs & Stories #316: Pub Songs at Renaissance Festivals

• A solo bard on the Renaissance stage. A band called May Will Bloom joining the revelry. And the Georgia Renaissance Festival, alive with Celtic folk magic. Music from Marc Gunn, Bealtaine, Skara Brae

This is Pub Songs & Stories #316

IN TUNE WITH TRADITION: I REALLY LOVE IRISH MUSIC

• Join Tara Connaghan as she chats with Four Men and a Dog bodhrán player, Gino Lupari. Explore the rich culture of Irish traditional music sessions, the importance of etiquette, and how to improve as a musician. Insights from a seasoned Irish musician sharing stories, tips, and the essence of session camaraderie.

Listen here

FOUNDERS, ICONS & KEY FIGURES

• A chairde,
• We are delighted to launch Foinneóg: 75 Bliain Ag Fás. A brand new podcast brought to you by Comhaltas, dropping every Wednesday ahead of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
• Hosted by Máire Ní Churraoin, each episode will feature stories, music, memories and conversations from across the Comhaltas Community.
• Episode 1: Available Now

Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY: SHOW NO 586

• Altan , Jenna Reid, Duncan Lyall, Horslips, Arcady, Sandy Denny, Seth Staton Watkins, Amaidí, The Poozies, Blazin' Fiddles , De Dannan, Maggie MacInnes, Gerry O’Connor, Katie Macfarlane, Donnacha Doyle , The Fiddle Case, Open the Door for Three, Silly Wizard , Sian, Daimh, Coda, Boys of the Lough, Ye Vagabonds, The New England Irish Harp…, Natalie MacMaster & Donnell, Aoife Granville, Bob Fox, The Mischa Macpherson Trio, The Bee Eaters

Listen to the Show

RTÉ PRODUCER MARKS A CENTURY OF IRISH RADIO WITH NEW BOOK

• AS RTÉ celebrates 100 years, radio producer Cliodhna Ní Anluain has written about the sounds and stories of Ireland through a century of change.
• Ní Anluain, who has worked in radio at RTÉ since 2000, is the author of On Air, a new illustrated history of Irish radio, set to be published on October 30.
• The book arrives as Ireland's national broadcaster marks the centenary of 2RN, the station that first went on air in 1926 and evolved into today's RTÉ Radio.

To read more, go here!

THE ST MAGNUS FESTIVAL AT 50: ‘AN EVENT THAT'S ALIVE TO ITS SURROUNDINGS'

• Over five decades, Orkney’s St Magnus Festival has evolved by remaining responsive to place, to artists, and to audience, writes its artistic director Alasdair Nicolson

To read more, go here!

HALIFAX CELTIC CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2026

• Welcome
• Thanks for joining us during our annual gathering to celebrate Celtic heritages through the cultural expressions of music, song, dance, languages, genealogy, arts and crafts, and histories.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Alycia Putnam & Family, Beòlach, Callehan, Corbies, Kitchen Criminals, The Foleys, and more!!!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 11, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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Socks in the Frying Pan joins me for a conversation in episode 762 of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We dig into who they are, how they got here, and where they're going. Plus an hour of great Celtic music to go along with it. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Socks in the Frying Pan, Téada, Amadan, Old Man Flanagan's Ghost, The Celtic Kitchen Party, Brobdingnagian Bards, The Gothard Sisters

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:09 – Téada “Reels – Paddy Ryan's Dream / The Winding Roads of Advance / Danny Meehan's / Mick Fitzpatrick's” from Coiscéim Coiligh / As the Days Brighten

4:15 – WELCOME

5:54 – Amadan “Johnny Jump Up / Swallow Tail Jig” from Sons of Liberty and The Secret World of Celtic Rock

10:16 – Old Man Flanagan's Ghost “Fisher's Hornpipe” from LIVE

13:43 – INTERVIEW INTRO

14:34 – INTERVIEW WITH SOCKS IN THE FRYING PAN

19:23 – Socks in the Frying Pan “Beetlejig Beetlejig Beetlejig!” from Waiting for Inspiration

25:37 – “The Slipjigs & Reels” from Socks in the Frying Pan

40:12 – “The Finale” from Socks in the Frying Pan

46:41 – “Mormond Braes (Live)” from Raw & Ríl (Live)

50:57 – INTERVIEW OUTRO

51:04 – The Celtic Kitchen Party “Covid – 19 Shanty” from Last Call

52:51 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Johnny at the Door” from Songs of Ireland

56:27 – CLOSING

57:36 – The Gothard Sisters “The Sailor and the Mermaid” from Story Girl

1:01:43 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy is one of the most powerful tools we have to fight climate change. Solar, wind, hydro – every kilowatt of clean power pushes fossil fuels a little further out the door. The big picture matters. And so do the small choices you make every day.

This week's tip comes from the 5 Rs of Sustainability. The second one is Reduce. You don't have to go off the grid to make a difference. Just use less. Turn off lights you don't need. Buy fewer things you don't use. Cut back where you can. Small reductions add up fast – and they cost you nothing. Your wallet and the planet will both thank you.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC

Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast is listener – supported, and that support makes episodes like this one possible. Bringing in an interview with Socks in the Frying Pan, keeping the show weekly, celebrating independent Celtic artists – it all happens because of you.

Your generosity funds the podcast, the Celtic Top 20, the blog, and the community that keeps growing around this music every week. Thousands of listeners tune in each month because people like you make sure the show keeps going.

As a patron you get early access to episodes, bonus content, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20 – the listener poll that helps shape what you hear. And you can even become part of SongHenge, to get even more.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

River replied to my question, “how does the podcast make your life better?”Marc,

Your music and podcasts have helped me through so many parts of my life! Without knowing it, you have seen me through multiple deaths in my family, broken relationships, moving from one state to another, and multiple surgeries. Of course you have also been there through the many good times, such as meeting my awesome wife and the birth of our daughter!

I found your podcast back in 05 or 06 while living in Florida by chance and became an instant fan. It took no time for me to download all of your music and the Brobdingnagian Bards music I could! Congratulations on over 20 years of podcasting and (if my math is right) about 3 decades of music! Keep up the amazing work!

Your Constant Listener,

~River”

Woodland Folk sent a picture of a fiddler. Is that Woodland Folk? He didn’t say, but thank you for the photo!

Cristen Y messaged on Patreon: “Greetings! I found a few resources on my own about keening! Not sure if you know about these folks but there is a great podcast I found called Candlelit Tales. The hosts tell Irish stories and then discuss them afterwards; they talked about keening on their March 15, 2020 episode titled “Whelans Live – Queen of the Banshee” in case you want to check it out I appreciate you!”

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A solo bard on the Renaissance stage. A band called May Will Bloom joining the revelry. And the Georgia Renaissance Festival, alive with Celtic folk magic. Music from Marc Gunn, Bealtaine, Skara Brae.

This is Pub Songs & Stories #316

0:06 – Marc Gunn “Wild Mountain Thyme” from Heroes

3:43 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. I am your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

4:03 – NEWS

• Georgia Renaissance Festival
• How to follow my Celtic Invasion of Galicia

14:10 – Skara Brae “Let's Raise Another Pint” from The Mists of Time

18:02 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• Jul 30-Aug 2: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN
• Sep 3-7: Dragon Con, Atlanta, Ga with Brobdingnagian Bards

TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

20:03 – Bealtaine “The Whale Hymn” from The Founders' Room

24:18 – CREDITS

This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Finally, remember: summer is a reminder of what's at stake. Longer days, warmer nights, and the beauty of the natural world that Celtic music has celebrated for centuries.

Scientists are united: human activity is changing our climate, and we're already feeling it. But here's what the headlines don't always tell you. We have the tools to fight back. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. You can reduce your waste, choose cleaner energy, and push your elected leaders to act. The outdoors we love, the rivers, the coastlines, the long summer evenings, are worth protecting.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is your editor Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts we spotlight are Traveling in Ireland & Celt in a Twist. The featured articles are about a student winning a prize for research on post-colonial Ireland, Celtic Kickstarters you can help fund, & Welsh cave art. The highlighted festival is the Carroll County Celtic Festival taking place at Carroll County Agriculture Center in Westminster, MD on June 13 & 14. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST: LAST NIGHT IN THE HILLS OF IRELAND

• Gerry O'Connor, Fialla, The Diviners, Meerrant, Jesse Ferguson, Clanna Morna, Faoileán, Brad Reid, High Octane, The Drowsy Lads, Robin Huw Bowen, DRD, Jiggy, Alexander James Adams, Marc Gunn, Meerrant, Faoileán, Brad Reid, High Octane, DRD, Jiggy, The Drowsy Lads, Fialla, Gerry O'Connor, Clanna Morna
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Our Ship Is Ready – by Cara
• fields and stone – by Ron McKinney
• Celtic Acoustic: Rhythms of the Saltwater Inn – by YUNOKIA
• Legends of the Medieval Fortress for Lute, Guitar & Flute – by Andrei Krylov
• Ambient Score – by Tristan Lohengrin
• Shieldmaiden – by Jon Richards
• The Great Irish Songbook Vol 2: Poets & Storytellers – by Dervish
• On Yer Bike – by The Real McKenzies

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: BEYOND NEWGRANGE: HIDDEN CASTLES, ANCIENT SITES, AND QUIET ROADS IN IRELAND’S BOYNE VALLEY

• Ireland’s Ancient East is filled with famous landmarks, but some of its most memorable experiences happen just beyond the well-trodden stops. Between the sweeping history of the Boyne Valley and the quieter corners of Westmeath, travelers can uncover everything from prehistoric passage tombs to castle kitchens frozen in time.

Listen here

STUDENT WINS PRIZE FOR ‘GROUNDBREAKING RESEARCH’ ON CENSORSHIP IN POSTCOLONIAL IRELAND

• A PHD student who examined literary censorship in postcolonial Ireland for her course has won a prize for her work.
• Sophie O’Grady, who is undertaking a PhD in English Research at King's College university in London, has been awarded the British Association for Irish Studies (BAIS) Postgraduate Essay Prize for 2026.
• She was honoured for her essay ‘A Conscience Worth the Name: The Role of Censorship in Constructions of Post-Independence Irish Identity’, which explores the challenge of deciding what needed to be censored in Irish literature after the country became independent.

To read more, go here!

Celt In ATwist: June 2, 2026

• Fiddles be flyin' from the get go this hour. Boiled In Lead set the pace with Fast Reels, fiddles and electronics from Parahyba, Brazil with Furmiga Dub, Derina Harvey takes us back to The Big Rock, The East Pointers to PEI, Grumpy O Sheep from France, Brogeal from Falkirk and more Breton melodies from Trouz Bras. It ‘s a mix not to be trifled or fiddled with. You got yer Celt In A Twist, 27 years and counting, with Patricia Fraser!

Listen to the Show

KICKSTARTERS TO HELP FUND

• Bring Binnorie to life – Help me fund a record of murder ballads, fiddle tunes and folk tales!
• Pine Tree Flyers – Hard Tellin' Not Knowin' – A new album of New England fiddle tunes from traditional music supergroup Pine Tree Flyers!
• Dream Catcher Hollow: NEW Lady Moon Album –
• A lush orchestral folk album commemorating beauty.

RED STRIPES IN WELSH CAVE DECLARED BRITAIN’S OLDEST ART AFTER BEING DISMISSED AS A NATURAL PHENOMENON

• LONDON — Red stripes on a rock in Wales, dismissed as a natural phenomenon for more than a century, have been found to be the oldest known prehistoric art in Britain and northwestern Europe — created by human fingers 17,100 years ago, according to new research.

To read more, go here!

CARROLL COUNTY CELTIC FESTIVAL

• The Carroll County Celtic Festival is a rain or shine event. Artisans, dance performances, traditional music, clan tents, historic presentations, dance workshops, highland cows, The Sword Experience, and beer, will all be indoors. Athletics, Sheep Herding, and Living History, will be outside and The Gaelic Language Village, children’s activities, bands, and the food vendors will all be under tents. Please plan accordingly.
• Entertainers you will see include Albannach, The Piper Jones Band, Poehemia, Hooligan Jack – The One Man Irish Band, & Adrian Paul's Sword Experience

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

June 4, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Close your eyes. You're standing in the hills of Ireland. The music is drifting up from the valley below. That's where we're headed tonight. Welcome to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #761 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Gerry O'Connor, Fialla, The Diviners, Meerrant, Jesse Ferguson, Clanna Morna, Faoileán, Brad Reid, High Octane, The Drowsy Lads, Robin Huw Bowen, DRD, Jiggy, Alexander James Adams

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Gerry O'Connor “Stereo Connor (Polkas)” from Last Night's Joy

4:23 – WELCOME

5:07 – Fialla “No Fear No Grace” from A Rare Thing

9:28 – The Diviners “Steppin' Out / Farewell to Connolly Road” from Earshot (EP)

13:22 – Meerrant “To Carolan” from Fells

16:57 – Jesse Ferguson “Jock o'Hazeldean” from Ten

20:45 – FEEDBACK

23:26 – Clanna Morna “Virginia / Martin Wynne's #2 / Morning Dew” from From The Lowlands To The High Seas

27:36 – Almost Seamus “Danny Boy” from Almost Seamus

31:55 – Brad Reid “Lads of Liltington” from The Bridge

34:31 – High Octane “L'heure du goûter” from High Octane

36:00 – THANKS

37:52 – The Drowsy Lads “Boys of the Old Brigade” from Everyone In

41:36 – Robin Huw Bowen “Y Pural Fesur” from Iaith Enaid

48:02 – DRD “Moxeca” from DRD

51:21 – Jiggy “I'm With You” from Translate

55:00 – CLOSING

55:57 – Alexander James Adams “Blue Heron/Cranky Crawdads/Mittens on the Moon” from Cat & the Fiddle

1:00:46 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy is the single most powerful tool we have to fight climate change. Solar, wind, hydro – every kilowatt of clean power displaces the fossil fuels warming our planet. The big picture matters. So do the small choices you make every day.

This week's tip comes from the 5 Rs of Sustainability: Refuse. Before you buy something new, ask yourself if you actually need it. Every item you don't buy is one that never had to be made, shipped, or eventually thrown away. Refusing is the most underrated act of sustainability there is. Start there. Your wallet and the planet will both thank you.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Every episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast exists because of you. Your support makes this possible, week after week, year after year. That is not a small thing.

Your generosity covers real costs: audio engineering, graphic design, the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and buying music directly from the independent Celtic artists we feature. You are the reason this music reaches new ears every single week.

Not a patron yet? Here is what you are missing. Patrons get early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3 downloads, exclusive stories and artist interviews, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20.

Join us today and help keep Celtic music alive, independent, and growing. Every single patron matters. Slainte!

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Mat commented on Patreon: “The music tonight both relaxes & energizes me.”

Gavin Robinson emailed: “Hi Marc, Thanks for all the great music. I love listening and discovering new artist and songs every week.

I wanted to share Hildaland with you (https://hildaland.bandcamp.com) – check out Ettrick, the poem by Lady Jane Grey they set to music, or The Selkie of Sule Skeery – two of my favorites in their latest EP. Slainte!”

Cody Holtzclaw emailed: “Hey man, I just wanted to reach out and tell you how nice it was to hear that you had a good back and forth with the guy who disagreed with your political stance. Too often nowadays, people see differences of opinion as a sign that they are enemies so I love to see when people can have a good conversation from either end of the political spectrum. Respectfully, I'm very conservative so we probably disagree on some things too, but just know you have the support of some people on the right. Honestly after all the epstein files I believe even more that the goal of the elites is to keep all of us focused on each other instead of them. Love the music man. Thank you for the free access to it!”

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast where winds from the hills of Scotland to the shores of Ireland, from Ohio to Nova Scotia, and a few places you might not expect. Sixteen artists. One heck of a journey. Press play and find out where it takes you. The other featured podcasts are Folk on Foot & Copperplate Time. The articles we highlight are about Copperplate, Sailors from an Arctic Mission identified by DNA, and an ancient moor being part of a nature reserve. The spotlighted festival is the Georgia Mountain Scottish Festival and Highland Games taking place June 6 & 7, at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #760: CHILD OF ALBA, CROSSING TO IRELAND

• Carroll Sisters Trio, Willos' & Massimo Giuntini, Wolf Loescher, Telenn Tri, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Erin Ruth, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, The Fire, Tallymoore, Deirdre Graham, Marys Lane, Norse Gael, The Sternwheelers, The Walker Roaders, Don Gabbert, Marc Gunn, Carroll Sisters Trio, Norse Gael, Willos' & Massimo Giuntini, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh
• A special thanks to our latest Patron of the Podcast: John W

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Tales of a Dragonfly – by Einat
• Emerald Dreams – by Dillon Bunn
• Next Weeki – by Jean Christophe Girard – Antoine Leclercq
• Echoes from another world as they search for the ring of their dreams at a bustling gathering – by Forest Cherry
• The Price for Progress – by CK FUSION
• The War That Followed Me Home – by Ash & Oath
• Under The Stone Sky – by Music of the Mountain

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

Folk on Foot: A Robin Hood Pilgrimage with Guy Hayward

• We’re in Sherwood Forest on the trail of Robin Hood in the company of Guy Hayward, founder of the British Pilgrimage Trust and former Cambridge choral scholar. As we head to the Major Oak and beyond, Guy shares many theories about the Robin Hood legends, sings ballads about his adventures and extols the joys of pilgrimage. He even dives into a river in search of Robin Hood’s cave.

Listen here

COPPERPLATE SOUND: DUBLIN MAN’S PODCAST KEEPS IRISH TRAD ALIVE WORLDWIDE

• FOR more than 20 years, Alan O’Leary has been giving independent folk and traditional artists a consistent, global platform.
• He has dedicated his life to Irish music. It’s what he does.
• Originally from Dublin and raised in London from the age of 10, O’Leary is best known as the driving force behind Copperplate, the long-running mail-order business and promotional hub for Irish traditional music.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 538

• BOTHY BAND, BROCK MAGUIRE BAND, TIM O’BRIEN & THE O BOYS, DESI WILKINSON/CRAN, EILIS KENNEDY, PADDY CARTY, CHRISTY MOORE, MICHAEL MULVEY & SHANE MEEHAN, MUIREANN Nic AMHLAOIBH & DANU, MICK O’BRIEN, RALPH McTELL, JOHN & CATHERINE McEVOY, THE GPs/RICHARD THOMPSON, THE BAND, BOB DYLAN, FAIRPORT CONVENTION/SANDY DENNY, BOB DYLAN

Listen to the Show

SAILORS FROM DOOMED ARCTIC MISSION WITH NO SURVIVORS IDENTIFIED BY DNA

• The remains of sailors who died on an ill-fated Arctic expedition have been identified by researchers using DNA testing.
• The Victorian-era HMS Erebus, built in Pembroke Dock in 1826, became part of nautical folklore after it vanished in the mid-19th Century.
• All of the sailors on board died after the ship became stuck in ice, with some resorting to cannibalism during desperate attempts at survival.

To read more, go here!

ANCIENT MOOR PROTECTED AS PART OF NATURE RESERVE

• An ancient moor has been protected for wildlife after Natural England declared it a new national nature reserve.
• More than 1,100 hectares (2,718.1 acres) of moorland in Cornwall has been marked out as an area of focus for conservation and nature restoration.
• The land near St Austell boasts a rich mix of habitats including wet woodlands, heaths and bogs, which are havens for rare species such as willow tits, sphagnum moss, butterfly orchids, royal fern, Cornish moneywort and the carnivorous round-leaved sundew.

To read more, go here!

GEORGIA MOUNTAIN SCOTTISH FESTIVAL AND HIGHLAND GAMES

• We are the original Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games.
• For 20 years the Scots gathered in Blairsville, but we moved to Hiawassee, Georgia in 2025. Highland dancers, Scottish athletes, family clans, bagpipes and drums and traditional musicians come to celebrate their heritage. Even if you don’t know your family’s heritage or have little or no Scottish ties, come experience Scotland without the need of a passport or international flight across the ocean.
• Events begin at 9 am each day. The opening ceremony with the massed bands and parade of tartans will be at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday. Note this is 30 minutes earlier than past years, giving pipe bands time to recover and reset before competitions begin.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Devil’s Brigade (a.k.a. The American Rogues), Tracie Brown, Celtic Road, Celtic Conundrum, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

May 28, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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The road through Celtic music is never a straight one. Episode 760 winds from the hills of Scotland to the shores of Ireland, from Ohio to Nova Scotia, and a few places you might not expect. Sixteen artists. One heck of a journey. Press play and find out where it takes you.. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Carroll Sisters Trio, Willos' & Massimo Giuntini, Wolf Loescher, Telenn Tri, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Erin Ruth, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, The Fire, Tallymoore, Deirdre Graham, Marys Lane, Norse Gael, The Sternwheelers, The Walker Roaders, Don Gabbert

Marc Gunn, Carroll Sisters Trio, Norse Gael, Willos' & Massimo Giuntini, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Ken Spencer

0:13 – Carroll Sisters Trio “Sunset Tears” from Radiance

3:23 – WELCOME

4:27 – Willos' & Massimo Giuntini “Chickens on the Run” from From Now On

8:11 – Wolf Loescher “The Battle o' Harlaw” from Child of Alba

13:23 – Telenn Tri “Whelans / Humors of Ballymaunes” from Macquarie Street

17:08 – Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer “Jonah” from Come Bring With A Noise

22:53 – FEEDBACK

23:53 – Erin Ruth “The Spanish Lady (w/ Richard Mandel)” from Single

28:41 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Arising” from All It Brings

32:59 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “Do Bhí Bean Uasal” from Neadú

39:42 – The Fire “Buchanan Street / “Wake Up, It's 6pm” / The Sunday Marathon” from Crossing to Ireland EP

43:50 – Tallymoore “Beggarman” from Tallymoore

47:03 – THANKS

48:46 – Deirdre Graham “Clach Mhìn Mheallain/Nighean nan Geug”

52:00 – Marys Lane “Smoke” from Wild Unknown

56:06 – Norse Gael “Dál Riata” from Finscéal

58:53 – The Sternwheelers “Rye Whiskey” from Woke Up Old

1:01:23 – The Walker Roaders “Old Tar Road to Sligo” from The Walker Roaders

1:05:16 – CLOSING

1:06:35 – Don Gabbert “The Parting Glass” from Donovan's Fancy

1:10:25 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Clean energy isn't just good for the planet, it's good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. But too many politicians would rather protect billionaires than help working families save on their bills. Real change starts when we stop letting the ultra – rich write our energy policy and run our government. Let's choose affordable, renewable power. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!This episode is brought to you by our generous patrons. These are the listeners who make the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast possible every single week. They keep the music coming. They keep this community alive. And I am so grateful for every one of them. If you love this show, I invite you to join them.

A special thanks to our latest Patron of the Podcast: John W

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

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Céad Míle FáilteHello, it is I, Todd, once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our very own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts we feature are In Tune with Tradition as well as Celt in a Twist. The articles we highlight are about a Picture of Oscer Wilde being found at Oxford, Leah Jorgensen’s upcoming Clarsach in Cowboy Boots, a new Scotland anthem by Belle & Sebastian, and a bowling pavilion being proposed for Mooragh Park in Ramsey. The festival spotlighted is The Annual Stirling Classic and Scottish Festival taking place May 29 – May 31, 2026, at Mollie Spencer Farm in Yukon, OK. In this issue we also have a list of new albums. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #759: IRISH MUSIC TO STIR THE BLOOD

• The Byrne Brothers, Elizabeth Sutherland, Ashley Davis Band, W. Ed Harris, Erin Ruth, Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, Low Lily, Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham, Rambling Sailors, Hanneke Cassel, Paddyman, The Celtic Kitchen Party, Scythian, Altan
• A special thanks to our latest Patron of the Podcast: Paul, Ty, Cody

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• DOUBLE NUGGET: BEST OF THE GLASGOW TREMENS – by THE GLASGOW TREMENS
• The Legend of Anne Bonny (Extended Edition) – by Karliene
• Islands Shrouded in Fog – by Old Black Rum
• Be reborn – by Kalliopea
• Celtic Fusion – Vol. 1 – Royalty​​​​​​​​​​​-​​​​​​​​​​​free – Commercial use – by TERA MANGALA MEDITATION MUSIC
• Encantos Celtas: Melodias Irlandesas Relaxantes – by Taíssa Sons
• The Unspoken Hymn – by The Everdawn
• AVALON VOW (Glastonbury Tales) – by DJ Vexvanquish A.K.A. DJ VEX
• Between the Tides – by Anthony Damman

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

IN TUNE WITH TRADITION – PERSPECTIVES ON SESSION ETIQUETTE IN IRISH TRADITIONAL MUSIC: EPISODE 17: ROBERT SOMMER

• Join Tara Connaghan as she interviews Robert Sommer, a newcomer to Irish traditional music, about his journey into sessions, the social and technical aspects of playing guitar, and how music can be a source of joy and connection.

Listen here

PHOTO FEATURING OSCAR WILDE AS A STUDENT AT OXFORD IN 1876 FOUND IN OLD ALBUM

• A NEWLY discovered photograph of Irish author Oscar Wilde before he found literary fame will go under the hammer this month.
• The Dublin-born writer features in a group photograph taken in 1876 when he was a student at Oxford University’s Magdalen College.
• Wilde arrived at the college as an undergraduate in 1874 and graduated four years later.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: MAY 19, 2026

• Looking forward to seeing you LIVE under the big tent for Pat Chessell, The Barra MacNeils, Whiskey Dicks and more. It's ScotFestBC, Town Centre Park in Coquitlam, June 19th and 20th. This hour, music from across the Celtic diaspora including Canada's best, even some Kreole to spice up the mix. Patricia Fraser hosts Celt In A Twist Radio!

Listen to the Show

CLARSACH IN COWBOY BOOTS: ECHOES OF SCOTLAND, WHISPERS OF TEXAS

• From Texas to Tradition: Internationally Acclaimed American Harpist Brings Transatlantic Sound to Glasgow Stage
• Glasgow, Scotland — A leading American harpist who crossed the Atlantic to pursue Scotland’s ancient musical traditions is set to perform live in Glasgow this May.
• Leah Jorgensen presents “Clarsach in Cowboy Boots: Echoes of Scotland, Whispers of Texas” on 23 May 2026 at Newlands South Church — a rare chance to hear an internationally seasoned performer who traded a successful classical career in the U.S. for the soul of the Scottish clàrsach.
• Now based in Glasgow, Jorgensen has immersed herself in the traditional scene, becoming one of the country’s most respected harpists. “I’ve played the classical harp for over 30 years, but I became completely captivated by the Scottish tradition,” says Jorgensen. “It drew me across the world. Living and studying in Glasgow has transformed my playing in ways I never imagined.”
• Blending the lyricism of Scottish tradition with the storytelling spirit of her Texan roots, Jorgensen’s performance offers something truly distinctive — intimate, evocative, and deeply personal.
• Live in Glasgow + Online Broadcast
• Newlands South Church, 37 Riverside Rd
• 23 May 2026
• 3:30 PM BST (9:30 AM CST)
• This is more than a concert — it’s a cultural homecoming story told through strings.
• Tickets & info:
• com

BELLE AND SEBASTIAN WRITE SCOTLAND ANTHEM AFTER DRAMATIC WORLD CUP QUALIFIER

• The lyrics came to Stuart Murdoch in the hazy aftermath of Scotland’s dramatic qualification for the World Cup.
• The Belle and Sebastian frontman had watched his side’s playoff victory over Denmark through his fingers before deciding to write his own anthem to a team he has followed for more than 50 years. “Most people recognised instantly the next day that they’d witnessed the most important Scottish game ever,” says Murdoch. “That was our magic moment.”

To read more, go here!

CLUB PLANS TO PLACE TRADITIONAL BOWLING PAVILION AT PARK

• A new bowling pavilion could be built at Mooragh Park in Ramsey under proposals submitted by Ramsey Town Commissioners.
• The local authority has lodged a planning application for the facility on behalf of North Ramsey Bowling Club, arguing the current buildings are outdated and no longer suitable for the club’s needs.

To read more, go here!

THE ANNUAL STIRLING CLASSIC & SCOTTISH FESTIVAL

• The annual Stirling Classic & Scottish Festival at the Mollie Spencer Farm is a unique celebration of Celtic culture, complete with music, dance, food, and good ‘old-fashioned Scottish fun!
• Throughout the weekend attendees enjoy a taste of Scotland and other Celtic nations through many available activities and entertainers, including heavy athletics, sheepherding demonstrations, Celtic dance, roving pipe bands, Celtic bands, traditional Scottish food, Celtic-themed vendors, kid crafts and games, genealogy research, clan tents, and a crafters’ village.
• Some of the entertainment acts you will see are Flowers of Edinburgh, Ceo’l Braw, Waxie Dargles, and more.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

May 21, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

This is music to stir the blood. Episode #759 of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast brings you Altan, Scythian, Low Lily, Hanneke Cassel, and more. Fifteen tracks to get your pulse going. Let's do this. – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

The Byrne Brothers, Elizabeth Sutherland, Ashley Davis Band, W. Ed Harris, Erin Ruth, Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, Low Lily, Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham, Rambling Sailors, Hanneke Cassel, Paddyman, The Celtic Kitchen Party, Scythian, Altan

Marc Gunn, The Byrne Brothers, Elizabeth Sutherland, W. Ed Harris, Rambling Sailors, Paddyman, Altan, Scythian, Low Lily

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Rachel Hair

0:10 – The Byrne Brothers “Yvonne's Waltz (The Byrne Brothers)” from Living the Dream

3:22 – WELCOME

4:50 – Elizabeth Sutherland “Elsa's Dance (The Fairy Garden)” from Forest Dreams

7:16 – Ashley Davis Band “Here By My Side” from When the Stars Went Out

11:37 – W. Ed Harris “The Sligo Maid” from Cares of Tomorrow Can Wait

14:32 – Sean Heely and Beth Patterson “Allan Tyne of Harrow” from Stir the Blood to Fire

19:46 – FEEDBACK

24:08 – Low Lily “Brothers in Arms” from 10,000 Days Like These

28:48 – Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham “An't Isgair” from Water Horse

33:13 – Rambling Sailors “Whiskey in the Jar” from Tales From the White Horse

36:37 – Erin Ruth “I'm a Man You Don't Meet Every Day” from Traditions & Original Work

39:30 – THANKS

41:20 – Hanneke Cassel “Strathspey O' Death #1 / Strathspey O'Death #2 / Colonel Thornton / Running Around the Tree” from Some Melodious Sonnet

45:35 – Paddyman “The Secret of a Real Irish Pub” from One for the Road [Explicit]

49:18 – The Celtic Kitchen Party “Wolfe Island Jig” from Sociable!

51:25 – Scythian “My Son John” from Jump at the Sun

54:47 – CLOSING

56:31 – Altan “Lurgy Streams” from The Widening Gyre

1:00:25 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's something worth knowing. Clean energy is now the cheapest source of new electricity in most of the world. Solar. Wind. Battery storage. The technology works. The prices are down.

There is no good reason to keep burning fossil fuels except one: money. Fossil fuel companies spend millions lobbying politicians to block clean energy policy. That investment pays off for them. It does not pay off for the rest of us.

We get higher energy costs, dirtier air, and a planet that keeps warming. So here's what you can do. Contact your elected representatives. Tell them you want clean energy policies that put people first. Not corporate profits. Your voice matters. Use it.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!This episode is brought to you by our generous patrons. These are the listeners who make the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast possible every single week. They keep the music coming. They keep this community alive. And I am so grateful for every one of them. If you love this show, I invite you to join them.

A special thanks to our latest Patron of the Podcast: Paul, Ty, Cody

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jennifer Van Boxel emailed: “Mark, I just finished listening to episode #749, Celtic Protest Songs, and I want to thank you for using your specialized platform to say things that really need to be said these days. Thank you for taking the financial hit to bring those songs to us. I am already a Patreon, and I had been debating whether or not to renew my year subscription when it runs out in a couple months. This episode has persuaded me to continue to monetarily support this podcast. I also appreciate the Pride Month specials you've done in the past, emphasizing that Celtic music is a space for everyone.”

Shel O'Toole commented on Patreon: “Good for you Marc, it's important to call out hate and bigotry when we see it. Governments like to dehumanise those they either don't understand or choose to see as an enemy. That way they can go to war without feeling any conscience about killing other people. I believe love is the most powerful universal force and it's love that should be promoted, not fear and hatred.”

Frank Higgins replied to my email about How do you celebrate Celtic culture through music?: “My wife plays at a session at a pub every week. We’ve also gone to ireland twice with Kevin Burke on a music tour with a group of people.”

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Céad Míle FáilteTodd here once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our very own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, Celtic Christmas Podcast, & Pub Songs & Stories. The other podcasts we feature are Traveling in Ireland & Copperplate Time. The articles featured are about a concert by Leah Jorgensen, a new Kickstarter by Amelia Hogan, & a new brewery in Ireland. The highlighted festival is the East Durham Irish Festival being held Memorial Day Weekend at the MJQ Irish Cultural and Sports Centre, in East Durham, NY. We also have a list of new albums. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #758: O'NEILL'S DROWSY IRISH TOWN

• Tartanic, Charlene Adzima, Tara's Folk, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, The Bordercollies, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, The Friel Sisters, Goitse, Rakish, Leevy, Release the Craicen, Katie Jane Band, Low Power Trio, Banshee in the Kitchen
• A special thanks to our latest Patron of the Podcast: Jason Schatz

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC PODCAST #91: JUMP INTO CELTIC CHRISTMAS IN SPRING

• You don't have to wait for December. Jump into Celtic Christmas this spring with Olivia Bradley, Dublin Gulch, Ashley Davis, and seven more artists who make the season last all year.
• It’s Celtic Christmas Music #91
• Olivia Bradley, Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane, The Gothard Sisters, The Chivalrous Crickets, Terry McDade & The McDades, Willowgreen, Anne Roos & David Blonski, Keltricity, Ashley Davis feat. John Doyle, Dublin Gulch

Listen here

PUB SONGS & STORIES #315: WASHER WELL WENCHES, THORIN'S EULOGY & CELTIC FOLK

• The old songs were written for a world that was supposed to last forever. One woman found a way to make music matter right now. And Thorin Oakenshield gets a proper farewell. Music from Marc Gunn, Fialla, Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes, Brobdingnagian Bards.
• This is Pub Songs & Stories #315

Listen here

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• The Sweet Spot – by Luker Southern
• Études No. 2 – by Ari De'Freitas
• Études No. 1 -by Ari De'Freitas
• BRAW – by THE DEVIL'S BRIGADE
• The Prelude – by David Bickley / Jon Thebur
• Short Tales from the Isles – by Sophie Brown and Friends (SBAF)
• A Mile High and Live – by The Indulgers
• Midnight in Dublin – by The Fiddler’s Tale
• Washed in the Red – by Saints and Scallywags
• The Deep End – by Dàna
• While the Sun Shines – by Elizabeth and Ben Anderson

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: IRELAND TRAVEL LESSONS FROM FIVE WEEKS AROUND THE COUNTRY

• Five weeks on the road across Ireland brings plenty of unforgettable moments — and a few lessons learned the hard way. From airport advice and overlooked historic sites to island adventures and incredible local experiences, this trip delivered a little bit of everything.
• For travelers planning their own Ireland itinerary, these are the stops, stays, and practical tips that stood out most.

Listen here

CLARSACH IN COWBOY BOOTS: ECHOES OF SCOTLAND, WHISPERS OF TEXAS

• From Texas to Tradition: Internationally Acclaimed American Harpist Brings Transatlantic Sound to Glasgow Stage
• Glasgow, Scotland — A leading American harpist who crossed the Atlantic to pursue Scotland’s ancient musical traditions is set to perform live in Glasgow this May.
• Leah Jorgensen presents “Clarsach in Cowboy Boots: Echoes of Scotland, Whispers of Texas” on 23 May 2026 at Newlands South Church — a rare chance to hear an internationally seasoned performer who traded a successful classical career in the U.S. for the soul of the Scottish clàrsach.
• Now based in Glasgow, Jorgensen has immersed herself in the traditional scene, becoming one of the country’s most respected harpists. “I’ve played the classical harp for over 30 years, but I became completely captivated by the Scottish tradition,” says Jorgensen. “It drew me across the world. Living and studying in Glasgow has transformed my playing in ways I never imagined.”
• Blending the lyricism of Scottish tradition with the storytelling spirit of her Texan roots, Jorgensen’s performance offers something truly distinctive — intimate, evocative, and deeply personal.
• Live in Glasgow + Online Broadcast
• Newlands South Church, 37 Riverside Rd
• 23 May 2026
• 3:30 PM BST (9:30 AM CST)
• This is more than a concert — it’s a cultural homecoming story told through strings.
• Tickets & info:
• leahjorgensen.com

COPPERPLATE TIME 536

• BOTHY BAND, NOEL HILL/TONY LINNANE/MATT MOLLOY, OPEN THE DOOR FOR THREE, RITA GALLAGHER, MICK O’BRIEN, JOHN MARTYN, MICK MULVEY & SHANE MEEHAN, TONY MacMAHON, PAUL BRENNAN, JOHN & JACINTA McEVOY, PADDY CARTY & MICK O’CONNOR, MAGGIE BARRY & MICK GORMAN, ALY BAIN & PHIL CUNNINGHAM, DICK GAUGHAN, NIAMH Nic CHARRA & MANUS MAGUIRE, BERT JANSCH, JOHN McEVOY & JOHN WYNNE, SEAMUS BEGLEY, DAVE SHERIDAN, SEAN KEANE, BÉAL TUINNE, THE BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

SAOIRSE (SEER-SHA): SONGS OF FREEDOM AND RESILIENCE AUDIO CD, A COLLABORATIVE RECORDING PROJECT WITH AMELIA HOGAN.

• I'm Making an Album of Songs of Freedom and Resilience in Saoirse (Seer-sha)
• Saoirse: Irish (n) Freedom: Liberty; Freedom of-; Freedom to-; Freedom from-; Freedom with-; Sovereignty; Access to land; Unrestrained
• I'm partnering with my friends, community members, and elders to finish what we started in 2018: to create a full length studio recording with some of those seeds planted with Ray Frank, and begin recordings again. I have 12-15+ songs to finish recording, mixing, and mastering through the summer of 2026 and I need your help to do it. Are you with me?

To read more, go here!

TAOISEACH: ‘SPLITTING THE G’ IS BOOSTING IRISH TOURISM

• TAOISEACH Micheál Martin has praised the global influence of the Guinness brand while manufacturers Diageo unveiled a new brewery in Kildare.
• The drinks manufacturer opened their new €300m Littleconnell Brewery in Newbridge yesterday afternoon.
• The 40-acre carbon-neutral facility is part of a larger €1bn capital investment programme by Diageo being implemented across the island of Ireland between 2020 and 2029.

To read more, go here!

EAST DURHAM IRISH FESTIVAL

• Celebrate 49 years of Irish tradition at the East Durham Irish Festival, held Memorial Day Weekend at the MJQ Irish Cultural and Sports Centre.
• Enjoy a full weekend of live Irish music, dancing, food, and community in the heart of the Catskills. From traditional sessions to high-energy performances, the festival brings together top talent and fans from across the region.
• Friday night kicks things off with free entry and an open Irish music sing-along session that anyone can join. All weekend long, explore vendors, grab authentic food and drinks, and experience one of the longest-running Irish festivals in the country.
• Whether you are coming for the music, the atmosphere, or a proper weekend away, this is where it all comes together.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are the Feeney Brothers, The Young Wolfe Tones, The Prodigals, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

May 14, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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Celtic music never sits still, and episode 758 of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast is proof of that. We're calling this one O'Neill's Drowsy Irish Town, but don't let that fool you. There is nothing sleepy about this lineup. Fourteen artists are here today, pushing tradition into something fresh and alive. Hit play and let the music take you somewhere – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Tartanic, Charlene Adzima, Tara's Folk, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, The Bordercollies, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, The Friel Sisters, Goitse, Rakish, Leevy, Release the Craicen, Katie Jane Band, Low Power Trio, Banshee in the Kitchen

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Tartanic “Slapping Paddies” from Uncivilized

3:01 – WELCOME

4:43 – Charlene Adzima “Jimmie McGetrick's/John Naughton's/Tom Ward's Downfall” from The Initiation

7:54 – Tara's Folk “O'Neils” from remember how we fall

11:44 – Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon “George White's/McGettrick's/Cedars of Lebanon (reels)” from The Belles of St. Louis

15:42 – The Bordercollies “Rollin and Tumblin” from To The Hills and Back

18:31 – FEEDBACK

21:18 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Bellechasse” from Here To Stay

25:18 – The Friel Sisters “Kelvin's Purling Stream” from Before the Sun

29:04 – Goitse “Margadh an Iúir” from Rosc

31:58 – Rakish “Time Check” from Now, O Now

35:50 – THANKS

37:48 – Release the Craicen “Star of the County Down / Cooley's Reel / Drowsy Maggie” from Live! Songs on a Boat

42:38 – Katie Jane Band “Frank's / Mason's Apron” from Wild One

45:12 – Leevy “The Mountain Spoke” from Baile Mhúirne or the Soldiers March the Paps of Anú

49:53 – Low Power Trio “Loch Lomond” from Dirty Old Town

53:06 – CLOSING

54:53 – Banshee in the Kitchen “King of Laoise” from Band O' Shees

58:44 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Here's a thought worth sitting with. The single most powerful thing we can do to fight climate change is move toward clean energy. Solar, wind, hydro. Energy that doesn't cost the earth to produce. But while the big picture shifts, there's plenty we can do right now in our own lives.

Think about the 5 Rs of Sustainability. Refuse what you don't need. Reduce what you use. Reuse what you already have. Repurpose the things that still have life in them. And recycle whatever is left.

Start with just one of those this week. Pick the easiest one. Then build from there. Small choices, made by millions of people, add up to something enormous. The music we love was born from a culture that respected the land. Let's honor that.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Thank you, patrons of the podcast! Because of generous supporters like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases a new episode nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show. It fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and most importantly, buying the music we feature from independent Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You are missing out. Patrons get early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3 downloads, exclusive stories and artist interviews, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20. Join us today keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our latest Patron of the Podcast: Jason Schatz

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Daniel Faigin emailed re: Android Shuffle Apps: “Marc: I primarily listen to music via my iPod Classic (extensive smart playlists, all on shuffle). But all my music (around 58,000 tracks), is on my Android phone, and there I used the Gone Mad Music Player. It can play the music downloaded to your device, and has a smart playlist equivalent to the iPod / iTunes capability. It's the backup for my iPod Classic. Just search for it on Google Play; it does require a small payment to support development and unlock full capabilities. Alas, fewer phone manufacturers are supporting an external memory card (critical when you have a lot of music) – – Samsung might at the lowest level, as well as Motorola. Other than that, you need more storage if you download music.”

Gershon commented on Patreon: “Sitting here in my favorite chair, listening to #754, two dogs at my feet, reading and sipping my evening tea I heard your commentary regarding our wayward President and feckless Congress.

Thank you! You are on the right side of history. I appreciate this after the horrific week we’ve had. I am even prouder now to be a supporter and fan.

Keep up the good work and make “good trouble.”

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You don't have to wait for December. Jump into Celtic Christmas this spring with Olivia Bradley, Dublin Gulch, Ashley Davis, and seven more artists who make the season last all year.

It’s Celtic Christmas Music #91

Olivia Bradley, Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane, The Gothard Sisters, The Chivalrous Crickets, Terry McDade & The McDades, Willowgreen, Anne Roos & David Blonski, Keltricity, Ashley Davis feat. John Doyle, Dublin Gulch

0:06 – Olivia Bradley “Oíche Chiúin” from Christmastime

4:52 – WELCOME TO CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

I am Marc Gunn. I am Celtic musician and podcaster. We are promoting Celtic culture through Christmas cheer. We want to bring a little magic and joy into your holiday season. If you hear music you love, please support the artists. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes as well as how to support this podcast at CelticChristmasPodcast.com

5:41 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “Snow on the Tracks / Miss Ramsay's” from JUMP OUT OF IT

11:14 – The Gothard Sisters “God, Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” from Falling Snow

15:14 – The Chivalrous Crickets “Or nous dites, Marie / Joseph est bien marié” from A Chivalrous Christmas

19:32 – Terry McDade & The McDades “Snow Snow” from Winter Rose

24:19 – THANK YOU FOR SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER!

You know, I could write a thousand episodes of this show, and I'm working on it, but none of it would happen without you. Every time you hit play, share the podcast with a friend, or leave a kind review somewhere on the internet, you're keeping Celtic Christmas music alive for one more person who needed it this season. That matters more than you know.

And to our Patrons… you magnificent, generous, frost-proof human beings. Thank you. You are the reason this show keeps going. You cover the production costs, the graphic design, the editing, and you allow me to buy the music, all of it. You make it possible for me to sit down every week and build something beautiful for Celtic music lovers everywhere.

If you'd like to join them, here's your three-step plan:

1. Go to patreon.com/celticchristmas
2. Choose your pledge L $3, $8, $25, or $100 a month, for as long as you'd like to support the show
3. Keep listening to Celtic Christmas Music and know that you are the reason this magic exists

Nollaig Shona Daoibh, and thank you, from the bottom of my Celtic-music-loving heart.

25:53 – Willowgreen “Cold Is the Morning” from Winter

28:12 – Anne Roos & David Blonski “The Cutty Wren” from A Winter's Dance

30:48 – Keltricity “The Frost Is All Over” from A Celtic Christmas

33:53 – Ashley Davis (feat. John Doyle) “Song of Midnight” from Songs of the Celtic Winter II

38:07 – CLOSING

38:59 – Dublin Gulch “Christmas In Carrick” from The Best Of A Celtic Cowboy Christmas

41:29 – CREDITS

Celtic Christmas Music was produced by Marc Gunn and our Christmas Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to subscribe to the podcast. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Billionaires and corporations that profit from fossil fuels have spent decades buying political influence to protect that profit. They're good at it. But they cannot buy your wallet.

Every dollar you spend on clean energy is a vote no politician can override. Choose clean energy. The power to change this is already in your hands.

Promote Celtic culture through Christmas music at CelticChristmasPodcast.com.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic

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The old songs were written for a world that was supposed to last forever. One woman found a way to make music matter right now. And Thorin Oakenshield gets a proper farewell. Music from Marc Gunn, Fialla, Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes, Brobdingnagian Bards.

This is Pub Songs & Stories #315

0:19 – Marc Gunn “The Scotsman” from Heroes

2:18 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. I am your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

Before we get started, a quick word about Patreon.

If you're listening to this on the public feed, you're getting it a week after my patrons already heard it. Just so you know.

Those folks also get a second podcast nobody else hears. Concert bootlegs. Brand new songs I'm writing right now. And two live pub albums that flat-out don't exist anywhere else.

All that for five bucks a month. One pint.

If that sounds like your kind of thing, head to patreon.com/celtfather. There's even a free tier. You get a whole album just for showing up.

Right. On with the show.

NEWS

• Sherwood Forest Faire
• Jordan Con, Meeting author of Hills of Tanchico
• Stellar Con, New video shorts
• New song: First Rule of Flying

3:33 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• May 9-10: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Ga
• May 16-17: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Ga
• May 23-25: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Ga
• May 30–31: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Ga
• May 30: The Lost Druid Brewery, 2866 Washington St, Avondale Estates, GA
• Jul 30-Aug 2: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN
• Sep 3-7: Dragon Con, Atlanta, Ga with Brobdingnagian Bards

7:54 – Fialla “Maid in Her Father's Garden” from Home & Away

11:14 – INTERVIEW WITH DANIELLE DUPONT OF WASHER WELL WENCHES

A couple years ago, I did an interview with Danielle DuPont, the founder of the Washer Well Wenches that you might see at a Renaissance festival near you. She invited a bunch of entertainers to perform at Women’s shelter in Austin, Texas. I was so inspired by her I had to interview her.

25:12 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

25:51 – Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes “Four Thousand Weeks” from Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes

If you’d like more details, just email follow@celtfather. I’d love to have you along for the journey this year.

28:56 – STORY OF THORIN’S EULOGY

32:37 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Thorin’s Eulogy” from I Will Not Sing Along

35:34 – THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON

Alright. You made it to the end. That means you're my kind of person.

So let me tell you about something. And I promise I'll only take a couple of minutes.

I've got a Patreon. patreon.com/celtfather. And here's the thing… most people don't realise what's actually over there.

Just following for free gets you Virtual Public House. A whole live album. Recorded live for my Pub Songs & Stories podcast. No catch, no credit card, nothing. Just follow my Pateron and it's yours.

But if you want more… five dollars a month is where it gets interesting.

You get six studio albums. You get Kilted Drinking Songs, which is another live Pub Songs & Stories podcast album I recorded for this very podcast. It's not on Spotify. It's not on Apple Music. It doesn't exist anywhere else. Same with Field of Drams at the Hero level.

You get the rough cuts. Songs I'm writing right now, before they go anywhere. You're hearing tomorrow's music today. Which is either exciting or terrifying, depending on the song.

You get a new original song every month. Concert bootlegs. Sheet music if you play along at home. And Stories from the Road, which is another podcast… the one where I talk about all the stuff that happens between the shows that I can't quite say on stage.

Oh, and you get this podcast a week early. Which means none of that suspense you just endured.

For the real enthusiasts… the Superhero tier gets you both pub albums mailed to you on actual physical CDs. The only way to own them. Pressed and shipped to your door. This offer is only available during the month of May 2026.

Look, I make this music because I love it. The Patreon is what makes it possible to keep making it. Every patron matters more than you know.

If you've been meaning to join, now's a great time. I'm playing four weekends at the Georgia Renaissance Festival through May. Patrons are getting the behind-the-scenes of all of it.

patreon.com/celtfather. Free to follow. One pint a month to unlock the lot.

Sláinte. And thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories.

This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

I've been singing old songs my whole life.

Songs about green hills. Cold rivers. Seasons that came and went like they always had.

Those songs were written by people who assumed the world would look the same forever.

It won't. Not if we don't pay attention.

I travel a lot. I play music in fields and forests and festivals. And I notice things. Things that weren't there ten years ago. Things that are gone that used to be.

The old songs are worth saving. So is the world they were written about.

Climate action isn't political to me. It's personal. It's about keeping the world worth singing about.

Vote like the world depends on it. Because it does.

The songs are counting on it.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

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Céad Míle FáilteHello all it is Todd once again. Apparently, I messed up and we didn’t have a new episode of The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast last week we do this week, however. The other podcasts showcased are The Irish Pagan School Podcast and The Celtic Indy Podcast; hosted by yours truly. The articles this week are about the American Irish Historical Society, a new initiative in Cornwall to help nesting birds, and an Irish writer being shortlisted for a literary prize. The featured festival is The Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games, which takes place May 16 – 17, at the Greater Smokies Event Grounds in Townsend, TN. We have also included a list of new albums this week. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #757: SELKIE WOMEN OF THE NORTHERN SHORE

• One Street Over, Gillian Boucher & Bob McNeill, Fialla, Eloise & Co., The Leftovers, The Bow Tides, Low Lily, Tara's Folk, Sue Spencer, Eimear Arkins, Sora, Louise Bichan, Kim Carnie, THE DIVINERS
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Green Renaissance – by Roxane Genot
• From: Ireland To: West Virginia – by The Mud Larks
• Remember how we fall – by Tara's folk
• Melancholy Music Fantasy for Medieval Lute – by Andrei Krylov
• Among Friends – by Holly Sternberg Kozan
• The Druid & The Dryad II – by Caleb Hennessy

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THE IRISH PAGAN SCHOOL PODCAST: DOES STUDYING AT THE IRISH PAGAN SCHOOL MAKE YOU PAGAN?

• In this thought-provoking discussion, Jon O'Sullivan, co-founder of the Irish Pagan School, explains what it truly means to study Irish mythology, culture, and spirituality with the school.

Listen here

INSIDE THE NEW YORK SOCIETY PRESERVING IRISH AMERICAN HISTORY

• THE American Irish Historical Society in New York has been showcasing the depth of Irish influence in the United States, with materials in its care stretching back more than 400 years.
• Mark Lindenburg, who has worked at AIHS for just over a year, said the society is crucial in preserving stories that go far beyond the usual narratives of Irish migration.
• Originally from Seattle, Lindenburg said his interest in Irish history grew through his ancestry and his love for the country. “I studied Irish literature in undergrad and graduate school,” he said.

To read more, go here!

CELTIC INDY PODCAST: EP 3.1.14 – FAOILEÁN ALBUM RELEASE

• In this episode, we feature songs from Faoileán's new album: Why Should I Not.
• Faoileán , Pub Runners, Alli Johnson, Faoileán, Jenny and the Weazels, Celtucky, Faoileán, Marc Gunn & Jamie Houser, The Kissers, Fialla, Faoileán

Listen to the Show

NEW INITIATIVE IN CORNWALL AIMS TO HELP NATIVE NESTING BIRDS

• Local bird populations could soon take off thanks to a new conservation initiative that spread its wings on Friday.
• Bird Friendly Cornwall, the Raisin Region Conservation Authority and Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School have teamed up to install nesting boxes across the city to attract native bird species. Representatives from the RRCA, the City of Cornwall, and Bird Friendly Cornwall marked the occasion with a ceremonial bird house raising on May 1.

To read more, go here!

IRISH WRITER SHORTLISTED FOR NEW LITERARY PRIZE WORTH £50K

• AN Irish author is among a six-strong shortlist for a new literary prize.
• Dublin based Mary Minnock is in the running to win The Libraro Prize.
• Launched earlier this year the new award is designed to find ‘the next bestselling author’– with the shortlist selected from unpublished novels uploaded to the Libraro platform.
• Run in partnership with Hachette UK and LoveReading, the winner will receive a £30k prize and £20k in marketing support, as well as a book deal with Hachette.

To read more, go here!

SMOKY MOUNTAIN SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & GAMES

• Scotland in the Smokies is calling you!!! Celebrating its 44th year in 2026, the Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games is Tennessee’s oldest festival of Scottish, Irish and Celtic culture. Presenting folk, roots, rock & pop music, highland athletics, pipes & drums, highland and Irish dance. Whisky tastings, vendors and a great selection of beer and food from the Scottish, Irish and British homelands. Enjoy a weekend of family fun in the beautiful foothills of Townsend, Tennessee, just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Some of the entertainer’s you will see are Pictus, Jacobites By Name, Celtic Conundrum, Bill Mullen, & More!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

May 7, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Selkies rise from the sea in Celtic legend. Wild. Powerful. Unstoppable. This week on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, we celebrate the women of Celtic music who carry that same energy. From the north shore to the black water, Show 757 is an hour of music that will pull you under in the best possible way. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #757 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

One Street Over, Gillian Boucher & Bob McNeill, Fialla, Eloise & Co., The Leftovers, The Bow Tides, Low Lily, Tara's Folk, Sue Spencer, Eimear Arkins, Sora, Louise Bichan, Kim Carnie, THE DIVINERS

Marc Gunn, One Street Over, Sora, Louise Bichan, Kim Carnie, THE DIVINERS, Fialla, Eimear Arkins, Low Lily, The Bow Tides

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:08 – Boxing Robin “Ned Coleman's #2/The Orphan” from Land of the Noon – Day Moon

• Gypsy Youngraven – vocals, guitar, and bodhrán

3:28 – WELCOME

5:25 – Gillian Boucher & Bob McNeill “Mountain Road #2” from Race for the Sun

• Gillian Boucher: fiddle, piano

11:22 – Fialla “Maid in Her Father's Garden” from Home & Away

• Katie: Vocals, Guitar, Bodhrán, Irish Stepdancing

14:44 – Eloise & Co. “Hanter Dro 1953 Kraozon/Hanter Dro 1930 Gregam/Meetinghouse Hanter Dro” from avec Elodie

• Becky Tracy (fiddle, octave fiddle)
• Rachel Bell (accordion)
• Rachel Aucoin (piano)

18:35 – The Leftovers “Down By the Glenside” from Heart of Buffalo

• Elizabeth Shea: vocals

21:34 – FEEDBACK

24:17 – The Bow Tides “Trip to Gaelicia” from Sailing On

• Ellery Klein: fiddle
• Jessie Burns: fiddle
• Katie Grennan: fiddle, champion Irish dancer

28:29 – Low Lily “Where We Belong” from Angels in the Wreckage

• LIZ SIMMONS: Guitar & Vocals
• NATALIE PADILLA: Fiddle, Banjo & Vocals

32:06 – Tara's Folk “How many Roads” from remember how we fall

• Julien Casanova – fiddle
• Catherine de Vençay – cello

36:19 – Sue Spencer “Free in the Harbour” from North Shore

• Sue Spencer: Guitar, Vocals

40:22 – THANKS

42:51 – Eimear Arkins “The St. Louis Waltz (Waltz)” from Here & There

• Eimear Arikins: Fiddle, Vocals

47:10 – Sora “Selkie” from Ghostlines

• Sora – Voice, Piano, Violin

50:09 – Louise Bichan “Auch” from The Lost Summer

• Louise Bichan: fiddle

53:58 – Kim Carnie “Eolas Gradhaich” from A' Chailleach

• Kim Carnie: vocals

57:20 – CLOSING

58:40 – THE DIVINERS “Daychovo Horo” from earshot (EP)

• ILSE DE ZIAH: Cello; Fiddle; Vocals

1:01:23 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy is the single most powerful tool we have to fight climate change. Solar, wind, hydro – every kilowatt of clean power displaces the fossil fuels warming our planet. The big picture matters. So do the small choices you make every day.

This week's tip comes from the 5 Rs of Sustainability: Refuse. Before you buy something new, ask yourself if you actually need it. Every item you don't buy is one that never had to be made, shipped, or eventually thrown away. Refusing is the most underrated act of sustainability there is. Start there. Your wallet and the planet will both thank you.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICLooking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood – burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one – of – a – kind feel you won't find anywhere else.

Pick yours up at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Every episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast exists because of you. Your support makes this possible, week after week, year after year. That is not a small thing.

Your generosity covers real costs: audio engineering, graphic design, the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and buying music directly from the independent Celtic artists we feature. You are the reason this music reaches new ears every single week.

Not a patron yet? Here is what you are missing. Patrons get early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3 downloads, exclusive stories and artist interviews, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20.

Join us today and help keep Celtic music alive, independent, and growing. Every single patron matters. Slainte!

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST1. Go to our Patreon page. 2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25. 3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Asa Swain commented on Patreon: “I like hearing you talk, but thanks for releasing a “music only” version for everyone. I appreciate it.”

woodland folk replied to question, “how does the podcast make your life better?”: I listen to ur podcast on my phone.

on my closed fiddle case, mingled with birdsong, gentle hissing wood,the sun comes up early over the Mendips.the wind is still fresh…

A battle of wills, my playlist rarely is enough….two tunes I play in the city right now I heard on one of my favourite episodes to date(man of the house),”the silver spear”& the blue idol….

I listened to this episode in a wood near the coast. maby five yrs ago, a deep cashcrop, scented pine. the needles leave a sponge rug moss covers old stumps & oaks, older by far than the rest of the wood that grow in crearings. deer whistle & bark in the night “home is were the heart is” & have on occasion gone back to listen again…

The music u play suits the wood my friend…”

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is your ever-present editor, Todd, once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcast featured are Traveling in Ireland & Copperplate Time. There is a list of new albums included as well. The articles highlighted are about an Irish artist on the short list for a British prize, a family campsite in Wales, and a Viking invasion of the Isle of Man. The spotlighted festival is the KVMR Celtic festival taking place May 1 – 3, 2026, at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley, CA. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #757: SELKIE WOMEN OF THE NORTHERN SHORE

• One Street Over, Gillian Boucher & Bob McNeill, Fialla, Eloise & Co., The Leftovers, The Bow Tides, Low Lily, Tara's Folk, Sue Spencer, Eimear Arkins, Sora, Louise Bichan, Kim Carnie, THE DIVINERS, Marc Gunn, One Street Over, Sora, Louise Bichan, Kim Carnie, THE DIVINERS, Fialla, Eimear Arkins, Low Lily, The Bow Tides
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Long Awaited – by Diego Arias
• The Begae: Echoes of Belgica – by Lumieresoundworks
• Imagination Symphony: Epic Music for Fantasy Novel Writing & Science Fiction Storytelling – by Macey Rogers
• Sit here with us – by Reuben and The Bridge
• Oak and Yew – by Gnome Oracle
• Tradical – by Shana Stone
• No Words Required – by Southern Elsewhere
• Dan Musil (EP) – by Dan Musil

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: EXPLORE IRELAND DIFFERENTLY: BESPOKE FOOD, WHISKEY & CULTURAL TOURS

• What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Flavour Trails, has expanded her offerings to meet travelers who want more than a quick stop-and-go itinerary.
• Visitors can now choose from:
  • Multiple Dublin food tours (including a traditional walking tour with five stops)
  • Whiskey experiences
  • Storytelling tours
  • Fully customized private tours across Ireland
• The goal is simple: connect travelers not just to places, but to the people producing the food and drink they’re enjoying.

Listen here

IRISH ARTIST’S WORK INSPIRED BY BIKE INJURY SHORTLISTED FOR BRITISH ART PRIZE

• A DUBLIN artist who is studying in London has been shortlisted for an industry prize for a unique piece of work inspired by an injury sustained in a bike accident.
• Anna Mays is a post-graduate student at the Royal College of Art and a graduate of the University of Brighton whose work focuses on the human body.
• Mays has been shortlisted for the 2026 Batsford Prize – an award for British-based undergraduate and postgraduate art students – it was announced today.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 535

• BOTHY BAND, MOVING CLOUD, LIZ & YVONNE KANE, ELAINE KELLY & DAITHI GORMLEY, JACKIE McAULEYm MANUS MAGUIRE, JOHN REGAN & PADDY GLACKIN, PADDY CRONIN, CLANNAD, NIAMH Ní CHARRA, KEVIN ROWSOME, MICK MULVEY & SHANE MEEHAN, SEAMUS BEGLEY & STEVE COONEY, PAUL BRADY, TERRY CLARKE, LUKA BLOOM, BERT JANSCH, & THE BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

FAMILY CAMPSITE HAS BIG INDOOR POOL, VINTAGE CINEMA AND IS JUST 10 MINUTES FROM THE BEACH

• With summer definitely on its way what's better than getting a family break in the diary – one that won't cost the earth.
• Even better, one where you're 10 minutes from the beach, 15 from one of Wales' best seaside towns and one where you can settle down in lush, Welsh countryside with a refreshing swimming pool on site.

To read more, go here!

ISLE OF MAN PREPARES FOR NEW VIKING INVASION AT FIRE FESTIVAL

• The Isle of Man is preparing for a new Viking invasion.
• A contingent of 30 Vikings from Shetland will descend on Manx shores this weekend.
• The Lerwick Jarls Squad will be here to headline the Oie Voaldyn festivities in Peel on Sunday (May 3).
• Jarls Squads led by the Guizer Jahl play a central role in the Up Helly Aa community fire festivals that take place around the Shetland isles between January and March each year – with the Lerwick event being the biggest one.

To read more, go here!

KVMR CELTIC FESTIVAL

• With the KVMR community at its heart, there is so much more behind the scenes of this festival that can’t be measured. The 45 Area Managers that work so hard to make this the best Celtic Festival in the Western States. Each of the Area Managers commit a vast amount of time and energy to ensure our festival is clean, friendly and safe. And the hundreds of volunteers make the unsurmountable amount of work to put on a festival possible. Hat’s off to all the volunteers, many with years of dedication. Also, a shout out to the past Producers that brought this festival to its epic standard. 28 successful years!
• Some of the entertainers you will see include Dervish, Gnoss, Summer McCall, Mad Maleys, The Shanty Mountain Bards, Old Soles, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

April 30, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we celebrate Earth Week with music that breathes, roams, and takes root. Fourteen artists. One green hour. Let's go. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #756. The other podcasts highlighted are Folk on Foot & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. The featured articles are about Michael Banahan, where to find Scotland’s best seafood, and an Irish Music Festival being postponed. There is also a list of new Celtic albums. The spotlighted festival is the Decatur Celtic Festival, taking place May 1 – 3, at the Wise County Fairgrounds in Decatur, TX. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #756: FOUR THOUSAND WEEKS, HAPPY EARTH WEEK

• Santiago Molina, The Here & Now, The Irish Lassies, Brad The Piper, Kevin Herron, Cedar Dobson Music, Clare Sands, Chloe Matharu, Ed Yother, Kellys Wayke, Voice of Lir, Bealtaine, Reilly, Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes
• A special thanks to our new and continued patrons: Claire Fitzpatrick, Cecilia LaBonte

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• EP – 2026 – by Dan Musil (Releases 4/24/2026)
• Cuentos del alicorniu – by Jorge Mendez
• Requiem – by Jorge Mendez
• Alicornae ~ A Decade of Musical Stories – by Jyc Row
• Medieval Castle Music Fantasy for Lute, Celtic Violin, Folk Guitar & Flute – by Andrei Krylov
• Born of Ash and Lake – by The Everdawn
• Exiles – Rarities – by Argonath
• Far – by Jon Skarin
• Unfurling – by Songwoods
• Matkaaja – by Polenta
• Do Not Do For Naught – by Raidio Music

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

FOLK ON FOOT: THE YOUNG ‘UNS AT ROSEBERRY TOPPING

• Nearly eight years after they first appeared on Folk on Foot, that irrepressible trio The Young’Uns are back – with Sean Cooney, David Eagle and Michael Hughes performing songs new and old as we climb the Teesside landmark Roseberry Topping. The conversation ranges from learning to laughs – especially given David’s impeccable comic timing. We discuss the challenges of writing songs about living people, hear about the music inspired by the industrial transformation of the area and find out how David used an accordion to contact his Dad in the early hours of the morning. Join us for an uplifting day out.

Listen here

MICHAEL BANAHAN’S DEBUT FINDS ITS VOICE

• ROSCOMMON musician and long-time promoter Michael Banahan steps into new territory with Broken Heart, his first album of entirely original material — a reflective, country-tinged collection shaped by personal experience, loss and, ultimately, resilience.
• Best known across the Midlands and beyond as a promoter and manager who has worked with artists including Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Paul Brady and Eleanor Shanley, Banahan has spent decades supporting other musicians. With Broken Heart, he moves decisively to the front of the stage.

To read more, go here!

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY: NO 579

• Celtic Fiddle Festival, Buílle, Skipinnish, Fisherman’s Friends, Northern Resonance, Julia Michelle, Basset, The Ocelots, Ailie Robertson, Pauline Scanlon, Garden Of Delight, Empty Pages, Khristian Mizzi, Inn Echo , Nickel Creek, Mànran, Mountain Grass Unit, Ron Block, Amber Lawrence, Conor Lamb, Brendan Mulholland, Ennis Sisters, Dave Gunning, Ten Strings and a Goat Skin, Seo Linn, Boiled In Lead, Fintan Vallely, Mischa MacPherson, Michael Doucet, Pharis & Jason Romero, Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningh…, The Urban Folk Quartet, Kornog, Ossian, Réalta & Mark Knopfler

Listen to the Show

WHERE TO FIND SCOTLAND’S BEST SEAFOOD. CLUE: THESE PLACES ARE JUST METRES FROM THE WATER

• The best oysters of my life arrive on a polystyrene tray, eaten elbow-to-elbow with strangers at a table littered with empty shells and damp paper napkins. We huddle beneath a tarpaulin, sheltering from the fine spray of rain rattling on the roof, the wind whipping around the hulking CalMac ferry moored metres away, and the beady-eyed scavenging gulls.
• “Have you tried this? You have to,” says a woman who has driven from Glasgow just to eat here, pressing a rollmop herring into my hand. I take a bite, the thick skin giving way to sweet and salty flesh, juices running down my chin. Elegant dining this is not, but all the better for it. This is Oban Seafood Hut, tucked beside the ferry terminal for boats heading into the Sound of Mull. Diners shuffle around a shared table, listening for order numbers, with plates piled high with langoustines, crab and oysters. It’s cash only. In the back room, a team of women butter thick slices of soft white bread for crab sandwiches, wrapping them in clingfilm without ceremony, to be sold within minutes.

To read more, go here!

IRISH MUSIC FESTIVAL ON GLASGOW GREEN POSTPONED UNTIL 2027

• A two-day Irish music festival set to be held on Glasgow Green has been postponed just weeks before it was to take place.
• GlasGael was scheduled to be held on 2-3 May in the city centre, featuring acts like The High Kings, the Tumbling Paddies and Derek Ryan.
• organisers say the event's financial model has been impacted by world events, resulting in escalating costs that have stopped it going ahead.

To read more, go here!

THE DECATUR CELTIC FESTIVAL

• Decatur Celtic Festival is a new, grass-roots event to remember, honor, and advance the Celtic Cultural Traditions (of Scottish, Irish, Welsh, Briton, Isle of Man, Cornish and Scots-Irish peoples). We seek to recognize their profound contributions to music, song, literature, and the settlement of the American frontier. We honor their memory through a safe, fun, memorable day of music, food, drink, dance, and other activities for clans and community. Make plans to join in the festivities this year!
• Some of the entertainers you will see are River Driver, KinFolk, Sombati, Celtic or Not, Thistle Ridge, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

April 23, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Earth is alive with sound. This week on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, we celebrate Earth Week with music that breathes, roams, and takes root. Fourteen artists. One green hour. Let's go. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #756. Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Santiago Molina, The Here & Now, The Irish Lassies, Brad The Piper, Kevin Herron, Cedar Dobson Music, Clare Sands, Chloe Matharu, Ed Yother, Kellys Wayke, Voice of Lir, Bealtaine, Reilly, Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Santiago Molina “Acá y ahora” from Desde un nuevo lugar

3:12 – WELCOME

5:07 – The Here & Now “Three” from Ladybird

9:11 – The Irish Lassies “Redwood Shepherd” from Immigration Stories

12:39 – Brad The Piper “Carswell” from The Forgotten Game

16:24 – Ó hEaráin “On My Mind”

20:44 – FEEDBACK

23:21 – Cedar Dobson “Acapela” from Decade

28:43 – Clare Sands “Abair Liom do Rúin feat. Tommy Sands” from Clare Sands

33:21 – Chloe Matharu “Butterfly” from Sailors and Rolling Stones

38:53 – Ed Yother “Jack Tar” from First Figure

41:19 – THANKS

42:48 – Kellys Wayke “The Wild Rover” from Kellys Wayke

47:52 – Voice of Lir “Achil Aire” from Aislingeach

51:14 – Bealtaine “Be Free” from It's Pronounced Bealtaine

54:38 – Reilly “Man Of Extraordinary Persuasion” from Durty Pool

57:32 – CLOSING

58:33 – Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes “Four Thousand Weeks” from Liam Vincent & The Odd Foxes

1:01:38 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy isn't just good for the planet. It's good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Earth Week is a good reminder of what we stand to lose — and what we're fighting to protect.

The science is clear. Human activity is driving climate change. Record heat. Rising seas. Disappearing seasons. And yet too many politicians would rather protect billionaire energy interests than help working families lower their bills.

Real change starts when we stop letting the ultra – rich write our energy policy. Support clean energy. Reduce your waste. Talk to your elected leaders. Every choice moves us toward a future that's more affordable, more free, and a planet that can actually breathe.

The power to fix this is ours. Let's use it.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME TO THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

SPRING CELTIC CHALLENGEThe Spring Celtic Challenge started on April 1. That means you are three weeks in — maybe four, depending on how you're counting. Either way, you have been at this for nearly a month.

Think about that for a second. Twenty minutes a day. Music in your ears. At least one piece of litter off the ground every time you walked out the door. That adds up to something real.

This is the last challenge reminder. No new episode next week, so you are on your own. But the challenge does not pause just because the podcast does. You know what to do. Step outside. Walk twenty minutes. Pick up one piece of trash. Put on some Celtic music if you need a nudge.

If you've been working on the community knotwork or sharing your challenge art, keep going. Tag it, share it, celebrate it. You're building something with this community, step by step.

Nearly a month down. Finish strong.

Let me know how it's going. Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic. I'd love to hear from you.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!This show exists because of you. Every episode… the music, the production, the Celtic Music Magazine, the effort to find and support independent artists from around the world. It all runs on the generosity of our Patrons of the Podcast.

Your support pays for audio engineering and graphics. It helps us buy music directly from independent Celtic artists. It keeps this community growing week after week.

And in return, you get something good. Early access to episodes. Music – only editions. Free downloads. Exclusive content. And the power to vote for your favorite tracks, which shapes the show in a real way.

A special thanks to our new and continued patrons: Claire Fitzpatrick, Cecilia LaBonte

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a picture of what you’re doing while listening? Or while you’re doing your Spring Celtic Challenge.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Richard L Boyce emailed: “Hi Marc, On one of your recent podcasts, you mentioned putting together a show using music by people who just love to get together and play tunes. If you are still serious about that, I’m going to recommend you check out the sets put together by the Riley School of Irish Music (https://rileyirishmusic.com/school – tunes) in Cincinnati, OH.

Our school has been going for more than 25 years. We meet on Saturdays in a local church and teach Irish music to both kids and adults. We have long provided the spark that’s created local Irish bands that play for listening and for dances in our area. The School’s run mainly by amateurs who simply love the music.

The sets of tunes on our website are put together each quarter by the teachers at the school. We teach tunes by ear, and so we want our students to be have lots of opportunities to hear them. While they have been recorded for teaching, I think some of them are pretty good! I’m a flute teacher at the school, so I may be biased, as I’m on some the recordings.

In any case, take a listen to some of the tracks and see if you like anything. Regards,”

Justine Mccarthy emailed: “Hello Marc, I recall from a podcast sometime in the past few months, you asked listeners to record themselves playing music and sending you the recordings: Is this Audio, video or either?

We are a humble group but would love to send you a recording of our band “Wild Thyme' for the website. Do we just send it by email to you as an audiophile or video?

I've been a Patron for several years, and listen while riding my training bike in the basement!

Thank you so much for this priceless resource!”

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Céad Míle FáilteHello, to you, our lovely readers. It is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts we highlight are The Scottish History Podcast and Celt in a Twist. The articles featured are about the decline of the rural Irish village shop, a collection of tokens from Cornwall up for auction, and the home named Scotland’s “Best Building.” We have a list of new albums as well. The spotlighted festival is a Celtic weekend at a Ren Faire. The Southern Indiana Renaissance Faire Celtic Weekend takes place April 25 -26, at Swifty Farms in Seymour, IN. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #755: CAT ON THE ROOF

• Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, The Here & Now, Ryan McCombe, Faoileán, Celtic Conundrum, Pressgang Mutiny, Arise & Go, The Bilge Pumps, Stephen MacDonald, Duncan McLauchlan, Glaucia Carvalho, SeaStar, Dropkick Murphys, Release the Craicen, Leevy, Tara's Folk
• A special thank you this week to Maryjane Foos

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• BIG PUB IN THE SKY – by Sammy Horner / The Sweet Sorrows / The Electrics
• Guardians of Arduenna – by Lumieresoundworks
• We Made This! – by The Shenanigans
• The Old Gods – by Sergej Miladinović
• Gothic bard fantasy songs – by Andrei Krylov
• Celtic Lofi: Rhythms of the Sleepless Sanctuary – by YUNOKIA
• Third Set – by Learning Fiddle with Irish Music
• Bridge – by Learning Fiddle with Irish Music
• Next Tunes – by Learning Fiddle with Irish Music
• First Songs – by Learning Fiddle with Irish Music
• Lullaby Island – by Julia Norton
• Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany – by Trouz Bras
• Regrets and Egrets – by Campbell Jeffrey Wilson
• Clan 4 – by Medwyn Goodall
• Qeltic – by Qroaker
• Illuminate – by Adam Hendey
• Forest Folk – by Daridel
• Primal Breath – by Warg
• Hiraeth – by Warg

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THE SCOTTISH HISTORY PODCAST: EPISODE 92 – THIS WEEK IN SCOTTISH HISTORY – 13TH APRIL

• This Week In Scottish History – T.W.I.S.H
• This week we talk about the Porteous Riots and the infamous Battle of Culloden – events that happened this week in Scottish History.

Listen here

THE DECLINE OF THE RURAL IRISH VILLAGE SHOP

• THE story of Ireland’s rural shop is one of community and connection but also, increasingly, of decline.
• For decades, family-run businesses sat at the heart of towns and villages, but today many of these shops have disappeared as people move and competition from big supermarket chains reshapes rural life.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: APRIL 14, 2026

• It's April and bevies are served this happy hour, from Melisande with Boisson D'Avril. Artemis 2 received a message from late astronaut Jim Lovell and we kick off the program with Bold Lovell, new from Boiled In Lead, Expect appearances from Vancouver-bound Gnoss and Dervish, and more new grooves from Haggis X-1. Join Patricia Fraser in the Celtic frontier!

Listen to the Show

COLLECTION OF 17TH CENTURY TOKENS UP FOR AUCTION

• A collection of more than 70 tokens from the 17th century is set to go up for auction.
• The tokens were issued by traders across Cornwall for use as currency at times when governments were not issuing small change.
• The collection was amassed over 30 years by Mac McCarthy, who is from Cornwall, and has an estimate of £15k for the auction in London on 22 April.

To read more, go here!

INSIDE THE STRIKING AND STYLISH HOME NAMED SCOTLAND'S ‘BEST BUILDING'

• If you’ve ever visited Glasgow jewellery shop Orro, you’ll know that its founders and resident designers have an excellent eye.
• However, it seems that Neil Smith and goldsmith Wesley Zwiep don’t just leave their taste at work, as they’ve applied it to their home, too.
• The beautiful Grianan (Gaelic for sunny place) in rural Stirlingshire is gorgeous inside and out. This property was created after the couple commissioned Stuart Cameron of Cameron Webster Architects, and in 2025 it won Best Building at the SSA (Stirling Society of Architects) Awards.

To read more, go here!

SOUTHERN INDIANA RENAISSANCE FAIRE: CELTIC FOLKLORE WEEKEND

• Step into a world of ancient tales and lively music. The pipes will play, the dancers will whirl, and families will gather for a celebration of Celtic tradition. Student Day makes its return, giving students admission for only $5 with a paid adult ticket.
• Some of the entertainment you will see Drunk & Sailor, Kris Colt of Blackrose, Magpie Swallows, Celtucky, The Brothers Boru, and many many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

April 16, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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This week on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, we travel from Kolkata to Dublin. We go from pub brawls to Ragland Road. From a cat on a rooftop to the bog down in the valley. Fifteen artists. One incredible hour. Let's go. It’s the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #755. Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, The Here & Now, Ryan McCombe, Faoileán, Celtic Conundrum, Pressgang Mutiny, Arise & Go, The Bilge Pumps, Stephen MacDonald, Duncan McLauchlan, Glaucia Carvalho, SeaStar, Dropkick Murphys, Release the Craicen, Leevy, Tara's Folk

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal “Jimmy Ward's Jig” from From Kolkata to Dublin

1:46 – WELCOME

4:19 – The Here & Now “Madison Avenue” from Ladybird

9:27 – Ryan McCombe “Ragland Road” from single

13:16 – Faoileán “Cat on the Roof” from Why Should I Not

17:19 – Celtic Conundrum “The Land” from Lore

21:25 – FEEDBACK

28:09 – Pressgang Mutiny “Maggie May” from Departure

31:37 – Arise & Go “The Drowning At Bruckless / The Miller’s Maggot” from Moments of Light

35:47 – The Bilge Pumps “Excursion Around the Bay” from Greatest Hits, Vols I – VII

38:45 – Stephen MacDonald “The Chords Wouldn’t Play” from The Legend of John Lally

41:45 – Duncan McLauchlan and Glaucia Carvalho “The bog down in the valley” from McLauchlan's Celtic Brew

45:13 – THANKS

47:08 – SeaStar “The Fore Shadows” from The Treekeeper Awakens

52:13 – Dropkick Murphys “Fiending for the Lies” from For The People (Expanded Edition)

54:53 – Release the Craicen “Fisher's Hornpipe / Limerick Lasses / Mason's Apron” from Live! Songs on a Boat

57:42 – Leevy “Burn the Casket” from Baile Mhúirne or the Soldiers March the Paps of Anú

1:01:18 – CLOSING

1:02:06 – Tara's Folk “Everybody's old” from remember how we fall

1:05:52 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Clean energy isn't just good for the planet. It's good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Spring is a good reminder of what we stand to lose… and what we're fighting to protect.

The science is clear. Human activity is driving climate change. Record heat. Rising seas. Disappearing seasons. And yet too many politicians would rather protect billionaire energy interests than help working families lower their bills.

Real change starts when we stop letting the ultra – rich write our energy policy. Support clean energy. Reduce your waste. Talk to your elected leaders. Every choice moves us toward a future that's more affordable, more free, and a planet that can actually breathe.

The power to fix this is ours. Let's use it.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME TO THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

SPRING CELTIC CHALLENGEYou are two weeks into the Spring Celtic Challenge. That is no small thing. Two weeks of walking. Two weeks of music. Two weeks of picking up a little trash and leaving the world a bit cleaner than you found it.

Week three is where it gets real. The novelty has worn off. Life has gotten in the way at least once. And you're still here. That matters.

So here's your reminder. Step outside today. Twenty minutes. Let the music move with you. And if you spot something on the ground that doesn't belong there, pick it up. One piece. That's all.

If you've been working on the community knotwork or sharing your challenge art, keep going. Tag it, share it, celebrate it. You're building something with this community, step by step.

Two weeks down. Two to go. Let's walk.

Let me know how it’s going. Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic. I'd love to hear from you.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!This show exists because of you. Every episode… the music, the production, the Celtic Music Magazine, the effort to find and support independent artists from around the world… it all runs on the generosity of our Patrons of the Podcast.

Your support pays for audio engineering and graphics. It helps us buy music directly from independent Celtic artists. It keeps this community growing week after week.

And in return, you get something good. Early access to episodes. Music – only editions. Free downloads. Exclusive content. And the power to vote for your favorite tracks. Which shapes the show in a real way.

A special thank you this week to Maryjane Foos

If you'd like to join Maryjane, here's how it works. Go to patreon.com/celticpodcast. Pick a tier that works for you. And become part of the reason this music keeps reaching new ears every single week. We'd love to have you.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo from your St Patrick's Day celebrations or any new audio recordings you got for the holiday.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Ryan S. emailed back in January: “Hey Marc. On this week's Dan Savage podcast episode #1000, they mentioned the Irish and celtic music podcast!!! Woot! Keep up the good work!”

Chelle Fiddler emailed: “Hi Marc! I am also a long – time Celtic musician. As a player, I love the pin idea. As an audient (my invented word for one audience, ; – ) ) I probably wouldn't buy it. But that's just me…. I'm not inclined to listen to Celtic music at home. I'm more likely to go to a live show, or even hire the band to play a house concert.

I'm running the Celtic series at the Old Brogue in Great Falls now… I adopted that baby from IONA this past Fall. Hopefully I can beg your help promoting the shows? We need all the help we can get. : – ). I'm so very green at promoting shows, and now I'm running two concert serieses… serii? Like you, I'm all about keeping this music alive and vibrant, and building an audience for my brilliant colleagues. All the best,”

Metta RavenHeart messaged on Patreon about show #748: “Here here and there there. Your authenticity far outweighs any difference of opinion. Please continue to march for freedom. Here in New Mexico we know what it is like to stand up against tyranny and racism, and you inspire us to continue.”

Alexander Randall 5th emailed: “Whether you make better patter or not, I will listen to you until I die.

I mentioned the Galacian Celtic music.

I am so intrigued by this sound.

Some of it is like obvious jigs and reels and marches, but it also sounds like Flamenco some of the time and sometimes muslim creep in. It is very “spanish” and yet not. And when the bagpipes come in, you think you are in Ireland…

Here are four that you will find interesting.

This one is by the kind of national Galacian folk arts concert. It opens with an almost middle eastern sound, the the voices com in singing in Spanish and then the bagpipes hit and it turns into a celtic party… in spain!

This one opens with cricket and turns into a dance.

This one is a jig. It says so in the title but then it turns into something else – – The Muneira is like the Galacian national dance… It could be scots…

What country did this dance come from?

You pick up all kinds of odd ideas. Fiddle around with this Galician celtic music…”

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Céad Míle FáilteHello readers, it is your intrepid editor, Todd, once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and Pub Songs & Stories. The other spotlighted podcasts are Erin’s Isle & Copperplate. The featured articles include ones about how Ireland marked the anniversary of the Easter Rising, a new visitor and museum at the Calanais Standing Stones, & drag act Vida Lafierce’s new residency in Douglas. The highlighted festival is Loch Norman Highland Games taking place April 18 – 19, at Historic Rural Hill in Huntersville, NC. We have also included a list of new Celtic Albums. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #754: RAISE ANOTHER PINT FOR HOPE

• Arise & Go, Carroll Sisters Trio, Faoileán, Cedar Dobson, Seasons, Seán Heely, Skara Brae, W. Ed Harris, Chloe Matharu, Pressgang Mutiny, Mànran, Bluestack, Jarmila Xymena Gorna, Santos Letalone
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?PUB SONGS & STORIES #314: FIREFLY DRINKING SONGS

• A month without a voice. A question about Firefly Drinking Songs. And a highwayman riding the moor. Pub Songs & Stories returns with stories to tell, from the Celtic folk tradition to the far reaches of the ‘verse. Music from Marc Gunn, Faoileán, CaliCeltic, Whiskey Bay Rovers, May Will Bloom.

Listen Here!

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Love of the Isles – by Abby Newton & Selma Kaplan
• New World Disorder – by Awakend
• Celtic Lofi: Afternoon Before Sunset – by YUNOKIA
• Ascend The Veil – by Elemental Magic
• Medieval Bard Travels Fantasy for Folk Lute, Guitar, Celtic Violin & Flute – by Andrei Krylov
• Abbot's Way – by Byed

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

ERIN’S ISLE: TAKING THE PLUNGE !!!

• While fitness gurus act as if they just invented cold plunging…it’s been a part of Irish culture for generations. There are sea swimming tidal pools just offshore, all around the Emerald Isle.
• It’s one of those things some people love, and others never would even consider. And while I am one of those who adores a hot bath to relax, I had the chance and couldn’t pass it up. Man is it cold!!!!

Listen here

IN PICTURES: HOW IRELAND MARKED THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE EASTER RISING 1916

• COMMEMORATIONS took place in Ireland over the weekend marking the 110th anniversary of the Easter Rising.
• A state commemoration was held outside the General Post Office (GPO) in Dublin's O'Connell Street, where President Catherine Connolly laid a wreath.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 532

• Bothy Band, Simon & Garfunkel, Danu, Brendan McAuley, Richie Dwyer, Bert Jansch, Michael Hynes & Kirsten Allstaff, Gerry Diver, Seamus Begley & Steve Cooney, Colm O’Donnell, Maggie Boyle, Christy Moore, Ralph McTell, Liam O’Flynn& Catherine Ennis, The Waterboys, Dylan Carlos, Cein Sweeney & John McCartin, Dezi Donnelly, & Bothy Band

Listen to the Show

OLDER THAN STONEHENGE—THIS MYSTERIOUS SCOTTISH WONDER IS READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT

• A new visitor center and museum are opening at the Calanais Standing Stones on Scotland’s Isle of Lewis, making a visit to these 5,000-year-old stone structures much more enticing.

To read more, go here!

DRAG ACT VIDA LAFIERCE RETURNS WITH DAZZLING NEW RESIDENCY IN DOUGLAS

• Island drag act Vida LaFierce is celebrating more than 10 years of performing with a brand-new series of regular shows at Encore at Sir Norman’s Bar.
• Known as the island’s ‘Original Queen Diva,’ Vida is bringing her signature blend of glamour, humour and powerhouse vocals to audiences every two weeks at the venue located within the Sefton Hotel.

To read more, go here!

LOCH NORMAN HIGHLAND GAMES

• The Loch Norman Highland Games at Rural Hill is a family friendly event presented by Historic Rural Hill. Come and experience all the fun with Highland Dancing, Bagpipe Bands, Highland Athletics, a Giant Kid’s Zone, Scottish Merchants, Haggis, Celtic Rock and Traditional Performers, Historic Reenactments, Scottish Country Dancing, Sunday Church Service, Hearth Cooking, NC Beer and Wine, Whiskey Tastings, Kilted Running Events, Scottish Clan Societies, Shoot Long Bows and Blowguns, Throw a Battle Axe and so much more!
• Some of the entertainers you will see are the Piper Jones Band, Steel City Rovers, and others.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

April 9, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

For Whether you're out walking for the Spring Celtic Challenge or just settling in with a pint — this week's episode has something that'll get under your skin in the best possible way on the irish & Celtic Music Podcast #754. Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Arise & Go, Carroll Sisters Trio, Faoileán, Cedar Dobson, Seasons, Seán Heely, Skara Brae, W. Ed Harris, Chloe Matharu, Pressgang Mutiny, Mànran, Bluestack, Jarmila Xymena Gorna, Santos Letalone

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Arise & Go “The Drowning At Bruckless / The Miller’s Maggot” from Moments of Light

4:15 – WELCOME

7:07 – Carroll Sisters Trio “Liam Childs – Baby Dragon” from Radiance

11:04 – Faoileán “Brennan on the Moor” from Why Should I Not

14:35 – Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal “Harvest Home” from From Kolkata to Dublin

17:01 – Seasons “Hope on the Tracks” from Seasons

21:35 – FEEDBACK

29:12 – Seán Heely “Return to Iona” from Dramagical

33:00 – Skara Brae “Let's Raise Another Pint” from The Mists of Time

36:52 – W. Ed Harris “Toss the Feathers” from Cares of Tomorrow Can Wait

39:24 – Chloe Matharu “Peat Fires” from single

43:43 – THANKS

45:58 – Pressgang Mutiny “Ranzo Ray” from Departure

48:50 – Mànran “Downpour” from To the Wind

52:33 – Bluestack “Give It Back/A Soldier's Song” from Last Set Of The Night

57:45 – Jarmila Xymena Gorna “Escape – Dihangfa” from single

1:03:22 – CLOSING

1:04:26 – Santos Letalone “Our Voice” from single

1:07:42 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Spring is a good time to think about what we plant — literally and figuratively. The Celtic lands we love were shaped by people who understood that the earth gives back what you put into it.

This week's tip is simple. Go native. If you're planting anything this spring — flowers, shrubs, anything — choose native plants. They support local pollinators, use less water, and need far less maintenance. One trip to a native plant nursery can do more good than you'd expect.

Walk outside. Pick up one piece of trash. Plant something that belongs.

The same spirit that carries Celtic music forward, community, resilience, love of the land, is the same spirit that keeps this planet alive. Let's carry that forward.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME TO THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn, Celtic musician and host of Pub Songs & Stories. Pull up a chair. This is your weekly hour of Celtic music from some of the most talented independent artists in the world.

This show is for every kind of Celtic music fan. Traditional or contemporary, fiddles or pipes, ballads or reels. There's something here for you. We're building a community around this music, and we're glad you're part of it.

Every artist you hear today is an indie musician. No label. No corporate backing. Just real people making music they love and sharing it with you. If a song catches your ear, reach out and tell them. Buy an album, an album pin, or a t – shirt. Join their Patreon. It goes a long way.

Links to every artist are in the show notes. You'll also find show times when you visit celticmusicpodcast.com.

Now sit back. Let's make some music happen.

Generous Patron of the Podcast. Thanks to Arcane R&D, Erick Mastick, Tracy O'Shea

SPRING CELTIC CHALLENGE — WEEK 2One week in. How are you doing?

If you've been walking, listening, and picking up a little litter every day… I want you to know that matters. Genuinely. Seven days of small actions is not nothing. That's something real.

And if you're just hearing about this now. Welcome! You haven't missed a thing. Today is a perfect day to start.

The challenge is simple. Twenty minutes outside every day. The podcast in your ears while you walk. And one piece of trash off the ground before you head home.

That's it. Walk. Listen. Pick up one piece of trash.

There's something about doing this alongside other people — even strangers scattered across the world — that makes it feel bigger than yourself. The Celts understood that. The land matters. The community matters. Small acts of care, done daily, build something lasting.

Three weeks left. Let's finish this strong.

Tell me how it's going. Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic. I'd love to hear from you.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!This show is still going strong because of you.

Patrons of the Podcast, you are the reason new episodes land every Thursday. You fund the audio engineering, the graphics, the Celtic Music Magazine, the show promotion — and yes, buying music directly from the independent artists you hear on this show. Every month, your support does real, tangible good.

And if you've been thinking about joining — this is a great time. Patrons get early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3 downloads, exclusive artist interviews, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20. You even get exclusive Highlight Reels that don’t go out on the public feed. You become part of something that keeps this music alive and independent.

Three steps and you're in.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTStep one. Go to SongHenge.com to visit our Patreon page

Step two. Choose your monthly pledge. Four dollars. Twelve. Twenty – five. Whatever feels right.

Step three. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and celebrate Celtic culture through music.

That's it. Your generosity keeps this community growing. One episode, one artist, one listener at a time.

Join us today at SongHenge.com

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo from your St Patrick's Day celebrations or any new audio recordings you got for the holiday.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Tim Cannon emailed: “Marc, Thanks for doing what you do, and for doing for so long!

Please bear with me… I'm old enough to remember the days when stereo's would hold multiple CD's and there was a setting to shuffle between the CD's. Do you know of an App that does something like this? I imagine that I would store my albums on my device and in the app choose which ones are available for the shuffle. I use pandora and spotify, but would prefer something that better supports the artists.”

Jeffrey Alexander messaged on Facebook: “Is the iPhone app dead?? If so what is the best way to listen now?”

I replied:

1. Patreon app. I don't know if you're a subscriber, but it works great for this app. And gets you involved with the community. It works well even if you just follow the show there.
2. Overcast. Tho I've been listening to a lot more shows on Patreon. This is my favorite Podcatcher. It's iPhone only. Has cool features if you're not listening to music apps.
3. Apple Podcasts. Still a good podcatcher.

Daniel Faigin replied to the comments in #748: “I just wanted to applaud what you said to the fellow who made the “libtard” comment in Ep 748. Folk music and celtic music has always spoken truth to power, and our current leadership needs to hear the truth.

This listener supports what you said. You might lose some listeners, but hopefully you will gain a lot more from the folkies and celtic music fans that agree with you. If there had been a one – time donation button on the site or the patreon, I would have used it. Instead, I'll just continue to support the great artists you find.”

He followed up with this short email: “When I shared what you said with my wife, she said: “You've been listening long enough”. So I signed up at the lowest level – – less for the perks, and more to support your effort.”

Thank you Daniel. Yes. I definitely lost followers for my political shows these past couple months. And you are right, there is outrage from the continued injustices by the current administration. So much so that the NO KINGS protests continue to peacefully grow.

There are three ways that we can make true change, especially with a government that is complicit in supporting the illegal actions of our president.

1. Vote them out. Make your voice heard in November.
2. Support small, local indie businesses. It's always good to support your local community. But most of these businesses not only need your support more than some giant corporation, but they also aren't supporting a government actively breaking laws and hurting people.
3. Speak up. Publicly. At rallies and protests. Online. And especially by contacting your representatives. It feels futile. But it's not. Your voice matters.

You also mentioned making a one – time donation. I don't have a regular way of sharing the URL, but if you go to https://bestcelticmusic.net/donate/ , then you make a one – off donation. But your regular support on Patreon means everything. So thank you!

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A month without a voice. A question about Firefly Drinking Songs. And a highwayman riding the moor. Pub Songs & Stories returns with stories to tell, from the Celtic folk tradition to the far reaches of the ‘verse. Music from Marc Gunn, Faoileán, CaliCeltic, Whiskey Bay Rovers, May Will Bloom.

This is Pub Songs & Stories #314

0:20 – Faoileán “Brennan on the Moor” from Why Should I Not

3:52 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. I am your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

NEWS

• What’s the Secret Word? Unlock your secret reward now.
• May Will Bloom new single available
• A month with no voice
• How Irish & Celtic Music PodFest went

UPCOMING SHOWS

• Apr 4-5: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX
• Apr 8: Bards Internet Concert @ 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM
• Apr 10-11: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX
• Apr 17-19: JordanCon, Atlanta, Ga
• Apr 24-26: StellarFest, Duluth, Ga
• Apr 25: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, Ga
• Weekends May 9-31: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Ga
• Jul 30-Aug 2: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN

11:16 – CaliCeltic “A Pub With No Tunes” from West of Shannon

15:38 – FIREFLY ANIMATED SERIES? WHAT’S UP WITH SONGWRITING?

• What direction shall I go with writing songs?
• Firefly animated series or Doctor Who Drinking Songs

24:36 – Marc Gunn “Run Away With Me” from Patreon

27:17 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

The ads on this podcast pay for some of the hosting and podcast editing. My time producing the show is paid for by my…

THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON

Thank you. Truly. Your support is the reason I’m still making music, telling stories, and showing up month after month.

Patreon is how modern, independent musicians survive and thrive. Album Pins and CDs help get me on the road and in front of live audiences, but my day-to-day livelihood—the time it takes to write, record, podcast, film, and share—comes directly from Patrons of the Arts.

As we continue into a new year, Patreon is where everything comes together.

Patrons receive a brand-new song download every month. These are exclusive tracks you won’t find anywhere else—works in progress, experiments, and finished songs that come straight from my creative desk to you. You’ll also get regular updates when there’s news to share, behind-the-scenes blogs, short and long-form videos, and access to a growing archive of bootleg concert recordings and special performances.

You can join for as little as $5 a month. That small commitment adds up to real stability. It buys time to write songs. It funds recording and production. It keeps the creative engine running without chasing algorithms or trends.

And if supporting financially isn’t possible right now, that’s okay. You can still join Patreon for free and receive regular updates, thoughts, and stories as they happen. Being part of the community matters, whether you’re pledging or simply listening along.

Patreon isn’t just support—it’s collaboration. It’s how these songs, podcasts, and ideas exist at all.

If you’d like more details, just email follow@celtfather. I’d love to have you along for the journey this year.

30:33 – Whiskey Bay Rovers “Away Rio” from Taverns and Tides

33:47 – STORY OF “REAVERS MALCOLM REAVERS

38:56 – Marc Gunn “Reavers Malcolm Reavers” from Sci Fi Drinking Songs

42:25 – CLOSING

• Complete the Quest to Unlock your secret reward now.

46:59 – May Will Bloom “I’ll Tell My Ma” from Single

49:17 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Before we go, a quick reminder: caring about Celtic culture also means caring about the land that shaped it. The songs we love were born from fields, coasts, forests, and villages that depend on a healthy planet.

Climate action doesn’t have to be loud or perfect. It starts small. Walk when you can. Choose renewable energy if it’s available to you. Support artists, farmers, and local businesses who care about the earth. Reduce waste. Reuse what you can. Leave a place better than you found it.

When we protect the land, we protect the music, the stories, and the generations yet to sing them.

Join the Spring Celtic Challenge!

Sláinte—and thank you for listening.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

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Céad Míle FáilteHello readers, it is your editor, Todd, once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and the Brobdingnagian Bards Podcast. The other spotlighted podcasts are Wild for Scotland and Gerry Quinn Irish Radio Show. We have included a list of new albums as well. The highlighted articles are about the founder of Irish Dolls, Spring at Cornwall’s National Trust Estates, & a new exhibit at the Rushen Heritage Centre. The featured festival is Colorado Tartan Day. It takes place on April 11 & 12, at the Boulder County Fairgrounds in Longmont, CO. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #753: SPRING CELTIC CHALLENGE

• The Bow Tides, Olivia Barrett, The Haar, Tarren, The Munster Men, Wolf Loescher, Arise & Go, Enda Reilly, Alexander James Adams, Griffin, Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia, Clover's Revenge, The Leftovers, CaliCeltic
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?BROBDINGNAGIAN BARDS PODCAST #98: FIREFLY REBOOT, I'M COMING HOME

• Welcome to the Brobdingnagian Bards podcast! Andrew's deep in the magic of Sherwood Forest Faire, and Marc's heading there himself this weekend. We're diving into the Firefly animated series reboot — what has us excited, what has us cautious — plus the story behind “I'm Coming Home” from Another Faire to Remember, a song born from Samwise Gamgee's dream of returning to Rosie. Pull up a chair, Bards. This one's got heart.

Listen here

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Bärge – by Alissia Milena
• Remembering Bob Rowley (1938-2026) – by Jane Stokes
• Reykjavik Dreams – by jimeddy
• Runes – by Sophie Brown and Friends

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

WILD FOR SCOTLAND: EPISODE 99: ‘ISLAND HOPPING’ – AN ADVENTURE TO IONA, STAFFA AND TRESHNISH ISLES

• “Island Hopping” tells the story of a day trip by boat to visit the Isles of Iona, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles – all from our home base on the Isle of Mull. That’s 4 islands in one day!
• We explore the medieval ruins and moorlands of Iona, enjoy (more or less) a thrilling boat ride to the Isle of Lunga to meet puffins, and walk in the footsteps of giants as we stride across the Isle of Staffa.
• After the story, I share with you my top tips for a trip to Iona, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles.

Listen here

THE FOUNDER OF IRISH DOLLS IN LONDON ON BUILDING A 6,000-STRONG COMMUNITY

• WHEN Gemma Hayde left her home in Rosegreen, Co. Tipperary, she planned to stay in London for just three months.
• Nearly a decade later, she has built one of the biggest Irish women's networks in the city.
• “I sold my Toyota Yaris and moved over with €1,000 and a suitcase,” she says. “I said I’d see how it goes, and now it’s been nine years.”
• Like many young Irish emigrants, Gemma arrived with few connections. Having studied early years education in Waterford, she took up nannying but quickly found herself navigating a new city alone.

To read more, go here!

GERRY QUINN IRISH RADIO SHOW: MARCH 29, 2026

• Mark Owens, Honorary Consul of Ireland, Ohio
• John Kilkenny, Auxillary Police Officer

Listen to the Show

SPRING BURSTS TO LIFE AT CORNWALL’S NATIONAL TRUST ESTATES

• SPRING has burst into life across Cornwall with the National Trust unveiling a packed programme of Easter and half-term events at Antony, Cotehele and Lanhydrock.
• At Antony, families are invited to step straight into a Wonderland-inspired adventure with its Easter trail running from now until April 16. Visitors can design their own party outfits, take on giant garden games, enjoy a quirky tea party and even try their hand at croquet in a playful, immersive setting.

To read more, go here!

FAMILIES OF CREGNEASH EXHIBITION OPENS AT RUSHEN HERITAGE CENTRE

• A new exhibition exploring the rich history of Cregneash has opened the 2026 season at Rushen Heritage Centre in Port Erin.
• Titled ‘Families of Cregneash’, the exhibition shines a light on some of the village’s most prominent families from the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the Crebbins, Faraghers, Karrans, Kellys and Quirks.

To read more, go here!

CELEBRATE COLORADO TARTAN DAY!

• Join us for a weekend of Scottish heritage, history, and community.
• Whether you are a descendant of the Highlands or just a fan of Celtic culture, there is something for everyone. From the skirl of the pipes to the clash of broadswords, come experience the spirit of Scotland right here in Longmont.
• Some of the entertainment you will see is Indigent Row, Ren Scots (Live Steel Show), Bleed’N Green, Kirkin of the Tartan, and others.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

April 2, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Spring is here — and so is something new. This is episode 753 of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and it's the first episode of the Spring Celtic Challenge. More on that in a moment. First, let's talk music. The Bow Tides, Wolf Loescher, Tarren, CaliCeltic, and eleven more independent Celtic artists are waiting for you. Let's go. Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

The Bow Tides, Olivia Barrett, The Haar, Tarren, The Munster Men, Wolf Loescher, Arise & Go, Enda Reilly, Alexander James Adams, Griffin, Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia, Clover's Revenge, The Leftovers, CaliCeltic

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – The Bow Tides “Dulcie's Delight” from Sailing On

4:01 – WELCOME

6:33 – Olivia Barrett “The Mountain Blessing/The Secret Elsewhere” from Elsewhere

11:03 – The Haar “Madam I'm a Darling” from The Lost Day

13:29 – Tarren “Dan – Y – Bont” from Outside Time

17:00 – The Munster Men “All the joys” from Tasting The Waters

21:02 – FEEDBACK

21:48 – Wolf Loescher “Dark Lochnagar” from Child of Alba

25:49 – Arise & Go “Bonnie Ellen Owen / Samuel the Weaver / Pat & Al’s / Chloe’s Passion” from Moments of Light

31:20 – Enda Reilly “Canal Bank Hangover Walk” from Hy – Brasil

33:18 – Alexander James Adams “A Rogue's Return” from UnSeelie Self

36:07 – THANKS

38:17 – Griffin “Honeycomb” from Honeycomb (EP)

42:50 – Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia “Skye Boat Song” from Start the Fire

49:05 – Clover's Revenge “Big Strong Man” from Truants And Absolution

51:07 – The Leftovers “The Ferryman” from Heart of Buffalo

53:42 – CLOSING

54:32 – CaliCeltic “Leaving Athlone” from West of Shannon

58:41 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Spring is a good time to think about the energy we put into the world. The Celtic lands we love — Ireland, Scotland, the windswept coasts and green hills — they're worth protecting. So are the ones right outside your door.

Small choices add up. Switch to a renewable energy provider if you can. Walk outside this April. Pick up one piece of trash.

None of it is hard. All of it matters.

The same spirit that carries Celtic music forward — community, resilience, love of the land — is the same spirit that keeps this planet alive. Let's carry that forward.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME TO THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

The new single by May Will Bloom is out officially.

SPRING CELTIC CHALLENGEThe Spring Celtic Challenge is officially underway. It started yesterday — April 1st — and if you haven't jumped in yet, today is a perfect day to start.

Thirty days. Three simple things.

First — walk for 20 minutes every day. That's it. Just get outside.

Second — while you're walking, put on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Let the music carry you.

And third — pick up one piece of trash along the way. Just one. Every day.

That's the whole challenge. Walk. Listen. Pick up one piece of trash.

Small actions. But thirty days of small actions? That adds up to something real. Something you can actually feel.

You've got 29 days ahead of you. Let's make them count. And bring a friend. The more people walking, listening, and cleaning up the world — the better.

Are you in? Let me know over. Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic. I'd love to hear from you.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Spring is here. The world is waking up. And so is the Celtic music community — thanks to you.

Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast keeps growing. New episodes every week. New artists discovered. New listeners finding their way to this music they didn't even know they needed.

Your support pays for everything that makes this show what it is. Audio engineering. Graphics. Weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine. Show promotion. And buying music directly from the independent Celtic artists we feature. Every contribution plants a seed.

And if you're not yet a patron — spring is the perfect time to start. Patrons get early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3 downloads, exclusive stories and artist interviews, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20.

Small support. Real impact. And the satisfaction of knowing you helped keep this music alive, independent, and growing.

Head to SongHenge.com to join us today. Three simple steps and you're in.

Step one — go to SongHenge.com.

Step two — choose your support level.

Step three — become part of something that matters.

The Celtic music community is blooming this spring. Come grow with us.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Fuzzy, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo from your St Patrick's Day celebrations or any new audio recordings you got for the holiday.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

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Welcome to the Brobdingnagian Bards podcast! Andrew's deep in the magic of Sherwood Forest Faire, and Marc's heading there himself this weekend. We're diving into the Firefly animated series reboot — what has us excited, what has us cautious — plus the story behind “I'm Coming Home” from Another Faire to Remember, a song born from Samwise Gamgee's dream of returning to Rosie. Pull up a chair, Bards. This one's got heart.

NEWS0:02 – BROBDINGNAGIAN MINUTE

1:56 – SHERWOOD FOREST FAIRE RECAP

13:55 – FIREFLY REBOOT

27:01 – UPCOMING SHOWS

35:48 – STORY: I’M COMING HOME

43:49 – I’M COMING HOME

48:23 – CREDITS

UPCOMING SHOWApr 8: Bards Internet Concert @ 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM on YouTube

Andrew McKee Shows:* Sherwood Forest Faire Feb 28th-April 19th * New Jersey Renaissance Festival May 23rd-June 14th

Marc Gunn Shows:* Apr 4-5: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX * Apr 10-11: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX * Apr 17-19: JordanCon, Atlanta, Ga * Apr 24-26: StellarFest, Duluth, Ga * Apr 25: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, Ga * May 9-31: Georgia Renaissance Festival, Fairburn, Ga * Jul 30-Aug 2: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN

Find out more about upcoming shows of Marc Gunn and Andrew McKee on our websites.

Find out more about Brobdingnagian Bards and follow our newsletter on Patreon.

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts featured are Traveling in Ireland & Celt in a Twist. We have included a list of new albums. The articles we highlight are about a cheese from named for Cork County being named the best in industry awards, a Scottish Wine bar, & the Spring Manx Festival. The festival we feature is the New Mexico Renaissance Festival taking place on March 28 – 29 & April 4 – 5 at the Wildlife West Nature Park in Edgewood, NM. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #752: FAIR & TENDER LADIES

• Eimear Arkins, Cherish The Ladies, Heather Dale, Wolf Loescher, John McGaha, The Sternwheelers, Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham, Julien LOko Irish Band, Bren Holmes, Release the Craicen, Chance the Arm, The Ogham Stones, Phoenyx, Kris Colt
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Liam Sullivan

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• SINK OR SWIM – by Séan McCann
• From Kolkata to Dublin – by Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal
• Earthen – by Devin Mooers
• Emerald Reverie – by The Undead Association
• Clare – by Bill Leyden
• Vol I – by Mike Mayes

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: IRELAND CRUISE EXCURSIONS: HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY IN PORT

• Cruise stops in Ireland can feel like a whirlwind – but with the right plan, even a few hours can turn into an unforgettable experience. With more cruise ships arriving at Irish ports each year, travelers have more options than ever when it comes to shore excursions. But not all tours, or tour providers, are created equal.
• Continue reading at Ireland Cruise Excursions: How to Make the Most of Your Day in Port | Ireland Family Vacations

Listen here

CORK CHEESE NAMED BEST IN IRELAND AT INDUSTRY AWARDS

• A CHEESE produced in Co. Cork has been named the best in Ireland.
• Templegall from Hegarty Cheese was named the Best Irish Cheese at the British & Irish Cheese Awards, held this week.
• The cheese is produced in the village of Whitechurch in the north of the county, which translates to An Teampall Geal in Irish.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: MARCH 24, 2026

• A taste of great concerts to come! This week we spin Gnoss. The Orkney-based Celtic innovators perform at the St. James Hall on April 17th. Plus, more music from supergroup, The Ollam, sporting master piper John McSherry and Detroit's finest rhythm section, April 27th at The Pearl. With new Celtivity from French Grrrl band Toxic Frogs, and Swedes Woodlands Backfall. Patricia Fraser hosts Celt In A Twist every week!

Listen to the Show

‘DELIGHTFUL' SCOTTISH WINE BAR NAMED BEST IN SCOTLAND AT NATIONAL AWARDS

• Less than a year after it opened, a Scots Spanish wine bar and small plates restaurant has added another award to the cabinet. Rosalind Erskine chatted to one of the owners and head chef about the win, plans for their first birthday and opening a new venue.
• “We did 90 per cent of the restaurant fitting ourselves,” said Conor McGeady as he settled into a booth in Corner Shop, a restaurant he opened along with business partners Matthew Mustard and Gary Mckernan in April 2025.

To read more, go here!

SPRING MANX FESTIVAL IN RAMSEY TO SHOWCASE ISLAND TALENT AND BUSINESSES

• A community-focused event celebrating island culture, food, and enterprise is set to take place on Saturday (March 28) at Babbages Bistro in Ramsey.
• The Spring Manx Festival will bring together a range of artists, craftspeople, food producers, and small businesses from across the Isle of Man, with the event aiming to highlight the diversity and quality of locally made products while supporting the island’s small business community.

To read more, go here!

NEW MEXICO RENAISSANCE CELTIC FESTIVAL

• Scottish Clan Tents, trades, merchants, food vendors, Beer Taverns, Tea With The Queen, Knights Fighting, Jousting knights and their steeds, Tomato Toss, Archery, Festival Quest Adventure!
• Tents, Castle walls, street markets, surely there will be something for everyone. Located at the Wildlife West Nature Park & Zoo, in Edgewood New Mexico.
• 5 different stages, Medieval Barn, Queens Court Gazebo, Time Traveler Amphitheater, Fantasy Kingdom & Shipwreck Cove Stage. Performances running all day.
• Some of the entertainer’s you will see are The Harp Twins with the Wolfgang twins, Celtica Nova, Flint Hills Fairies, SAVII, & more!
• Taking place in the weekends of March 28 – 29 & April 4 – 5, at Wildlife West Nature Park in Edgewood, NM

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

March 26, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Fair and tender — that's the heart of episode 752 of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Heather Dale's live performance sets the tone, but Eimear Arkins, Kris Colt, and a dozen more artists carry it home. This one's worth savoring. It’s Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #752 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Eimear Arkins, Cherish The Ladies, Heather Dale, Wolf Loescher, John McGaha, The Sternwheelers, Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham, Julien LOko Irish Band, Bren Holmes, Release the Craicen, Chance the Arm, The Ogham Stones, Phoenyx, Kris Colt

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Eimear Arkins “What's Next?/Garret Barry's/Morning Sunday” from What's Next?

4:20 – WELCOME

7:30 – Cherish The Ladies “The Cat Rambles to the Child's Saucepan/Maire O'Keefe/Harry Bradshaw's” from One And All, The Best of Cherish the Ladies

10:46 – Heather Dale “Fair And Tender Ladies (Live)” from Live In Dallas

13:53 – Wolf Loescher “Whaur the Gadie Rins” from Child of Alba

16:24 – John Mcgaha “Man of the House / The Silver Spear / The Blue Idol” from Origins

21:10 – FEEDBACK

22:24 – The Sternwheelers “Wet the Goat” from Single

24:29 – Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham “Suo Gan / The Butterfly” from Water Horse

29:55 – Julien LOko Irish Band “Tàladh Dhòmhnaill Ghuirm” from Storms

33:45 – Bren Holmes “You Say” from Everything You Never Wanted

37:27 – THANKS

39:19 – Release the Craicen “The Pub Life” from Live! Songs on a Boat

42:43 – Chance the Arm “Heavy Heart” from All in Good Time

46:25 – The Ogham Stones “Minstrel Boy / Cadence to Arms” from One, Two, Feck You

48:14 – Phoenyx “Marley O’Reilly” from Keepers of the Flame

56:31 – CLOSING

57:03 – Kris Colt “The Parting Glass” from Arms of a Stranger

1:00:31 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Executive Producer for St Patrick’s Month is John Sharkey White, II. The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Spring is a good time to think about energy. The energy we put into the world. The energy we draw from it.

Clean energy — solar and wind — is now the cheapest power available. Not someday. Now. Renewable energy means lower bills, more independence, and a planet that stays worth exploring.

The Celtic lands we love — Ireland, Scotland, the windswept coasts and green hills — they're worth protecting. So are the ones right outside your door.

Small choices add up. Switch to a renewable energy provider if you can. Put Ecosia in your browser and let your searches plant trees. Walk outside this April. Pick up one piece of trash.

None of it is hard. All of it matters.

The same spirit that carries Celtic music forward — community, resilience, love of the land — is the same spirit that keeps this planet alive.

Let's carry that forward too.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME TO THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

SPRING CELTIC CHALLENGEStarting April 1st, I'm launching the Spring Celtic Challenge. Thirty days. Three simple things.

First — walk for 20 minutes every day. That's it. Just get outside.

Second — while you're walking, put on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Let the music carry you.

And third — pick up one piece of trash along the way. Just one. Every day.

That's the whole challenge. Walk. Listen. Pick up one piece of trash. Small actions. But thirty days of small actions? That adds up to something real.

Now — before April kicks off, I want to introduce you to something that fits perfectly with this spirit. It's called Ecosia. It's a search engine — just like Google — except Ecosia uses its profits to plant trees around the world. You search the web. Trees get planted. Simple as that.

Head to ecosia.org and make it your default search engine this week. It costs you nothing and does a little good every time you use it.

Then come back April 1st ready to walk, listen, and clean up the world one piece of trash at a time.

Are you in? Let me know over. Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic. I'd love to hear from you.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Spring is here. The world is waking up. And so is the Celtic music community — thanks to you.

Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast keeps growing. New episodes every week. New artists discovered. New listeners finding their way to this music they didn't even know they needed.

Your support pays for everything that makes this show what it is. Audio engineering. Graphics. Weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine. Show promotion. And buying music directly from the independent Celtic artists we feature. Every contribution plants a seed.

And if you're not yet a patron — spring is the perfect time to start. Patrons get early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3 downloads, exclusive stories and artist interviews, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20.

Small support. Real impact. And the satisfaction of knowing you helped keep this music alive, independent, and growing.

Head to SongHenge.com to join us today. Three simple steps and you're in.

Step one — go to SongHenge.com.

Step two — choose your support level.

Step three — become part of something that matters.

The Celtic music community is blooming this spring. Come grow with us.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Liam Sullivan

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo from your St Patrick's Day celebrations or any new audio recordings you got for the holiday.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Karl Horak emailed a couple o'photos: “Hi Celtfather, I like Breton music quite a bit and enjoyed “An Dro – Trois Matelots du Port de Brest” today although it might be sung in French. While tracking the band down on Bandcamp, I thought I saw someone familiar on the cover of The View from Here. Here's their cover:

And my photo of a window in Oban, Scotland from 2013:

Looks like they are twin daughters of different mothers (calicos are almost always female).

Thanks for all you do!”

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Céad Míle FáilteGood day to all of readers. It is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast celebrating the music of St Patrick’s Day. The other podcast we feature are The Scottish History Podcast and Copperplate Time. The articles highlighted are about a new book showing the history of Ireland through photos, 7 things to do in Cardiff for Easter, and St Patrick. The spotlighted festival is the 14th Annual Tartan South Highland Games and Celtic Festival taking place March 27 -29, with a special kickoff concert on Thursday by 48 Fables. The festival takes place at Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington, SC, Columbia Speedway in Cayce, SC, & the Kickoff party takes place at Steel Hands Brewing in Cayce. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #751: ST. PATRICK'S DAY IRISH CELTIC MUSIC SPECIAL 2026, PART 2

• May Will Bloom, The McDades, Possibly Irish, Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The Langer's Ball, Boxing Robin, Almost Seamus, The High Kings, FIRELIGHTX3, The Irish Rovers, Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham, The Druids Irish Folk Band, Poitin, Whiskey Bay Rovers, Alex Sturbaum, CaliCeltic, Socks in the Frying Pan, The Leftovers, Jiggy, Celtic Cross
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Moose, James Anderson, Isobel McMahon, Stanton Lawrence, Chris Connell, cahwyguy

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• The Irish Stuff – by Ólta
• The Path of the Conqueror – by Filipe Lopes
• Bangers and Mash – by The Charleston Rogues
• Moments of Light – by Arise & Go
• 3 decades unpublished stuff Pt. 1 – by The Black Tartan Clan
• Shamrock Scéal – by Celtic Samurai
• Milford – by Southern Elsewhere
• Supernatural – by The Weeds
• Beltane – by Luke O'Neill
• Whispers of the Enchanted Forest – by Niko Thalen
• Celtic Voices – by Putumayo
• Merlin and Stonehenge – by Lumieresoundworks
• The Last Retinue – by The Last Retinue
• Moments of Light – by Arise & Go
• Latha na Cailleach – by VARIOUS ARTISTS
• Celtic Kids – by The Druid's Hound Inn
• 1919 – by Trí
• Irish Pub Songs – by Celtic Thunder & Craig Duncan
• Celtic Echoes: Enchanting Harmonies from Ireland & Scotland – by Mark Water
• Canzoni celtiche strumentali per rilassamento e meditazione – by Kaleb Thrones

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

The Scottish History Podcast: Episode 87 – This week in Scottish History

• Hello!
• It's once again been a long time coming, but I have finally managed to find time to get this back up and running!
• Join me this week as we dive into “This Week in Scottish History” a new series where we explore the events of the next week in Scottish History!

Listen here

NEW BOOK CAPTURES THE ESSENCE OF IRELAND IN 170 PHOTOGRAPHS

• EVERY picture tells a story, they say.
• And when it comes to the story of Ireland – from its complex history and pre-Christian origins to the cosmopolitan modern state that we know today – well there is much to tell.
• Ireland holds a significant place in world history.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 530

• BOTHY BAND, PJ & MARCUS HERNON, DAVE SHERIDAN, NIAMH PARSONS, LEO ROWSOME, CHRISTY MOORE, KEVIN BURKE & MATT MOLLOY, MICK O’BRIEN & CAOIMHIN O’RAGHALLAIGH, PADDY CRONIN, BILLY CLIFFORD, SARAH & RITA KEANE, THE BAILEYS, BRENDAN & MARTIN McHUGH, McDONAGH BROTHERS & TOMMY FLYNN, MAGGIE BOYLE, KEVIN BOYLE, JOHN DOHERTY, GATEHOUSE, CAOIMHIN O’FEARGHAILL, EAMON McGIVNEY, JOHN REGAN & PATSY MOLONEY, THE WATERBOYS, BOTHY BAND

Listen to the Show

7 BRILLIANT EASTER HOLIDAY THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND CARDIFF

• Easter isn't too far away and you might be thinking you need to sort out a few activity days in advance so you know you're not sitting at home doing nothing for two weeks during the school holidays.

To read more, go here!

WHO WAS ST. PATRICK?

• Patrick was a fifth century bishop who is credited with spreading Christianity across Ireland. One of his religion’s most widely known figures, the patron saint of Ireland is honored annually across the globe on St. Patrick’s Day.
• But for all of St. Patrick’s prevalence in culture—namely the holiday held on the day of his death—his life remains somewhat of a mystery. Many of the stories traditionally associated with St. Patrick, including the famous account of his banishing all the snakes from Ireland, are false, the products of hundreds of years of exaggerated storytelling.

To read more, go here!

TARTAN DAY SOUTH 14TH ANNUAL HIGHLAND GAMES & CELTIC FESTIVAL

• Tartan Day South honors the Celtic culture and heritage in South Carolina’s Midlands region. The traditions of the United Kingdom – Ireland, Scotland and England are showcased. The main event is in Cayce at the Historic Columbia Speedway on Saturday. Other free and paid events are held in West Columbia, Cayce and The event is held to benefit the nonprofit River Alliance, which strives to connect people to our rivers – Broad, Saluda and Congaree – while protecting these bodies of water.
• Some of the entertainment you will see are Kilmaine Saints, Syr, Tuatha Dea, & more

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

March 19, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

St. Patrick's Day is here… and so is the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. This is our second and final St. Patrick's Day special, and we are going out with a bang. The Irish Rovers, The High Kings, Socks in the Frying Pan, and nearly twenty more artists are on tap. Pour something green. Turn it up. Let's celebrate Patrick’s Day on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #751 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

May Will Bloom, The McDades, Possibly Irish, Sean Heely and Beth Patterson, The Langer's Ball, Boxing Robin, Almost Seamus, The High Kings, FIRELIGHTX3, The Irish Rovers, Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham, The Druids Irish Folk Band, Poitin, Whiskey Bay Rovers, Alex Sturbaum, CaliCeltic, Socks in the Frying Pan, The Leftovers, Jiggy, Celtic Cross

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:13 – May Will Bloom “I'll Tell Me Ma” from I'll Tell My Ma

2:32 – WELCOME

5:22 – The McDades “Telegraph Reel/The Silver Platter” from Telegraph Reel/The Three Sisters

9:17 – Possibly Irish “Drunken Sailor” from Voyage Home

12:08 – Sean Heely and Beth Patterson “The Banks/Madame Neruda” from Stir the Blood to Fire

15:30 – The Langer's Ball “Whiskey in the Jar” from The Singles Collection 2023 – 2024

18:22 – Boxing Robin “Aires de Pontevedra, Dans Loudieg” from The View From Here

22:17 – Almost Seamus “Black Velvet Band” from Almost Seamus

26:39 – FEEDBACK

31:05 – The High Kings “The Irish Roar Instrumental” from single

34:09 – FIRELIGHTX3 “The Fairies Song” from The Fairies Song – Single

38:00 – The Irish Rovers “The Barley Mow” from Drunken Sailor

40:32 – Sue Tillotson & Jim Cunningham “Maine – Ly Magic (feat. The Bonnie Loch Fiddlers)” from Water Horse

43:10 – The Druids Irish Folk Band “Starry Plough” from The Starry Plough

46:30 – Poitin “Tuesday from 6 p.m.” from Simple Pleasures

49:17 – Whiskey Bay Rovers “Roll Down” from Taverns and Tides

52:34 – THANKS

54:40 – Alex Sturbaum “Hollow Poplar” from Windjammer

58:45 – CaliCeltic “The Humours of Whiskey – Stick to the Craytur – Paddy's Panacea” from West of Shannon

1:03:17 – Socks in the Frying Pan “Beetlejig Beetlejig Beetlejig!” from Waiting for Inspiration

1:06:49 – The Leftovers “Wexford Town” from Heart of Buffalo

1:10:18 – Jiggy “Fonn” from single

1:14:31 – CLOSING

1:15:32 – Celtic Cross “Slán go Fóill (Goodbye for Now)” from single

1:19:15 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

The Executive Producer for St Patrick’s Month is John Sharkey White, II. The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Clean energy isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Real change starts when we stop allowing the ultra – rich to write our energy policy and run our government. Let’s choose affordable, renewable power. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME TO THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCASTHelping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and host of Pub Songs & Stories, where every song has a story and every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters.

And what a week it has been. This past Sunday, March 8, we wrapped up the very first Irish & Celtic Music PodFest and Arts Market — and it was a fantastic afternoon.

Big thanks to Kinnfolk, The Muckers, and May Will Bloom for bringing the music. Huge thanks to The Lost Druid Brewery for hosting us. Thanks to all the incredible vendors who showed up despite the threat of rain — and the eventual downfall of it. And thank you to everyone who braved the weather to celebrate Irish and Celtic music with us. You are all amazing.

A very special thank you to Matt for his absolutely brilliant work behind the scenes. This event wouldn't have happened without him. And thank you to Maia for helping out at the table.

If you want more Celtic music in Atlanta, there's a great Irish session up in Sandy Springs. I also play around Atlanta throughout the year. And mark your calendars — Irish Fest Atlanta is every November, and Stone Mountain Highland Games every October.

Now it is St. Patrick's Day week. This is our second, and final, St. Patrick's Day special. So let's make it count.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We're here to build a diverse Celtic community and support the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear something you love today, email the artist and tell them you heard them here. These are not corporate acts. They are small indie musicians who rely on people like you to keep creating.

Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, shirt, digital download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find links to all of today's artists in the shownotes, along with show times, at celticmusicpodcast.com. You can also subscribe and follow the show there, so you never miss an episode. We'd love to have you with us every week.

Oh! And if you weren’t able to pick up an album pin from The Muckers, Kinfolk and May Will Bloom. Visit their websites so you can buy one. There were still some limited – edition pins available.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!You show up. Week after week, you show up. And because of that, so does this podcast.

Your support carries this show through every season. The quiet weeks and the chaotic ones. The technical headaches and the moments when everything just clicks. You make it possible to keep Celtic music alive and moving in the world.

Music and art won't solve everything. But they matter. They connect us. And your generosity keeps that connection going, funding new episodes, the Celtic Music Magazine, the graphics, and our long – suffering engineer who makes me sound like I know what I'm doing.

This is the second, and final, St. Patrick's Day special of 2026. It wouldn't have happened without you. None of this would have.

In return for your generosity, you get early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3s, exclusive stories and interviews, and your voice in the Celtic Top 20, helping crown the best Celtic bands and songs of the year.

So from the bottom of my Celtic heart. Thank you. Slàinte!

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Moose, James Anderson, Isobel McMahon, Stanton Lawrence, Chris Connell, cahwyguy

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo from your St Patrick's Day celebrations or any new audio recordings you got for the holiday.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Edward Wojtan emailed for show #748: “Great response on the podcast. Thanks for reading it in public to help people understand your position. As someone more literate than I once said, “The love of money is the root of all evil.” Keep it up. REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT PODCAST! The Celts can write some great rebel songs. cheers,”

Mike S emailed a photo: “HI Marc, Catching up on the podcast as I shovel out from the snow storm here in Northern Virginia

Also getting my sound plans together for our winter concert series at the Old Brogue in Great Fall VA. First up will be Sean Healy and KEvin Elam. We've got six great concerts coming up so really looking forward to that.

Wish you the best with the Irish & Celtic Music PodFest. Sounds like it will be a great event! Cheers!

John Sharkey White, II sent a message on Patreon to a news article, titled “Is Digital Dead? The rise of physical media in Gen Z”. He wrote “Physical media isn't dead yet! Encourage people to actively search out CDs from their favorite bands.”

You can read the article on our website.

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is your intrepid editor, Todd. In this issue we have new episodes of our very own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and Pub Songs & Stories. The other spotlighted podcasts are Irish Myths Storytime & Celt in a Twist. We have a list of new albums for you to enjoy as well. The articles highlighted are about the West End revival of Florian Zeller’s The Truth, a powerful choral spectacle in Villa Marina, & exploring Scotland with a four-year-old. The featured Celtic festival is the Sheman Celtic Fest & Highland Games taking place March 21st -22nd, at Pecan Grove Park – West in Sherman, TX. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #750: ST. PATRICK'S DAY 2026, PART 1

• Lane to the Glen, The Byrne Brothers, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane, Tony Christie & Ranagri, Countercurrent, Ed Miller, Tartanic, Shannon Heaton, Brad Tuck, Liesel Wilson, Socks in the Frying Pan, Irish Millie, The Drowsy Lads, Liz Carroll, SeaStar, We Banjo 3, The Haar, Release the Craicen, Julien LOko Irish Band, Wild Colonial Bhoys, Will Macmorran, Wolf Loescher
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Tracy O'Shea, James Wolfe, Russell Kolts, Whitney Novak, Noirlapin, Donna Hawkes

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?PUB SONGS & STORIES #313: ST. PATRICK'S DAY IN THE PUB

• Irish Millie is wasted. The Brobdingnagian Bards are in love… with alcohol. And the Gothard Sisters will send you down the road with a smile. Every song has a story worth telling. We've got the full spectrum from rowdy to reverent. Pull up a stool. Music from May Will Bloom, Brobdingnagian Bards, Rogue Diplomats, Irish Millie, The Gothard Sisters

Listen here

NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Anam na Gealaí (Soul of the Moon) – by Niamh Ó Braoin
• The Story Unfolds Where You Are in the Story – by Rebecca Pederson Hessey
• Outlander: Season 8 (Original Television Soundtrack) – by Bear McCreary
• Medieval Castles and Tavern Nights – by Faelight Fiddlers
• Flower Of Rain (feat. Isa Atómica) – by Albert Feiler feat. Isa Atómica
• Atmosphera II – by Everrune
• Chasing the Sunset – by Nova
• Letters From The Train Yard – by Railcar Graffiti

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

IRISH MYTHS STORYTIME: ST. PATRICK’S CONTEST OF MIRACLES

• Get your fire extinguishers ready: things are about to get heated.
• Muirchú’s account of St. Patrick’s contest of miracles with the druid at Tara, as detailed in the 7th-century Vita sancti Patricii (Life of Saint Patrick)

Listen here

ARDAL O’HANLON AND STEPHEN MANGAN LEAD CAST IN WEST END REVIVAL OF COMEDY HIT

• ACTORS Ardal O’Hanlon and Stephen Mangan will lead the cast in a West End revival of Florian Zeller’s The Truth this summer.
• O’Hanlon, who hails from Co. Monaghan, and Mangan, whose parents are from Co. Mayo, join Sarah Hadland and Janie Dee in the production, which will run at the Apollo Theatre from June 9.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: MARCH 10, 2026

• Fall back no more! Celt In A Twist celebrates permanent Daylight Saving with an hour of Celtivity you can enjoy anytime, or 9pm Tuesdays on CHKG FM 96.1 in Vancouver. More fresh tracks from The Ollam, a transatlantic supergroup featuring John McSherry, Joe Dart and other monster musicians (April 26th at The Pearl on Granville). You got yer Celt In A Twist with Patricia Fraser!

Listen to the Show

BETTER IS PEACE: POWERFUL CHORAL SPECTACLE COMING TO THE VILLA MARINA

• Music lovers across the island are being invited to experience what is being billed as one of the most powerful concerts of the year as the Isle of Man Choral Society joins forces with the Isle of Man Symphony Orchestra for their annual collaboration.
• The concert, titled ‘Better is Peace,’ will take place on Sunday, March 29 at 3pm in the Villa Marina Royal Hall.

To read more, go here!

‘CHILDREN SEE MAGIC IN THE SMALLEST ADVENTURES’: EXPLORING SCOTLAND WITH MY FOUR-YEAR-OLD

• On a tight budget, we stayed in a bothy, climbed a mountain, looked for Nessie and – best of all – made memories that money can’t buy
• ‘There! There – I can see it!” The cries of my four-year-old echoed around the ruins of 13th-century Urquhart Castle, causing a group of US tourists to come running over to the corbelled bartizans (overhanging turrets) where we stood. “It’s Nessie, I saw her,” he insisted, pointing at the ripples spinning out from the back of a sightseeing vessel on Loch Ness.

To read more, go here!

SHERMAN CELTIC FEST & HIGHLAND GAMES

• Press your kilts, buckle up your sporrans & join us at the Sherman Celtic Festival & Highland Games! Come and enjoy this family-friendly event and experience all things Celtic!
• Sherman Celtic Festival is dedicated to maintaining a family-friendly environment with activities for all ages because we are parents too! Check out all that our event has to offer!
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Mudmen, Waxie Dargles, and more.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

March 12, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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Seven hundred and fifty episodes. One massive St. Patrick's Day party. This week the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast brings you over 90 minutes of Celtic music handpicked for the season. From traditional sessions to indie originals, the craic is mighty. It’s St Patrick’s Day on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #750 – – Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Lane to the Glen, The Byrne Brothers, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane, Tony Christie & Ranagri, Countercurrent, Ed Miller, Tartanic, Shannon Heaton, Brad Tuck, Liesel Wilson, Socks in the Frying Pan, Irish Millie, The Drowsy Lads, Liz Carroll, SeaStar, We Banjo 3, The Haar, Release the Craicen, Julien LOko Irish Band, Wild Colonial Bhoys, Will Macmorran, Wolf Loescher

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:12 – Lane to the Glen “The Sailor’s Farewell : The Sweat House : The Steampacket (Reels)” from Lane to the Glen

3:23 – WELCOME

5:12 – The Byrne Brothers “Poppy Leaf Hornpipe (feat. Colin Farrell) [Traditional], Stevie the 3 Legged Alligator, Banna Swing Reels [Colin Farrell/Byrne Brothers]” from Living the Dream

9:17 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “An Chiúrach Bhléinfhionn” from Ar Uair Bhig An Lae – The Small Hours

13:25 – Aisling Drost Byrne, Brendan McCarthy & Conal O'Kane “Widow Well Married / For the Love of Music / Paddy Hiudaí's” from JUMP OUT OF IT

16:56 – Tony Christie & Ranagri “Whiskey You're the Devil” from The Great Irish Songbook Volume ll

19:53 – Countercurrent “Sweet Potato Ghost” from Flow

22:48 – Ed Miller “The Jeely Pice Song” from Live At The Cactus Cafe

26:18 – Tartanic “Maggie's Tale” from Unleashed

27:38 – FEEDBACK

32:56 – Shannon Heaton “Sweetest Blooms Suite” from Perfect Maze

38:41 – Brad Tuck “The Ploughboy (The Fox Hunt)” from On These Waters

41:30 – Liesel Wilson “Inverness Gathering / Bog an Lochan / The Nine Pint Coggie / Lexie MacAskill” from The Path

46:18 – Socks in the Frying Pan “When I'm Gone” from Return of the Giant Sock Monsters from Outer Space

50:35 – Irish Millie “Slip Reels” from GRACE

53:52 – The Drowsy Lads “Angel Band (Remastered)” from Time Flies

59:23 – Liz Carroll “Spinning Out of the Turn | Tom and Martin” from Lake Effect

1:02:20 – SeaStar “The Quiet in Repose” from The Treekeeper Awakens – RPM 2026

1:06:27 – THANKS

1:10:59 – We Banjo 3 “Island Orchard” from String Theory

1:15:01 – The Haar “Star of the County Down” from The Lost Day

1:18:54 – Release the Craicen “The Fause King on the Road” from Live! Songs on a Boat

1:22:38 – Julien LOko Irish Band “Cooley's Reel” from Storms

1:24:53 – Wild Colonial Bhoys “Merry Ploughboy” from Century

1:28:37 – Will Macmorran “Ejs” from Glen Echo

1:31:23 – CLOSING

1:32:45 – Wolf Loescher “At Home with the Exiles” from Immigrant Songs

1:37:33 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

The Executive Producer for St Patrick’s Month is John Sharkey White, II. The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Clean energy isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Real change starts when we stop allowing the ultra – rich to write our energy policy and run our government. Let’s choose affordable, renewable power. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene.

This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

These musicians are not part of some corporation. They are small indie groups that rely on people just like you to support their music so they can keep creating it. Please show your generosity. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode.

ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSICI got an email from Discmakers, my CD manufacturer, saying they were forced to raise their prices because of tariffs by our president. This is a tax on Americans. So if you love CDs, remember that the prices will go up. So please support those higher priced CDs.

But there is an option for those who don’t want to buy CDs and for those who want a better alternative for the environment. It’s the Album Pin.

Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a particular album. You get a digital download of the album. Then you can wear your album. All of my latest Album Pins are wood – burned and locally produced. This makes them better for the environment. And they are fun and fashionable. If you want to learn more about Album Pins, you can read more about them on my celtfather.Substack.com or just buy one at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Thank you for your loyal and generous support through the good and the bad. Through the ups and the downs. Thank you for your generosity to help fund this show and the Irish and Celtic music movement.

All we have is music and art. It’s not a lot. But it is something. And it brings you new episodes of this podcast every week. It pays for our Celtic Music Magazine, our graphics and our engineer who puts up with my nonsense and makes me sound halfway decent.

Your kindness is rewarded with early access to episodes, music – only editions, free MP3s, exclusive stories and interviews, and you also get to vote in the Celtic Top 20, helping to select the best Celtic bands and songs of the year.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Tracy O'Shea, James Wolfe, Russell Kolts, Whitney Novak, Noirlapin, Donna Hawkes

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Tracy Lucky emailed a photo: “Standing ovation. Hi Marc, I just wanted to drop a line to give a standing ovation for your incredibly eloquent response to the critique e mail you received. I absolutely loved it. Yes, politics are sometimes unpleasant to hear about but it important, now more than ever, to stand by kindness and justice for everyone. Also, for anyone who thinks Celtic music isn't inextricably tied to politics, you haven't been listening hard enough.

You may lose some followers over your stance, but I just backed you here to help minimize whatever impact that may have.

I love to listen to your podcast while working as it makes my day pass so much faster. Beshaba (attached) seems to like the happy tunes as well while she stares at me like a wee gremlin. She especially likes your album Selcouth and always comes for a little visit when I play it.”

Cristen Y posted on Patreon: “Hello there! I've been exploring my Irish and Scottish Heritage and have enjoyed supporting you here on Patreon and listening to the podcast. I was curious if you knew of any artists or albums that feature keening songs. I know keening is associated with grieving so I can imagine that there is a sacredness to it and it may not be considered to be respectful to record. I would love any insight you have.

Also, I saw your Celtfather post about standing up for the things we love and care about. Thank you for modeling courage and using your voice and platform to speak out against the atrocities occurring because of our current administration. I also hope that you recognize the resistance of making music and elevating the voices of other artists; that in and of itself is admirable! Onward!”

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Irish Millie is wasted. The Brobdingnagian Bards are in love… with alcohol. And the Gothard Sisters will send you down the road with a smile. Every song has a story worth telling. We've got the full spectrum from rowdy to reverent. Pull up a stool. Music from May Will Bloom, Brobdingnagian Bards, Rogue Diplomats, Irish Millie, The Gothard Sisters

This is Pub Songs & Stories #313

0:21 – May Will Bloom “I’ll Tell My Ma” from Single

2:40 – WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES

Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. I am your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

5:32 – NEWS

• What’s the Secret Word? Unlock your secret reward now.
• Celtic Protest Songs on Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.
• Maggie McGuinness show
• February album writing month
• Still making videos + Taking a step back from social media
• Booking gigs for St. Patrick’s Day
• Preparing for Irish & Celtic Music PodFest

13:20 – Rogue Diplomats “Come Out Ye Black And Tans” from Whiskey Picnic

16:41 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• Mar 12: St Patrick’s Day Music Party on Bandcamp
• Apr 4-11: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX with May Will Bloom and Brobdingnagian Bards
• Apr 17-19: JordanCon, Atlanta, Ga
• Apr 24-26: StellarFest, Duluth, Ga
• Apr 25: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, Ga
• May 30: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA

19:25 – STORY OF LOVE SONG TO ALCOHOL

24:10 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Love Song to Alcohol' from Another Faire to Remember

28:33 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Come hike with me on the Isle of Skye in 2027.

The ads on this podcast pay for some of the hosting and podcast editing. My time producing the show is paid for by my…

29:49 – THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON

Thank you. Truly. Your support is the reason I’m still making music, telling stories, and showing up month after month.

Patreon is how modern, independent musicians survive and thrive. Album Pins and CDs help get me on the road and in front of live audiences, but my day-to-day livelihood—the time it takes to write, record, podcast, film, and share—comes directly from Patrons of the Arts.

As we continue into a new year, Patreon is where everything comes together.

Patrons receive a brand-new song download every month. These are exclusive tracks you won’t find anywhere else—works in progress, experiments, and finished songs that come straight from my creative desk to you. You’ll also get regular updates when there’s news to share, behind-the-scenes blogs, short and long-form videos, and access to a growing archive of bootleg concert recordings and special performances.

You can join for as little as $5 a month. That small commitment adds up to real stability. It buys time to write songs. It funds recording and production. It keeps the creative engine running without chasing algorithms or trends.

And if supporting financially isn’t possible right now, that’s okay. You can still join Patreon for free and receive regular updates, thoughts, and stories as they happen. Being part of the community matters, whether you’re pledging or simply listening along.

Patreon isn’t just support—it’s collaboration. It’s how these songs, podcasts, and ideas exist at all.

If you’d like more details, just email follow@celtfather. I’d love to have you along for the journey this year.

31:37 – COMMENTARY – THANK YOU WHAT YOU DID FOR US

34:55 – Irish Millie “WASTED” from Between Then And Now

42:38 – QUEST & CHORUS of THE GOTHARD SISTERS

The Gothard Sisters are three sisters Greta, Willow and Solana. They are contemporary Celtic folk multi-instrumentalists, composers, performers and songwriters.

Blending Celtic, folk, world, classical and new age musical influences, the Gothard Sisters bring songs to life with violin, acoustic guitar, mandolin, bodhran, djembe, whistle and vocal harmonies, creating music that is “vivid, inspirational and captivating.” (Tim Carroll, Folk Words Review 2018)

Raised and homeschooled by artists in the Pacific Northwest, USA, the Gothard Sisters grew up immersed in nature, imaginative play and traditional folk and classical music. Their music takes inspiration from folk music traditions around the world, timeless stories, new age and classical records, and nature itself.

Writing and recording near their home in the Pacific Northwest, USA, the band has released 11 albums and performed over 2,000 live shows over the course of their career.

48:46 – The Gothard Sisters “See You Down the Road” from Moment in Time

• Complete the Quest to Unlock your secret reward now.

52:40 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Before we go, a quick reminder: caring about Celtic culture also means caring about the land that shaped it. The songs we love were born from fields, coasts, forests, and villages that depend on a healthy planet.

Climate action doesn’t have to be loud or perfect. It starts small. Walk when you can. Choose renewable energy if it’s available to you. Support artists, farmers, and local businesses who care about the earth. Reduce waste. Reuse what you can. Leave a place better than you found it.

When we protect the land, we protect the music, the stories, and the generations yet to sing them.

Sláinte—and thank you for listening.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

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Céad Míle FáilteHello to all our readers, it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast where sixteen artists remind us that protest songs aren't history — they're a mirror. Dropkick Murphys, Wild Colonial Bhoys, Medusa's Wake, House of Hamill and more. From Diggers of 1649 to Bloody Sunday 1972, to Minneapolis 2026. Some songs don't age. They just find new reasons to matter. The other podcasts we showcase are Ireland Crimes and Mysteries & Copperplate Podcast. We have included a list of new albums. The articles we spotlight are about a music wall at the Dublin airport, the FLAMM arts festival, and an exhibition about the Isle of Man underground. The featured festival is St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival, taking place March 15 – 16, with a Whiskey tasting on March 13. It takes place at Francis Field in St. Augustine, FL. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #749: CELTIC PROTEST SONGS, WHO'LL STAND WITH US

• Amelia Hogan, Dropkick Murphys, Bealtaine, Ed Miller, Black 47, David Rovics, Wild Colonial Bhoys, Eddie Biggins, The Haar, Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats, The Secret Commonwealth, Redhill Rats, Scythian, House Of Hamill, Medusa's Wake, Melanie Gruben
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends who pledge $25 per month to support this show: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CELTIC ALBUMS

• Knightime Jams – by Apryl Knight
• The Quest – Remake 2026 – by Green Clouds
• Galway Boy – by Shepherd's Pipes
• Fivefold Craft – by Drumspyder
• Where Voices Remember – by Southern Elsewhere
• Conquer the Lost Dungeon The Path of the Brave – by Linying Sen
• Tones from the River – by The Felt in the Fog
• The Legends – by Roman Khrustalev
• Irish Jigs And Reels – by Vibrant

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

IRELAND CRIMES AND MYSTERIES: STOLEN DREAMS, SHEOLA KEANEY

• In this week's episode of Ireland Crimes and Mysteries, Nules examines the case of Sheola Keaney, shedding light on the facts and narratives of this tragic case. This is a story of unimagionable loss, a father's profound grief, a mother's never ending love, and the enduring impact on all those left behind.

Listen here

NEW MUSIC WALL AT DUBLIN AIRPORT CELEBRATES ICONIC IRISH ARTISTS

• A NEW music wall has been unveiled at Dublin Airport celebrating some of Ireland's most iconic artists.
• The wall, located in the arrivals corridor of Pier 2 in Terminal 1, features 11 acts including U2, Thin Lizzy, The Cranberries, Christy Moore and Sinéad O'Connor.
• The interactive installation, which was officially unveiled this week by Dublin rockers Coronas, also includes speakers playing music from the featured artists.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE PODCAST 315B

• Gerry Diver, Dylan Carlos, Cian Sweeney & John McCartin, Andy Martyn & John Carty, Rita Gallagher, Urnua, Eamonn Cotter, Bobby Casey, Gatehouse, Caoimhin O’Fearghaill, Donal Clancy, Noel Hill, Paddy Glackin, Gerry Hanley, Mick Mulvey & Shane Meehan, & Gerry Diver

Listen to the Show

FLAMM ARTS FESTIVAL AIMS TO SPARK INTEREST IN UNSUNG CORNISH TOWN OF BODMIN

• Eclectic event to bring contemporary art to part of peninsula usually bypassed by tourists and art lovers
• Art lovers usually bypass the Cornish town of Bodmin as they head to the more obvious delights of seaside galleries in places such as St Ives and Newlyn.
• But an eclectic festival called Flamm – Cornish/Kernewek for flame or spark – is bringing contemporary art to the hinterland of the peninsula this weekend. Highlights range from a clay sculpture of jackdaws, a reference to the local legend of the Bodmin jail inmate Rose Wright, imprisoned after supposedly training birds to steal coins, to a sound installation on a railway platform featuring an eerie conversation between two train workers.

To read more, go here!

DISCOVER THE HIDDEN WORLD OF THE ISLE OF MAN AT MANN UNDERGROUND EXHIBITION

• A remarkable new exhibition exploring the hidden world beneath the Isle of Man has opened at the Manx Museum.
• Mann Underground, which launched on Saturday, invites visitors to descend into the island’s industrial past through the eyes of one man whose lifelong passion has taken him deep below the surface.

To read more, go here!

AUGUSTINE CELTIC MUSIC & HERITAGE FESTIVAL

• Augustine, Florida is America’s Oldest Celtic City which hosts the multi-award winning St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival. Experience top international & U.S. Celtic bands, highland games, parade, whiskey tasting, workshops, lectures, Celtic food, and much more! Saturday morning the festival hosts the Original St Patrick Parade established in 1601! The Celtic Festival and the Parade are Produced by Romanza-St. Augustine, Inc.
• Some of the entertainer’s you will see are Albannach, Syr, Steel City Rovers, & more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley (he/him) & Marc Gunn (he/him), The Celtfather

March 5, 2026

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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They marched peacefully. They were fired on. They sang anyway. This week on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #749, sixteen artists remind us that protest songs aren't history — they're a mirror. Dropkick Murphys, Wild Colonial Bhoys, Medusa's Wake, House of Hamill and more. From Diggers of 1649, to Bloody Sunday 1972, to Minneapolis 2026. Some songs don't age. They just find new reasons to matter. — Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!

Amelia Hogan, Dropkick Murphys, Bealtaine, Ed Miller, Black 47, David Rovics, Wild Colonial Bhoys, Eddie Biggins, The Haar, Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats, The Secret Commonwealth, Redhill Rats, Scythian, House Of Hamill, Medusa's Wake, Melanie Gruben

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2-3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:09 – Amelia Hogan “No Irish Need Apply” from Transplants: From the Old to the New

5:02 – WELCOME

8:14 – Dropkick Murphys “Who'll Stand With Us?” from For The People (Expanded Edition)

12:03 – Bealtaine “Worker's Song” from Factories & Mills, Shipyards & Mines

Written by Ed Pickford in the mid-1970s as a direct response to arguments blaming Britain's economic woes on workers rather than the wealthy. That’s a typical tactic that continues today. If we want free and fair elections, we will stop letting billionaires buy our politicians.

The was first recorded by Scottish legend Dick Gaughan in 1981, it's been taken up by everyone from the Dropkick Murphys to The Longest Johns.

16:22 – Ed Miller “Blood upon the Grass” from Generations of Change

In 1977, Scotland traveled to Chile to play a friendly match at the very stadium where, just four years earlier, Pinochet's regime had tortured and killed political prisoners after the 1973 coup. Back in Scotland, a powerful solidarity campaign urged the Scottish Football Association to pull their team from what would become known as the ‘Match of Shame.'

Folk singer Adam McNaughtan captured that outrage in his song ‘Blood Upon the Grass,' and Edinburgh-born singer Ed Miller later recorded it on his album Generations of Change — keeping this powerful story alive for new generations.

19:16 – Black 47 “San Patricio Brigade” from Rise Up and The Secret World of Celtic Rock

24:18 – FEEDBACK

The Great Hunger in Ireland took place from 1845 to 1852. Irish immigrants migrated to the U.S. They were treated as second-class citizens. There are still newspapers that refer to them as lazy and criminals, thus the “No Irish Need Apply” song at the start of the show.

These were hungry people. They were just looking for opportunities in a new land. Much like the immigrants of today. But they too were treated inhumanely. They were demonized.

So when the Mexican-American War broke out from 1846-1848, many Irish looked at how poorly they were treated in America. They found greater kinship to their Catholic cousins in Mexico. That’s why the Saint Patrick’s Battalion was formed.

Interestingly, it wasn’t just Irish Catholics. There were Catholics from throughout Europe in the battalion including: German, Canadian, English, French, Italian, Polish, Scottish, Spanish, Swiss and Mexican. These were people who were attacked and belittled for their culture and their faith. It should serve as a warning and a reminder for all of us today.

30:04 – David Rovics “St. Patrick Battalion” from Historic Times

32:58 – Wild Colonial Bhoys “Dying Rebel” from Century

A song that reflects on the human cost of rebellion rather than the glorification of the conflict and the martyrdom of its leaders.

Here's what history keeps teaching us. People don't start out wanting to fight. They start out wanting to be heard.

On January 30, 1972, in Derry, Northern Ireland, somewhere between ten and fifteen thousand people joined a peaceful civil rights march. They weren't armed. They were protesting the British government's policy of locking people up without trial. Sort of like what’s happening in America now.

British paratroopers opened fire. Thirteen people were killed. Fourteen others were wounded.

The incident caused widespread anger and led to a surge in IRA recruitment. The argument was simple and devastating: peaceful protest could no longer achieve change.

I hope to God America never comes to that. But peaceful protesters were murdered in Minneapolis. I lost a fan because I took my kids to a peaceful No Kings Protest last summer.

When the state fires on and demonizes its own people, it doesn't end the resistance. It just changes its shape.

That's the lesson history keeps trying to teach us. I hope we don’t need to learn that the hard way. So please keep peacefully protesting

37:46 – BREAK

39:10 – Eddie Biggins “The Rising of the Moon” from Hey, I'm Singing Over Here!

41:29 – The Haar “Óró Sé Do Bheatha' Bhaile” from The Lost Day

“Óró sé do bheatha abhaile” sounds like a joyful welcome song — and once, it was. The original Irish tune dates back centuries, used to greet returning chieftains and even Bonnie Prince Charlie.

But the version we know today is something altogether fiercer. Around 1910, Patrick Pearse — poet, teacher, and revolutionary — rewrote the lyrics. He replaced the old imagery with a new vision: Gráinne Mhaol, the legendary 16th century pirate queen, sailing home with soldiers to drive the English from Ireland.

Pearse was executed after the 1916 Easter Rising. And his words lived on. The song became a rallying cry, a promise that resistance wasn't finished, that Ireland would be free.

That's why it's still sung today. Not as nostalgia, but as defiance. Every generation that lifts their voice in this song is answering Pearse's call across more than a hundred years.

48:04 – Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats “Patriot Game” from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover's Companion

In my opinion, “Patriot Game” is one of the best Irish rebel songs ever written. It cuts deeper than most rebel songs because it doesn't glorify. It questions.

It was written by Dominic Behan in 1961. The song is based on the true story of Fergal O'Hanlon, an IRA volunteer killed during a 1957 border raid in County Fermanagh. He was just nineteen years old.

But Behan wasn't writing a hero's ballad. He was writing a warning. The song is sung in the voice of a young man who died for a cause he barely understood. Seduced by romantic notions of patriotism before he had the wisdom to weigh the cost.

That’s the same as putting the party over the country. Our politicians have fallen into that trap. So I want to ask you to reach out to your representatives. Tell them you’ve had enough of this insanity.

51:12 – THANKS

Back in December, I got an email from Troy of The Secret Commonwealth. He was letting me know about a man who's been part of his community for over 40 years. His friend is being held by ICE for nearly a year. His friend is hospitalized with a serious infection and awaiting heart surgery, all while being denied adequate medical care and due process. He suffers from a cracked vertebra and a history of cardiac issues, yet remains in unsanitary conditions with limited access to clean water or medical attention.

My friend said, ‘I'm feeling pretty damn rebellious right now,' and honestly, I am too. I'm also sad that I didn't bring this to your attention sooner, especially in the wake of the murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis back in Janaury.

These are not abstract political issues. These are real people, real families, real communities torn apart. This next song feels like the right response. ‘Till Jamie Comes Hame' features traditional words sometimes credited to Robert Burns, with music written by Rob Campbell of the band. And today, it's for everyone waiting for someone to come home.

58:35 – The Secret Commonwealth “Til Jamie Comes Hame” from Last Call

1:02:45 – Redhill Rats “White, Orange and Green” from Some Heroes

1:06:37 – Scythian “Follow Me Up to Carlow” from Immigrant Road Show

1:10:06 – House Of Hamill “Pound A Week Rise” from MARCH THROUGH STORMS

1:14:12 – Medusa's Wake “War of Independence” from War of Independence

1:17:37 – CLOSING

“The World Turned Upside Down” was written in 1975, but it reaches back to 1649 — and maybe even further than that.

Leon Rosselson based the song on the Diggers, a radical movement in England led by Gerrard Winstanley. After the English Civil War, they began farming common land, declaring simply that the earth belonged to everyone. Not to kings. Not to landlords. Not to those who had seized it by force and called it theirs.

They were destroyed for that idea.

But here's something worth sitting with. The Irish language doesn't have a word for “to have.” You cannot own anything in Irish. Instead, things exist in relationship with you. A book is at you. Hunger is on you. Joy is on you. Even land.

Not mine. Just… with me for now.

That's not just a quirk of grammar. It's a completely different way of seeing the world. One where ownership itself is the strange idea. The foreign concept.

This the idea that declaring land your private property is an act of violence against everyone else. The Diggers lost. The language nearly did too.

But both survived. And this song is proof that the idea refuses to die.

1:20:18 – Melanie Gruben “The World Turned Upside Down” from Like a Tide Upon the Land

1:22:37 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Executive Producer for St Patrick’s Month is John Sharkey White, II. The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Clean energy isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. But too many politicians would rather protect billionaires than help working families save on their bills. Real change starts when we stop allowing the ultra-rich to write our energy policy and run our government. Let’s choose affordable, renewable power. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories.

This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. It’s about diversity of thoughts and beliefs and about helping indie celtic musicians. So if you find music you love, support the artists financially.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODFEST AND ARTS MARKETJoin us Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 12 to 6 PM at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, Georgia. Enjoy an afternoon of Celtic and folk music from Kinnfolk, The Muckers, May Will Bloom, and Marc Gunn. Bring your family. Grab a pint. Enjoy the music, and share the energy of a true Celtic gathering. It is free to attend.

While the music plays, explore our Arts Market filled with handmade crafts, art, and unique gifts from local creators. It’s a celebration of music, creativity, and community — all in one place.

Come for the songs. Stay for the spirit. We’ll see you at The Lost Druid on March 8.

Follow our event page on Facebook for more details.

We are doing something different this week. Maybe even a bit offensive to some. But my goal is not to offend, but to unite our community.

Our president shared a racist meme of President Obama a few weeks back. The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH), one of the oldest and largest Irish Catholic fraternal organizations in the U.S., blasted back. Because his racist attack was no different to the ones directed at the Irish back in the 1800s and in the early 1900s, along with the phrase, “No Irish Need Apply”.

That was the song Amelia Hogan shared at the start of this episode. It’s from her album, Transplants: From the Old to the New

I wish racism was the least of the controversies coming out of the White House. But every week is a new insanity. Every American, Republican, Democrat, or Independent sees the insanity. But not everyone responds the same way.

This episode is an act of rebellion against the continued injustice against Americans, Celtic or otherwise, who are suffering, who are being arrested and their rights violated. This is not only unjust and illegal, it’s shameful that any public official would allow this to happen in our once great nation.

Because every human, American or immigrant, has laws protecting them. But the current administration is illegally breaking those laws. They will be held accountable one day. But for now, we will stand together to resist with Rebel Songs and Protest Songs of many different kinds.

One thing that is different in this episode is that I am featuring cover songs. I normally don’t do that because I have to pay royalties to do so. That makes episodes not feasible. But today, I am paying royalties to songwriters to feature these songs. So I’m actually losing money on this episode. But this message needs to be shared.

One of the first Celtic bands I saw standing up to this injustice last year was Dropkick Murphys. I am so pleased to have them kick off the podcast with their song “Who’ll Stand With Us?”

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Thank youfor your loyal and generous support through the good and the bad. Through the ups and the downs. Thank you for your generosity to help fund this show and the Irish and Celtic music movement.

I thought about cutting this section, because the message is so important. But quite honestly, it’s needed more than ever because I lost patrons because of last week’s episode. I will no doubt lose more for this blatantly political episode as well. But it needs to be said. We can’t just bury our heads in the sand while people are being murdered, dehumanized and their rights violated.

Many of the musicians in this show face similar consequences for performing songs that go against the fat cats that run the music industry and that run the government.

All we have is music and art. It’s not a lot. But it is something. And it brings you new episodes of this podcast every week. It pays for our Celtic Music Magazine, our graphics and our engineer who puts up with my nonsense and makes me sound halfway decent.

Your kindness is rewarded with early access to episodes, music-only editions, free MP3s, exclusive stories and interviews, and you also get to vote in the Celtic Top 20, helping to select the best Celtic bands and songs of the year.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends who pledge $25 per month to support this show: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Emma Bartholomew, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

If you want to make one-off donation to help fund this particular episode,

you can MAKE A DONATION on our website through Venmo, CashApp, PayPal or even Bandcamp.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you’re in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I’ll use it in a podcast episode later this year.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Scott Panfil emailed: “Hello! My Sister, Brother-in-law, and I have a “Traditional and Eclectic Celtic” band out of Buffalo NY. It's called Almost Seamus and we're on streaming platforms and YouTube.

I just found your podcast today when the Festival was shared by my friend Jeff of The Muckers. I've subscribed and hope you have some room for us on the podcast. I can send along a ton of live stuff too that's more fun than the more-traditional stuff on the CD. Sláinte!”

Richard L Boyce emailed: “Hi Marc, I’m a long-time listener of the podcast, from near the beginning, when there was something called the Cleveland Celtic Podcast, which linked to you.

A few podcast editions ago, you said you might do a show with recordings by people who aren’t professionals but just play for pleasure. I’ve been associated with the Riley School of Irish Music in Cincinnati, OH, for 20 years, where I started by taking flute lessons and ended up as one of the instructors!

Every quarter, the teachers record the tunes that are going to be taught. These are publicly available at https://rileyirishmusic.com/school-tunes. So if you end up doing the program, this might be a good source of recordings for it.

Regards,

PS Alex Sturbaum, who you play on the podcast, is a Riley alum!”

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Hear the lively hooley of The Drowsy Lads, the poetry of Yeats set to song by Dave Curley, and the timeless tradition of Bua’s ballads—on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #729 – – Subscribe now!

The Drowsy Lads, Hanneke Cassel, The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery, The Homespun Ceilidh Band, Ed Miller, Bua, Seán Heely, Dave Curley, Tami Curtis, Brad Tuck, Jiggy, Open The Door For Three, Jamison Celtic Rock, Conamara Chaos

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – The Drowsy Lads “Lost and Found Hooley (Feat. Joanna Hyde, Tadgh Ó Meachair, Randy Clepper, Tom Fitzgerald, Enda Scahill, Ian King)” from Time Flies

5:30 – WELCOME

7:34 – Hanneke Cassel “The Marathon (for Boston)” from Dot the Dragon's Eyes

10:28 – The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery “Murphy’s Running Dog” from A Little Bit Slanted

15:18 – The Homespun Ceilidh Band “Bananas On The Hats / Bee In The Helmet” from Home With The Homespun Ceilidh Band

17:09 – Ed Miller “The Wide Rio Grand” from Many's The Fine Tale

21:39 – FEEDBACK

24:46 – Bua “Soldier, Soldier” from Down the Green Fields

28:38 – Seán Heely “The Dram Circle / Quarantune / The E – B – E Reel” from Dramagical

35:13 – Dave Curley “Never Give All the Heart” from I Am of Ireland / Yeats in Song

37:13 – Tami Curtis “Grave” from Cavort

40:35 – THANKS

42:13 – Brad Tuck “Tie Me Down” from Stages

45:45 – Jiggy “Rise” from Hypernova

49:30 – Open The Door For Three “The Mermaid of Mullaghmore” from A Prosperous Gale

53:32 – Jamison Celtic Rock “Through Hills for Water” from Hafaguone

56:34 – CLOSING

57:54 – Conamara Chaos “Another Day” from Anord

1:01:10 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINWant to wear your love of Celtic music? Check out our album pins—these are striking lapel pins inspired by our official podcast compilation albums, featuring some of the best Celtic bands we’ve ever had on the show. Each pin comes with a full digital album download, so you get great music and great style. Get all the details at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

Follow Marc Gunn on Substack.

IRISHFEST ATLANTAJoin us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7 – 9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest dancer Kevin Doyle on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.

Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and a special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.

There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.

Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our new Underwriter: Dr. Annie Lorkowski

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Alexandra Giller emailed: “Hi Marc,

Thanks so much for your work with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I’m a classical musicians and instrumental music teacher, and use the show to help keep myself entertained when the kids don’t show up for their lessons each week. So much better than sitting in silence! Great ep this week, too.

I’ve loved Celtic music since I was a teenager but always struggled to find new music; you’ve solved that problem for me, so thank you again. Have a great day,”

Bonnie Martin emailed and photos: “What am I doing while listening to this? Why, of course, spending time with St. BRIGID of Kildare. An Irish Terrier, of course!!

Brigid LOVES your channel. In fact, in South Florida during hurricane season, the multitude of thunderstorms make her nervous and, I have found your channel seems to calm her.

Slainte

Bonnie, Brigid, and Claddagh (Clay)

She then emailed: “Relaxing Sunday afternoon with you, the music, and the one person in the house who is legitimate. St. Brigid of Kildare is, of course, an Irish Terrier. Slainte ”

Anne Lorkowski: “Hey Marc, I've been thinking about it for a while, and today I said I'm gonna do it… I'm your newest underwriter!

Glad to help! After all, your podcast helps me find a little peace and sanity once a week in this god – awful world. (That, and edibles, LOL.)

I guess I really should plug my business a little, if you could say: “Dr. Annie Lorkowski, Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California,” that would be all I need. I'll send you a little extra every time someone references it.

How's the new hip?”

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The Quiraing is not a gentle place. Stone spires jut skyward, cliffs crumble toward the sea, and paths twist like they’re still being carved by giants. It’s a landscape that doesn’t promise safety—it dares you to take another step. On Skye, they say even dragons once hid in these folds, rising to defend the island from invaders. And standing here, staring into that mist and stone, you can feel it: adventure isn’t slaying dragons. It’s choosing to face the one within. Music from Kinnfolk, Ed Miller, and Marc Gunn.

This is Quest & Chorus #308

0:39 – – Kinnfolk “Highland Laddie” from Star Above The Mountain

4:21 – WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS

Where every hill might hide a dragon, and every fear might be your map. We stand on the edge… of a cliff, of a journey, of ourselves. The Quiraing, on the Isle of Skye, is a land caught between movement and stillness… earth sliding slowly toward the sea. And standing here, staring out over stone teeth and mist-choked valleys, you might ask: Should I go forward? Or turn back?

I’m your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus.

Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse my love of Celtic and folk music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

Review of ALEP 6: A Long Expected Party. Stories:

• 6 mile hike
• Dressing like a hobbit
• Playing music with Kelly and Mitch in the Dancing Pony.
• Providing the atmosphere for Middle-Earth
• Sunrise over The Shire
• Singing beneath the stars.

Ed Miller has a gift for turning lived experience into song. In “The Wide Rio Grande,” he tells the story of a young Scottish singer facing the sting of rejection at the U.S. border — and how that moment bound him to countless others who’ve risked everything to cross into a new life. It’s a song about displacement and determination, about rules that separate and courage that refuses to be denied. From Houston to Laredo, from Scotland to Mexico, it is both personal and universal — a reminder that behind every border there are human hearts, still daring to cross.

11:19 – Ed Miller “The Wide Rio Grand” from Many's The Fine Tale

The Wide Rio Grande

Lyrics and music by Brian McNeill

Fifteen years gone, the airport in Houston

A young Scottish singer stands waiting in line

He's been too long apart from the home of his heart

It's a young Texas sweetheart so fair and so fine

But the man at the desk with his uniform shoulders

Gives uniform reasons and a uniform smile

Takes more than a song son. The paperwork’s wrong son

Fly back where you came from just 5000 miles

Come all you brave lads who follow my story

I’ll stand at the border and give you my hand

Here’s honor and luck, good health, and glory

To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande

London to Mexico, ready to try again

Walk through a border that thousands have crossed

Join the bold dispossessed of the South and the West

For a white boy from Scotland, no irony lost

But he knows as he reaches the light in Laredo

With the guards looking on and the sun beating down

That the hard law and order, the rules on the border

Has made him at one with the men who have drowned

Come all you brave lads who follow my story

I’ll stand at the border and give you my hand

Here’s honor and luck, good health, and glory

To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande

So the next time you walk the wrong side of the border

Remember this song as you think on your lot

For every man, Jack, who can take the road back

Should think on the fortune of those who cannot

For Wetback’s a name that they whisper in corners

But there’s one man hear who will wear it with pride

For a fence or a wall means nothing at all

For a heart full of courage will ne’er be denied

Come all you brave lads who follow my story

I’ll stand at the border and give you my hand

Here’s honor and luck, good health, and glory

To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande

Compadres and amigos who follow my story

I’ll stand at the border and give you my hand

Here’s honor and luck, good health, and glory

To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande

15:50 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA
• NOV 1: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA
• NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara
• NOV 14-16: CONjuration, Duluth, GA
• NOV 22: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA
• DEC 6: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA
• DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 – 5 PM.

Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I’ll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast.

News

• There is also a 10-day Sale at com for the 2025 Firefly Drinking Songs t-shirts. This is the only time you’ll be able to get a copy of this shirt this year. The store closes on October 10. So get those orders in!
• October Patreon Membership Drive. I’m running a Patreon Membership Drive from October 1-10, 2025. When you become a Patron, you get a free album: Kilted Drinking Songs. I say a free album. But to be fair, you get several free albums. This is the latest. It features songs that were once recorded exclusively for this podcast. It’s now together as a digital-only album. There’s only one way to get it.

A big thanks to my…

GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON

If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what’s new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners.

But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you’ll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details!

18:38 – Marc Gunn “Paddy Murphy” from Kilted Drinking Songs

24:17 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Let’s begin the…

QUEST & CHORUS of QUIRAING, SCOTLAND

The Quiraing lies on the northern Trotternish Ridge of Skye. It’s part of the largest landslip in Britain — a massive collapse of rock that stretches nearly the length of the peninsula. What makes the Quiraing remarkable is that it’s still moving. Every year, the road below must be repaired, because cracks open and the land shifts. The cliffs and pinnacles here are not frozen in time; they are alive, in motion, reshaping themselves even now.

Within this landscape are some striking features: The Needle, a tall jagged spike of rock; The Prison, a crag shaped like a fortress; and The Table, a grassy plateau hidden away within the folds of the cliffs. These names reflect how the landscape feels — not just natural, but storied.

The word Quiraing comes from Old Norse — Kví Rand — which means “round fold.” It’s thought to describe the way the land curves inward, almost like a natural pen or hollow. Local lore says the hollows were once used to hide cattle, especially during Viking raids. The geography itself became a shield, a place of protection.

There are stories of dragons living in the Quiraing. However, the dragon stories don’t come from ancient Gaelic tradition. They appear more in modern folklore retellings and travel writing — stories told to capture the atmosphere of the landscape. It’s easy to see why. The Prison, a huge crag that looks like a fortress, seems like the perfect lair. The Needle rises like a spear ready to strike. The Table, hidden within the fold of the cliffs, feels like a secret clearing where wings could unfurl.

One version says the dragons hid in the folds of the Quiraing, guarding the people of Skye from Viking invaders. When longships came over the horizon, the dragons rose from the cliffs themselves — wings beating like thunder, breath as fierce as the Atlantic spray. The Vikings fled, and the people survived.

It’s not a tale you’ll find in the oldest manuscripts. In a place where the land still moves, where cliffs shift and stones crash down, dragons feel less like fantasy and more like a natural explanation for the Quiraing’s wild power.

So when you set foot there today, you’re not just walking among rocks and landslides. You’re stepping into a landscape that invites adventure — where the air feels charged, as if dragons might still be hiding just behind the next ridge, waiting for the moment to rise again.

In Middle-earth, places like this are where heroes are tested.
This is where Frodo keeps walking.
Where Aragorn faces the dead.
Where you ask: Am I brave enough to keep going?

Talk prompts:

• Fear is not the enemy—stagnation is. Talk about how fear can be a compass, not a wall.
• The illusion of safety: The “door” we hide behind may protect us—but it can also trap us.
• Personal story: Have you ever reached a moment of internal Quiraing? When you had to keep going even if you were shaking?
• D&D parallel: Every great campaign starts with a hesitant first step. Players choose to walk into darkness.
• The song’s core idea: Adventure is not slaying dragons. It’s choosing to face the dragon within.

This song came from that moment—
That catch in the chest before you say ‘yes.’
That step forward that feels like a leap.
It’s about choosing the road that scares you…
Because it also might save you.
This is Come Adventure With Me.

29:24 – Marc Gunn “Come Adventure With Me” from Come Adventure With Me

Your next clue is locked in the lyrics. What turns you to stone? Listen again. Write it down.
Because sometimes, it hardens into walls. And sometimes… you have to break them.

Thanks for walking the edge with me today. The Quiraing doesn’t give answers. But it gives perspective. Next time, we dive into a different kind of exile, on Skellig Michael, where legends go to disappear beneath the waves. Until then, wherever you are… Come adventure with me.

33:52 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

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HIGHLIGHT REEL 4.5 OF 2025

Greetings Celtophiles

You have 4 weeks to cast your vote in this Highlight Reel. I’ll compile the rest of the results at the end of the year. You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.

Listen to the episode now.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024* Vote Now for as many songs and tunes that you love. We will filter it down to the best at the end of the year. * Listen to the playlists on Spotify and YouTube.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC719

0:33 – The Gothard Sisters “Against the Grain” from Midnight Sun

5:14 – Albannach “Hail to the Heroes” from The Sub – Zero Sessions EP

8:56 – Gaelic Storm “Girl’s Night in Galway” from Matching Sweaters ***

720

12:09 – Lussa “Lussa Reels” from Lussa Reels

16:01 – Tulua “The Opening Set” from No Coming No Going

20:35 – Brynmor “Musical Preist” from The Great Hill

721

22:49 – Willowgreen “Walking on the Waves” from Sheila's Brush

27:03 – The Gothard Sisters “Cat and the Fiddle” from Midnight Sun

30:39 – The Friel Sisters “Just A Note (Song)” from Northern Sky

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32:39 – Tulua “The Cabin Reels” from No Coming No Going

35:01 – Carroll Sisters Trio “Sparks in the Fire – Freddy's” from Radiance

39:19 – Scottish Fish “Annie's” from Currently

44:09 – Jiggy “Taraka” from Translate

723

49:10 – Sarah Copus “Harvest Home – Boys of Bluehill” from Moorland Winds

53:08 – Carroll Sisters Trio “Pitlochry High School Centenary – Scenic Overlook” from Radiance

57:45 – Scottish Fish “Dog and Rabbit” from Currently

1:02:39 – CREDITS

The Highlight Reels was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. Promote Celtic culture through music with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is your intrepid editor Todd once again. We do not have a new episode of the Irish & Celtic Podcast this week, however if you are patron head over and listen to the highlight episode on Friday and cast your vote. If you are not a Patron, you can head to the site and listen and cast your vote in the highlight episodes. We do feature new episodes of Traveling in Ireland as well as Irish Music Stories. The articles showcased include Belfast history being shown at a transport hub, the castle used in House of Guinness, & Mann’s ‘Magic’ show. We are still including information on IrishFest Atlanta. The other highlighted festival is the Harper’s Ferry Highland Games. Which takes place October 3 – 5, at The Barn of Harpers Ferry on Friday and Sam Michael's Park on Saturday and Sunday in Harpers Ferry, WV. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST: HIGHLIGHT REEL #4.5: EPISODES 719 – 723 (for Patrons of the podcast)

• Greetings Celtophiles
• You have 4 weeks to cast your vote in this Highlight Reel. I’ll compile the rest of the results at the end of the year. You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.
• Thank you to our continued Patrons of the podcast.

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Kevin Doyle on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: SOLO TRAVEL IN IRELAND: TIPS FOR FEMALE TRAVELERS

• For many women, the idea of traveling solo in Ireland can feel both exciting and a little daunting. The good news is that Ireland is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world for female travelers.
• I’ve been exploring Ireland on my own for more than two decades – including trips when my daughters were very young – and I have never once felt unsafe. That experience reinforces what many women find: Ireland is not only safe but also incredibly rewarding to discover on your own.

Listen here

BRINGING BELFAST HISTORY TO LIFE, ONE BUS STOP AT A TIME

• Just when you might have thought history and historians are aloof and disconnected, one historian then speaks to you and engages you at the bus stop.
• It doesn't often happen, certainly, but one transport hub in Belfast has gone and provided precisely that service by launching a series of video screens which recount selected chapters of local history — as researched and narrated by Dr Éamon Phoenix.

To read more, go here!

Irish Music Stories: Copper Over Navy (IMS Sidequest)

• In this six-episode “Sidequest” series, Irish Music Stories host Shannon Heaton shares music from her “Perfect Maze” album (pollinator-inspired compositions for flute, strings, piano, and voice). And in keeping with the IMS mission, she also includes stories that helped her navigate the whole project.
• FOR INSTALLMENT #3, Heaton highlights the Blue Dress motif, one of the recurring melodies on Perfect Maze. And she tells the story of weathering updates and tragedies of primates and men with a few different hues.

Listen to the Show

THE CASTLE TRANSFORMED FOR NEW NETFLIX SHOW HOUSE OF GUINNESS

• A neo-Norman castle in north Wales has become host to the Guinness family home in a new Netflix drama.
• Despite being set in 19th Century Dublin and New York, the House of Guinness captures the family's tumultuous tale within the walls of Penrhyn Castle, in Bangor, Gwynedd.

To read more, go here!

MAGICIANS OF MANN TO PRESENT ‘MAGIC’ SHOW AT PEEL CENTENARY CENTRE

• The Magicians of Mann are set to present their annual public magic show, ‘Magic’, on Saturday, October 25 at the Peel Centenary Centre.
• The evening promises family-friendly entertainment, illusions, and laughter, while also supporting a good cause – with half of the proceeds going to the Friends of the Peel Centenary Centre.

To read more, go here!

Harpers Ferry Highland Games

• Step into the heart of Celtic heritage at the Harpers Ferry Highland Games, a celebration of the ancient Scottish traditions that test strength, skill, and spirit. Hosted by the Harpers Ferry Celtic Culture Society, this festival welcomes all to experience the vibrant culture, music, and athleticism that define the Highland Games.
• Join us at Sam Michaels Park in Jefferson County, West Virginia, for a weekend filled with tradition, entertainment, and community.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Katie MacLeod & The Highlanders, Hold Fast, Abbots Cross, Shamrouges, & many others.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

October 2, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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From the timeless Cherry – Tree Carol to the shimmering Silver Lights of winter, Celtic musicians bring their heart and heritage to the season. Discover new holiday favorites and old traditions wrapped in music… on Celtic Christmas Music #86

WELCOME TO THE CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSICI am Marc Gunn. I am Celtic musician and podcaster. We are promoting Celtic culture through Christmas cheer. We want to bring a little magic and joy into your holiday season. Not just me, but all of the Celtic musicians we are featuring today.

If you hear music you love, please support the artists. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes as well as how to support this podcast at CelticChristmasPodcast.com

0:14 – The Fire “The Cherry – Tree Carol” from The Fire's Very Scottish Christmas

4:11 – WELCOME

4:48 – Cynthia Shelhart “God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen/When Christ Was Born (Tra Va Ruggit Creest)” from That Night In Bethlehem

7:25 – Sheri O'meara, Locklin Road “Ring That Bell” from Christmas Light

11:03 – Ashley Davis (feat. Shane Hennessy) “Silver Lights” from Songs of the Celtic Winter II

14:39 – THANKS

15:20 – Reilly “Good King Wenceslas” from Kick Ass Celtic Christmas

18:48 – Steel Clover “As Lately We Watched” from Season of Love

21:44 – The Chivalrous Crickets “Rise Up Shepherd – Bright Morning Stars” from A Chivalrous Cricketmas

26:34 – CLOSING

27:00 – Willowgreen “Our Wish” from Winter

30:03 – CREDITS

Celtic Christmas Music was produced by Marc Gunn and our Christmas Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to subscribe to the podcast. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

This Christmas, let’s give a little more than gifts. Reduce, reuse, and recycle—whether it’s wrapping paper, gift bags, or the treasures we share. Thoughtful choices help protect our planet and make the season brighter for generations to come.

Promote Celtic culture through Christmas music at CelticChristmasPodcast.com.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic

THANK YOU FOR SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER!Podcast ads help cover some hosting costs, but the heart of this Celtic Christmas show is funded by you. Your support makes it possible to bring you beautiful Celtic holiday music—professionally engineered, lovingly designed, and carefully curated. It also ensures I can keep discovering and sharing new artists and songs for you to enjoy.

As a Patron, you’ll enjoy ad – free episodes and a private feed so you can listen without interruption. Best of all, you’ll know you’re keeping Celtic Christmas music alive and thriving—all for as little as $1 per month

HERE IS YOUR THREE – STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST1. Go to our Patreon page. 2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $1, $5, $10, or any amount in between. Make it monthly or make it yearly to show your support. 3. Keep listening to Celtic Christmas Music to celebrate Celtic culture through Christmas music.

You can become a generous Christmas Patron at patreon.com/celticchristmas .

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HIGHLIGHT REEL 4.4 OF 2025Greetings Celtophiles

SURPRISE!

I have a special gift to Everyone following the Patreon of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. You get to listen to episode #4.4 of the Highlight Reels, a music-only episode, for FREE!

Listen. Enjoy.

And maybe see what you're missing out.

Because Patrons of the Podcast get 7 of these each year. So when you become a Patron, you get these exclusive music-only Highlight Reels that allow you to vote for the Best Songs and Tunes of 2025.

If you enjoy the show, and you're financially able, please consider making a pledge for as little as $4 per month. That small amount probably seems insignificant to you when you buy a Guinness or Coffee, but collectively, it makes a HUGE difference to me.

That's because I make my living as a musician and podcaster. A big part of my monthly income (especially when I don't have many gigs) comes via Patreon.

You're kind self is the reason I make time every week to compile incredible playlists of indie Celtic musicians from around the world.

Yes. I do this because I love helping connect Celtic musicians with Celtic music lovers. But I have a wife and two daughters and a bunch of cats, and a snake (LOL). They all need me to contribute money to pay for all the stuff we need to live.

This year has been tighter than most. The economy is not doing great. So again, if you're struggling, please don't give up your much-needed income. But if you are able to support the podcast, that would be incredible.

So thank you, in advance.

Your kindness is one of the big the reason I keep doing this every week.

Thank you!

Now, if you're already a Patron of the Podcast, remember! You have 4 weeks to cast your vote in this Highlight Reel. I’ll compile the rest of the results at the end of the year. You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.

You can listen to Highlight Reel 4.4 as a Patron of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024* Vote Now for as many songs and tunes that you love. We will filter it down to the best at the end of the year. * Listen to the playlists on Spotify and YouTube.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC711

0:16 – Olivia Barrett “The Whistle Buoy/The Bell Buoy” from Elsewhere

3:59 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Midnight” from Here to Stay

7:52 – Ghost Of A Banshee “Celtic Cannon (Reel)” from Along The Rural Trail

712

10:16 – The Homespun Ceilidh Band “De'il In The Kitchen / The Drunken Piper” from Home With

13:25 – Bua “John Joe Hartnett's / Spellan the Fiddler” from Down the Green Fields

17:28 – Ockham's Razor “I'm Coming Home Northumberland (2024)” from Garnet

714

23:26 – Fialla “Dúlamán” from A Rare Thing

27:32 – Larkin & Moran Brothers “The Rabble Rouser” from Éistigí

715

30:27 – Willowgreen “Follow the Heron” from Sheila's Brush

33:45 – The High Kings “Iveagh Gardens” from The Road Not Taken

37:42 – Joseph Carmichael “Jan & Jim's” from Desiderium

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42:30 – We Banjo 3 “Wynne's” from Roots to Rise

46:23 – Tuatha de Danann “The Dream One Dreamt” from In Nomine Éireann

718

50:45 – Maggie’s Wake “Harrison’s Way” from Maggie’s Wake

52:23 – Téada “Jig / Air / March – Farewell to Stoneybatter / An Raibh Tú ag an gCarraig / March at Kilmore” from Coiscéim Coiligh / As the Days Brighten

56:25 – CLOSING

The Highlight Reels was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. Promote Celtic culture through music with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. Sorry for the late post, I had a family emergency this week. In this issue we have new episodes of our Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and Quest and Chorus. The other podcasts showcased are Irish Music Stories and Celt in a Twist. The articles featured are about House of Guinness, the Tree of the year, & history being made on Rupaul’s Drag Race UK. There is a list of new albums. We once again highlight IrishFest Atlanta. The other highlighted festival is the Celtic Classic which takes place this weekend, September 26 – 28, in Downtown Bethlehem, PA and is free to attend. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #728: STRANGE AFFAIRS & IRISH TRADITIONS

• Téada, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Niamh Dunne, Faoileán, Ashley Davis, Adrianna Ciccone & Ellen Gibling, The Byrne Brothers, Natalie Padilla, Toby Bresnahan, Dublin Gulch, Eamonn Flynn, Sylvia Platypus, The Irish Rovers, The Muckers, Ryan Roubison
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?FOLK SONGS & STORIES #307: QUEST & CHORUS EP. 3: TINTAGEL – HISTORY, SHIPWRECKS & MYTH

• Welcome to Quest & Chorus, where songs remember what history forgets. I’m your bard, and today, we climb a legendary cliff—where myth and memory blur. To Tintagel. Some say King Arthur was born here. Others say he died here. And whether that’s true or not doesn’t really matter… Because this place feels like the kind of place where someone says goodbye. Today, we raise a glass—to stories that fade, and the people who carry them.

Listen here

IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Kevin Doyle on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

NEW CDS

• Rise and Fall – by Callehan
• Angel – by Cerys Hafana
• Between the Worlds – by David De Michele
• The Hollow – by Towne Crier
• Tavern Melodies: Medieval Lute & Flute Dances of The Hobbits Vol. 2 – by Axe & Ale
• Woven in Bone and Song – by Techcowgirl
• THE TROLLER – by Marcos Goitia Ruiz
• Hors'dOeurves – by The Robertsons
• Landā – by Lumiere SoundWorks
• The Dragon Sagas Saga Number One – by The Robertsons
• Celtic Echoes – by Echoes Of Pangea
• Day/Doran – by Casey Day, Ben Doran
• The Land of a Hundred Little Hills – by Ceol Connected
• OLD STONE – by Alessandro Baro
• Movin' on – by David DiGiuseppe

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

IRISH MUSIC STORIES: ARISTOTLE IN SPRING (IMS SIDEQUEST)

• In this six-episode “Sidequest” series, Irish Music Stories host Shannon Heaton shares music from her “Perfect Maze” album (pollinator-inspired compositions for flute, strings, piano, and voice). And in keeping with the IMS mission, she also incudes stories that helped her navigate the whole project.
• FOR INSTALLMENT #2, Heaton examines her Sweetest Blooms Suite and considers some of the dramatic Spring blossoms in Aristotle’s day.

Listen here

TUNE INTO HOUSE OF GUINNESS

• Tune into House of Guinness on Netflix. It is the story of the inheritors of the Guinness brewery. Set in the 1860’s in Dublin & New York. Just after the death of Sir Benjamin Guinness, the man responsible for the extraordinary success of the Guinness brewery. If you pay close attention the music you might even hear at least one band from the podcast, Poitin. House of Guinness debuted today.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: SEPTEMBER 28, 2025

• A smooth pour after the daily grind. Enjoy an hour of celtic rejuvenation and innovation. This week start by venting your rage with the Dropkick Murphys and The Go Set, slip on a smile with heartwarming Celtic from Logical Fleadh and Mary Jane Lamond, finally slide into a blissful Celtronica trance from Valtos and Shooglenifty. Free your emotions with Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

TREE OF THE YEAR HONOUR FOR GLASGOW'S ARGYLE STREET ASH

• An ash tree on a busy Glasgow road has been crowned Tree of the Year 2025 after being nominated by the public as a wildcard entry in the contest.
• The Argyle Street Ash was named the winner of the Woodland Trust competition on Thursday after a public vote.

To read more, go here!

‘CELTIC SISTERS' MAKE HISTORY ON RUPAUL'S DRAG RACE UK

• A new season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK is on the horizon and “the Celts are coming to take over,” according to one history-making contestant.
• Bonnie Ann Clyde, known out of drag as James Keogh, is set to become the first drag queen from the Republic of Ireland to walk the runway.

To read more, go here!

CELTIC CLASSIC HIGHLAND GAMES & FESTIVAL

• The 38th Annual Celtic Classic is presented by Celtic Cultural Alliance, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the Celtic heritage through education, musical presentations, and traditional competitions in athletics, piping and dance.
• The Celtic Classic takes place on the streets of Historic Downtown Bethlehem. Because of this vehicle access and on street parking is limited. Please see our shuttle and parking information.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Across the Pond, Blackwater, Gerry Timlin, Glengarry Boys, Kilmaine Saints, Low Lily, No Irish Need Apply, Rogue Diplomats, Runa, Seamus Kennedy, The Prodigals, and many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 25, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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From barndances with Téada to soulful ballads by Niamh Dunne, and a Donegal homecoming with The Byrne Brothers—this week brings songs and tunes to move your feet and your heart, on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #728 – – Subscribe now!

Téada, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Niamh Dunne, Faoileán, Ashley Davis, Adrianna Ciccone & Ellen Gibling, The Byrne Brothers, Natalie Padilla, Toby Bresnahan, Dublin Gulch, Eamonn Flynn, Sylvia Platypus, The Irish Rovers, The Muckers, Ryan Roubison

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Téada “John Egan's/Saunders'/ Fort (barndances)” from Give Us a Penny and Let Us Be Gone

4:02 – WELCOME

5:43 – Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon “Comb Your Hair And Curl It/Boys Of Ballisodare/The Promenande (hop jigs)” from The Belles of St. Louis

9:00 – Niamh Dunne “Strange Affair” from Portraits

12:41 – Faoileán “An Bradán Feasa / Gan Ainm / The Changeling” from Far Hills

16:59 – Ashley Davis “Lessons In Irish (feat. Cathy Jordan)” from Down By the Sea

21:03 – FEEDBACK

23:59 – Adrianna Ciccone & Ellen Gibling “L’Abbiamo / Tu Scendi Dalle Stelle” from The Pear Tree

28:18 – The Byrne Brothers “Home to my Donegal (Patsy Cavanagh)” from Living the Dream

32:14 – Natalie Padilla “Ngen” from Eostre

34:48 – Toby Bresnahan “Raggle Taggle – Congress Reel” from All In Good time

39:21 – Dublin Gulch “Sarah Daly/The Copper King's Daughter” from Tap ‘Er Light

43:43 – THANKS

46:06 – Eamonn Flynn “The Anne's” from Anywhere But Home

51:21 – Sylvia Platypus “9th Street” from Last Hurrah

55:08 – The Irish Rovers “The Ballad of Tom Archer” from No End in Sight

59:28 – The Muckers “Black Irish” from One More Stout

1:03:12 – CLOSING

1:05:10 – Ryan Roubison “Nyth Y Gog” from Songs from the Willow Glen

1:10:07 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

IRISHFEST ATLANTA* Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7 – 9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three on Friday and Teada on Saturday night. * Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and a special set from Inara and Marc Gunn. * There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing. * Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

SHOP FOR NEW IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST MERCH IN OCTOBERFrom October 1–8 only, the Mage Records store has new Irish & Celtic Music Podcast merch. Pick up limited – edition CDs, exclusive album pins, and a special bundle. These are rare collections—once they’re gone, they’re gone. Don’t miss this one – week chance to celebrate Celtic music and support the podcast.

Get yours at magerecords.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Rich Hoffman replied to the Celtic Music Magazine to say, “Congrats on your anniversary Marc”

Andrew Pratt emailed: “Hi Marc. Congratulations on 20 years of sharing Irish and Celtic music. Because of you, I have discovered many new artists that I enjoy listening to, some of them in person at concerts and festivals. I wish you the best of luck in the coming years, both as a musician and as a podcaster. Slainte”

woodland folk emailed: “happy birthday my friend, listening to ur wexford rebellion episode,the clouds are darkening the night,the moon an iridescent strip of light grey,crows are cawing as they are also hearing something wildly beautiful …. ”

Erin Nix sent a photo: “Hi Marc! Congratulations on 20 years! This podcast and what you have done through all your projects has brought so much light and joy to the world, and specifically to my life. I have discovered so many bands through this podcast, and my kids have been raised on Celtic music and enjoy your online concerts.

It was 16 1/2 years ago I discovered the Irish and Celtic Music podcast and your music. I had just come back from a two week trip visiting Ireland with my friend. I missed it so bad, that I went looking for Irish music.

Today, I’m one month into living in Dublin with my family. There have been many tears and joys with such a big move. Your podcasts have continued to bring me happiness and a sense of “home” in any country. Here’s a picture of me walking back to my hotel in Four Courts Dublin after getting groceries while listening.

Thank you again for all you do! Someday I still hope to see you perform live.

~Erin (originally from Seattle)

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Welcome to Quest & Chorus, where songs remember what history forgets. I’m your bard, and today, we climb a legendary cliff—where myth and memory blur. To Tintagel. Some say King Arthur was born here. Others say he died here. And whether that’s true or not doesn’t really matter… Because this place feels like the kind of place where someone says goodbye. Today, we raise a glass—to stories that fade, and the people who carry them.

This is Quest & Chorus #307

0:30 – Heather Dale “Mordred's Lullaby” from The Trial of Lancelot and The Secret World of Celtic Rock

3:41 – WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS

Where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest. I’m your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus.

Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse my love of music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

UPCOMING SHOWS

• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA
• NOV 1: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA
• NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara

Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I’ll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast.

News

• October Patreon Membership Drive. Get a free album: Field of Drams: Kilted Drinking Songs
• Flash Sale on MageRecords.com
• Guess the Secret Word to Unlock a reward.

A big thanks to my…

GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON

If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what’s new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners.

But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you’ll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details!

7:55 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Do Virgins Tast Better Medley” from A Faire To Remember

12:43 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Let’s begin the…

QUEST & CHORUS of TINTAGEL, CORNWALL – History & Myth

Tintagel is carved into the coast of Cornwall — cliffs like the broken edge of a sword, sea spray rising like breath. Ruins cling to the stone. A castle? Maybe. A dream? Definitely.

But before we step into the realm of Arthur and Avalon, let’s talk about what Tintagel really is.

The History

The site we call Tintagel Castle was built in the 1230s by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, the brother of King Henry III. Richard was a man of immense wealth and ambition. And his castle wasn’t entirely practical. It wasn’t raised to defend farmland or trade routes. It was built as a statement — to tie himself to the powerful myths already woven into Tintagel’s cliffs.

But Tintagel’s story stretches much further back. Archaeological excavations reveal traces of a post-Roman settlement from the 5th to 7th centuries. Pottery and glassware from the Mediterranean show that Tintagel was a hub of high-status trade — a gateway where Cornish kings connected with the wider world.

Of course, life on these cliffs was never easy. The seas around Tintagel are beautiful but brutal. The jagged rocks and fierce Atlantic storms made this stretch of coast notorious for shipwrecks. For centuries, sailors feared the Cornish coast as “the graveyard of ships.” Wreckage would wash ashore, and in the medieval period — and even later — locals salvaged timbers, cargo, and stories from the sea. These wrecks added to Tintagel’s aura: a place where lives and legends were broken against the rocks, where the ocean itself seemed determined to test humanity’s endurance.

So Tintagel is not just a romantic ruin. It is a site of trade, ambition, and survival — a place shaped as much by the storms of the sea as by the myths of men.

The Mythology

Of course, it’s the legends that have made Tintagel famous. Geoffrey of Monmouth, writing in the 12th century, set part of his History of the Kings of Britain here. He claimed that King Arthur was conceived at Tintagel. According to the tale, Uther Pendragon, Arthur’s father, was enchanted by the wizard Merlin. Disguised in the form of Gorlois, the Duke of Cornwall, Uther gained access to Tintagel and to Igraine, the Duke’s wife. From that union, Arthur was born.

That story, scandalous and magical, placed Tintagel forever in the Arthurian landscape. And once Richard built his castle a century later, the connection between myth and stone was sealed. Visitors came not just to see a fortress, but to walk where legends were born.

Other traditions place Tristan and Iseult at Tintagel. Some even whisper of Avalon, the mystical isle where Arthur was carried after his last battle, half-dead, half-remembered.

The Atmosphere

When I walked those paths, I didn’t feel like I was seeing where a king was born.
I felt like I was walking through the last pages of a story.

There’s a heaviness here, like the final chapter has already been written. And that’s why I thought of Camelot. Of knights and queens and betrayal and loss. Of Avalon, where Arthur was taken, half-dead, half-remembered.

This isn’t a place where stories begin. It’s where they echo.

• Ritual and memory: The “parting glass” is more than a drink. It’s a tradition that tells someone: “You mattered.”
• Arthur’s LegacyArthur’s story lingers, half-history, half-legend. What legacies in your own family or culture do you want to carry forward, even if the details blur with time?
• The Parting Glass ItselfThe Parting Glass is about lifting one last drink, remembering friendship and love even as we say goodbye. If you were raising that glass tonight, who — or what — would you be remembering?
• UNLOCK THE SECRET WORLD

This song is centuries old.
It’s been sung by warriors and wanderers, by friends who know they won’t meet again.
And even though it’s often the final tune of the night…
It never feels like an end.
This is ‘The Parting Glass.

20:49 – The Haar “The Parting Glass” from single

At the end of this story—both Arthur’s and ours—there’s something shared.
A symbol of closure. Of memory.
What item do we raise to honor what’s been lost?
You’ve already heard it. It’s in the title.
Write it down.

Thank you for climbing to Tintagel with me.
Partings are never easy. But they’re where the real stories live.

Next time, we cross into the Quiraing—the jagged edge of Skye—where dragons hide and courage trembles.
Until then…
May you never raise the glass alone.

26:54 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

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HIGHLIGHT REEL 4.3 OF 2025

Greetings Celtophiles

You have 4 weeks to cast your vote in this Highlight Reel. I’ll compile the rest of the results at the end of the year. You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.

If you're a Patron of the Podcast, go listen right now.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024

• Vote Now for as many songs and tunes that you love. We will filter it down to the best at the end of the year.
• Listen to the playlists on Spotify and YouTube.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC705

0:23 – Sheridan Rúitín “Dean McLeod” from Only Savage

3:54 – Fialla “The Road to Drumleman” from A Rare Thing

706

8:45 – Flook “Where There Is Light / The May Waterway / Ninety Years Young” from Sanju

15:25 – Fialla “Easter Snow” from A Rare Thing

707

19:55 – Doolin' “Mary’s Jigs” from Doolin'

24:21 – Austral “Woodford Nights” from Thylacine

708

31:13 – Hounds of Finn “The Fairview Gypsy Reel” from Gravity Pulls

36:51 – The Drowsy Lads “The Evening Reels (Feat. Tom BoyerThe Drowsy LadsTime Flies” from Time Flies

41:07 – Ockham's Razor “Ten Thousand Miles to Bedlam” from Garnet

709

47:50 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Arising” from All It Brings

52:07 – Adam Agee & Jon Sousa “Lad O'Beirne's” from Ceol na gCarad

55:06 – First Highland Watch “Rowan Tree” from Drunken Piper

58:46 – Sons of Malarkey “Ye Jacobites (feat. Marney McCague)” from Chapter

710

1:02:08 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Passport to Mettabee” from Here to Stay

1:06:16 – Olivia Barrett “The Sparkle Horse” from Elsewhere

1:08:28 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “Banks of the Nile” from daybreak: fainne an lae

1:12:50 – CLOSING

The Highlight Reels was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. Promote Celtic culture through music with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other featured podcasts are The Irish Pagan School Podcast & Copperplate Time. We have also included a list of new albums. The articles we showcase are about a new set of stamps celebrating Westlife, the return of Blackweir gigs, & the Cornish Clung language. We also showcase IrishFest Atlanta. The other festival showcased is Circle City Irish Fest, taking place September 19 – 20, at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Indianapolis, IN. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #727: FROM DUBLIN TO GLENCOE

• Jig jam, Téada, Jeff Blaney, Norse Gael, Bealtaine, Goitse, Dan Possumato, Crikwater, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, Golden Bough, Brobdingnagian Bards, Enda Reilly, Tartanic, Caliceltic, Liz Carroll
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

NEW CDS

• The Saint Michan's Anthology – by Symphony Zoo
• Irish Favorites, Vol. 1 (vocal) – by Party Tyme
• Legends of Ireland (Instrumental) – by Anouar Alami

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THE IRISH PAGAN SCHOOL PODCAST: IRELAND'S DANGEROUS WATER HOUND

• Did you know Ireland has its very own terrifying water hound from mythology? Known as the Dobhar Cú, or “dark water hound,” this creature is said to be part hound, part otter, and entirely deadly. In this video, Jon O’Sullivan from the Irish Pagan School shares the chilling legend of the Dobhar Cú, its ties to Irish folklore, and the haunting 18th-century story immortalised on a gravestone in County Leitrim.

Listen here

AN POST MARKS 25 YEARS OF WESTLIFE WITH SPECIAL STAMP ISSUE

• A SPECIAL set of stamps have been issued to mark 25 years since Westlife began touring.
• An Post have launched the limited-edition Westlife 25 stamp collection this month.
• They pay tribute to the iconic Irish boy band, which was founded in Dublin in 1998 and has now been going for more than a quarter of a century.

To read more, go here!

Copperplate Time 515

• Bothy Band, Altan, Leonard Barry, Sean Ach Donnchadh, John McEvoy & John Wynne, Elaine Reilly, Mick O'Brien & Caoimhin O'Raghallaigh, Luke Kelly, The Boruma Trio, Lisa Knapp, Danu, The Dublin Trio, Michael Banahan, Sharon Newton Creasey, Liam O'Flynn, Martin Carthy, Rick Epping, Moving Hearts, Bothy Band

Listen to the Show

RETURN OF BLACKWEIR GIGS MET WITH MIXED REACTION

• The announcement that Blackweir Live concerts are set to return next summer has been met with mixed reaction.
• On Monday, it was announced that the concerts will take place in Blackweir Fields again next summer with Lewis Capaldi set to headline one of the gigs.

To read more, go here!

CORNISH CLUNG ON AS LIVING LANGUAGE BEYOND DOLLY PENTREATH, SAYS WRITER

• The legend that Cornish vanished as a living language with the death of the fish seller Dolly Pentreath in the late 18th century is being challenged by one of the world’s leading experts on the Celtic culture of the far south-west of Britain.
• Pentreath, from the harbourside town of Mousehole on the Cornish south coast, died in 1777 aged 85 and the narrative developed that she was the last true speaker of Kernewek.

To read more, go here!

CIRCLE CITY IRISH FEST

• The Circle City Irish Festival (CCIF), an all volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, was formed in 2023 to host the first festival.
• CCIF is comprised of AOH, LOAH, GAA, and Emerald Society. The Irish Language foundation as well is involved. It is our goal to continue the fine work already established by previous groups and continue the traditions all of our groups are dedicated in preserving.
• We continue the ideas established by Alice Davis, Terry Sweeney, and Mary Coffey. We honor our past, focus on our present, and look to the future. All are welcome to the festival.
• The Irish People have handed down a rich culture and history. Their struggles included famine and deprivation of education. Through a presentation of an annual festival, CCIFL will offer Irish cultural and historical programs that will inform its audience and generate support for the reduction of hunger and illiteracy in Central Indiana.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Laughing Jack, Highland Reign, Narrowbacks, Brigid’s Cross, & many others.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 18, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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Fiddles fly, voices soar, and traditions come alive on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #727 – – Subscribe now!

Jig jam, Téada, Jeff Blaney, Norse Gael, Bealtaine, Goitse, Dan Possumato, Crikwater, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, Golden Bough, Brobdingnagian Bards, Enda Reilly, Tartanic, Caliceltic, Liz Carroll

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Jigjam “Greenhill's Gold” from Phoenix

4:16 – WELCOME

6:21 – Téada “Reels: The Reel with the Birl / Carraigín Ruadh / Ryan’s Rant” from Ainneoin na stoirme / In spite of the storm

9:29 – Jeff Blaney “When I Am Home (In America)” from Exodus

11:43 – Norse Gael “Creadeamh Sí” from Finscéal

15:12 – Bealtaine “The Ducks of Dublin Town” from Factories & Mills, Shipyards & Mines

18:43 – FEEDBACK

22:06 – Goitse “Write Me Down” from Rosc

25:46 – Dan Possumato “Planxty Dermot Grogan (feat. Teresa Baker & Elizabeth Nicholson)” from An Teachín Gorm

29:40 – Crikwater “Yarmouth Town (Live)” from Live in Buffalo

33:09 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Road Trip to Cape Breton” from Here To Stay

36:56 – Golden Bough “Glencoe” from Westering Home

40:49 – THANKS

44:15 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Mother's Blood” from Another Faire to Remember

48:00 – Enda Reilly “An Bua Ag Bláth Chliath” from Hy – Brasil

50:57 – Tartanic “Ballz/Ringworm” from Unleashed

55:46 – Caliceltic “The Man in the Boat” from Paddy Paradise

58:40 – CLOSING

59:42 – Liz Carroll “Hanley's House of Happiness” from Lake Effect

1:03:01 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

IRISHFEST ATLANTAJoin us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7 – 9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.

Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.

There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.

Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Jeff Laszlo emailed: “Spreading your podcast to Greenville. Hi Marc, Listened to this weeks podcast as Mary and I drove to Greenville for the Scottish Games and Galibrae. Several people at the parade asked about the selfie and I told them about you and your podcast. Hope to see you soon. ”

woodland folk emailed some photos: “we are seasonal. this is the time of year for learning, rekindled friendship, the air is heavy, my bow hair loose, like a barometer, i leave hazel leafs in the case but i feel to absorb some of the damp air as added humidity ….

yesterday i played with my harper friendd, she sat on union street, beautiful dahm the bard “Bridget”, “oak & ash & thorn”an adapted and well played folk song here…”song of the sea” a stunning theme from a wild, irish mythical themed cartoon….

this morning i will play early to Finnish before the sun gets too warm…

i will play ur wildy creative podcast under a cool, rustling canopy my friend ”

Patrick Rieger emailed a photo: “Hi Marc, The family and I were joined with some friends July 19 at the Harp & Fiddle to enjoy the show of Me and Bobby Magoo. Mark Guiser and Bob Banerjee have been around the Pittsburgh Irish music scene for a long time but it's only in the past year or two they joined up. Mark is Me, and Bob is Bobby Magoo. Their set was all Irish. In this photo they were playing Old Dun Cow, and the audience did the call back of Macintyre!!!! very well.

We have found musicians are not playing much Irish music in the Irish pubs these days, but these two made sure we had plenty of Irish, and the audience loved it.”

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Céad Míle FáilteTodd here once again. In this issue we have new episodes of out own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast & Quest & Chorus. We also have a list of new albums. The other featured podcasts are In Tune With Tradition & Folk on Foot. The articles highlighted are about Gary Lawlor, a fall vacation spot in Wales, & growing Truffles in Scotland. We again are featuring the IrishFest Atlanta. We also showcase the Flathead Celtic Festival, taking place this weekend September 12 – 13, at the Centennial Farm in West Kalispell, MT. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #726: TEADA INTERVIEW
• Teada, Ryan Mccombe, Eimear Arkins, We Banjo 3, Caliceltic, Wylde Nept, No Murder No Moustache
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Severin, Lisa Cothron
Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST
• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.
Listen on Youtube

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20
• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.
Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?QUEST & CHORUS #2: A LONELY SHORE ON THE CALF OF MAN (SPECIAL FEATURE FOLK SONGS & STORIES)

• The Calf of Man, just off the southern tip of the Isle of Man. There’s a decayed building there. And on its wall hangs a strange thing. A life preserver—round, red and white, worn by time. It made me wonder: What do we leave behind to save the ones who come after us?”
• This is Quest & Chorus #306

Listen here

IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

NEW CDS

• Home – by Sons Of O'Flaherty
• I am Belgae – by Lumiere SoundWorks
• The Shepherd's Road – by Shepherd's Pipes
• Seasons of the Celt – by Between Us
• Lang(u)ages – by Ampouailh
• Canterbury Lullaby EP – by Jerry Rockwell
• Eadarainn a' Chruit : Between Us the Harp – by Karen Marshalsay – by Adria Jackson, voice & Celtic harp

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

IN TUNE WITH TRADITION – PERSPECTIVES ON SESSION ETIQUETTE IN IRISH TRADITIONAL MUSIC: YOU GO FOR THE MUSIC, YOU STAY FOR THE PEOPLE

• In this episode, Shannon Heaton and Tara explore the nuances of session etiquette in Irish music. They discuss the social nature of music sessions, share personal experiences, and delve into the importance of communication and community building. The conversation highlights the joys and challenges of participating in sessions, the significance of humility, and the balance between professionalism and passion in music. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the music community, learn from one another, and cherish the fleeting moments of musical connection.

Listen here

TEN MINS WITH…GARY LAWLOR FROM THE DRUIDS

• THE DRUIDS, a folk band made up of four members from Co. Wexford and Co. Kildare have announced a short British tour in October
• This week, the band's Gary Lawlor took time out to talk to The Irish Post…

To read more, go here!

FOLK ON FOOT: OFFICIAL FOLK ALBUMS CHART SHOW—2ND SEPTEMBER 2025

• Matthew’s guest on this month’s show is the singer/songwriter Kellie While who is chair of the judges for the newly announced Folk Album of the Year Award. She shares the thinking behind the award and offers some advice if you’re considering entering. There are also 6 new entries in the chart and a new number one. We’ll have music from Amelia Coburn, Spafford Campbell, The Swaps, Skerryvore, Gaz Brookfield, Yoshika Colwell and the New Eves.

Listen to the Show

PRETTY LEAFY TOWN WITH WATERFALLS AND CUTE COFFEE SHOPS IS BEST PLACE TO VISIT IN AUTUMN

• Ah, fall, my favourite season. I don’t know about you, but I am an autumn. The crisp air, the crunchy leaves underfoot, and Wales's gorgeous landscapes transform into a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and golds.
• Here in Wales, there are plenty of autumnal spots where you can admire dazzling foliage, sip hot chocolates in cosy cafes, and browse boutique stores for seasonal treats.

To read more, go here!

WETTER WEATHER ‘PERFECT' FOR GROWING SCOTTISH TRUFFLES, SCIENTISTS SAY

• Climate change is affecting truffle production in mainland Europe – but scientists believe it is creating the ideal conditions for Scotland to grow one of the world's most valuable foods.
• Dryer conditions on the continent have led to a decline in production, with some scenarios predicting the collapse of truffle farming in Spain within a generation.

To read more, go here!

FLATHEAD CELTIC FESTIVAL

• The Flathead Celtic Festival is a registered 501©3 nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, preserving, and creating the opportunities for our community to experience Celtic culture for the educational benefit of the people in this region and its visitors.
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Max Armstrong, The ShamRockers, Those Guys, Second Wind, & many others

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.
Slainte!
Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 11, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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Interview with Teada today on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #726 – Subscribe now!

Teada, Ryan Mccombe, Eimear Arkins, We Banjo 3, Caliceltic, Wylde Nept, No Murder No Moustache

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:15 – Ryan Mccombe “My Side of the Ocean (NYC Session 2025)” from My Side of the Ocean

3:28 – WELCOME

5:53 – Eimear Arkins “Thirteen Arches / The Hairy Chested Frog (Reels)” from Here & There

8:40 – We Banjo 3 “Alive With You” from Open The Road

11:33 – INTERVIEW WITH TEADA – INTRO

11:59 – INTERVIEW WITH TEADA

19:03 – Téada “The League Reel/Peter Horan's/The Flannel Jacket (reels)” from Give Us a Penny and Let Us Be Gone

22:41 – INTERVIEW WITH TEADA

28:06 – Téada “March / Hornpipe / Slow Reel – Among Friends / Hornpipe No. 139 / The Staten Island” from Coiscéim Coiligh / As the Days Brighten

33:14 – INTERVIEW WITH TEADA

42:21 – Téada “Reels – Greta’s Favourite / Grist for the Mill / Ríl Johnny Phádraig Pheter” from Coiscéim Coiligh / As the Days Brighten

46:14 – THANKS

48:09 – Erin Ruth “Estrelina” from Traditions & Original Work

52:12 – Lane to the Glen “Aughamore / The Bog of Allen / Tom Maguire's Fancy (Reels)” from Lane to the Glen

55:42 – CLOSING

56:27 – No Murder No Moustache “Feels Like Home” from The Odds Are Stacked Against [Explicit]

59:00 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINWant to wear your love of Celtic music? Check out our album pins—these are striking lapel pins inspired by our official podcast compilation albums, featuring some of the best Celtic bands we’ve ever had on the show. Each pin comes with a full digital album download, so you get great music and great style. Get all the details at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

IRISHFEST ATLANTAJoin us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7 – 9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.

Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.

There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.

Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

TULUA CONCERTI finally posted the Tulua concert from my Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland. It is exclusively available on Patreon

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Severin, Lisa Cothron

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

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The Calf of Man, just off the southern tip of the Isle of Man. There’s a decayed building there. And on its wall hangs a strange thing. A life preserver—round, red and white, worn by time. It made me wonder: What do we leave behind to save the ones who come after us?”

This is Quest & Chorus #306

0:21 – We Banjo 3 “Alive With You” from Open The Road

3:14 – WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS

Where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest. I’m your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus.

Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse my love of music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward.

We’re sailing to the Isle of Man to talk about hope, abandonment, legacy, moving forward, and what comes next.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

UPCOMING SHOWS

• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA

Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I’ll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast.

4:55 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “Cad É Sin Don Té Sin” from Neadú

8:23 – Bill Mullen “Irish Rover” from The Beginning

A big thanks to my…

11:06 – GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON

If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what’s new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners.

But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you’ll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details!

TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

Let’s begin the…

QUEST & CHORUS of CALF OF MAN

The Calf of Man is a small island located about a half mile off the southern tip of the Isle of Man. It is a protected national park that is part of the Manx National Heritage. It is home to large number of species of birds, including some colonies that migrate there. Around 33 species of seabirds breed on the islet annually, including Manx Shearwater, Kittiwake, Razorbill and Shag.

Every year, I take a small group of people to explore our Celtic heritage. It’s called Celtic Invasion Vacations. Next year, we’re going to Galicia in Spain. That’s one of the most-obscure Celtic nations. But in the summer of 2024, we did a Celtic Invasion of the Isle of Man.

On the invasion, we took the Wild Life and Scenic Trip around Calf of Man with Shona Boat Trips. They are one of the small boat operators that give tours. Desi was our guide. He lived on the island for a year.

We didn’t get to explore much of the land. Because the Calf of Man is raw. The kind of place the sea keeps for itself. There was a building by the shore. We couldn’t inspect it during our fifteen minutes on the ground, but it looked like just the bones of a dwelling, stone clinging to stone. And from its wall, there was one oddity that stood out in the stark landscape. A life preserver.

That’s wild to think about. A life preserver is a tool meant to save someone in the future, and it was hanging on the ruins of a home from the past.

It reminded me of Miranda, from the movie, Serenity. A planet left behind. A warning not given. A silence that cost too much. That building, that place… it feels like Miranda. Not because it's dead. But because someone left it—hoping it might save someone else.

In the first episode of Firefly, Malcolm Reynolds is fighting in Serenity Valley. A soldier standing next to him is terrified that they are gonna die. Mal tells him, “we’re too pretty to die.” He’s filled with so much hope. A moment later he watches in horror as his air support leaves. He watches his Angels fly away as the soldier next to him is shot down.

Two-thirds of the Independents died in the Battle of Serenity Valley. Two-thirds of Mal’s fellow soldiers did not make it home. And yet he lived. He was preserved.

MUCH LIKE THE SECRET WORD OF THE DAY. WHAT WAS PRESERVED?

Were you ever left behind? How did you move forward?

Music is my safe place. That’s one of the reasons I wrote “Serenity Valley Waltz”. I wanted a song for survivors. For those who were left behind. To not just face the future, but to also take care of the next generation.

This is why I spend so much time thinking about sustainability and my music career. Are we making a life preserver for the next generation? For my daughters?

I’ve been reading the book Ministry of the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson. He does an amazing job at illustrating the tipping point of climate change. When we HAVE to start doing something about it. The very first chapters of the book lay out a horror that brought tears to my eyes. Especially when I imagined what my children will most likely face at some point.

We can use that life preserver right now by changing how we do stuff right now. And perhaps music can be our guiding light. Our healer. Our hope.

“Serenity Valley Waltz” is a song all about healing and hope. It’s about overcoming our nightmares and looking out across the ocean from the Isle of Man and seeing a better future for all of us.

This song is for the places that hold pain. But also for the objects that remind us to stay afloat. That round red and white ring… it didn’t save a life today. But it might tomorrow. This is Serenity Valley Waltz.”

16:19 – NEWS

• Marc Gunn “Serenity Valley Waltz” from Selcouth
• If you want to learn more about “Serenity Valley Waltz”, visit the shownotes. I did an episode where I shared the inspiration beyond the song.
• You can also find a link to the discussion that Mikey Mason and I had when we wrote the song as part of the In the ‘Verse podcast.
• Poll: What are your favorite songs on Selcouth?
• Merch: Buy Selcouth

Thank you for standing on the shore with me today. The Calf of Man may be forgotten, but its story, like yours, is worth remembering. Next week, we climb to Tintagel, the seat of Camelot, to raise a glass to myths and farewells. Until then… Leave something behind. Not because you’re going… But because someone might come looking.

19:30 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

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Céad Míle FáilteHello, this is Todd. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast & Celtic Christmas Music. The other podcast we highlight are Three Castles Burning & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. We also have a list of new albums. The articles featured are about Adam O’Donovan, Scottish brother setting a world record, and a new natural play area. The featured festivals are IrishFest Atlanta and the Long’s Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival. The Long’s Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival takes place September 5 – 7 in Estes Park, CO. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #725: CELTIC WOMEN AT THE HEART OF THE TRADITION

• Olivia Barrett, Carroll Sisters Trio, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Scottish Fish, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Niamh Dunne, Old Man Flanagan's Ghost, Chloe Matharu, Jen Midkiff, Rambling Sailors, The Bordercollies, Plunk Murray, The Friel Sisters
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC #85: CELTIC CHRISTMAS REELS, CAROLS, AND WINTER MAGIC

• Imagine snow falling on a highland glen, where fiddles join the winter wind and harps weave the magic of the season. That’s what you’ll hear this week—on the Celtic Christmas Music #85

Listen here

IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

NEW CDS

• Legends of Tir na nÓg – by Lumiere SoundWorks
• Traditions & Original Work – by Erin Ruth
• The Light Within – by Between Us
• Moon's Embrace – by WaifuBEATS
• nonametrio EP – by nonametrio
• Woodland Paradise – by Spiral Design

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THREE CASTLES BURNING: BRIAN KERR IN CONVERSATION: DRIMNAGH, LIBYA AND BEYOND

• Brian Kerr’s voice is instantly familiar as a broadcaster, and his contribution to Irish football is extraordinary. Born in 1953, his first coaching role came while barely a teenager. In the 1980s he would come to manage the team he had supported since his childhood, St Patrick’s Athletic, before going on to historic victories with Ireland’s youth teams in the 1990s. In this discussion, we touch on everything from the 1966 World Cup Final to the visit of the Al-Helal Football Academy in Gaza to Dublin. A little language in this one.

Listen here

TEN MINS WITH… ADAM O’DONOVAN

• CORK-BASED artist M’adam, the stage name of songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Adam O’Donovan, has just released his single You Get Me.
• A gentle but resonant send-off, this track serves as the final release before his album Before We Die, which will be available digitally on August 29.

To read more, go here!

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY: SHOW NO 552

• Billy McComiskey, Alan Kelly Gang, Tiernan Courell, Colm R. McGuinness, The Bothy Band, Unspoken Tradition, John Doyle, Sunfire, Valtos, Gary Innes, Hannah Read, Michael Stark…, Breaking Trad, Corner House, Yvonne Casey, Catherine McEvoy, Chessboxer, Louise Morrissey, adrian mcauliffe & Cathal Fl…, Missy Raines, William Coulter, John Williamson, Shelta, Téada, The Cottars, The Nordic Fiddlers Bloc, Brittany Haas, Casey Murray & Molly Tucker, Talisk, The Mackenzie, Aaron Copland, Tulla Céilí Band, Sean Tyrrell, Meredith Moon, The Celtic Consort

Listen to the Show

3 SCOTTISH BROTHERS SET WORLD RECORD FOR FASTEST PACIFIC ROW

• Three Scottish brothers set a world record Saturday for completing the fastest unsupported row across the full Pacific Ocean.
• Jamie, Ewan and Lachlan Maclean completed the journey in 139 days, arriving in Cairns, Australia. They rowed over 9,000 miles non-stop from Peru, becoming the first team to achieve the full crossing from South America to Australia.

To read more, go here!

CROWDS ENJOY NATURAL PLAY AREA OPENING IN ISLE OF MAN ESTATE DESPITE RAINY WEATHER

• Families braved wind, rain and plenty of mud at the weekend to celebrate the official opening of a new natural play area at Ballagarraghyn, Jurby.
• Umbrellas were up and waterproofs zipped tight, but that didn’t dampen the excitement as children rushed to explore their brand-new outdoor space.

To read more, go here!

LONGS PEAK SCOTTISH IRISH HIGHLAND FESTIVAL

• Celtic Legends Come to Life!
• Experience the Magic at the 49th Annual Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival
• Immerse yourself in three unforgettable days of Celtic culture, featuring:
• Four live music stages, Scotch tastings, Thrilling Highland athletics, Traditional Highland dancing, World-class bagpiping, Discover your heritage in Clan Row!
• Some of the entertainers you will see are Albannach, Brother, On the Lash, Katie Jane Band, Sean Heely Band, Seamus Kennedy, Scooter & Jil, & many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 4, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Celtic music isn’t just a heritage—it’s alive through the women who sing, play, and share it. From harps and fiddles to pipes and song, hear their strength and beauty on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #725 – – Subscribe now!

Olivia Barrett, Carroll Sisters Trio, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Scottish Fish, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Niamh Dunne, Old Man Flanagan's Ghost, Chloe Matharu, Jen Midkiff, Rambling Sailors, The Bordercollies, Plunk Murray, The Friel Sisters

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:09 – Olivia Barrett “The Mountain Blessing/The Secret Elsewhere” from Elsewhere

Olivia Barrett: fiddle

4:40 – WELCOME

6:35 – Carroll Sisters Trio “Liam Childs – Baby Dragon” from Radiance

Emilie and Nora Carrol: fiddle

10:32 – Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon “Lough Erne's Shore (song)” from The Belles of St. Louis

Eimear Arkinis: Vocals, fiddle, Irish dancer

Eileen Cannon: harp

15:27 – Scottish Fish “Zoe's / 3x” from Currently

Ava Montesi: fiddle

Caroline Dressler: fiddle

Giulia Haible: cello, piano

Julia Homa: fiddle, piano

Maggie MacPhail: fiddle, piano

22:14 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “Blackwaterside” from Thar Toinn / Seaborne

Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh: flute, whistles, vocals

26:40 – FEEDBACK

31:14 – Niamh Dunne “Ballyneety's Walls” from Portraits

Niamh Dunne: fiddle, vocals

34:34 – Old Man Flanagan's Ghost “Danny Boy Set (Devil's Dream/Uncle Henry's Reel/Angus Campbell)” from LIVE

Bexy Ashworth: fiddle, vocals

37:30 – Chloe Matharu “Butterfly” from Sailors and Rolling Stones

Chloe Matharu: Scottish Indian singer songwriter, harpist and harmonium player

43:04 – THANKS

45:18 – Jen Midkiff “Phoenix” from All in Good Time

Jed Midkiff: harp, vocals

49:05 – Rambling Sailors “Fish in the Sea” from Kenway's Favorites

Susan Csikos: vocals, guitar

50:39 – The Bordercollies “Mormund Braes” from To The Hills and Back

Carrie Thompson: vocals

Anna Darmanska: fiddle

Lisa McCann: bodhran, vocals

52:53 – Plunk Murray “Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye” from Another Drink

Erin “Boom Chick” Bliss: drums

58:18 – CLOSING

59:56 – The Friel Sisters “On Diarach (Song)” from Northern Sky

Anna Friel: Flute, tin whistles, vocals

Sheila Friel: Uilleann pipes, flute, tin whistles and vocals

Clare Friel: Fiddle, tin whistles and vocals

1:05:03 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINSupplies are limited. Grab your album pin now before they're gone! These stunning lapel pins feature bold designs inspired by our official podcast compilation albums—packed with some of the best Celtic bands around.And here’s the kicker: each pin comes with the full digital album. Art you can wear, music you can love. Get yours at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

IRISHFEST ATLANTAJoin us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7 – 9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.

Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.

There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.

Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff A, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Gwênlyn Glusman emailed some photos: “Haigh Marc, breithlá sona duit!

D'fhreastalamar ar an bhFéile Ghaelach i Seattle inné agus bhí Cavort (http://www.cavortceltic.com/) ag seinm ceol Gaelach. Bhí sé an – sultmhar!

Seo dhá ghrianghraf duit.

Ag tnúth le nuair a léann tú é seo ar an bpodchraoladh!

– – Gwênlyn (sí/léi)

1. An úsáideann tú Discord na laethanta seo?

Hi Marc, happy birthday!

We attended the Gaelic Festival in Seattle yesterday and Cavort ( http://www.cavortceltic.com/ ) was playing Gaelic music. It was very enjoyable! Here are two photos for you.

Looking forward to when you read this on the podcast!

– – Gwênlyn (she/him)

1. Do you use Discord these days?

Christopher emailed: “Hello Marc! It is I, Chris Toler… again. Well, you always ask people what they are doing while listening to your podcast, and that question segues neatly into a “PSA – sort” of reply from me today.

So, I was on my way to rehearsal with my Irish/Celtic music band, FitzBlarney, ( https://www.facebook.com/FitzBlarney ) since St. Patrick's Day is rapidly approaching, and we have a few gigs coming up.

Anyways, it was on this drive that I was listening to Podcast #698, ‘Ramble Through The Valley.’ Well, early into the show, I heard Louise Bichan’s “CBC Winnipeg.” A great tune on its own, but it also included an old clip of “Where Has My Highland Laddie Gone,” with such a rough, vintage quality and it immediately reminded me of the old RTÉ series called ‘Come West Along The Road: Irish Traditional Music.’ And I'd like to talk about that briefly.

Now, I can't emphasize enough how awesome this program was! Videos of live performances of musicians, sean nós singing, step dancers. set dances, lilting, and vocal groups in and around Ireland from the 1960s to the mid 1980s!

I just had to buy the DVD versions of Series 1 and series 2, (and I am always on the hunt for 3 and 4!) These discs contain some 2 &1/2 hours of live Traditional Irish Music video performances! Sometimes on stages, sometimes in pubs, sometimes on dance – floors.

I know this is something you would absolutely love, (if you aren't already familiar,) as well as many of your listeners. Some of the video performances are available YouTube, too, to just dip a toe into the waters.

I do know that as a patron of the show, the ‘music only’ option is available to me, but personally, I prefer the full ‘cast. I enjoy hearing the artists’ names, listeners’ letters, (like this one!) and other informational bits. So, I figured if some listeners did not know about these videos, and, if they are fans of your podcast, they might be inclined to check them out!

Anyways, thanks again for all your, (and your team’s,) hard work, happy upcoming birthday, and Happy St. Patrick’s Day.”

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Imagine snow falling on a highland glen, where fiddles join the winter wind and harps weave the magic of the season. That’s what you’ll hear this week—on the Celtic Christmas Music #85

Cedar Dobson, Band O'Brothers, Anne Roos & David Blonski, Dublin Gulch, Mary-Kate Spring Lee, We Banjo 3, The Fire, Ashley Davis

0:11 – Cedar Dobson “We Wish You a Merry Christmas/Trepak (The Nutcracker)/Jingle Bells/Auld Lang Syne” from A Whistle Wonderland: Christmas Melodies in a Celtic Style

4:30 – WELCOME TO THE CELTIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC

I am Marc Gunn. I am Celtic musician and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We are promoting Celtic culture through Christmas cheer. We want to bring a little magic and joy into your holiday season. Not just me, but all of the Celtic musicians we are featuring today.

If you hear music you love, please support the artists. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes as well as how to support this podcast at CelticChristmasPodcast.com

5:23 – Band O'Brothers “Andrew T. Christmas” from On Christmas Day

7:39 – Anne Roos & David Blonski “A Winter's Dance” from A Winter's Dance

12:16 – Dublin Gulch “Hosie's Well/View From The Top” from The Best Of A Celtic Cowboy Christmas (Double Album)

17:36 – THANK YOU FOR SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER!

Podcast advertising pays some of the hosting fees of this show. But the podcast creation is mostly funded by your generosity. Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic design, and promotion of the podcast. It allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show.

As a Patron, you get ad-free episodes and a private feed to listen to the podcast. All that for as little as $1 per month.

HERE IS YOUR THREE-STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $1, $5, $10, or $25.
3. Keep listening to Celtic Christmas Music to celebrate Celtic culture through Christmas music.

You can become a generous Christmas Patron at patreon.com/celticchristmas

19:24 – Mary-Kate Spring Lee “Ding Dong Merrily On High/Christmas Eve Reel” from Carol of the Child

23:43 – We Banjo 3 “Sunrise at Solstice” from A Winter Wonderful

26:43 – The Fire “Christmas Day Is Here at Last” from The Fire's Very Scottish Christmas

29:11 – CLOSING

30:20 – Ashley Davis “Let Merry Meet” from Songs of the Celtic Winter II

33:34 – CREDITS

Celtic Christmas Music was produced by Marc Gunn and our Christmas Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to subscribe to the podcast. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on climate change.

Promote Celtic culture through Christmas music at CelticChristmasPodcast.com.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh!

celticchristmas #celticchristmasmusic

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Céad Míle FáilteTodd here once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast & Quest & Chorus. The other podcasts we showcase are Traveling in Ireland & Celt in a Twist. We also have a list of new albums. The highlighted articles include ones about Andy Nolon’s new book, a Manxman and Billy the Kid, & cozy Cornwall holiday spot. We also feature info about Alanta Irishfest again. The other featured Celtic festival is the Wisconsin Highland Games taking place t August 29 – August 31 taking place at the Waukesha Expo Center in Waukesha, WI. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #724: WHISKEY, SLIDES & STANDING STONES

• Andrew Finn Magill, On the Lash, The Sternwheelers, DRD, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, SeeD, Dublin Gulch, McFloosey, Téada, Billy Treacy & the Scope, Mànran, Andrew D. Huber + the Gecko Club, Coastland Fair, Phoenyx
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Manny, Virginia Lamprecht, Michael McInerney

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

QUEST & CHORUS #1: DON’T BLINK AT KILMARTIN (SPECIAL FEATURE OF FOLK SONGS & STORIES)

• Quest & Chorus is a six-part series where I share songs, stories, and places along with a game to make the adventure even more fun. This is the first episode in your quest.
• A reminder to be present with those who you love, while we travel through time to Kilmartin Glen in Scotland.
• This is Quest & Chorus #305

Listen here

NEW CDS

• Ardentes Harmonies – by Umbras Nemesis
• Melodien der Erde – by Lichta
• Underwater Cairngorms – by Mhairi Hall
• Visitors – by Mushroom Divine
• Between Worlds ; Celtic Echoes – by Jimmy Cullen

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND : IF WALLS COULD TALK: THE STORY OF A THATCHED COTTAGE IN CORK

• Step back into Irish history with modern comfort.
• If your ancestors emigrated from Ireland, you’ve probably wondered about the life they left behind. And if you’re planning your own trip, maybe you’ve dreamed of staying in a traditional thatched cottage.
• In Mitchelstown, County Cork, one family’s home tells a story that’s been unfolding for more than 250 years.

Listen here

FORMER BIBLECODE SUNDAYS MAN ANDY NOLAN ON HIS TRUE CRIME BOOK GREEN BLOODS ABOUT THE LONDON IRISH CRIMINAL UNDERWORLD

• “PEOPLE have become very successful in this country but some of them have done it by methods that most people might deem unscrupulous,” says Andy Nolan. “It would be frowned upon in most Irish Catholic circles what these mostly Irish Catholic people did.”
• Nolan is talking about some of the people featured in his forthcoming true crime book, Green Bloods. It tells the stories of Irish figures in the London criminal underworld — men and women who often stayed in the shadows, pulling the strings, while others preferred to steal the limelight instead. The book is being launched in October on a night of celebration featuring live music, a book signing and a Q&A with people featured in the book. However, the convivial nature of the event is at odds with the subject matter, which looks at the impact and influence of Irish people on crime in London across centuries.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST – AUGUST 24, 2025

• Not just a great mix of Celtivity, it's our Top Ten from our latest monthly chart! Join Patricia Fraser as she counts down the cream of the crop. Subscribe to our weekly e-blast and get our charts, playlists, album covers of the week and much more, straight to your inbox at worldbeatinternational.com, home to Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

HOW A MANXMAN NEARLY FELL FOUL OF OUTLAW BILLY THE KID

• A fascinating story has been uncovered linking two Manxman to famous outlaw Billy the Kid.
• Manx National Heritage (MNH) has unearthed incredible tales relating to the exploits of two Manx brothers from the manuscript collection at the Manx Museum.

To read more, go here!

STUNNING CORNWALL SEASIDE TOWN OVERLOOKED FOR HEAVING HOLIDAY HOTSPOT

• A lesser-visited seaside gem has plenty to offer, but it's often overshadowed by its more popular neighbouring town, which tends to draw the crowds.
• Yet this serene and stunning corner of Cornwall boasts a beach that stretches for about three miles – one of the reasons you can always find a spot on the sand for you and your family.

To read more, go here!

WISCONSIN HIGHLAND GAMES

• The Highland Games and our other events provide a forum for traditional artisans and athletes, professional and amateur alike, to inform, educate, entertain and compete. These activities help to create an environment where their arts and abilities may be appreciated by a great number of people.
• The fun and friendship doesn't stop with the Highland Games! During the year you will find us participating in various community events. Some of these include the St. Patrick's Day parade, Candy Cane Lane, Cancer Walks, Hockey Games, and Brewer Games. Also, we have our membership meetings, pub crawls, and our annual Holiday Party which offers another chance to socialize. Become a member today!
• Entertainment acts you will see are Dublin O'Shea, The Stirling Latelys, Old Goat Skiffle Band, Radiation, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

August 28, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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From the standing stones of Carnac to the wild roar of the March of Cambreadth, Celtic music carries us across oceans, centuries, and imaginations. Discover fiddles, flutes, and fiery voices from around the globe… on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #724 – – Subscribe now!

Andrew Finn Magill, On the Lash, The Sternwheelers, DRD, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, SeeD, Dublin Gulch, McFloosey, Téada, Billy Treacy & the Scope, Mànran, Andrew D. Huber + the Gecko Club, Coastland Fair, Phoenyx

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:10 – Andrew Finn Magill “Carnac” from Courting the Sun

3:37 – WELCOME

6:34 – On the Lash “Verandler” from Fireside

11:05 – The Sternwheelers “Lakes of Ponchatrain” from Woke Up Old

15:47 – DRD “Frayon” from DRD

20:19 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Going Home” from Here To Stay

23:48 – FEEDBACK

26:58 – SeeD “We Will Fly” from FAE

31:19 – Dublin Gulch “Dispute at the Crossroads/Maids of Mount Cisco/The Scholar” from Tap ‘Er Light

35:51 – McFloosey “The Briar and the Rose” from Fiacre's Fell

39:25 – Téada “Slides: Deálaí’s No. 1 & 2 / The Peeler and the Goat” from Ainneoin na stoirme / In spite of the storm

42:08 – THANKS

44:21 – Billy Treacy & the Scope “The Sally Gardens” from Life

47:52 – Mànran “Mire” from To the Wind

50:46 – Andrew D. Huber + the Gecko Club “Kickin' Whiskey” from Sailor's Rescue

54:22 – Coastland Fair “The One Of Us All” from The One Of Us All – Single

57:22 – CLOSING

58:30 – Phoenyx “March of Cambreadth” from Keepers of the Flame

1:03:22 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. I launched a new 6 – part podcast series this week called Quest & Chorus, where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest. New episodes will come out every two weeks and you get special rewards by completing your quest. However, this podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINSupplies are limited. Grab your album pin now before they're gone! These stunning lapel pins feature bold designs inspired by our official podcast compilation albums—packed with some of the best Celtic bands around. And here’s the kicker: each pin comes with the full digital album. Art you can wear, music you can love. Get yours at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

IRISHFEST ATLANTAJoin us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7 – 9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.

Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.

There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.

Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Manny, Virginia Lamprecht, Michael McInerney

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Aaron Adair on Patreon: “Congratulations, Marc.! I've been listening to the I&CMP since Episode #1 20 years ago and am so grateful that you've continued to build the network and giving artists a chance to be discovered and supported for these many years. Over the years you've helped me discover my Irish roots, been the soundtrack to two trips to my homeland (so far), and kept me engaged with my own Irish community here in the States. I'm currently Vice President of the Irish American Society in Dallas and never miss a chance to tell all of our members about the show and the fine work you're doing. As the saying goes, “May your home always be too small to hold all your friends.” Slàinte Mhath!”

Randall 5th Alexander commented on Patreon: “Hearty Congratulations. Keep it up. You are my mainstay of music.”

John Sharkey White, II commented on Patreon: “Wow. I’ve been listening since 2009. I hope you get to go for 20 more years! This is an amazing accomplishment. I wonder how many podcasts can say that. ”

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Quest & Chorus is a six-part series where I share songs, stories, and places along with a game to make the adventure even more fun. This is the first episode in your quest.

A reminder to be present with those who you love, while we travel through time to Kilmartin Glen in Scotland.

This is Quest & Chorus #305

0:12 – Tan and Sober Gentlemen “All the Time” from Regressive Folk Music

4:18 – WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS

Where legends meet lyrics, and every place sings a story. I’m your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus, and we begin our journey in a place where time stands still, literally.

Welcome to Kilmartin Glen, in Scotland. A valley lined with stones that don't move, don’t blink, and yet they watch… As you and I walk the long path of memory, love, and time itself.

If you’re new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

NEWS

• Poll: What are your favorite songs on Come Adventure With Me?
• Merch: Buy Come Adventure With Me
• Are you ready to answer the secret question to unlock your free gift? Click here.

4:55 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA
• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA

5:05 – TODAY’S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don’t see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos.

In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com.

6:02 – Tulua “Rambling Boys of Pleasure” from No Coming No Going

11:48 – The Secret Commonwealth “Dubhachas (I'll Dream of Times Like This)” from Last Call

The ads on this podcast pay for some of the hosting and podcast editing. My time producing the show is paid for by my…

15:43 – GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON

Thank you so much for your generous support of my music. Patreon is how the modern musician makes a living with music. Album Pin and CD sales help me to perform in person. But my livelihood is entirely funded by Patrons of the Arts.

You can sign up for as little as $5 per month. You’ll get exclusive, unreleased songs. You’ll get this and other podcasts I produce. Plus, you’ll get access to a huge archive of video concerts. Email follow@celtfather to get more details!

If you can’t support me financially right now, just sign up on Patreon for free. You’ll also get weekly updates.

Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather

Let’s begin the…

16:54 – QUEST & CHORUS of KILMARTIN GLEN

In a valley near the West Coast of Scotland is Kilmartin Glen. There you will find standing stones. Not one or two, but many laid out like a memory.

Kilmartin Glen is considered to have one of the most important concentrations of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland. There are more than 350 ancient monuments within a six mile radius of the village, with 150 of them being prehistoric.

In the glen that we visited, we got a nice sized taste of those monuments. If you stand still long enough, you might be able to look back into time, like the TARDIS from Doctor Who. But these time machines don’t fly, they stand cold and alone, watching everything, never blinking. Count the stones in the cover image and let prime numbers guide you to unlock your first Quest.

These stones watched lovers part and children grow old. And in their stillness, they remember everything. They carry the weight of forgotten voyages.

They are beautiful. And they are a little bit sad.

That sadness seemed appropriate in 2022 when I led my Celtic Invasion of Scotland to Kilmartin Glen. The group was shrinking due to Covid. The feeling as people left the group.

This song, ‘Blink,’ was born of that fear, the fear of blinking and losing something beautiful. Of falling in love with someone so radiant, so unique, that you fear time itself. But also…

It’s a love song for the moment. It’s for every second you choose to stay present, even when it hurts.

Learn more about my song #277 “Blink”.

Unlock the secret page.

22:31 – Marc Gunn “Blink” from Come Adventure With Me

That’s the end of today’s tale, but the song lives on.

Come back next week as we sail the Calf of Man through loss and resilience.

Until then, don’t blink. Don’t look away.

And may your memories always sing.

26:04 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com!

pubstories #doctorwhoblink #kilmartinstones #questandchorus

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, as well as new episodes of Celtic Myths and Legends & Folk on Foot. There is also a list of new albums. The featured articles are about Cónal Creedon, Sir Sean Connery, & a former fortress being turned into a party spot. We again have two highlighted Celtic Festivals. The first is IrishFest Atlanta. The other is Peoria Irish Fest taking place August August 22 – 24, at the Peoria Riverfront, Peoria, IL. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #723: TULUA INTERVIEW IN COUNTY WEXFORD

• Tulua, Sarah Copus, Carroll Sisters Trio, Sybil and Sorley, Scottish Fish, Chloe Matharu, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Ockham's Razor, Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

NEW CDS

• Celtic Connections – by Between Us
• Animal Mayhem – by Martin & Sarah Fowler
• Ancient Magic, Vol 2 – by Elemental Magic
• Going With The Flow – by Aartwork
• Highway – by Blair Douglas
• Caledonian Dreaming – by VARIOUS ARTISTS
• Whispers Of The Harp – by Lumiere SoundWorks
• Songs for the Highlands – by Jason Shepherd

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

CELTIC MYTHS AND LEGENDS PODCAST: GALICIAN EL URCO

• In this episode we look at another spooky, ghostly dog! But this one comes with horns and chains…Here's more death folklore with the Galician El Urco!

Listen here

WRITER CÓNAL CREEDON NAMED ‘HERO STORYTELLER’ AT IRISH FESTIVAL WHICH ONLY HAPPENS EVERY SEVEN YEARS

• WRITER Cónal Creedon is among a group of Irish icons who were named cultural ‘heroes' at a Cork festival which is only held every seven years.
• The novelist, playwright and filmmaker, who hails from Cork, was honoured as one of the ‘laoch reacaire’ or ‘hero storytellers’, at Féile na Laoch 2025, which translates as the ‘festival of heroes’.
• Every seven years, Féile na Laoch is hosted in Cúil Aodha, in the Múscraí Gaeltacht in county Cork.

To read more, go here!

FOLK ON FOOT: ALEX REX AND LAVINIA BLACKWALL IN GOVAN AND CARBETH

• Former Trembling Bells bandmates Alex Rex and Lavinia Blackwall take us first to Govan Old Church in Glasgow to see ancient Viking burial stones – and sing in unaccompanied harmony in the glorious acoustic. Then its off to the hutting community at Carbeth in the countryside outside the city where residents lovingly decorate their wooden homes. Alex shows us the hut he’s curating in memory of his younger brother Alastair who sadly died, while Lavinia introduces us to her partner in life and music Marco Rea as they perform songs from her new album in her hut. A fascinating and poignant insight into the lives and inspiration of two creative spirits.

Listen to the Show

FROM SIR SEAN WITH LOVE: THE LEGACY THAT IS HELPING YOUNG FILMMAKERS

• Sean Connery became a patron of the Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) in 1996 and his first task was to bring home the UK premiere of Dragonheart, the fantasy adventure in which he voices a dragon.
• For the next 14 years, he brought not just films but friends and filmmakers.

To read more, go here!

DERELICT FORTRESS TRANSFORMED INTO £3M PARTY ISLAND

• Many dream of taking on a renovation project, something to transform and make your own.
• But for one former software company owner, the opportunity to bring back to life a derelict 19th Century Napoleonic fort brought with it more challenges than he had ever anticipated.
• Mike Conner, 52, snapped up Thorne Island near Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire for £555,000 in May 2017.

To read more, go here!

PEORIA IRISH FEST

• It’s all about the music. Yes, and the dance. And the culture. But first and foremost, our event is a music festival.
• Mix in an idyllic riverside venue, loads of entertainment options for the whole family, and enough food and drink to satisfy an army, and it’s no wonder the Peoria Irish Fest has been going strong for 40+ years!
• Some of the entertainers you will see are The Red Hot Chili Pipers, The Byrne Brothers, Gaden, Runa, On the Lash, Turas, Broken Brogue, and many others!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

August 21, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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You’ll enjoy an interview with Tulua this week on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #723 — Subscribe now!

Tulua, Sarah Copus, Carroll Sisters Trio, Sybil and Sorley, Scottish Fish, Chloe Matharu, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Ockham's Razor, Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2-3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:08 – Sarah Copus “Harvest Home-Boys of Bluehill” from Moorland Winds

4:06 – WELCOME

6:53 – Carroll Sisters Trio “Pitlochry High School Centenary – Scenic Overlook” from Radiance

11:31 – Sybil and Sorley “Lilly the Pink” from Street Side Songs

15:47 – Scottish Fish “Dog and Rabbit” from Currently

20:39 – FEEDBACK

24:32 – TULUA INTERVIEW

1:12:04 – THANKS

1:15:04 – Chloe Matharu “Sailing's a Weary Life” from Sailors and Rolling Stones

1:20:25 – Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon “George White's/McGettrick's/Cedars of Lebanon (reels)” from The Belles of St. Louis

1:24:25 – Ockham's Razor “My Lagan Love” from Ockham's Razor

1:28:57 – CLOSING

1:30:24 – Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall “Loftus Jones” from Copley Street 2

1:34:03 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.cascadialawalaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music-only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

IRISHFEST ATLANTAJoin us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.

Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.

There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.

Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINWant to wear your love of Celtic music? Check out our album pins—these are striking lapel pins inspired by our official podcast compilation albums, featuring some of the best Celtic bands we’ve ever had on the show. Each pin comes with a full digital album download, so you get great music and great style. Get all the details at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music-only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Patrick Daly posted on Facebook: “I love the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast! I got started with The Thistle & Shamrock with the legendary Fiona Ritchie, like a lot of folks, and was heartbroken when it went off the air. I only discovered this podcast in the last couple of years or so, and it’s terrific!”

Stout Pounders posted on Facebook: “Thanks for having us on this special episode! It's been great to be a part of this for 17 out of the 20!!”

James Flanagan posted on Facebook: “Great stuff… thanks for all the work and the music you have shared.”

The Flailing Shilaleighs posted on Facebook: “Thanks very much for including us in another podcast. New music is coming early next year (2026)”

Caleb Eleazar Cotter posted a picture on Facebook: “I am listening while drywalling a lake Ontario mansion in 100° heat.”

Fialla posted on Facebook: “Blown away to be mentioned in the same sentence with such fine musicians!”

Golden Bough Music posted on Facebook: “Hello to you and listeners, thank you for keeping us in your rotation, our 45th anniversary celebration season!

We are based near San Francisco, and travel up and down the coast, running a music camp south of Yosemite National Park, also touring Europe this September. ”

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast & Quest & Chorus. The other podcasts we showcase are Three Castles Burning & The Celtic Indy Podcast. We have a new list of Celtic Albums. The articles featured are about Irish language creators, Cornwall’s seaside destination, & Brittany increases the frequency of a ferry to Ireland. We have to highlighted festivals in this issue the first being IrishFest Atlanta that will be taking place November 7 – 9 in Historic Roswell, GA. The second festival is the Bitteroot Celtic Games & Gathering taking place August 16 – 17 at the Daly Mansion in Hamilton, MT. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #722: SPARKS IN THE CABIN

• Tulsa, Carroll Sisters Trio, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Giro, Scottish Fish, McFloosey, Melanie Gruben, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Crikwater, DRD, Bealtaine, Jaywalkers, Andrew D. Huber + the Gecko Club, Jiggy, Willowgreen
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: CORPER, Jeff Laszlo, Laura Simpson, Lee

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?QUEST & CHORUS #1: DON’T BLINK AT KILMARTIN

• A reminder to be present with those who you love, while we travel through time to Kilmartin Glen in Scotland.
• This is Quest & Chorus #305
• Where legends meet lyrics, and every place sings a story. I’m your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus, and we begin our journey in a place where time stands still, literally.

Listen here

IRISHFEST ATLANTA

• Join us at IrishFest Atlanta on Nov 7-9, 2025. You’ll enjoy exclusive concerts with Open the Door For Three with Special Guest Liz Carroll on Friday and Teada on Saturday night.
• Plus enjoy music from Kathleen Donohoe, O’Brian’s Bards, Olivia Bradley, Roundabouts, The Kinnegans, The Muckers, Irish Brothers, Celtic Brew, Station 1 2 3 and special set from Inara and Marc Gunn.
• There are music and dance workshops, Irish cooking competitions, IrishTea, Irish Films, and of course, LOTS of Irish dancing.
• Celebrate your Irish heritage at IrishFest Atlanta in November. Bring a friend!

Learn more at IrishFestAtlanta.com

NEW CDS

• Fret Don't Fret EP – by Tom Richardson
• 107tunesbook – by O’rukka
• Na Caismeachdan – by John Dew
• Ancient Magic, Vol 1 – by Elemental Magic
• EP VOL.1 – by ÉIREWAVE Project
• Joy – by JKL DUO
• My Treasured Land – by Counter's Creek

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THREE CASTLES BURNING: FIGHTING THE FLAMES: CAPTAIN JAMES ROBERT INGRAM

• In 1860, a blaze in the Kildare Street Club led to the death of three workers and the destruction of an institution. Together with other fires of the era, this provided the imperative for a municipal fire service. While Captain James Robert Ingram’s name is associated with the ‘Whiskey Fire’ of 1875, there were many other significant fires, including the destruction of Dublin’s Theatre Royal. This all occurred in a time when a new scientific approach to firefighting was taking shape, thanks to the pioneering writing of James Braidwood, influenced by the Great Fire of Edinburgh. This episode explores the emergence of modern firefighting, and how Edinburgh and London paved the way for what followed in Dublin.

Listen here

FROM GAELTACHT TO TIKTOK – THE RISE OF IRISH LANGUAGE CREATORS

• IN THE noisy world of today’s social media, the Irish language is finding itself a powerful new voice in an unexpected digital revival. Lifted from the confines of classrooms and small communities, Gaeilge now echoes across our phones.
• This is thanks to a new generation of digital storytellers embracing their native tongue through education, music, and humour. So, what’s the craic? What are these Irish creators doing, who’s watching them and why does it matter? This movement is reimagining how Irish is heard and who’s tuning in. Bilingual creators are incorporating everyday conversation, slang, poetry, and sean-nós music into short TikTok videos, Instagram reels, and podcasts. This content is playful, modern, and unmistakably Irish. Its result? Younger audiences are listening. With humour, music, and casual speech as entry-points, this once endangered language is suddenly cool again. Tiktok’s own newsroom highlighted the rise of the vibrant “#GaelTok” community, with over 39k posts using #Gaeilge earlier this year.

To read more, go here!

CELTIC INDY PODCAST: 2.4.12 – SEVEN DRUNKEN NIGHTS

• In this episode we feature music from Ian Gould, Cherish the Ladies, Brandon Kennedy, Bog Bodies, Bastard Bearded Irishmen, Across the Pond, The Dubliners, Red Rum, Failte, Seasons, & SlipJig. We also have a list of concerts and festivals taking place in and around the Midwest. We have also included a history of the song Seven Drunken Nights.

Listen to the Show

OFF THE BEATEN PATH: NOW, DISCOVER CORNWALL’S GROWING SEASIDE DESTINATION

• A delightful Cornish town, long eclipsed by its more renowned neighbour, has just won the honour of being named one of the finest seaside towns in the UK. This small treasure, with its calm stretches of beach, breathtaking views and the splendid seawater lido, is at last getting the praise it has quietly earned. Although Cornwall still reigns supreme for those yearning for a classic coastal retreat, this quieter spot is now in the sights of visitors seeking a gentler, yet equally stunning, version of the region’s famed settings.

To read more, go here!

BRITTANY FERRIES TO INCREASE FREQUENCY OF POPULAR FRANCE-IRELAND ROUTE

• Brittany Ferries will increase the number of services between Ireland and France after competitor Stena Line announced it is withdrawing from the Rosslare – Cherbourg route.
• Brittany Ferries will increase its number of weekly services between the two ports from five to seven from the start of October 2025, just after the Stena Line service between the ports ends in September.

To read more, go here!

BITTERROOT CELTIC GAMES & GATHERING

• We are a passionate group of volunteers, proudly dedicated to keeping the Celtic culture, heritage, and history alive in the Bitterroot Valley. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (#46-5321460).
• ​Please join us! We meet the 3rd Thursday of every month throughout the year, at 6:00 pm in the back meeting room of BJ's restaurant, located at 900 1st Street (Hwy 93), Hamilton, MT. The public, new members, and the curious are always welcome to attend! For any time changes or additional committee meeting info, please follow our Facebook page for updates.
• Some of the entertainer’s will be Celtica Nova, Blaggards, Seamus Kennedy, The Byrne Brothers, Hunter Koss, & many others

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

August 14, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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On fire with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #722 – Subscribe now!

Tulsa, Carroll Sisters Trio, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Giro, Scottish Fish, McFloosey, Melanie Gruben, Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon, Crikwater, DRD, Bealtaine, Jaywalkers, Andrew D. Huber + the Gecko Club, Jiggy, Willowgreen

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC7:12 – Tulua “The Cabin Reels” from No Coming No Going

2:30 – WELCOME

4:30 – Carroll Sisters Trio “Sparks in the Fire – Freddy's” from Radiance

8:48 – Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira “Blow Ye Winds” from Here to Stay

12:51 – Scottish Fish “Annie's” from Currently

17:40 – McFloosey “The Flower of Magherally” from Fiacre's Fell

21:23 – FEEDBACK

24:08 – Melanie Gruben “Irish Fire” from Irish Fire (Single)

28:31 – Eimear Arkins & Eileen Gannon “My Mind Will Never Be Easy/Humors of Derrycrossane (slip jigs)” from The Belles of St. Louis

31:46 – Crikwater “A Pint of Plain (Live)” from Live in Buffalo

34:44 – DRD “Seique” from namai

38:16 – THANKS

40:25 – Bealtaine “McAlpine's Fusiliers” from Factories & Mills, Shipyards & Mines

43:41 – Jaywalkers “Ain't Nobody's Business” from Move On

48:03 – Andrew D. Huber + the Gecko Club “Here with Me” from Sailor's Rescue

51:08 – Jiggy “Taraka” from Translate

56:09 – CLOSING

56:56 – Willowgreen “Wave over Wave” from Willowgreen

1:02:12 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.cascadialawalaska.com

Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINSupplies are limited. Grab your album pin now before they're gone! These stunning lapel pins feature bold designs inspired by our official podcast compilation albums—packed with some of the best Celtic bands around .And here’s the kicker: each pin comes with the full digital album. Art you can wear, music you can love. Get yours at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: CORPER, Jeff Laszlo, Laura Simpson, Lee

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Mary – Grace Lee emailed: “Hi Marc! I hope you're well! This is Grace Lee. I play the hammered dulcimer. You have played my music on your show. Thank you so much for the support! I am releasing my new single tomorrow, and would love to send it your way. What's the best way to get it to you? Thanks! Cheers, Grace”

Suzanne Elwell responded to the Celtic Music Magazine: “Since you asked . . .

I attend the Irish Fair of Minnesota, attend the many events sponsored by the Center for Irish Music in St. Paul, and even took a beginning tin whistle class (at age 60 – something) when the pandemic started. I enjoy hearing familiar artists and songs on the weekly podcast and frequently check out the names of unfamiliar artists (at least to me) so I can look for more from them. Friday is my podcast listening day as I work.”

Crystal Bollinger emailed: “Check out Hooligan Jack – The One Man Irish Band He is on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok Great spin on new and old Celtic Music. He considers himself Trad with a Kick. And is touring NJ, PA, MD and VA in the states this March”

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts we highlight are Traveling in Ireland & Celt in a Twist. We have a list of new albums as well. The featured articles include ones about Trump’s Tariffs cost to Guinness, the Summerland tragedy, and Wigtown Book Festival. The festival we showcase is the Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games taking place 8/8 – 8/10, in Fergus, ON at the Centre Wellington Sportsplex. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #721: FAREWELL TO BELFAST

• Andrew Finn Magill, Adam Agee & Jon Sousa, Willowgreen, Ghost Of A Banshee, The Gothard Sisters, The AML Trio, The Lilies of the Midwest, McFloosey, Celia Farran, The Langer's Ball, Chloe Matharu, Austral, Jaywalkers, Journey North, The Friel Sisters
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Kyle Darpel, Genevieve Slunka, Tubaphonium, Jennifer Van Boxel, Shawna Courter

Listen to the Show

Episode Photo

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CDS

• Celestial path – by EThem music
• Hey You: FAWM 2025 vol 2 – by Jen Midkiff (she/her)
• Danu’s Eye – by jøurney celtic
• A Moorland Suite – by Michael Neil
• Currently – byScottish Fish

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: GUINNESS STORIES: WHAT YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT IRELAND’S ICONIC BREW

• Guinness might be one of the most iconic Irish exports, but did you know it's the number one selling draft beer in the United States? It’s growing at an impressive rate – so much so that Guinness Brewery Ambassador Zach Berger proudly shared the news at Iowa Irish Fest. That creamy pint? It’s not just a nod to Ireland—it’s a thriving, evolving brand with deep roots and global appeal. And here’s something most people don’t realize: all Guinness Draft sold in the U.S. is brewed in Dublin at St. James’s Gate. While there are Guinness breweries in Baltimore and Chicago, those are innovation hubs – think limited-run beers and culinary pairings – not production sites for the classic stout.
• Continue reading at Guinness Stories: What You Might Not Know About Ireland’s Iconic Brew | Ireland Family Vacations

Listen here

TRUMP TARIFFS EXPECTED TO COST GUINNESS PARENT COMPANY 200 MILLION

• DIAGEO, the global drinks giant behind Guinness and Johnnie Walker, is facing a tough year shaped by trade tariffs and shifting consumer trends.
• Despite these challenges, Guinness continues to be a strong performer for the company.
• The company now expects a $200 million annual hit from US tariffs introduced under President Trump, a jump from the $150 million impact it previously forecast.
• Diageo says it can absorb around half of the blow through supply chain improvements and inventory management.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: AUGUST 3, 2025

• Celtic characters aplenty this hour, from the Sweet Bonnie Lass From Belfast and the Celtic Girl, a tribute to Shane McGowan from the Dropkicks, a Raggle Taggle Gipsy, Neil Ewart Of Ardnamuchan, Rakish Paddy and Willie Reilly. Don't worry, Patricia Fraser takes care of the introductions on Celt In A Twist.

Listen to the Show

PICTURES AS ISLE OF MAN REMEMBERS SUMMERLAND TRAGEDY 52 YEARS ON

• The Isle of Man fell silent on Saturday evening as two services were held to mark the 52nd anniversary of the Summerland fire, one of the worst peacetime tragedies in British history.
• On August 2, 1973, a devastating blaze tore through the Summerland leisure complex on Douglas Promenade, claiming the lives of 50 people and injuring many more.

To read more, go here!

NICOLA STURGEON TO APPEAR AT WIGTOWN BOOK FESTIVAL

• Nicola Sturgeon and Del Amitri frontman Justin Currie are among the big names heading to Dumfries and Galloway later this year for Wigtown Book Festival.
• Unveiling the line up for the 2025 festival, organisers described it as its “largest and most varied programme ever”.
• Comedians, politicians, and broadcasters will appear alongside novelists, poets and non-fiction writers during the 10-day event beginning on 26 September.

To read more, go here!

FERGUS SCOTTISH FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

• Fàilte Air Ais! | Welcome Back!
• The Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games is an annual three-day event that celebrates local Scottish heritage and features world-renowned talent and entertainment in the beautiful town of Fergus, Ontario. This year’s Festival features Heavy Events Competitions, Pipe Band Competitions, Highland Dancers, over 50 Clans & Heritage Village, Whisky Tasting, McKiddie’s Centre, Celtic musicians and international vendors featuring Scottish wares and fares!
• We look forward to seeing you for the 80th edition August 8 -10, 2025!
• Some of the entertainer’s you will see are Jill Chambless & Scooter Muse, Rogerson Family, Albannach, Mudmen, The Crowded Table, Bob Mclean, David Leask, and more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

August 7, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

You say farewell to Belfast. I say hello on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #721 – – Subscribe now!

Andrew Finn Magill, Adam Agee & Jon Sousa, Willowgreen, Ghost Of A Banshee, The Gothard Sisters, The AML Trio, The Lilies of the Midwest, McFloosey, Celia Farran, The Langer's Ball, Chloe Matharu, Austral, Jaywalkers, Journey North, The Friel Sisters

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Andrew Finn Magill “The Fiddle Bridge, The Littlest Pint, Rémi's Reel” from Courting the Sun

4:02 – WELCOME

5:44 – Adam Agee & Jon Sousa “Farewell to Belfast” from Ceol na gCarad

9:11 – Willowgreen “Walking on the Waves” from Sheila's Brush

13:26 – Ghost Of A Banshee “Celtic Cannon (Reel)” from Along The Rural Trail

15:41 – The Gothard Sisters “Cat and the Fiddle” from Midnight Sun

19:17 – FEEDBACK

21:36 – The AML Trio “Pride of Pimlico” from Sons Of Erin's Isle

23:56 – The Lilies of the Midwest “A Walk on the Shore” from Cat's Ceili

28:58 – McFloosey “Preab san Ol” from Fiacre's Fell

31:27 – Celia Farran “Bridget's Well” from Irish Song Compilation by Celia Farran

35:13 – The Langer's Ball “Jug of This” from Drinking Song Sing – A – Long (2025)

38:11 – THANKS

40:27 – Chloe Matharu “Sailors and Rolling Stones” from Sailors and Rolling Stones

46:26 – Austral “Edgy in Zurich” from Thylacine

50:12 – Jaywalkers “Playsuit” from Move On

53:28 – Journey North “Kruger's pipe set” from Journey North (Revisited)

57:00 – CLOSING

58:10 – The Friel Sisters “Just A Note (Song)” from Northern Sky

1:00:10 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at www.cascadialawalaska.com

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINSupplies are limited. Grab your album pin now before they're gone! These stunning lapel pins feature bold designs inspired by our official podcast compilation albums—packed with some of the best Celtic bands around.And here’s the kicker: each pin comes with the full digital album. Art you can wear, music you can love. Get yours at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Kyle Darpel, Genevieve Slunka, Tubaphonium, Jennifer Van Boxel, Shawna Courter

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Kate emailed: “I'm a novelist, and I've taken to listening to your podcast while I write. The lively music helps me write at a faster rate, and got me through my last four books at record pace. To be honest, I don't think I'm going back… the back catalog is so vast it'll get me through the rest of my career!”

Dolfu R. Fernandez emailed: “Hi Marc, My name is Dolfu, I'm a fiddler from Asturies, in Europe.

I'll be in Port Towsend, Washington State, in Fiddle Tunes festival from june 29th to july 6th. Really happy to be in US for first time and I send you all some asturian music to celebrate this great moment.

Years ago, I used to play in a trio called DRD, with super musicians Ruben Bada (bouzouki, guitars and fiddle) and Borja Baragaño (flutes and pipes). There are two CDs by the band available in this Dropbox link. Hope you like it.

Congrats for your amazing podcast. It's my soundtrack to go work everyday. And I hope you take some time during your vacation to visit us, we are the neighbors of Galicia. All the best”

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Céad Míle FáilteTodd here once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other showcased podcasts are Three Castles Burning & Copperplate Time. We have included a short list of ne albums. The articles we highlight are about Sarah Bolger, a statue of King Orry, and appealing to save Castilly Henge. The featured festival is the Iowa Irish Fest taking place August 1 – 3 in downtown Waterloo, IA. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #720: SAILING ACROSS THE OCEAN

• Lussa, Tulua, Chloe Matharu, Andrew Finn Magill, Doolin', Marc Gunn Fir Arda, The Irish Lassies, Natalie Padilla, Jaywalkers, Brynmor, Wooden Legs, Celtica Pipes Rock, Moher – BZH
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Kim Rasmussen, AndyF, Randall 5th Alexander, emmy, Joseph F Dumont, Kevin McGuffin

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CDS

• Dreaming in the Glen – by Crystal Thomas
• Tenalach – by Pangur Bán
• The Racing Sky – High-Speed Irish Reels – by The Celtic Journey

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THREE CASTLES BURNING: TIPPERARY SO FAR AWAY: REMEMBERING SEÁN TREACY ON TALBOT STREET

• Niamh Hassett and Sean Nugent join me in this special edition of the podcast, exploring a wonderful Tipperary tradition on Dublin’s Talbot Street. When the Premier County reach an All Ireland Final, hundreds gather to remember Seán Treacy on the morning of the game. What began this tradition, and why is it growing in popularity?

Listen here

SARAH BOLGER TO STAR IN IRISH-AMERICAN CRIME SERIES FROM THE CREATOR OF NARCOS – Ireland

• IRISH actress Sarah Bolger is to star in a new Irish-American crime series from Narcos creator Chris Brancato.
• The Westies is described as a gritty and kinetic crime drama that centres on New York City's infamously violent Irish gang of the same name.
• According to Variety, 34-year-old Bolger will star as IRA operative Bridget Walsh.
• She will link up with Oscar winner JK Simmons, who will lead the cast as crime boss Eamonn Sweeney.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 511

• Bothy Band, Úrua, Angelina Carberry & Dan Brouder, Des O'Halloran & Sharon Shannon, Laoise Kelly, Catherine McEvoy, Jason Rouse, Elaine Reilly, Mick Mulvey & Shane Meehan, Eleanor Shanley/Garadice, Sorcha Costello, Gatehouse, Joe Heaney, Oisin MacDiarmada/ Daithi Gormley/Samantha Harvey, Aine & Francis O'Connor, Paddy Cronin, Melvin Barrett, Dave Sheridan, Johnny Óg Connolly & Brian McGrath, Danu, Bothy Band

Listen to the Show

STATUE OF KING ORRY APPROVED BY THE PLANNING COMMITTEE – ISLE OF MAN

• It was recommended for refusal due to an archaeological survey not being carried out
• A plan to have an illuminated statue of King Orry in St John’s has been granted planning approval.
• It was recommended for refusal by the planning officer on the basis that Tynwald is ‘about the collective’ and that ‘prioritising’ a statue of one figure ‘deviates’ from that.

To read more, go here!

CHARITY APPEAL TO SAVE PREHISTORIC RITUAL SITE – Cornwall

• Cornwall Heritage Trust has launched a fundraising appeal to rescue and secure the future of a “unique prehistoric ritual site”.
• The charity said it hoped to raise £50,000 towards the acquisition of Castilly Henge, just off the A30 near Bodmin.
• Castilly Henge is a substantial oval earthwork, with an external bank and internal ditch, which the trust said would have formed an amphitheatre-like settings for gatherings and ritual activities.

To read more, go here!

Iowa Irish Fest

• Iowa Irish Fest is dedicated to celebrating Irish culture in Iowa and takes place in the Lincoln Park area of downtown Waterloo.
• The festival began in 2006 and has since grown into the biggest Irish celebration in Iowa. The Cedar Valley Irish Cultural Association, founder of the Iowa Irish Fest, is an organization intended to foster and develop Irish fellowship and outreach into the community with Irish cultural events and programs. Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook to stay up to date with all things Iowa Irish Fest!
• Some of the entertainer’s you will see are Skerryvore, Doolin, The Elders, Seo Linn, The Byrne Brothers, Colm & Laura Keegan, Aoife Scott, & many others!!!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

July 31, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

We’re sailing across the ocean on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #720 . Subscribe now!

Lussa, Tulua, Chloe Matharu, Andrew Finn Magill, Doolin', Marc Gunn Fir Arda, The Irish Lassies, Natalie Padilla, Jaywalkers, Brynmor, Wooden Legs, Celtica Pipes Rock, Moher – BZH

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – Lussa “Lussa Reels” from Lussa Reels

3:57 – WELCOME

6:22 – Tulua “The Opening Set” from No Coming No Going

10:56 – Chloe Matharu “The Silkie of Sule Skerry” from Sailors and Rolling Stones

17:37 – Andrew Finn Magill “Charles Dickens' Jig, Erynn & Carl's Jig” from Courting the Sun

21:31 – Doolin' “Sailing Across the Ocean” from Doolin'

24:18 – FEEDBACK

26:36 – Fir Arda “Boys of Ballycastle/The Dunmore Lasses” from At Home

30:29 – The Irish Lassies “Andersonville” from Andersonville

35:02 – Natalie Padilla “Terra” from Eostre

39:02 – Marc Gunn “Bunny in the Bracken” from Patreon Single

41:15 – THANKS

43:49 – Jaywalkers “The Longest Day” from Move On

47:44 – Brynmor “Musical Preist” from The Great Hill

49:58 – Wooden Legs “We Ne'er Shall Wean Her” from Animali

55:25 – Celtica Pipes Rock “Beyond Avalon” from Legends And Visions

59:04 – CLOSING

59:57 – Moher – BZH “Le reel du Cheval Blanc” from single

1:04:13 – CREDITS

Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories with a new feature coming soon. It’s called Quest & Chorus: Where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest.

This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

Todd Wiley, the Celtic Music Magazine editor, relaunched his old podcast. Celtic Indy Podcast is now available online. He’s currently aiming at new episodes every two weeks. You’ll learn about new Celtic music concerts in the Midwest on the show.

A big thanks to our very first underwriter of the podcast. Joseph Dumon is an international speaker. He teaches the ancient roots of the Gaelic people at Sightedmoon.com.

You’ll hear me mention him in each episode of the podcast at the end of the show. This is not exactly advertising. It’s awareness promotion. I have no more than four more slots available every month if you, your business or your band want to be mentioned as an underwriter of the podcast.

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINSupplies are limited. Grab your album pin now before they're gone! These stunning lapel pins feature bold designs inspired by our official podcast compilation albums—packed with some of the best Celtic bands around.And here’s the kicker: each pin comes with the full digital album. Art you can wear, music you can love. Get yours at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Kim Rasmussen, AndyF, Randall 5th Alexander, emmy, Joseph F Dumont, Kevin McGuffin

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

john stewart writes: “Hi Marc, I’ve been following your podcast for a while. I Immensely enjoy it. Thank you for making it available. Keep up the great work. ”

Matt Bettinson emailed a question: “Hey Marc, Do you use listener voice messages for Irish & Celtic Music? How do you usually collect them?”

Joseph F Dumont emailed: “Hello Marc, I love your shows thank you. I listen to them during my daily walks. When I don't listen to your show, I walk about one kilometre every 12 minutes or so. When I hear you play some great Celtic tunes, my pace picks up drastically as I walk to the beat. Then I am going about 9 minutes per km. It is awesome. I have now lost over 30 lbs and am closing in on my 40lb goal. You should promote this music as a weight loss program. I am also interested in advertising on your site, as you said in the latest podcast. For $100 a month, you would promote my ad. Can we discuss this, or how do I proceed?”

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Céad Míle FáilteHey all, it is Todd once again. In this issue we have a new episode of our very Irish & Celtic Music Podcast celebrating 20 years. The other podcast we focus on this week are Travelling in Ireland & Jock’s Celtic Calamity. We also feature a livestream concert Marc will be performing tonight. There is a list of new albums. The highlighted articles include ones about the Irish Emigration Museum, the Cornwall tourism minister trying to increase tourism, & 250-year-old shipwreck on a Scottish island. The featured festival this week is the Corvallis Celtic Festival taking place tonight (July 24) – Sunday (July 27) taking place at various venues in Corvallis, Oregon. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, Sláinte mhaith!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #719: 20 YEARS OF IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC!

• The Gothard Sisters, Albannach, Brobdingnagian Bards, The Drowsy Lads, Alexander James Adams, Poitín, Ed Miller, Matt & Shannon Heaton, Heather Dale, Sharon Shannon, Wolf Loescher & Mark Kenneth, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, The Merry Wives of Windsor, Anne Roos, The Irish Rovers, Haggis Rampant, Reilly, Gaelic Storm, The Canny Brothers Band, Stout Pounders, Ockham's Razor, The Rogues
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave D, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali
• Support for this program also comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com

Listen to the Showl

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?THE LAST STAND OF VINEGAR HILL LIVESTREAM

• The Ballad Engine
• An ancient force powers the rebellion. And it runs on song.
• You’ve heard of machines that run on steam, on fire, on quantum equations. But there’s another kind of engine—older than empires, invisible to tyrants, and built entirely from memory and melody.
• It’s called The Ballad Engine.
• On Thursday, July 24, join us live from the borderlands of Irish history and science fiction fantasy.
• This is Quest & Chorus LIVE: The Last Stand of Vinegar Hill.
• You’ll hear rebel songs from 1798.
  Folk anthems born in the Firefly ‘Verse.
  And the true story of a bard who sang across time.
• This isn’t just a concert.
  It’s an activation.

Listen here

NEW CDS

• Anemoia – by Etealune
• Tree of Hope – by Tom Richardson
• Teddy Horse-Hedgeborn – by Teddy Horse
• Boots, Booze, and the End of the Universe – by MJJ Jones
• In Memory of What Was – by Drew Avera
• modern mindfulness music – by motion arrey
• Annwn – by Mari Mathias
• The Highs and Lows of Nazaré – by Neil McDaniel
• Dulcimer Dreams – by Brian Leach

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: IRELAND’S UNDERRATED ATTRACTIONS (HOW TO ADD THEM TO YOUR ITINERARY & ESCAPE THE CROWDS)

• When a new list of “underrated” Irish attractions makes the rounds, I always take a look. Sometimes I nod in agreement. Sometimes I roll my eyes and wonder who decided the Rock of Cashel was a hidden secret.
• That was my reaction to a recent ranking from SumUp, which used everything from TripAdvisor reviews to Instagram posts and Google searches to highlight Ireland’s lesser-known spots. A great idea, if the definition of underrated doesn’t stretch to include Blarney Castle.

Listen here

EPIC THE IRISH EMIGRATION MUSEUM TRULY LIVES UP TO ITS NAME

• ON a recent trip to Dublin, after getting through catch-ups with various family members by the skin of my teeth, I decided to do a few activities usually aimed at tourists, and no I don't mean a jaunty trip to Temple Bar.
• I paid a visit to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, situated right on the banks of the Liffey.
• The museum, less than ten years old, is a marvel of glass and steel, and just a short walk from the city centre.
• Unlike traditional galleries and museums, EPIC offers an immersive journey through interactive storytelling.
• The museum has won “Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction” at the World Travel Awards for three years in a row.

To read more, go here!

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY: SHOW NO 546

• Liz Carroll, Richard Thompson, Hannah O’Brien & Grant Flick, Steeleye Span, Countercurrent, Scottish Fish, Eabhal, JigJam, Maura O'Connell, Eoin Murphy, The Buachaills, Western End, The Steeldrivers, Katie McNally Trio, Ruth Hazleton, Martin Hayes, Christy Moore, Floating Sofa Quartet, Pádraig Rynne, The Drystones, Éamonn Coyne, Jarlath Henderson, Hamish Hepburn, Jack Houston, Emily Smith & Jamie McClennan, Bagatelle, Nick Chandler and Delivered, Whyte Noise, Lúnasa, Plønk, Aron Wright, Mec Lir, The Maguires

Listen to the Show

MINISTER WANTS TO GET MORE TOURISTS TO CORNWALL

• The tourism minister says he wants to get more British people going on holiday in places like Cornwall rather than abroad.
• Sir Chris Bryant visited Falmouth and Mylor to meet people who work in tourism locally and discuss the state of the industry.

To read more, go here!

SCIENCE AND LOCAL SLEUTHING IDENTIFY A 250-YEAR-OLD SHIPWRECK ON A SCOTTISH ISLAND

• LONDON (AP) — When a schoolboy going for a run found the ribs of a wooden ship poking through the dunes of a remote Scottish beach, it sparked a hunt by archaeologists, scientists and local historians to uncover its story.
• Through a mix of high-tech science and community research, they have an answer. Researchers announced Wednesday that the vessel is very likely the Earl of Chatham, an 18th-century warship that saw action in the American War of Independence before a second life hunting whales in the Arctic — and then a stormy demise.
• “I would regard it as a lucky ship, which is a strange thing to say about a ship that’s wrecked,” said Ben Saunders, senior marine archaeologist at Wessex Archaeology, a charity that helped community researchers conduct the investigation.

To read more, go here!

CORVALLIS CELTIC FESTIVAL

• The Corvallis Celtic Festival is a summertime celebration held in Corvallis, Oregon! Immerse yourself in Celtic culture through lively music performances, participatory sessions, spirited dancing, and engaging workshops that showcase Celtic traditions.
• Performers include Amhranáithe, Ballybogs, Fionnghal, Open the Door for Three, Steeplechase, & many others!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

July 24, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

20 years of podcasting and sharing music on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #719 . Subscribe now!

The Gothard Sisters, Albannach, Brobdingnagian Bards, The Drowsy Lads, Alexander James Adams, Poitín, Ed Miller, Matt & Shannon Heaton, Heather Dale, Sharon Shannon, Wolf Loescher & Mark Kenneth, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, The Merry Wives of Windsor, Anne Roos, The Irish Rovers, Haggis Rampant, Reilly, Gaelic Storm, The Canny Brothers Band, Stout Pounders, Ockham's Razor, The Rogues

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:08 – The Gothard Sisters “Against the Grain” from Midnight Sun

4:49 – WELCOME

9:04 – Albannach “Hail to the Heroes” from The Sub – Zero Sessions EP

12:47 – Brobdingnagian Bards “I'm Coming Home” from Another Faire to Remember

17:19 – The Drowsy Lads “7 8, Final Answer” from Everyone In

20:51 – Alexander James Adams “Please Awake” from Harvest Season – Second Cutting

25:53 – Poitín “Mother And Child” from One For The Road

28:22 – FEEDBACK

31:14 – Ed Miller “The Prince of Darkness” from Lolander

36:35 – Matt & Shannon Heaton “Buried My Wife and Danced on Her Grave/Paddy Fahey's/Aherne's Egg (jigs)” from Whirring Wings

40:45 – Heather Dale “Bonny Bonny Broom” from My Celtic Heart

44:32 – Sharon Shannon “Butterflies” from Out The Gap

47:48 – Wolf Loescher & Mark Kenneth “Rigs o' Rye” from Loescher+Kenneth

51:32 – BREAK

53:23 – Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer “The Private Still” from Red House

57:51 – The Merry Wives of Windsor “All Among the Barley” from Drink This Pub Dry

1:00:39 – Anne Roos “Roslin Castle & The Woods of Kilmurry” from A Light in the Forest

1:06:54 – The Irish Rovers “Donovan's Pub in Ballinasloe” from No End in Sight

1:11:37 – Haggis Rampant “Pikeman's March/Battle of Waterloo/Lord Lovat’s Lament” from Trì

1:14:05 – THANKS

1:16:40 – Reilly “The Hunting Dogs” from Durty Pool

1:19:23 – Gaelic Storm “Girl’s Night in Galway” from Matching Sweaters

1:22:36 – The Canny Brothers Band “Take Me” from The Guinness Situation

1:26:35 – Stout Pounders “Old Dun Cow” from Pour Decisions

1:29:30 – Ockham's Razor “Moorlough Shores” from Garnet

1:34:14 – CLOSING

1:35:39 – The Rogues “The Warrior's Salute” from 25… and Live!

1:40:23 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINWant to wear your love of Celtic music? Check out our album pins—these are striking lapel pins inspired by our official podcast compilation albums, featuring some of the best Celtic bands we’ve ever had on the show. Each pin comes with a full digital album download, so you get great music and great style. Get all the details at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

BRING IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC TO THE WORLD FOR 20 YEARSOn July 28, 2005, I released the very first episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. This was not my first podcast. There were four others that I released first. All of them are still available to this day. Though one podfaded.

When I started, I was publishing the Celtic Music Magazine every week. I started podcasting to promote Celtic bands, but mostly I wanted to promote my own band, Brobdingnagian Bards. It was a new and exciting way to get my music heard. But something happened along the way. It became less and less about my band and more about how I could help bands be heard. And it worked.

In fact, I featured a total of 79 Celtic bands in the months that followed in 2005. That includes Brobdingnagian Bards and my Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers project. Here are some of the bands who were featured.

1: Susan Hamlin, Three Quarter Ale, Dust Rhinos, Cluan, Fathom, The BorderCollies, Tara's Fire, Paul McKenna, Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats, Brobdingnagian Bards

2: StoneRing, The Slip, Hugh Morrison, Caladh, MacTalla Mor, Lenahan, The Bloody Irish Boys, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Celtic Stone

3: The Barley Boys, Contea, Queen's Gambit, Highland Fling, Michael Murphy and the River Shannon Band, Amadan, Raymond McCullough, Bow Triplets, The Rogues

4: The Irish Experience, Cairde na Gael, The Black Irish, Avalon Rising, Heather Gilmer and Jeff Moore, Sarah Dinan, Bedlam Bards, Emerald Rose, Kristen Roger, Heather Dale, Serious Kitchen, Empty Hats

5: Rise, Ed Miller, Tullamore, Paisley Close, Cantiga, Thomas “Doc” Grauzer, Cady Finlayson, Rimbo, Don Grieve, Black 47

6: Moch Pryderi, Enter the Haggis, The Patched Hats, Seelie Court, Eric Benson with The Boatrights, Ali Benson, 3 Pints Gone, Sligo Rags, Angel's Share

7: The Tea Merchants, Keltic Kaleidoscope, Brothers 3, EJ Jones, Shays Rebellion, Marc Gunn

8: Niamh Parsons, Flook, Willie McCulloch, Gan Fidil, Pol Mac Adaim, The Elders

9: Tears for Beers, Clandestine, Stonering, Athas, Carl Peterson

You can see the full list on the website. Many of these artists are no longer performing. What’s more interesting is that about a quarter of these artists are still making new music to this day.

Today, I will highlight some of the amazing Celtic bands that are still performing after 15 – 20 years. I started my list with three perennial favorites of mine who’ve been on the show for a long time and are still performing: Poitin, Ed Miller, and The Gothard Sisters. Admittedly, The Gothard Sisters were a late addition to the show, coming on in 2010.

But of all the bands, they are to me a shining beacon of this podcast. Because you can see them grow and develop as musicians and songwriters over the course of this show. So I had to include them.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Dave D, Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Jeff, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30, $100.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Kim commented on Patreon from the Celts of Pride Month #712 episode: “Love the new compositions for bagpipes!”

Joseph Linahon emailed: “Hello, I hope this email finds you well. I am with The AML Trio, a hard strumming, foot stomping celtic folk trio from the Oregon coast. We recently released our debut album, Sons of Erin's Isle, and are looking for sites to review our very first CD release. The band has become popular in the Pacific Northwest, performing at the Oregon Renaissance Faire, Bellingham Washington Scottish Gathering, the Utah Highland Games, Oregon Celtic Festival and more. The full album is available to listen to free of charge on all digital platforms, including bandcamp – https://amltrio.bandcamp.com/album/sons – of – erins – isle If you'd like a physical copy of the CD, please let me know where to send it and we'll be happy to send one over. Social media links below, and a link to our debut music video. I truly appreciate your consideration and hope you have a wonderful week. “Whiskey in the Jar” Official Music Video

Woodland Folk wrote a quote: “do not tell the priest our plight for he would call it a sin but we've been up in the wood all night a conjuring summer in” Oak & ash & thorn, Kipling….”

James Kavajecz emailed: “Looking for a song that you played back in the 2000s about a miner who was digging coal and was stealing the devil's heart, later became a museum tour guide and he would believe in Jesus if he was standing behind him in a union picket line. Heard it while I while I was in Japan. Now I can remember it. Thanks for the great work you have done and are doing.”

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Céad Míle FáilteTodd here once again for weekly spattering of Celtic news. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts featured are Mostly Folk & Erin’s Isle. There is also a new list of recent music releases. The articles highlighted are about two new stage productions of James Joyce works, public housing in the Isle of Man, and the Gaiety Theatre. The festival we cast a spotlight on this week is the Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival taking place July 18 – 20, 2025 at Look Park in Northampton, MA. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #718: IRISH REBELLION IN WEXFORD

• Maggie’s Wake, Marc Gunn, The Almost Irish Band, Avourneen, Téada, The Ciderhouse Rebellion, David Pedrick, Kennedy's Kitchen, Pipedance, Robert Zielinski, Sheridan Rúitín, River Drivers, Emerald Rose, The Bloody Irish Boys, Kilmaine Saints, Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Jan Fead, Dave D, Annette Macher, Lan Kelly, Cadence Watson

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?THE LAST STAND OF VINEGAR HILL LIVESTREAM

• The Ballad Engine doesn’t need your sword.
  It needs your voice.
• On Thursday, July 24, join us live from the borderlands of Irish history and science fiction fantasy.
• This is Quest & Chorus LIVE: The Last Stand of Vinegar Hill.
• You’ll hear rebel songs from 1798.
  Folk anthems born in the Firefly ‘Verse.
  And the true story of a bard who sang across time
• This isn’t just a concert.
  It’s an activation.

Join us

NEW CDS

• Natural Elements Duets Live at the Music Room – by Hayley Ryerson
• Now the summer is over – by Caracana
• The banks of the Fowey – by Caracana
• for the love of it… – by Caracana
• Wheels of Time – by February Sky
• Sweet Songs Laboratory – Double Album – by Adam Sweet
• Ain't No Sangin' – by February Sky

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

ERIN’S ISLE: CORK’S ENGLISH MARKET

• The English Market in Cork is a beautiful rendition of the markets you can find in the UK. And although it originated at a time when England ruled over Ireland, it is still celebrated as a belief in tradition.
• Originally opened in the 18th century, the building i s a two-story market with an arched ceiling and it is packed with more than 50 vendors. It started as a meat market but has grown into a full market with a focus on freshness, locally grown, organic products and eco-friendly companies.

Listen here

JOYCE’S DUBLIN COMES ALIVE ON STAGE IN VOLTA THEATRE’S NEW PRODUCTION

• THE Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith will host the UK premiere of two compelling stage adaptations from James Joyce’s short story collection Dubliners this weekend.
• Counterparts and A Little Cloud will run at the west London venue today, Friday, July 11 and tomorrow Saturday, July 12.
• Presented by Volta Theatre Company, the double bill offers an intimate, affecting portrait of early 20th-century Dublin, with live period music enriching the atmosphere.

To read more, go here!

MOSTLY FOLK EPISODE 736

• Robby Hecht, Leonard Cohen, Lil Rev, Eric Erickson,
  Eli West, Aliza Hava, Simon Scardanelli, Peter Campbell, Judy Kass, Mike Ward: Psychosongs, Peter Salett, Emma's Revolution, Eli West, Mike Ward

Listen to the Show

TEN PEOPLE GRANTED EXEMPTIONS TO BE FAST-TRACKED INTO PUBLIC HOUSING

• Policy requires a ten-year residency for eligibility
• Clarification on the granting of public sector housing eligibility waivers has been provided in response to a written Tynwald question from Speaker of the House of Keys, Member for Rushen, Juan Watterson.

To read more, go here!

‘WE'RE VERY LUCKY’: THEATRE CHAMPION URGES ISLAND TO CHERISH GAIETY AS IT TURNS 125

• Today marks a milestone for one of the Isle of Man’s most treasured cultural gems – the Gaiety Theatre, which celebrates its 125th anniversary.
• The much-loved venue on Douglas Promenade first opened its doors on July 16, 1900, with a performance of The Telephone Girl, a West End comedy starring Miss Ada Blanche.

To read more, go here!

GLASGOW LANDS SCOTTISH FESTIVAL

• Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival is the only Scottish Festival in Massachusetts, and the second largest one in New England. We are proud to have been bringing world class Scottish Arts to the Pioneer Valley for 30 years.Our 2025 festival promises to be extra special not only are we bringing incredible Pipe Bands, Athletes, Entertainment, Food, and more to Northampton. We have a few surprises up our sleeves for all of our attendees. You won't want to miss it!
• Some of the entertainment you will see consists of Albannach, The Devil’s Brigade, & Waking Finnegan

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

July 17, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

Learn more about the Irish Rebellion in Wexford in 1798 on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #718 . Subscribe now!

Maggie’s Wake, Marc Gunn, The Almost Irish Band, Avourneen, Téada, The Ciderhouse Rebellion, David Pedrick, Kennedy's Kitchen, Pipedance, Robert Zielinski, Sheridan Rúitín, River Drivers, Emerald Rose, The Bloody Irish Boys, Kilmaine Saints, Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:08 – Maggie’s Wake “Harrison’s Way” from Maggie’s Wake

1:46 – WELCOME

4:28 – Marc Gunn “Rising of the Moon” from St. Patrick's Day

6:33 – The Almost Irish Band “Wind That Shakes the Barley & Cuckoo's Nest” from Song Henge, Vol. 21

8:44 – Avourneen “The Wind that Shakes the Barley” from Sparrow

11:13 – Téada “Jig / Air / March – Farewell to Stoneybatter / An Raibh Tú ag an gCarraig / March at Kilmore” from Coiscéim Coiligh / As the Days Brighten

15:14 – The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery “Jimmy Murphy” from A Little Bit Slanted

18:28 – FEEDBACK

22:49 – David Pedrick “Tintern” from On the Way

24:10 – Kennedy's Kitchen “Vinegar Hill” from The Hotting Fire

28:13 – Pipedance “The Mountain Road / Jenny Picking Cockles / The Woman of the House / Rakish Paddy” from The Pleasures of Hope

33:03 – Sheridan Rúitín “Boolavogue” from Rebels in the Night

38:05 – Robert Zielinski “Flax in Bloom/The Green Groves of Erin” from The Day Dawn

40:39 – THANKS

45:29 – River Drivers “KELLY THE BOY FROM KILLANE” from Live at SteelStacks

48:44 – Emerald Rose “Mountain Fey” from Sunwise

51:15 – The Bloody Irish Boys “Enniscorthy in a Bottle” from Drunk Rock

55:11 – Kilmaine Saints “Wearing of the Green” from The Good, The Plaid, and The Ugly

57:26 – CLOSING

1:00:18 – Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones “The Dying Rebel” from Let Ye All Be Irish Tonight

1:04:38 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. Let’s protect the land and people that we love.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

Last month, I led my Celtic Invasion of County Wexford. We visited the National 1798 Irish Rebellion Museum. I learned a lot.

In the summer of 1798, in the town of Enniscorthy, a spark was lit that echoed across the centuries. Inspired by the ideals of liberty and self – determination that fueled the American and French Revolutions, ordinary Irish men and women rose up against British rule—hoping to shape a freer, more equal Ireland.

The United Irishmen, a movement of Protestants and Catholics alike, dreamed of unity. But their rebellion was met with brutal force. The most haunting chapter came to a head on Vinegar Hill, where rebels made their last stand.

Though the 1798 Rebellion was crushed, the spirit behind it lived on. It became a quiet current beneath Irish history, resurfacing again in 1916 during the Easter Rising—and carrying through to modern Ireland.

Today’s episode features songs and tunes inspired by the 1798 rebellion. These are songs of hope, defiance, heartbreak, and memory. This episode is not about blame. They’re about telling the stories of those who dared to dream of freedom.

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINWant to wear your love of Celtic music? Check out our album pins—these are striking lapel pins inspired by our official podcast compilation albums, featuring some of the best Celtic bands we’ve ever had on the show. Each pin comes with a full digital album download compilation, so you get great music and great style. Get all the details at magerecords.com

And if you’re a musician, I’ve got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of Celtic music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

If you noticed things missing on Patreon, I made a change and I forgot to tell you beforehand. My apologies. So let me explain what happened.

The podcast hasn't recovered from the income drop at the beginning of the year. It is $500 less than it was, every month. As you can imagine, that is a bit challenging.

So I made several Tier pricing changes over the past few months. Currently, the lowest level is $4 per month. The Song Henger level is $12 per month. Celtic Legends is $30 per month.

I also changed what is on each Tier. This is where the issue occurred. I moved the Music – Only Tier to the Song Henger level.

Right now, the basic Patron of the Podcast level includes the Public Episode before regular listeners and a Vote in the Celtic Top 20. (Plus the Chat Room, one time thanks on the podcast, and occasional blogs and reviews).

The Song Henger level includes that above, plus the Music – Only episode, Irish & Celtic Music Interviews, exclusive Celtic Videos, some full – length audio concerts, and the digital compilations.

And of course, the Celtic Legends level includes a thank you in the podcast at least once a month.

I added in a new tier. We are now looking for Underwriters for the podcast. If you have a business, band, or an individual, I will announce you as such every week on the show.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Jan Fead, Dave D, Annette Macher, Lan Kelly, Cadence Watson

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Mónica emailed: “Hi Marc!! I have closed my Facebook profile two years ago so I prefer to write you down here. But no need to answer nor mention my message in your programs. This is only for pleasure, not for glory! ;P I've discovered your program two weeks ago, soon after St. Patrick's celebration which is very special for me, not only as a great fan of Irish and celtic music but also as mum of a 13 year – old beauty who was born on March 17th!! My name is Mónica and I'm from Asturias, another celtic region close to Galicia, in Spain. I'm living in Brittany now so I hear your shows from France. I was very very pleased with your podcasts when I suddenly found them on the iTunes library. I've loved the 3 – hour St. Patrick's Day Special and I've recommended your shows to my brother who lives in Packenham, Ontario. Thank you for all this excellent work and keep on broadcasting!! Greetings from Quimper!! Mónica”

Allie Stockton commented on Patreon: “I'm listening at work this morning.”

Shawn emailed: “Love the Music! Listening from Newfoundland, Canada , I absolutely love everything about this station!”

Jeff Laszlo emailed: “Listened to this week's podcast as Mary and I drove to Greenville for the Scottish Games and Galibrae.”

Lucia Tappero emailed: “Hello, from Alaska! I have a friend who’s active in our Celtic Community here that insists I should send you our Irish pub music CDs for your podcast. How can I best do that? We do have digital versions and we have CDs as well. Cheers, Lucia Tappero. Www.roguesandwenches.com ”

Woodland Folk sent a photo of his fiddle and bottle of wine

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. How is everyone? I am sorry again for the delay. I thought this got posted. Unfortunately, apparently there were some issues on my end. But let’s jump into it in the issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts we showcase include The Irish Pagan School Podcast and my own Celtic Indy Podcast. We have included a new list of recent album releases. The featured articles are about new music release in Ireland, a Viking hoard found in Scotland, and a Cornish ale now being served in Parliament. The highlighted festival is the Casper Celtic Irish Festival taking place July 18 – 19 at the Nicolaysen Art Museum in Casper, WY. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #717: ONLY THE HIGHLIGHTS, PLEASE!

• This is the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #717. Today, I’m sharing the very first Highlight Reel we released over on Patreon. Highlight Reels are music-only episodes. They feature some of the best tracks, as voted on by fans of the show, from the 5-7 previous episodes. So these were all from the beginning of 2022.
• Patrons of the Podcast get Highlight Reels every few months. You also get Music-Only episodes every week. I won’t be introducing individual songs or tunes. Instead, you can go to the shownotes at celticmusicpodcast.com to find out who’s who in this episode.
• As always thank you to our amazing Patrons

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CDS

• Tús – by Úna
• Midleton Rare – by John Cronin & Daithí Kearney
• Tuatha Dé Donann – by Díréadú
• Goldenrod – by February Sky
• Time-Honored Pathways – by February Sky
• Les Chroniques du Chat Noir [OST] © – by Tristan Lohengrin

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

THE IRISH PAGAN SCHOOL PODCAST: IS CÚ CHULAINN A TRAGIC HERO? EXPLORING THE MYTH & LEGACY

• Is Cú Chulainn a true tragic hero, or is his story more complicated than it seems? In this insightful video, Jon O'Sullivan of the Irish Pagan School delves into the myths and historical contexts surrounding one of Ireland's most famous figures, Cú Chulainn (Setanta Mac Súaltam).Often romanticised as a paragon of heroism, Cú Chulainn's tale reveals darker layers of violence, manipulation, and tragic choices, making him more of a tragic figure than a hero. Jon examines the Ulster Cycle and the cultural upbringing that shaped Cú Chulainn into a complex character who was ultimately a product of his violent society.Discover the deeper truths behind this iconic figure of Irish mythology and how his legacy has been used throughout history. If you're curious about the real story of Cú Chulainn, Jon also offers a full class, “Cú Chulainn: A Life of Stories,” available at the Irish Pagan School.

Listen here

ON THE RECORD – THE BEST NEW MUSIC RELEASES IN IRELAND THIS MONTH

• “GRATITUDE is the key to serendipity,” says Dirty Marmalade about their debut album, Hills of Breifne (Spooky Jazz Records).
• It’s a fair enough observation from the Cavan band, who also state their manifesto (of sorts) via a press release: “We stand for the creative weirdos struggling to find their place among mainstream society.”

To read more, go here!

CELTIC INDY PODCAST: PATINA ROCKS

• In this episode we feature music from Reverie Road featuring Liam Kantor, Patina, Ben Traverse & Nick Veine, The Irish Airs, On the Lash, Kinnfolk, Hounds of Finn, Blackwillow Starling, Erin Hill, Crossbow, & Whorled. We also have list concerts and festivals taking place in an around the Midwest. We have also included a history of the song Wild Mountain Time (AKA Wilde Mountain Time, Wild Mountain Thyme, or Wilde Mountain Thyme).

Listen to the Show

UNBURIED TREASURE: A VIKING HOARD FOUND BY A SCOTTISH DETECTORIST AND ITS ‘BIZARRE’ LINK TO SOUTH AUSTRALIA

• In AD900, marauding Vikings buried a hoard of treasure – jewellery, gold, silver and more – in Scotland. It wasn’t until 2014 that it was unearthed.
• Metal detectorist Derek McLennan was prospecting in a ploughed field near Dumfries and Galloway when he came across the hoard, which turned out to be the most significant Viking-age collection ever found in the UK or Ireland.

To read more, go here!

CORNISH ALE LANDS SPOT IN PARLIAMENT BAR AFTER MP'S SUPPORT

• A CORNISH brewery will have one of its products served in the bar of the Houses of Parliament after a campaign by the MP for North Cornwall.
• Bluntrock Brewery and Taproom, produced in St Minver, near Wadebridge, was invited to Parliament to show off the ‘best that the brewery has to offer’ and as a result, the brewerys Bluntrock Gold will be served in the ‘Stranger’s Bar’ on draught.

To read more, go here!

CASPER CELTIC IRISH FESTIVAL

• The 2025 Casper Celtic Irish Festival celebrates Celtic Culture through music, dancing, and various cultural experiences. In July, join us for live performances from artists like Colm Keegan, Irish dancing, classes and seminars on Celtic Culture, and so much more. Located at the Nicolaysen Art Museum at 400 E Collins Drive, this festival will be a 2-day event that starts on Friday, July 18th, with doors opening at 5:30 pm, and continues on Saturday, July 19th, with doors opening at 9:30 am. The first day will feature a concert from our 2 headlining acts, with day 2 being a full day of activities. Click on event details to see a full list of activities and learn more about them.
• Some the entertainment you will see includes Colm Keegan, On the Lash, Syr, Once Upon a Tune, Celtic Solas, and more.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

July 10, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

This is the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #717. Today, I’m sharing the very first Highlight Reel we released over on Patreon. Highlight Reels are music-only episodes. They feature some of the best tracks, as voted on by fans of the show, from the 5-7 previous episodes. So these were all from the beginning of 2022.

Patrons of the Podcast get Highlight Reels every few months. You also get Music-Only episodes every week. I won’t be introducing individual songs or tunes. Instead, you can go to the shownotes at celticmusicpodcast.com to find out who’s who in this episode.

If you like Music-Only episodes or this Highlight Reel, make sure to join our Patrons on Patreon at songhenge.com.

In fact, if you don’t like this format… sign up on Patreon. That’s what keeps this show going each and every week.

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2-3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSICWelcome to the all – new Celtic Top 20 podcast.

We are over halfway through the year. There are over 60 new tracks added to our Irish & Celtic Music: Best of 2022 playlists on Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube. It’s gonna be a nightmare to cut that list down to the Top 20 this year. I want to try something new. Which hopefully will make you happy. Because you get extra podcasts that are exclusively available to patrons!

I’m gonna compile Celtic Top 20 podcasts. Each episode will feature about 13 – 19 songs and tunes. I’m gonna create another poll. Your job is to listen and vote for your top 3 songs and tunes. Please include at least one vocal song and one instrumental tune. The third one can be whatever you love.

Hopefully, this will help us narrow our end of year list down to the absolute Best of 2022.

And as an added bonus, this one at least will be a music – only episode for everyone. Well, at least after I finish talking.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2022This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2022 episode. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC2:51 – House of Hamill “Superb Owl” from Folk Hero

6:00 – Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh “The Emigrant's Farewell” from daybreak: fainne an lae

9:46 – Gerry O'Connor “The Old Dash Churn (Jigs)” from Last Night's Joy

13:51 – The McDades “Les Trois Capitaines” from The Empress

18:38 – Cara Dillon “Garden Valley” from After The Morning

22:37 – We Banjo 3 “Wynne's” from Roots to Rise

26:27 – Marc Gunn & Screeched Inn “Bright Side of Everything” from Selcouth

29:36 – Tuatha de Danann “The Dream One Dreamt” from In Nomine Éireann

33:58 – The Jig Is Up! “Lonesome Road to Dingle – Star Above the Garter – Newmarket Polka” from First Steps

37:34 – An Lár “TCC” from Deception

41:26 – Hair Of The Dog “The Little Beggarman” from Donegal

43:41 – The Barley Boys “Raggle Taggle Gypsy” from The Days of Abundance

48:43 – The Carroll Sisters “Reels For Three Brothers” from Daybreak

53:19 – The Rogues “Hollerin' For Haggis!” from Made In Texas

59:14 – Old Blind Dogs “The Bonnie Earl O Moray” from Four On The Floor

1:03:54 – Marc Gunn “Breathing (feat. Jamie Haeuser)” from Selcouth

1:08:07 – Kathy Barwick “My Native Home” from In My Life

1:13:16 – Heather Dale “Lark and Dove” from Sphere

1:17:13 – Jenna Moynihan “The Eagle's Whistle – Major Campbell Graham” from Woven

The Celtic Top 20 Podcast was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. Promote Celtic culture through music with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is your editor, Todd once again. Sorry about getting this out later than usual, it has been a busy week. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. As well as new episodes of Traveling in Ireland & Jock’s Celtic Calamity Show. We have included a list of new albums as well. The highlighted articles are about the Dublin airport testing new technology, a meteor in the skies above Scotland, & a drone appearing above Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. The featured festival this week is the Almonte Celtfest taking place this weekend, July 4 – 6 at Gemmill Park in Almonte, ON, Canada. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #716: PUB SONGS

• Folk Songs & Stories Flashback episode on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #716. Subscribe now!
• This is an off-week for the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I was not planning to schedule any episodes here. But then I remembered that I have a whole bunch of Celtic music episodes that I play on our companion podcast Folk Songs & Stories. Those episodes vary greatly from shows where I talk about the songs I perform, interviews and occasionally, I have episodes like this, which are sort of like short versions of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, except sometimes I talk a little more about what’s going on with my music.
• In this episode, we’re flashing back to 2010, the week before my first daughter was born. There are some links that are still available in the shownotes at on our website at celticmusicpodcast.com
• Thank you patrons of the podcast!

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CDS

• Get weekly updates of New CDs in our Celtic Music Magazine and download 34 Celtic MP3s for free at bestcelticmusic.net. #NewCelticCDs
• Celtic Horizon – An Irish Journey in Tunes and Tales – by The Celtic Journey
• Only Stones & Roots Remain – by Fascination music
• The Stillness Here – by A Thousand Years at Sea
• Mine høvdinge (Part to) – by Fuimadane
• Follow Me – by Elemental Magic
• Courting the Sun – by Andrew Finn Magill
• Tributes & Inspiration – by Kieran Hegarty
• Of Tunes , Waves , Storms and Mountains – by Gran Turna

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

TRAVELING IN IRELAND: IRELAND FOR CHRISTMAS? ADVICE YOU NEED BEFORE BOOKING YOUR FLIGHTS

• I received a question from a podcast listener with some questions about Christmas travel in Ireland. While her inquiry about car rental and things they could consider doing was an easy one for me to answer, it was the conversation that followed that prompted this episode…

Listen here

DUBLIN AIRPORT TRIALS NEW TECHNOLOGY WHICH REMOVES CARBON DIOXIDE FROM THE AIR

• NEW technology which removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is being trialled at Dublin Airport.
• Developed at Trinity College Dublin (TCD), the innovation is designed to help reduce industrial emissions at a critical time in the fight against climate change.
• “Atmospheric carbon capture innovations are crucial because they directly address one of the most pressing challenges we face today – reducing carbon emissions from industries that can't easily eliminate them at the source,” TCD’s Professor Wolfgang Schmitt explained.

To read more, go here!

JOCK'S CELTIC CALAMITY SHOW NO. 543

• Talisk, The Outside Track, Deanta, Kíla, Paul Frost Brass, Lúnasa, Karen Matheson, Michelle Gahan, John Doyle, Kathleen MacInnes, William Coulter & Friends, Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham, Amaidí, Beoga, Dosca, Beòlach, Qristina & Quinn Bachand, Freya Rae, Tannas, Àirdan, Karen Dolan, Des Harrington, The McKassons, The Piano Guys, Mick West Band, The Here and Now, Crossbow, JSD Band, Fiddlers' Bid

Listen to the Show

METEOR BURNS BRIGHTLY ACROSS NIGHT SKY IN SCOTLAND

• Astonished Scots have captured a meteor streaking and burning brightly across the night sky.
• The orange light and accompanying bang was spotted at about 00:50 by people on the Isle of Lewis, Stirling, Glasgow and in Argyll and Bute.

To read more, go here!

OASIS DRONE DISPLAY APPEARS AHEAD OF STADIUM GIG

• A large drone display showing the classic Oasis logo appeared above Cardiff's Principality Stadium on Wednesday night ahead of the band's heavily anticipated reunion tour.
• Illuminated drones were flown in formation to produce the logo against the night sky.
• The one-night display has added to the buzz as Liam and Noel Gallagher prepare to kick off their 41-gig reunion tour with two nights at the Welsh stadium on Friday and Saturday.

To read more, go here!

Almonte Celtfest

• Almonte Celtfest is an annual cultural celebration of the Almonte (Mississippi Mills), Ottawa Valley, greater Ottawa region’s heritage through music, song, and dance, and is located in the rural community of Almonte. It is a three-day, by-donation event that features a schedule of presentations and activities in Gemmill Park and the downtown area. Celtfest endeavours to explore and celebrate a wide variety of local culturally significant history and heritage by supporting culture and traditions that include, but are not limited to, the Scottish and Irish settlers, the Francophone community, and the Algonquin (Anishnaabeg) peoples. The festival features a wide variety of performances, workshops, street performances, children’s activities, and concerts, and encourages impromptu sessions or ceilidhs.
• Some the entertainers you will see include Bytown Sea Shanty Collective, Mudmen, Alex Kusturok, Fromage À Trois, La Déferlance, Crooked Creek, The McDades, Sassenach, Maggie’s Wake, & many more

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

July 3, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Folk Songs & Stories Flashback episode on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #716. Subscribe now!

This is an off-week for the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I was not planning to schedule any episodes here. But then I remembered that I have a whole bunch of Celtic music episodes that I play on our companion podcast Folk Songs & Stories. Those episodes vary greatly from shows where I talk about the songs I perform, interviews and occasionally, I have episodes like this, which are sort of like short versions of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, except sometimes I talk a little more about what’s going on with my music.

In this episode, we’re flashing back to 2010, the week before my first daughter was born. There are some links that are still available in the shownotes at on our website at celticmusicpodcast.com

Though if you enjoy the show, please subscribe at PubSong.com

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2-3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSICThis is the final Pub Songs Podcast before my daughter is born. With any luck it'll be no later than her due date on October 23rd, but we're still waiting. Meantime, lots of thoughtful news.

Notes:

• New iMix Promotion: October iMix. Please give your feedback and suggestions for next month.
• Promote My Music on CelticRadio.net: Request Peggy Gordon and Kilted For Her Pleasure
• What are your favorite CDs of Marc Gunn?
• What are your favorite songs from Kilted For Her Pleasure?
• Episode 2 of the St Patrick's Day Podcast is now out
• Celtic MP3s Music Magazine is newly formatted
• Visit the Celtic CD Store for special features on indie Celtic music!
• Marc Gunn Did Big Bang Theory rip off the Brobdingnagian Bards? See the video.
• Celtic Invasion of Ireland 2011
• Find out what's on Clearance at ThinkGeek!

“The Mermaid” by Marc Gunn from Going for Brogue: Irish Pub Songs and Sea Shanties

“March of Cambreadth” by Heather Alexander from Midsummer

“All I See Is Red” by Ceann from Everything's Fine

“Fairy Story” by Brobdingnagian Bards from A Faire to Remember

“Reels: Farrell O'Gara/Ril Gan Ainm/The Flying Irishman” by Rattle the Boards from The Parish Platform

“This Land” by Kinfolk from This Land

“Two Sisters” by Clannad from An Dolaim

Marc Gunn in the News:

• Kilted For Her Pleasure was reviewed on 67 Celtic Music
• The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast got a blazingly good write up on the On a Grahampage blog.
• Joanna suggests a wine tasting at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival
• Irish Abroad has a new fan group for Marc Gunn
• Wandering Geek and Random Acts Radio featured “A Rabbit For Halloween”
• Indie Rock Reviews played my song “Happy Birthday, Dear Hobbit & Friend”
• The Ren-Fest Experience Podcast played my song “My Love Is Like a Red, Red Rose” on show #6.

Support the Podcast:

If this show is entertaining, you can return the favor… Buy Me a Pint!

Find out more about Marc Gunn and buy Celtic Music CDs.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music-only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

An album pin is a lapel pin with artwork inspired by a specific album or song from an album. It could be the actual album artwork or it could be inspired by a specific track on the album.

The best album pins stand out on their own. They appeal to more than just your fans. It is simple, bold, and visually engaging. However, what truly makes it an “album pin” is that the purchaser also gets a digital album with their pin.

I have an entire blog on my website with details including templates for you to make your own album pin jacket.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST! Thank You for Powering the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast!

Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music-only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Andreas emailed about travel to Ireland and Scotland. He wrote: “Hello Mark, I will be cruising on my sailboat in Scotland and Ireland this summer. I wonder if you have any recommendations for places to go to hear Irish and Celtic music. Thanks”

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Podcast & Folk Songs & Stories. The other featured podcasts are The National Leprechaun Museum Talking Stories & Mostly Folk. We have included a list of new albums as well. The highlighted articles include ones about an interview with Presh, a bronze age burial site under a park in Cardiff, & a band winning a contest for the second row in a year. The festival we spotlight is the Ohio Scottish Games & Celtic Festival, taking place at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea, OH, on June 27 – 28. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #715: WE'RE ONLY MORTAL

• The Rogues, Joseph Carmichael, Willowgreen, Robert Zielinski, The High Kings, Katie Jane Band, Open The Door For Three, The Secret Commonwealth, Ryan Dunne, The Lilies of the Midwest, Olivia Barrett, Ruth Keggin & Rachel Hair, Fidra, Ghost Of A Banshee
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?FOLK SONGS & STORIES #304: HARRY POTTER RISING OF THE MOON: THE CAT WHO LIVED (TO SING IRISH SONGS)

• Wanna hear a Harry Potter inspired cat song? Plus learn some facts about whether you should declaw your cat. Celebrate Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers’ 20th anniversary with this special podcast of the new and the old.
• This is Folk Songs & Stories #304

Listen here

NEW CDS

• Máni's Return – by Emerald Runar
• Celestial Pipes of Eire – by Ponytail Girl Melodies
• The Woe in Wookey Hole – Original Soundtrack – by Lord Parker
• CELTIC SOUNDS | |Calm Traks – by Paradise Sonus
• The Taunton Tension – Original Soundtrack – by Lord Parker
• Murder at the Monastery – Original Soundtrack – by Lord Parker
• Music From the Hollow Hills – by Mary Grace
• Faerie Songbook – by Olivia Graham
• Hold the Door Open – by Drake Oranwood
• Caillte sa Cheol | Lost in the Music – by Ciarán Ó Maonaigh

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

NATIONAL LEPRECHAUN MUSEUM TALKING STORIES: SEASON3 EP3 THE STORYTELLERS

• Welcome to the third Episode for Season 3 of the National Leprechaun Museum's podcast, The Storytellers.
• This episode we discuss the next category of story required by the Filí (the bards) to know earn their title. This category is Battles!

Listen here

TEN MINUTES WITH…PRESH

• DUBLIN-BASED artist Presh recently released his new Afrobeat single This Feeling.
• The song, blending touches of pop and R&B with the Afrobeat elements, is a follow-up to Presh’s This Year and Voices.

To read more, go here!

MOSTLY FOLK EPISODE 733 VINCENT CROSS INTERVIEW

• This episode features an interview and music from Vincent Cross.

Listen to the Show

BRONZE AGE BURIAL SITE FOUND UNDER POPULAR CARDIFF PARK

• During an archaeological dig under a popular Cardiff park in 2022, a roundhouse that dates back to around 1500 BC was discovered. It was an amazing discovery and is believed to be the oldest house at Cardiff.
• Last year's dig focused on excavating around the roundhouses to find out how people lived 3,500 years ago. You can read more here. Now, on its fourth dig volunteers have unearthed a Bronze Age burial site, just underneath a popular playing field in Cardiff.

To read more, go here!

BAND WINS TOP TROPHY FOR SECOND YEAR RUNNING AT CONTEST IN CORNWALL

• CAMBORNE Town Band under conductor Gareth Churcher triumphed once again at the West of England Bandmen’s Festival.
• The band lifted the Royal Trophy in the championship section at the festival, also known as the Bugle Band Contest, for the second year running.

To read more, go here!

OHIO SCOTTISH GAMES & CELTIC FESTIVAL

• The Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic Festival is held on the 4th Saturday every June.
• The Games runs under The Scottish American Cultural Society of Ohio, Inc (SACSO).
• Established in 1977, this long standing event is presented by members of The Ohio Scottish American Cultural Society of Ohio, an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of their proud Scottish Heritage and ancestry.
• The Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic Festival highlights the traditional dance, music and athletics of the ancient highland games while celebrating the cultural of the Celtic nations. This event is for the enjoyment of all Scots and friends as well as to introduce the Scottish Arts and traditions to the community.
• Some of the entertainment you will include The Prodigals, On the Lash, Father Son & Friends, Trio 42, Robert Mouland, Steeltown Acoustic Instruments Experience, & Geordie Symes’ Pirates Smallpipe Group,

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

June 26, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

We’re only mortal but the music lives on with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #715. Subscribe now!

The Rogues, Joseph Carmichael, Willowgreen, Robert Zielinski, The High Kings, Katie Jane Band, Open The Door For Three, The Secret Commonwealth, Ryan Dunne, The Lilies of the Midwest, Olivia Barrett, Ruth Keggin & Rachel Hair, Fidra, Ghost Of A Banshee

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:06 – The Rogues “Hellbound Sleigh” from 25… and Live!

4:41 – WELCOME

6:38 – Joseph Carmichael “Jan & Jim's” from Desiderium

11:25 – Willowgreen “Follow the Heron” from Sheila's Brush

14:43 – Robert Zielinski “Neilidh Boyle's Highland/Jimmy Lyons' Highland” from The Day Dawn

17:06 – The High Kings “Iveagh Gardens” from The Road Not Taken

21:05 – FEEDBACK

23:00 – Katie Jane Band “Loch Lomond” from Wild One

27:07 – Open The Door For Three “The Drunken Gauger” from A Prosperous Gale

30:19 – The Secret Commonwealth “I Almost Had a Lass/King of the Fairies” from Licensed Beggars

34:07 – Ryan Dunne “The Land of the Leal” from One Day By Your Side

38:29 – THANKS

40:28 – The Lilies of the Midwest “You Rambling Boys of Pleasure” from Cat's Ceili

45:32 – Olivia Barrett “Junior Crehan's/An Pangur Bán/The Termagant” from Elsewhere

49:19 – Ruth Keggin & Rachel Hair “Keayrt Hug Mee Graih” from LOSSAN

53:40 – Fidra “Mortal Boy” from The Running Wave

58:55 – CLOSING

1:00:01 – Ghost Of A Banshee “I Bid You Farewell” from Along The Rural Trail

1:03:05 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember—our planet’s future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record – breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate.

Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Shirt, Digital Download, Album Pin,or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PINIf you love discovering new Celtic bands through this podcast, you’re going to love our album pins. These collectible pins showcase bold designs inspired by our compilation albums—featuring standout tracks from artists you’ve heard right here.

You’re not just supporting the show—you’re supporting the entire Celtic music community. And musicians, I’ve even put together a full guide to help you make your own album pin jackets.

Join the movement at MageRecords.com

Follow the link in the shownotes WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $15, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Woodland Folk emailed a photo: “Summer ist a comin in…

The sky is now a calm sea over the Mendips,a fine morning my friend.. Night has been a storm on a sea,my sails billowing & trees twisting,masts..may each step be an adventure Celtic forever ”

Tiffany Knight emailed a photo: “Hey Marc!

I hope you've been well. I've been meaning to write into the podcast for years and just never quite found the time. It brings me so much joy how far it's coming from when it first started back when podcast were still new and it was a project in a room in Austin. These days it gets me through my day calls as I prep costumes for Broadway, and listen to whatever new musicians to tune into you play (or my friends that I sometimes hear in your sets.) I've attached a very boring picture of me ironing while listening last week.

Best! Hopefully I'll make it to Atlanta one of these days or maybe GenCon or Dragon Con. ”

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Wanna hear a Harry Potter inspired cat song? Plus learn some facts about whether you should declaw your cat. Celebrate Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers’ 20th anniversary with this special podcast of the new and the old.

This is Folk Songs & Stories #304

0:34 – Marc Gunn “Rising of the Moon” from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover’s Companion

2:40 – WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES

I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I’m also a cat lover as you’ll hear later on in the show.

If you’re new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

Got a cat picture? Send it to me to post in the podcast.

NEWS

• Poll: What’s your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers?
• Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp.

3:23 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM)
• JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN
• AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA
• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA
• NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara
• DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 – 5 PM.

4:16 – Blibbering Humdingers “No Shame in Hufflepuff” from Free Awkward Hugs

8:21 – SUPPORT THE CLUB

The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you’ll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather !

If you can’t support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons:

CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2026, we’re going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland.

Find out more at CelticInvasion.com.

9:52 – CAT MUSIC LOVERS #6: “HARRY POTTER AND THE RISING OF THE MOON” & DECLAWING CATS FAQ

Why you should not declaw your cats, and some great alternatives, plus a cat silliness on the net.

Cat Music & News

• Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers now available
• The Mows, a daily cat web comic
• Stuff On My Cat, pictures of cats with things on them.
• My Cat Hates You.com, Pictures of sneering putty tats
• House of Dra, designer shirts for Renaissance & Celtic Festivals,
• Cats I Met on the Road
  • Artemis (She's a tabby colored singularity…)
  • Cassiopeia (Cassie for short, she used to belong to Satan, but he couldn't handle her so he dumped her off at MadLadyRed's house.)
  • The kitties were Cicero (the big gray that tried to conquer my car), Ophelia (the nervous orange one), and Fortuna.
• Declawing FAQ, Original article was written by Veterinarian, Dr. Christianne Schelling
• Declawing Alternatives,
• Another declawing alternative is Soft Paws, or call 1-800-989-2542.
• Irish Drinking Songs, the Cat Lover's Companion CD

Special thanks to these suppporters: Susan Saint-Lockhart, Charles Walker, Scott Robinson, Jennifer L. Sperry, Shelley Oden, Elizabeth Northrup, R N Goddard, Mary Mealiffe, Larry Lochner, Catherine Devine, David & Deborah Kaye Bibb, Kathryn Robinson, Charlotte Straight, Tay Aston, Fred Milano, Sandra Bobleter, Shelley Clifford, Matthew Williams, Dennise D Hunting, Roger Skulsky, Brenda Jarvis, Virginia Page, Kelli McLaughlin, Alan Brown, Steve Shonk, Fireball Express, Sarah leonard & Sarah Gruetz, Rebecca Jordan, Sara Carman, Beth Beal

The Cat Lovers Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn.

24:45 – Marc Gunn & The Dubliners’ Tabby Cats “Harry Potter and the Rising of the Moon” from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers

harry potter/rising of the moon

autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn

banjo: franco bordoni

fiddle: James “Cedric” Hazlerig

dombek: Michelle Hedden

bass: Ari Koinuma

bgv: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby, Blake McCaig, Sarah Dinan

27:10 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com!

pubstories

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Podcast and Folk Songs & Stories. The other featured podcasts are Travelling in Ireland and Celt in a Twist. We also have a sale on your first month of Patreon. As well as a list of new albums. The highlighted articles consist of ones about Leeds Irish, Roald Dahl sketches, and Family Library. The Celtic Fest this week is the Holland Waterfront Celtic festival and Highland Games taking place 6/20 – 6/21 at the Ottawa County Fairgrounds in Holland, MI. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #714: ST. PATRICK'S DAY FAVORITES

• Fialla, Goitse, Mànran, Larkin & Moran Brothers, River Driver, Mac and Cheese, David Mitchell, Bealtaine, Conamara Chaos, Brobdingnagian Bards, On The Lash, The Friel Sisters, Runa, Willowgreen, Charlie O'Brien, Sligo Rags
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast:

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?FOLK SONGS & STORIES #303: LORD OF THE POUNCE: A FELINE FOLK FANTASY

• Make sure your cat is drinking water. Cats love to pounce. It’s another 20th anniversary celebration of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers as I share the story behind “Lord of the Pounce”.
• This is Folk Songs & Stories #303

Listen here

NEW CDS

• Awen EP /|\ – by Mari Mathias (Tarian Records) + Friends
• modern relax – by motion arrey
• Fiacre's Fell – by McFloosey
• The In Between – by SeaStar
• Cladach – by Tero Goldenhill
• Ironrealm – by Everrune
• Mistwoven Realms – by Everrune
• Exosphera – by Everrune
• Complicated to Be Simple – by Evergreen
• Celtic Spirit – The Colors of Irish Sound – by The Celtic Journey
• The Magic of Celtic Music – by Laura Giorgi Valenti
• Irish Pub Jigs – Alibi Music
• Highland Mist – by Red Carpenter
• Here To Stay – by Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira
• Echos from Home – by Kathryn Lillich
• Mine høvdinge – by Fuimadane
• Celtic Fiddle Rambles Vol. 1, discs #1 & 2 – by Skip Gorman
• Celtic Fiddle Rambles with Skip Gorman , Vol. 2 (discs #3 & 4) – by Skip Gorman

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to thepodcast.

SHOW YOUR CELTIC PRIDE

• Join us on Patreon and save 22% off your first month or year from now until June 23.

Become a Patron today!

TRAVELLING IN IRELAND: WHEN NOT TO VISIT BLARNEY CASTLE (AND HOW TO TIME IT RIGHT)

• Blarney Castle and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations – and for good reason. But if you show up at the wrong time, your magical visit can quickly turn into a crowded, stressful experience.
• Here’s a quick planning tip that can make all the difference.

Listen here

LEEDS IRISH CENTRE CELEBRATES ITS 55TH BIRTHDAY

• I OFTEN wonder how many people have driven past the Irish Centre on the very busy York Road in Leeds and wondered what's inside.
• The Irish Centre is one of Leeds' worst kept secrets because behind its 1970s façade they will find a vibrant community who are an integral part of the city.
• Over the 55 years the Centre has been at the forefront of the Irish Diaspora in Leeds, an emerald on the hill looking to the city and standing proud to be part of this thriving city.

To read more, go here!

CELT IN A TWIST: JUNE 15, 2025

• 13 for the road. Wherever you roam the world is your home! New music this hour from the borderlands between Denmark and Germany from Drones & Bellows, Italian Celtic with a Canadian singer from Willos. Livin' High On Highland Life with Barleyjuice and a Cosmic Celtic from The Breath. In, out and all about, it's Celt In A Twist!

Listen to the Show

ORIGINAL ROALD DAHL SKETCHES SELL FOR £24,000

• Original sketches done by children's author Roald Dahl for his memoir have sold for nearly £24,000.
• Dahl, who was born in Llandaff, Cardiff, produced the sketches in black ballpoint pen for the book Boy, which was published in 1984.

To read more, go here!

OPTIONS FOR FAMILY LIBRARY FUTURE TO BE EXPLORED

• Options for the future running of services at a community library under threat of closure over funding are set to be brought forward in October.
• The Isle of Man's Family Library is set to shut on 31 July due to expected annual losses of £100,000, as a result of rising costs and declining incomes.
• Tynwald members supported Treasury Minister Alex Allinson's proposal for the ministers to work with the directors to understand its financial situation, and explore options to save it, with an urgent meeting scheduled for 30 June.

To read more, go here!

HOLLAND WATERFRONT CELTIC FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

• We’re serious about our heritage

The Holland Celtic Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation registered with the Internal Revenue Service. Our first community-wide event was the first annual Holland Waterfront Celtic Festival & Highland Games in 2022. Join us every year!

• Some of the entertainment you will see includes Barley Saints, Black Murray, Ironwood, Kennedy’s Kitchen, Leprecons, On the Lash, Stone Clover, the Kalamazoo Pipe Band, Whorled, and dancing.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

June 19, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Make sure your cat is drinking water. Cats love to pounce. It’s another 20th anniversary celebration of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers as I share the story behind “Lord of the Pounce”.

This is Folk Songs & Stories #303

0:29 – Marc Gunn “Lord of the Dance” from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover’s Companion

3:05 – WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES

I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I’m also a cat lover as you’ll hear later on in the show.

If you’re new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

Got a cat picture? Send it to me to post in the podcast.

NEWS

• Poll: What’s your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers?
• Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp.
• Did you get your Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers album pin? Yes. It is my Celtic Cat Logo

3:51 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM)
• JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN
• AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA
• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA
• NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara
• DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 – 5 PM.

5:09 – Ruth Keggin & Rachel Hair “Mish as y Keayn” from LOSSAN

• Hear an interview with them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast

9:54 – SUPPORT THE CLUB

The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you’ll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather !

If you can’t support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons:

CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2026, we’re going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland.

Find out more at CelticInvasion.com.

11:33 – CAT MUSIC LOVERS #5: “LORD OF THE POUNCE” AND CAT VET VISIT

TnT's Annual Visit to the Vet, Cat CD House Concerts, Kitten War, Cats need to drink lots of water, “Lord of the Pounce”

• TnT's Annual Visit to the Vet
• Cat CD House Concerts
• Thanks to the Musicians on the CD. Some will be at the Austin Celtic Festival this November, including: Heather Gilmer, Sarah Dinan, Cedric of the Bedlam Bards and Christopher Buckley of Cluan.
• Kitten War
• Cats need to drink lots of water
• I want to offer Special Thanks to these Kind Supporters: Molly McDevitt, Pamela Worsham, Carole Simpsons, Robert Freeborn, Aaron Williams
• Vote for the Cat Lovers Podcast at Podcast Alley, no longer available.

I want to offer Special Thanks to these Kind Supporters: Lanora Davidson of Things Celtic, Ashley Crawford, Kim Lambert, Dorothy Washburn, Holly Hill, Theresa Pittman, John Wohlers, Michele Piantà from Italy, Joshua Summit, Patrick Patterson, Zia King of Fifth House Candles – Cat Candles.

20:46 – Marc Gunn & The Dubliners’ Tabby Cats “Lord of the Pounce” from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers

lord of the pounce

autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn

fiddle: Heather Gilmer

bass, guitar: Ari Koinuma

bgv: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby, Blake McCaig, Sarah Dinan

CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com!

pubstories

View Details

We’re revisiting some of the most – popular songs from our St Patrick’s Day episode today on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #714. Subscribe now!

Fialla, Goitse, Mànran, Larkin & Moran Brothers, River Driver, Mac and Cheese, David Mitchell, Bealtaine, Conamara Chaos, Brobdingnagian Bards, On The Lash, The Friel Sisters, Runa, Willowgreen, Charlie O'Brien, Sligo Rags

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:09 – Fialla “Dúlamán” from A Rare Thing

4:15 – WELCOME

5:37 – Goitse “Green Fields of Canada” from Rosc

10:27 – Mànran “Lahinch” from Ùrar

15:51 – Larkin & Moran Brothers “The Rabble Rouser” from Éistigí

18:45 – River Driver “Toss the Feathers” from Flanagan's Shenanigans! Live at The Celt

21:59 – FEEDBACK

24:40 – Mac and Cheese “Ragged Edge” from Big Fun

29:06 – David Mitchell “Away With The Seelies set” from Contours

33:57 – Bealtaine “Grey Dawn Breaking” from The Founders' Room Vol 2

37:15 – Conamara Chaos “Foxrock Set” from Anord

42:48 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Spancil Hill” from Songs of Ireland

46:23 – THANKS

49:04 – On The Lash “John Riley” from Fireside

52:32 – The Friel Sisters “My Love is in America/The Yellow Tinker/Old Cuffe Street (Reels)” from Northern Sky

55:52 – Runa “The Wind That Shakes The Barley” from Live

58:49 – Willowgreen “Muldoon's Fishing Reel / Morrison's Jig” from Willowgreen III

1:01:40 – Charlie O'Brien “The Trackless Wild” from The Trackless Wild, Irish Song of the Pampa

1:07:59 – CLOSING

1:08:53 – Sligo Rags “The Foggy Dew” from The Night Before the Morning After

1:13:57 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about climate change. What are you doing to combat climate change? Start a discussion with someone today.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

An album pin is a lapel pin with artwork inspired by a specific album or song from an album. It could be the actual album artwork or it could be inspired by a specific track on the album.

The best album pins stand out on their own. They appeal to more than just your fans. It is simple, bold, and visually engaging. However, what truly makes it an “album pin” is that the purchaser also gets a digital album with their pin.

I have an entire blog on my website with details including templates for you to make your own album pin jacket.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST! Thank You for Powering the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast!

Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast:

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Cheryl Arvio emailed photos from Chicago: “Hi Marc, We kicked off St. Patrick's season at Chicago's Irish American Heritage Center with a concert in the Fifth Province pub. Derek Warfield and the Young Wolfe Tones were fabulous as always, joined by special guests the Trinity Irish Dancers and Chicago Garda Pipes and Drums. What a great evening! Here are a few pics. Have a great St. Patrick's Day/birthday!”

Shel O’Toole emailed a photo: “Hi Marc, I’m finalising a set list for my upcoming concert at Cresfest, a folk and roots festival held in Creswick Victoria Australia each April.

Skedaddle, the trio I play in, are doing a short gig on Sunday 16th at the Uniting Church in Buninyong, a village just outside Ballarat. The focus is songs that reflect Celtic spirituality.

Thanks as always for the weekly feast of music. Regards”

Patrick Rieger emailed a photo: “Hi Marc, My Saint Patrick's Day observation started a few days early. My family and I were joined by a friend at Mullaney's Harp & FIddle the Wednesday before, thus avoiding the crowds. Our friend John McCann had a solo show that evening, and as always he did a great job.

The day of the Holiday was mostly what I had said before, staying home to listen to music and avoiding the madness anywhere it was being celebrated. After my family was done with school and work, we went to the cemetery to visit my mom, who I am named after. She loved Saint Patrick's Day and being of Irish heritage. We lit her memorial candle, which has a green transparent insert, and played a few Irish songs from the music library on my phone. I wish she was here to see all of the ways the family and I are involved in the Irish community.

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Céad Míle FáilteHello and welcome, it is Todd once again. In this issue we have new episodes of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast and two episodes of Folk Songs & Stories. The other featured podcasts are Celtic Source and Copperplate Time. The highlighted articles consist of ones about archaeologists finding fully intact Roman pottery in Dublin, the best family hotels in Cornwall, and the Loch Ness hydro project going before the Highland Council. The selected festival is the Taste of Scotland Celtic Festival and Highland Games taking place this weekend June 13 – 15, on Main Street in Franklin, NC on Friday, the Macon County Fairgrounds in Franklin on Saturday, and at the Franklin First Presbyterian Church Sunday morning for their “Kirkin O’ The Tartan” service. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #713: HOW GAELIC LANGUAGES CARRY CELTIC TRADITIONS

• Shannon Heaton of Irish Music Stories presents “Ancient Tongues, Modern Times: How Gaelic languages carry tradition” on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #713.
• This Irish Music Stories episode aired October 13, 2020. Find the transcript for that show here.
• Thank you, patrons of the podcast!

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube!
CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?FOLK SONGS & STORIES #301: FURAGONE'S WAKE: ZOMBIE CATS AND ONE WILD PARTY

• Can cats become zombies, outside of Stephen King’s Pet Sematary? Apparently, it happens in songs too. I’ll share the story behind “Furagone’s Wake” and another Cat Lovers Podcast episode. We’re celebrating the 20 year anniversary of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers.
• This is Folk Songs & Stories #301

Listen Here!

FOLK SONGS & STORIES #302: CATNIPPING GREEN

• What happens when a kitty passes from this life to the next? It’s filled with milk and catnip and all the luxuries a cat could possibly enjoy. Hear the story of “Catnipping Green” as we celebrate 20 years of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers.
• This is Folk Songs & Stories #302

Listen Here!

CELTIC SOURCE 77. THE PHYSICIANS OF MYDDFAI – AN INTERPRETATION

• How can a simple Welsh folktale about a shepherd who falls in love with a magical lake maiden reveal deep insights about relationships, time, nature, and the delicate balance between different worlds? How did this extraordinary union gave birth to the legendary Physicians of Myddfai? Using the ‘5 Keys of Celtic Myth' approach, we break down this fascinating story to reveal its practical wisdom about finding balance, respecting boundaries, and connecting with forces beyond our understanding.

Listen here

ARCHAEOLOGISTS DISCOVER THE FIRST FULLY INTACT ROMAN POTTERY IN NORTH DUBLIN

• IRELAND'S history may not be written in stone after all.
• A team of archaeologists working at a coastal site in north County Dublin has made a discovery that is being hailed as a milestone in Irish archaeology: the first fully intact Roman pot ever uncovered on the island.

To read more, go here!

COPPERPLATE TIME 507

• Bothy Band, Patrick Street, Julia Clifford & Denis Murphy, Luke Kelly, Mick Mulvey & Shane Meehan, Nancy Costello, Kevin Burke, John McEvoy & John Wynne, Andy Irvine, Bobby Casey, Daithi Gormley, The 4 Provinces Ceili Band, Dezi Donnelly & Mike McGolldrick, Mick O’Brien & Caoimhin O’Raghallaigh, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Ralph McTell, Bert Jansch, Brian Conway, Dylan Carlos/Cein Sweeney/John McCartin, Danu, Bothy Band

Listen to the Show

THE BEST FAMILY HOTELS IN CORNWALL FOR COASTAL KIDS’ CLUBS, BEACH ACCESS AND SPAS FOR YOUNGSTERS

• Cornwall has long been a favourite holiday destination for families – and no wonder. It’s a bucket-and-spade paradise – with more than 300 beautiful, sandy beaches – but the attraction doesn’t end there. This corner of South West England is becoming a destination in its own right for gastronomy, design and – music to any parent’s ears – accommodation that genuinely welcomes children, instead of simply tolerating them.
• Whether you’re looking for a boutique bolthole with babysitting services or a seafront pad with a full-blown children’s club, there’s no shortage of family-friendly hotels in Cornwall. From surf schools to beach bushcraft and even kid-friendly facials, hotels have been quick to find ever more creative ways to keep their younger guests entertained.

To read more, go here!

LOCH NESS HYDRO PROJECT TO GO BEFORE COUNCILLORS

• Plans for one of three large hydro power schemes that would draw water from Loch Ness to generate electricity are to go before Highland councillors next week.
• Loch Kemp Storage Ltd has proposed building a power station and tunnels near Whitebridge, about 10 miles (16km) north of Fort Augustus.

To read more, go here!

TASTE OF SCOTLAND AND CELTIC FESTIVAL AND HIGHLAND GAMES

• In the early 1990’s, Dr. Gordon Teale decided to donate his collection of Scottish artifacts to two new venues, one in Scotland, and one in the United States. The latter was first established in Highlands, North Carolina, a nearby tourist community in our county. In 1993 a museum with Scottish tartan specialization was established in Franklin, and interest in uncovering Scottish ancestry among the residents was encouraged. Those responding formed the “Friends of the Scottish Tartans Museum,” now called “The Taste of Scotland Society, Inc.” For over two decades, the Society has been producing Burn’s Night, Tartan Day, Scottish Heritage Day and participating in Winter Wonderland. Volunteers from the Society have participated in the Taste of Scotland Festival since the beginning and starting in 2012, the Taste of Scotland Society took over sole control of the Taste of Scotland Festival from the Chamber of Commerce. Over the years, members of the Society have volunteered to participate in many other activities such as learning Scottish country dancing, taking tartan search information to other Highland Games in North Carolina, and distributing Scottish information to schools and universities in the area.
• Some of the entertainment you will see include Tuatha Dea, The Jacobites by Name, & Andrew “Finn” McGill. There is also a Musician Jam Tent.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

June 12, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

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Shannon Heaton of Irish Music Stories presents “Ancient Tongues, Modern Times: How Gaelic languages carry tradition” on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #713. Subscribe now!

This Irish Music Stories episode aired October 13, 2020. Find the transcript for that show here.

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2024 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on Spotify to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2-3 weeks. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists. You can also check out our Irish & Celtic Music Videos.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSICDo you really need to know any Gaelic when visiting Ireland and Scotland?

With behind-the-scenes guidance from Stateside Irish speaker Brian Ó hAirt, and set against the backdrop of the forthcoming U.S. Presidential election, this episode of IMS scratches the surface of Irish and Scottish Gaelic. And explores how these ancient languages inform traditional music, and how they resonate today.

You’ll hear beautiful conversations and music from Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Séamus Ó Flatharta, Ciarán Bolger, Michael Coult, Julie Fowlis, and Mary Jane Lamond. We talk regional songs, apple crumble, and President Obama’s gracious Gaelic address to the Irish people back in 2011.

Learn how inspired musicians think in ancient words in 2020. Explore connections between language and music, how songs in Irish and Scottish Gaelic transmit emotion and carry history, and how languages lift people up (and ward off the evil eye).

_____

Thank you to everybody for listening. And a special thank you to this month’s underwriters: Jane Knight, Tinka, Roland Hebborn, Marina Poggemann, Emil Hauptmann, David Vaughan, Brian Benscoter, Susan Walsh, Rick Rubin, Randy Krajniak, Jon Duvick, Suezen Brown, John Ploch, Joel DeLashmit, and Gerry Corr.

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn.

This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. Not just the big names you’ve probably heard of. But also the Celtic bands in your neck of the woods, at your festivals.

It is here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to keep making music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their communities on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!You are amazing. It is because of your generosity that you get to hear so much great Celtic music each and every week.

Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic designer, Celtic Music Magazine editor, promotion of the podcast, and allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show each and every week.

As a patron, you get ad-free and music-only episodes before regular listeners, vote in the Celtic Top 20, stand-alone stories, you get a private feed to listen to the show or you can listen through the Patreon app. All that for as little as $1 per episode.

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every week, $1, $5, $25. Make sure to cap how much you want to spend per month.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Please email me. I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening or of a band that you saw recently.

How are you listening to this podcast? I’d love to know that as well. The show is available on a bunch of podcast apps like Apple Podcast, Amazon Music, Podcast Addict, iHeartRadio, Player.FM, Pocket Casts, Cast Box, Pandora, Podbean, and my favorite Overcast

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

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What happens when a kitty passes from this life to the next? It’s filled with milk and catnip and all the luxuries a cat could possibly enjoy. Hear the story of “Catnipping Green” as we celebrate 20 years of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers.

This is Folk Songs & Stories #302

0:34 – Marc Gunn “Fiddler’s Green” from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover’s Companion

4:38 – WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES

I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I’m also a cat lover as you’ll hear later on in the show. This show is for fans of my music.

If you’re new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

Got a cat picture? Send it to me to post in the podcast.

NEWS

• Poll: What’s your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers?
• Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp.

5:20 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM)
• JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN
• AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA
• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA
• NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara
• DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 – 5 PM.

6:26 – Socks in the Frying Pan “Irelands Struggle” from Waiting for Inspiration

10:49 – SUPPORT THE CLUB

The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you’ll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather !

If you can’t support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons:

CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2025, we’re going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland.

Find out more at CelticInvasion.com.

12:01 – CAT MUSIC LOVERS #4: “CATNIPPING GREEN” AND BATHING YOUR CAT (REBOOT)

The martial art of bathing your cat and cat world domination in action on Cat Drinking Songs.

Cat Music & News

• Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers
• Cat World Domination in Action
• Cat Bathing as a Martial Art
• “Catnipping Green” by The Dubliners' Tabby Cats
• Vote for the Cat Lovers Podcast at Podcast Alley

Cat Lover Websites

• Alley Cat Allies
• Cat Fanciers Association
• The Daily Kitten

I want to offer Special Thanks to these Kind Supporters: Lanora Davidson of Things Celtic, Ashley Crawford, Kim Lambert, Dorothy Washburn, Holly Hill, Theresa Pittman, John Wohlers, Michele Piantà from Italy, Joshua Summit, Patrick Patterson, Zia King of Fifth House Candles – Cat Candles.

21:43 – Marc Gunn & The Dubliners’ Tabby Cats “Catnipping Green” from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers

autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn

penny whistle: April Porter

bass, piano, mandolin: Ari Koinuma

bgv: Sarah Dinan

26:06 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com!

pubstories

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Can cats become zombies, outside of Stephen King’s Pet Sematary? Apparently, it happens in songs too. I’ll share the story behind “Furagone’s Wake” and another Cat Lovers Podcast episode. We’re celebrating the 20 year anniversary of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers.

This is Folk Songs & Stories #301

0:34 – Marc Gunn “Finnegan’s Wake” from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover’s Companion

3:16 – WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES

I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I’m also a cat lover as you’ll hear later on in the show.

If you’re new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

NEWS

• Poll: What’s your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers?
• Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp.

3:48 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM)
• JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN
• AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA
• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA
• NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara
• DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 – 5 PM.

4:35 – Kinnfolk “Byker Hill” from Kinnfolk

6:26 – SUPPORT THE CLUB

The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you’ll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather !

If you can’t support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons:

CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2025, we’re going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland.

Find out more at CelticInvasion.com.

7:12 – CAT MUSIC LOVERS #3: “ FURAGONE’S WAKE”, CATNIP FAQ (REBOOT)

How to know if your cat is plotting world domination and a funny story about fresh catnip on Cat Music Lovers Podcast.

Cat Music & News

• Cat Medical News – Catnip FAQ
• Pet Product Could Harm Your Cat
• The 16 Signs Your Cat Is Plotting World Domination
• Irish Drinking Song for Cat Lovers News

21:14 – Marc Gunn & The Dubliners’ Tabby Cats “Furagone's Wake” from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers

Based on the Irish folk song, “Finnegan’s Wake“, this cat song tells the story of a Sphynx Cat who loses his ninth life. His fellow cats gather for a wake that turns into one big cat fight. Look for it on my Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers CD.

furagone's wake

autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn

mandola: James “Cedric” Hazlerig

bass, mandolin, maracas: Ari Koinuma

bgv: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby, Ari Koinuma

comments & sound effects: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby

24:00 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com!

pubstories

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Céad Míle FáilteIt is Todd, happy pride month. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. The other featured podcast episodes come from Story Archaeology & Folk on Foot. We also have a list of new albums. The highlighted articles are about Bernard Canavan being chronicled in a new documentary, Noel Edmonds declaring his nickname for the Isle of Man, & Iconic ‘Coffin Roads’ in Scotland. The festival we feature is the Motor City Irish Fest, taking place this weekend June 6 – 8, at Greenmead Historical Park in Livonia, MI. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #712: CELTS OF PRIDE MONTH

• Malin Lewis, The Homespun Ceilidh Band, Bua, Callanish, Dancing With Hobbits, Ermagerd the Bard, Alexander James Adams, Seumas Gagne, Melanie Gruben, Ockham's Razor
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Youtube

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

WHAT'S NEW WITH CELTIC MUSIC& CULTURE ONLINE?NEW CDS

• viking relax – by motion arrey
• Heroes Endure – by Sergio Caminita
• Blemished Lemons – by Eric Marcotte
• Tavern's Hearth: Evening Ballads for Weary Travelers – by Tavern's Muse
• Ireland – by Liam Devey
• Tam Chanter Bag Wellie – select songs 2005-2018 – by Jesse MacIntosh
• Dogie Music – by Skip Gorman
• Decade – by Cedar Dobson Music
• Uhtceare – by Cenris
• The Curse of Castle Pale – by Skeleton Mage

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

STORY ARCHAEOLOGY: A CONVERSATION WITH TAMLYN YOUNG

• TamlYn Young is a Limerick lecturer and artist specialising., especially in her current project on augmented reality art and storytelling, to create place-based storytelling. She describes her practice as exploring the synergistic, potentials of analogue and digital to create an immersive narrative experience for the viewer.

Listen to the Podcast

LIFE OF ‘EMIGRANT'S ARTIST' BERNARD CANAVAN CHRONICLED IN NEW DOCUMENTARY

• OVER the past year director Sé Merry Doyle has been in the process of making a documentary about the life of the Irish artist Bernard Canavan, often referred to as The Emigrant’s Artist and the Painter of The Diaspora.
• A special preview screening was recently held at the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith, London to raise funds to bring the production Theocracy – The Emigrant’s Artist by Loopline Films to final completion.
• The event also included an art auction of Canavan’s work — where four artworks were donated for auction to raise funds for the film.

Read the Blog

FOLK ON FOOT: OFFICIAL FOLK ALBUMS CHART SHOW—3RD JUNE 2025

• The great Peggy Seeger is Matthew’s guest on this month’s show as she prepares to celebrate her 90th birthday later this month. She says her current tour and album will be her last, so what will she miss about performing? Has her lifetime of protesting secured progress? And does she feel that time is running out for her? There’s also music from Kate Rusby, Skinny Lister, Merry Hell, Màiri Morrison, Alasdair Roberts and Pete Johnston, Iona Lane and Capercaillie.

Listen to the Show

ISLE OF MAN TT: NOEL EDMONDS DECLARES LOVE FOR ISLAND AS HE SHARES NEW NICKNAME FOR COUNTRY

• Television star Noel Edmonds has declared himself ‘delighted’ to finally experience the Isle of Man TT, calling the island ‘the Smile of Man’.
• The 76-year-old former Deal or No Deal presenter was speaking from the start line this week, where he was clearly enjoying his first taste of TT racing.

Visit the site

THESE ICONIC ‘COFFIN ROADS’ OFFER AN UNMATCHED VIEW OF SCOTLAND

• Across abandoned expanses of Scotland’s wildest terrain, ancient footpaths chart a nearly forgotten history: Hundreds of mourners trudging from coasts and valleys, shouldering corpses in caskets for many miles. Over tall mountains, through rivers and woodlands, never letting the body touch the ground. Steeped in premonitions and superstition, these treks were a rural culture’s oldest death rites. Now, they’re some of the most unique hikes you can take.

Read the Blog

MOTOR CITY IRISH FEST

• Motor City Irish Fest, celebrating our 15th Anniversary with over 20 bands and 7 schools of Irish Dance.
• Some the activities include a children’s area (with face painting, balloon animals, crafting, dance lessons, and more), a cultural tent where you can learn more about Irish culture and heritage, an open-air mass on Sunday morning, Whiskey tasting, and loads of comradery.
• Some of entertainers you will see are Hugh Irwin (The Kilted Magician), Crazy Craig Family Comedy and Juggling Variety Show, Ring of Steel, The Kilkennys, Sina Theil, Blackthorn, Brother Crowe, Crossbow, Enda Reilly, and more.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

June 5, 2025

TELL A FRIENDDo you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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We’re celebrating the 20 year anniversary of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers. I’ll share a story about “When Kitty Eyes Are Smiling”. You’ll find out how about how my first Kickstarter did 4 years before Kickstarter existed. Plus, you’ll enjoy rockin ‘traditional music from High Octane out of France.

This is Folk Songs & Stories #300

0:45 – Marc Gunn “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover’s Companion

2:37 – WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES

I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I’m also a cat lover as you’ll hear later on in the show. This show is for fans of my music.

If you’re new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather.

3:00 – NEWS

• Poll: What’s your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers?
• Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp.

3:13 – UPCOMING SHOWS

• JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM)
• JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN
• AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA
• SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY
• OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA
• NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara
• DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 – 5 PM.

4:02 – High Octane “Eastern Vagrant” from High Octane

9:55 – SUPPORT THE CLUB

The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you’ll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather !

If you can’t support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons:

–CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2025, we’re going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland.

Find out more at CelticInvasion.com.

11:43 – IRISH DRINKING SONGS FOR CAT LOVERS KICKSTARTER

In 2005, I decided to fund my second solo album, Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers, with a Kickstarter. Well, officially Kickstarter hadn’t started yet. It would be another four years before that happened. However, I ran the Kickstarter in a very similar way. I set different levels and ended up raising over $10,000 to fund the album.

Admittedly, that was not all profit. In fact, I had far higher expenses back then because I didn’t know how to run a fundraising campaign back then. Nevertheless, it was a huge success and I was able to order 1000 copies of this CD.

I think I’ve printed over 3000 copies of this CD since it was released. But of course, now it is no longer available on CD with me at least. It’s only available as a digital download or on an album pin.

On June 6, 2005, I released the second episode of the Cat Lovers Podcast to fund this album. Here’s a re-release of that podcast episode.

11:56 – CAT MUSIC LOVERS #2: “WHEN KITTY EYES ARE SMILING”, CATS STUCK IN DRAWERS (REBOOT)

• A tabby cat stuck in the dresser drawers
• A letter to Torre from Anthony Creech of Celtic Radio
• Keeping cats indoors
• Cat Galaxy, All Cats! All the Time!

24:25 – Marc Gunn & The Dubliners’ Tabby Cats “When Kitty Eyes Are Smiling” from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers

“When Kitty Eyes Are Smiling” is a parody of the song “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling”. The lyrics to When Irish Eyes Are Smiling were written by Chauncey Olcott and George Graff, Jr. and set to the music of Enerst Ball for Olcott's production of The Isle O' Dreams. The music was published in 1912.

when kitty eyes are smiling

autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn

flute: Hannah Gunn

bass, piano: Ari Koinuma

Did you find this episode entertaining? Share it with a friend.

27:12 – CREDITS

Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen.

You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I’m performing.

Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com!

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We’re celebrating the LGBTQ+ Celtic musicians this Pride Month today on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #712 . Subscribe now!

Malin Lewis, The Homespun Ceilidh Band, Bua, Callanish, Dancing With Hobbits, Ermagerd the Bard, Alexander James Adams, Seumas Gagne, Melanie Gruben, Ockham's Razor

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online.

Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:11 – The Homespun Ceilidh Band “De'il In The Kitchen / The Drunken Piper” from Home With

The Homespun Ceilidh Band

• Daphne Eftychia Arthur (pronounciation eff – ti – HEE – ah) T and L

3:19 – WELCOME

5:26 – Bua “John Joe Hartnett's / Spellan the Fiddler” from Down the Green Fields

• Brian Ó hAirt: vocals, sean – nós dance, concertina

9:29 – Callanish “The Wind that Shakes the Barley” from Callanish

• John Adams: Fiddler

12:58 – Dancing With Hobbits “Hobbit Hornpipe” from Dancing With Hobbits

• Sam Gillogly: Fiddle

15:22 – THANKS

17:44 – INTREVIEW: INTRODUCTION

23:43 – Malin Lewis “Hiraeth” from Halocline

27:59 – INTERVIEW: INSPIRATIONS

35:15 – Malin Lewis “Trans” from Halocline

38:20 – INTERVIEW: RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

45:08 – Malin Lewis “The Old Inn” from Halocline

48:52 – FEEDBACK

52:55 – Ermagerd the Bard “I Walk Among You” from single

55:31 – Alexander James Adams “Your Coming Spring” from The Blue Rose Rare and Other Faerie Tales

1:01:16 – Seumas Gagne “Tir Nan Og” from Baile Ard

1:06:32 – Melanie Gruben “Water Charges Song” from Like a Tide Upon the Land

1:11:30 – CLOSING

1:12:37 – Ockham's Razor “I'm Coming Home Northumberland (2024)” from Garnet

• Pride Month with Celtic Music #463

1:18:36 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Episode 4: The Future Is ListeningChange doesn’t happen alone. Start a conversation. Ask a question. Vote like the planet depends on it—because it does. Your children, your neighbors, and your future self are counting on you to speak up today.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I’m a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music.

We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.

Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music – only episode. You’ll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don’t need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It’s 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic

WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN?

An album pin is a lapel pin with artwork inspired by a specific album or song from an album. It could be the actual album artwork or it could be inspired by a specific track on the album.

The best album pins stand out on their own. They appeal to more than just your fans. It is simple, bold, and visually engaging. However, what truly makes it an “album pin” is that the purchaser also gets a digital album with their pin.

I have an entire blog on my website with details including templates for you to make your own album pin jacket.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST! Thank You for Powering the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast!

Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers.

Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists.

And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:

• Early access to episodes
• Music – only editions
• Free MP3 downloads
• Exclusive stories and artist interviews
• A vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Rick Boyce, Bruce, Daniel Ide, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Margreta Silverstone, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Gerald F Boyle, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, John Sharkey White, II, Kelly Garrod, Mike Schock, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $25.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2026, we’re traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain.

We’ll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We’ll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history.

This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us?

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening. Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? Send a picture.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Ermagerd the Bard wrote about this next song: “The song is what I wrote in response to a real thing that happened to me once upon a time while being a queer medievalist on the internet.

I've been involved in the SCA for a couple of decades, and am also openly genderqueer. And this one time one of my recordings was used in a podcast where the theme of the episode was my kingdom, and due to some miscommunication…. there were some misspellings of names and titles of performers and a couple of song titles were incorrect.

Well somebody in our kingdom proudly posted the episode in our kingdom's facebook group and said hey, look at our bards, this is cool. And I took it upon myself to comment with a few corrections so people would know who the performers were and what those songs were, and thank the poster for being excited about it.

A while back the committee within the SCA that is in charge of registering people's names and titles and such on an international level had been working on finding alternative titles for genderqueer and nonbinary type members so they wouldn't have to use titles like Lord/Lady, and this pertains to me because I'm genderqueer. So in my comment I remarked that my name would be written Ermagerd, Nobilis, and that nobilis wasn't a surname, it's a less gendery Latin form of Lord/Lady and it's the title that describes my awarded status in the SCA.

Well this one particular ancient member took a huge offense to the existence of ungendered titles and people, and threw an angry rant into the comments. How dare we harsh her medieval vibe, nonbinary people aren't historically authentic, why does everybody have to shove their gayness down her throat, why can't we pretend “politics” doesn't exist when we're playing medieval dress – up, etc. etc.

I never responded to her directly, but I watched as my whole kingdom rose up to defend not just me, but the historical existence of other genders of people, the importance of acceptance in a big – tent international hobby group, the importance of the SCA's core values of chivalry, honor, and courtesy, the years of dedicated research done by the names and titles committee… and all this from people located in Texas and Oklahoma. The consensus was that yes we genderqueer people are historical, there's tons of proof, and people's very lives aren't just “politics”, and even if it was just some modern thing, she didn't drop rants like this against people wearing glasses and using wheelchairs and indoor plumbing, and if she wanted to call herself by her (also made – up) venerable title, she could very well try to be a good example for treating other people well.

It was a wondrous thing to behold, and this conversation unfolded into hundreds of comments, largely supportive and accepting, over a couple of days of commentary….

I Walk Among You took shape in my head on the second day, and it's intensely personal. I'm real, all of us are real, we're not just citations and talking points and theory and psychology and modern trends and political correctness and wokeism, we're human beings with lives, and feelings, just like the queer people who came before us in all the cultures in all the eras throughout time.

I've performed it twice, once in a tavern during my own set, to thunderous applause, and once as a guest artist in a more famous friend's concert, and again the clapping went on longer than I expected. I think people need to hear that we were always here, and I think people need to hear it in forms that touch their feelings, like storytelling and songs. It's especially important that younger queer people get to hear that they're not a fad, that we had ancestors, that we have history, that they're not alone but the inheritors of a proud tradition of sacred people surviving and thriving for centuries upon centuries.

Thanks for letting me get that off my chest.”

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Céad Míle Fáilte,

It is your editor Todd once again. We do not have a new episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. However, check out our highlighted podcasts Ireland Family Vacations and Celt in a Twist. We also have a list of new CDs. The articles we highlight include ones about the Royal Lancaster Hotel, an ancient pendant found on a Cornwall beach, things to do in Cornwall for Halloween. We have information on Irishfest Atlanta taking place on November 8 – 10. Our weekly highlighted Celtic Fest is The Highland Games of Harper’s Ferry. That takes place this weekend October 5 & 6 at Sam Michael’s Park in Harpers Ferry, WV We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Spotify

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST

The bands you listen to each week rely on your generosity and financial support. Just like this podcast. Your patronage allows us to create a free show for thousands of people week. It only costs you as little as one dollar per episode on Patreon. Join on Patreon now.

IRISHFEST ATLANTA IS NOV 8-10, 2025

• Mark your calendar to join the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at IrishFest Atlanta. We are sponsor the festival and need your help spreading the news.
• Cherish the Ladies and The Friel Sisters headline the event with one concert on Saturday and Friday respectively. Make sure you order your tickets soon so you don't miss the shows
• There's also music from The BorderCollies, The Muckers, Olivia Bradley, Jared Bogle, Celtic Brew, Kinnigans, Kathleen Donohue, Kira, Phoenix Ceili Band, The Roundabouts and Marc Gunn with his daughter Inara.
• There are vendors, food, whiskey tasting, Irish dance, workshops and so much more.

Find out more about IrishFest Atlanta.

New CDs

• Get weekly updates of New CDs in our Celtic Music Magazine and download 34 Celtic MP3s for free at bestcelticmusic.net. #NewCelticCDs
• Skeud – by Startijenn
• Into The Music – by Celtic Wood and Wires
• A Place Far, Far, Away – by Annabeth Hansen
• Tales from Celtic Isles – by Stabilisers
• Live at PA Ren Faire Celtic Fling Vol. 1 – by Melissa Cox

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

5 COMMON MISTAKES WHEN PLANNING AN IRELAND VACATION

• Planning a trip to Ireland is thrilling with so many beautiful places to explore! But if you're not careful, a few common mistakes could get in the way of your perfect adventure.

Listen to the Podcast

ROYAL LANCASTER HOTEL IN LONDON JOINS FORCES WITH THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

• THEY say that there are four arts: music, painting, literature and pastry-making. Architecture is a sub-division of the latter.
• As you wander through central London you can nod wisely to yourself and say, yes, how very true. A cake designer could have done all this.

Read the Blog

CELT IN A TWIST SEPTEMBER 29, 2024

• Common ground for disparate Celtic forms around the world! Yoko Pwno get the ball rolling with The Airt Of The Deil, Niteworks shine a light on Skye's fascination with Celtronica. We introduce Hunger Road, the new album from Fife band, Skyrie and round out a ton of tunes with a seriously cool set from Daimh (who perform October 31st at the St. James Hall). Join Patricia Fraser for Celt In A Twist.

Listen to the Show

PHOTOGRAPHER DISCOVERS ANCIENT PENDANT THOUSANDS OF YEARS OLD ON A CORNWALL BEACH

• 43-year-old Nikki Banfield says it’s always when she’s not looking for treasures on the beach that she finds treasures on the beach.
• Recently, she came upon a glass ‘cameo’ about the size of a penny with the depiction of a woman’s face, an object that may be 200 years old, but could also be 2,000 years old.

Visit the site

THINGS TO DO FOR HALLOWEEN IN CORNWALL INCLUDING ‘SCARIEST 15 MINUTES OF YOUR LIFE'

• As the crisp autumn air settles in and October unfolds, the spooky spirit of Halloween begins to creep into our lives. For thrill-seekers and lovers of the macabre, this hauntingly festive season offers countless ways to get into the Halloween mood.
• From spine-chilling haunted houses to eerie ghost tours through old, shadowy streets, Halloween is a time to embrace the strange and supernatural.

Read the Blog

HIGHLAND GAMES OF HARPERS FERRY

• The Highland games is an age-old Scottish tradition and competition for the heartiest of the Celtic heritage. The Highland Games of Harpers Ferry again welcomes all who wish to experience this wonderful culture's liveliness.
• The Harpers Ferry Highland Games festival welcomes all to our one-hundred-and-thirty-acre venue at Sam Michaels Park in Jefferson County West Virginia.
• Some of the entertainment acts performing are Vera Flint, Kilmaine Saints, Abbot’s Cross, & Poehemia

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

October 3, 2024

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Enjoy an hour-long concert live from Dragon Con 2024. Hilarity may now ensue!

It’s all on the Brobdingnagian Bards Podcast #85

HOW LONG IS A BROBDINGNAGIAN MINUTE?Brobdingnagian Bards are The Original Celtic Renaissance music duo. A Bard by any other name… would have a shorter name.

THANK YOU NAGIANS!We run our own record label. It is funded through the generosity of our Nagians on Patreon. Your kind support pays our bills, allows us to promote our music, and of course, it puts money in our pockets so that we can keep creating music and podcasts and more, just for you.

For as little as $5 per month, you get bonus behind-the-scenes podcasts, videos, and bootleg concert recordings. This is just for Patrons. Join the Nagians Only Club right now!

UPCOMING SHOWSMarc Gunn

• OCT 18-20: MultiVerse, Atlanta, GA
• NOV 8-10: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara
• NOV 15-17: CONjuration, Duluth, GA

Andrew McKee

• NOV 2-DEC 8: Louisiana Renaissance Festival, Hammond, LA
• DEC 14-15: Sherwood Celtic Music Festival, Paige, TX

DRAGON CON 2024 BOOTLEG

1. Name On My Soul
2. Jedi Mickey
3. Lily the Pink
4. Donald Where’s Your Trousers
5. Seven Drunken Nights
6. Mushrooms
7. Don’t Go Drinking With Hobbits
8. Love Song to Alcohol
9. Heart of Fangorn
10. Thorin’s Eulogy
11. Old Dun Cow
12. Always Look on the Bright Side of Life

CLOSING

Brobdingnagian Bards Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn and Andrew McKee. Sign up to our mailing list to download free MP3s and get monthly updates of what's new. Find it all at thebards.net

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Céad Míle Fáilte,

It is I, Todd, once again. In this week’s issue we have a new episode of our own, Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts we highlight are Celtic Source and Copperplate Time. We also have a few new CDs listed. The articles include one’s about the London Festival, The Full Moon Festival in Isle of Man, & Dairyland closing. We highlight Irishfest Atlanta which takes place in Roswell, GA between November 8 – 10; as well as the Celtic Classic Festival that takes place in Bethlehem, PA between September 27 – 29. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #679: BONNIE DUNDEE

• The BorderCollies, Fig for a Kiss, The Drowsy Lads, Blackthorn, Conamara Chaos, Jesse Ferguson, Dancing With Hobbits, Wylde Nept, Fidra, Goitse, Tarren, Clanna Morna, DLÙ, The Walker Roaders, The Irish Lassies
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Bruce, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Karen DM Harris, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Spotify

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST

The bands you listen to each week rely on your generosity and financial support. Just like this podcast. Your patronage allows us to create a free show for thousands of people week. It only costs you as little as one dollar per episode on Patreon. Join on Patreon now.

New CDs

• Get weekly updates of New CDs in our Celtic Music Magazine and download 34 Celtic MP3s for free at bestcelticmusic.net. #NewCelticCDs
• Harpaphonics – by Griselda Sanderson
• Ancient City in Forest – byThe Soul of Wind & Fairy Winds
• Celtic Wind – by Etheris feat. Udio AI
• Be Gentle: Celtic Moods for Relaxation and Wellness – by Sinéad MacLachlan

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

IRISHFEST ATLANTA IS NOV 8-10, 2025

• Mark your calendar to join the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at IrishFest Atlanta. We are sponsor the festival and need your help spreading the news.
• Cherish the Ladies and The Friel Sisters headline the event with one concert on Saturday and Friday respectively. Make sure you order your tickets soon so you don't miss the shows
• There's also music from The BorderCollies, The Muckers, Olivia Bradley, Jared Bogle, Celtic Brew, Kinnigans, Kathleen Donohue, Kira, Phoenix Ceili Band, The Roundabouts and Marc Gunn with his daughter Inara.
• There are vendors, food, whiskey tasting, Irish dance, workshops and so much more.

Find out more about IrishFest Atlanta.

CELTIC SOURCE – ARTHUR'S MYTH: DEATH, CAULDRONS AND THE HOLY GRAIL

• The older Welsh myth of Arthur is often overshadowed, both by the obsession with the chivalric Arthur of medieval Europe, and then more recently by the search for the historical Arthur.
• These subjects can be interesting in their own right, but they rarely ask the important questions: how did a Welsh figure become the centerpiece of an elaborate and profound mythology that’s still popular across the globe? What does this older Arthur embody? What ancient Celtic beliefs are preserved in his myth?

Listen to the Podcast

RETURN TO LONDON FESTIVAL OPENING NIGHT

• THE Return to London Festival begins on Friday, October 25 with a gala performance from some of Ireland’s finest traditional musicians. One of the highlights of the evening will be a performance from Leitrim band Garadice
• GARADICE emerged out of the Leitrim Equation Programme, a Leitrim Co. Council residency initiative focused on celebrating, promoting, and developing Leitrim artists. Named after an area in south Leitrim the band consists of four artists with strong Leitrim roots: Eleanor Shanley, Dave Sheridan, Padraig McGovern and John McCartin.

Read the Blog

COPPERPLATE TIME 484

• Bothy Band, Buttons & Bows, Open the Door For 3, Michelle Mulcahy, Paddy O’Brien, Bobby Casey & Tommy McCarthy, John McEvoy & John Wynne, Elaine Reilly, Sorcha Costello, The Hydes, PJ Crotty, Carol & James Cullinane, Liam O’Flynn, Donal Clancy, Gerry O’Connor, Eamonn Cotter, Mike McGoldrick & John Carty, Rita Connolly, Lunasa

Listen to the Show

ISLE OF MAN'S FULL MOON FESTIVAL RETURNS WITH ‘END OF SUMMER PARTY'

• The popular ‘Full Moon’ music festival is set to return this weekend in the form of an ‘End of Summer Party’.
• The event will start at 12pm and finish at midnight on Saturday, September 28, and will feature a wide variety of acts, including some of those who performed at the original Full Moon festival back in June.

Visit the site

BELOVED CORNWALL ATTRACTION DAIRYLAND CLOSING FOR GOOD DUE TO ‘SIGNIFICANT' LOSSES

• A beloved family attraction in Cornwall is closing its doors for good due to ‘significant' losses, causing heartbreak among generations of residents and visitors. Dairyland at Tresillian Barton, near Newquay, will close its doors in November.

Read the Blog

2024 CELTIC CLASSIC FESTIVAL INFORMATION

• The 37th Annual Celtic Classic is presented by Celtic Cultural Alliance, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the Celtic heritage through education, musical presentations, and traditional competitions in athletics, piping and dance.
• The Celtic Classic takes place on the streets of Historic Downtown Bethlehem. Because of this vehicle access and on street parking is limited. Please see our shuttle and parking information.
• Some of the entertainment acts include Ally the Piper, Blackwater, Emish, No Irish Need Apply, Sheamus Kennedy, The Prodigals, & many more!

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 26, 2024

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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Come fill up my cup. Come up saddle my horses and listen to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #679. Subscribe now!

The BorderCollies, Fig for a Kiss, The Drowsy Lads, Blackthorn, Conamara Chaos, Jesse Ferguson, Dancing With Hobbits, Wylde Nept, Fidra, Goitse, Tarren, Clanna Morna, DLÙ, The Walker Roaders, The Irish Lassies

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2024 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on Spotify to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists. You can also check out our Irish & Celtic Music Videos.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Today’s episode is sponsored by fantasy and Steampunk author, poet and songwriter, Rie Sheridan Rose. You can find her work on Amazon and throughout the net.

0:15 – The BorderCollies “Country Cable – Jim Wards” from To the Hills and Back

4:45 – WELCOME

7:27 – Fig for a Kiss “Sound of Sleet” from Wherever You Go

11:02 – The Drowsy Lads “Day of the Clipper (Song)” from Wide Awake

14:55 – Blackthorn “O'Donnell's Lament” from Here's To You

19:06 – Brobdingnagian Bards “Soul Of A Harper” from Brobdingnagian Fairy Tales

22:33 – FEEDBACK

26:11 – Jesse Ferguson “Bonnie Dundee” from Ten

29:54 – Dancing With Hobbits “Brandywine River Reel” from Dancing With Hobbits

33:06 – Wylde Nept “The Maid O' Fifeo” from All's Fair

35:30 – Fidra “Far From You” from The Running Wave

40:25 – THANKS

43:17 – Goitse “Trip to Mauna Kea” from Rosc

47:39 – Tarren “Old Tom of Oxford” from Revel

51:02 – Clanna Morna “The Moonshiner” from From The Lowlands To The High Seas

53:15 – DLÙ “Vitamin T” from Close To

56:53 – The Walker Roaders “A Meteor at a Time” from The Walker Roaders

1:02:27 – CLOSING

1:03:26 – The Irish Lassies “Hammer Up Whisky Down” from Hammer Up Whisky Down

1:08:19 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn.

This podcast is for fans of Celtic music and maybe for those who have a hankering to travel to the Celtic nations like I do.

It is here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to keep making music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their communities on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Today’s show is sponsored by Rie Sheridan Rose. Rie writes many things, but one of her favorite things to do is to create a new song and send it out in the world. Thanks to the brilliance of her musicians, they always sound lovely, even though she can't write a note of music.

Rie was one of our generous supporters of our Kickstarter earlier this year. She’s a fantastic writer and songwriter. In fact, I’ve set many of her poems to music. Half of my Firefly album, As Long As I’m Flyin’ was written by Rie. Most of my album Don’t Go Drinking With Hobbits, was written by her as well. She wrote ALL of the lyrics for my album, Pirates vs Dragons. She also wrote the song “Soul of a Harper” which I’ll share today as well.

Follow the link in the shownotes to learn more about Rie Sheridan Rose.

You’ll also find a link to her enormous collection of books and writings on Amazon.

I am all packed and ready to fly to Scotland later this evening. I have one week in Scotland followed by a week visiting my mom in Italy. I’ll try to post a blog on Patreon during the week to let you know how things are going and if we find any new favorite places to hike in Scotland. You can follow our Patreon page for free and get some blogs.

If you are a Celtic musician or in a Celtic band, then please submit your band to be played on the podcast. You don’t have to send in music or an EPK. You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music and learn how to follow the podcast. It’s 100% free. Just email Email follow@bestcelticmusic and of course, listeners can learn how to subscribe to the podcast and get a free music – only episode.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!You are amazing. It is because of your generosity that you get to hear so much great Celtic music each and every week.

Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic designer, Celtic Music Magazine editor, promotion of the podcast, and allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show each and every week.

As a patron, you get ad – free episodes before regular listeners, vote in the Celtic Top 20, stand – alone stories, you get a private feed to listen to the show or you can listen through the Patreon app. All that for as little as $1 per episode.

In fact, there’s a new Highlight Reel now available to all Patrons of the Podcast.

A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Bruce, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Karen DM Harris, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every week, $1, $5, $25. Make sure to cap how much you want to spend per month.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Please email me. I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening or of a band that you saw recently.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Russell Howell emailed: “Tractoring on our smallhold while listening! Really love the show, it is my companion anytime I am on the tractor or making mead!”

Maura Goodin emailed: “Good afternoon,

I didn't expect to be writing in to a podcast today, but I had yesterday's episode playing while I was working from home today and was pleasantly surprised by the second track you selected, by Keltricity; the set they were playing is all tunes that my dad, John Goodin, composed. He passed away two and a half years ago now. He was a mandolinist and guitarist, who composed a pretty wide range of music from dance tunes to classical pieces; the Classical Mandolin Society of America has preserved his website and blog at https://mandotopia.classicalmandolinsociety.org/, where he collected all his recordings and sheet music (much of it freely available under a Creative Commons license and maintained by CMSA).

I see that Keltricity is from Louisville, which makes sense, as my dad was one of the founding members of the Louisville Mandolin Orchestra before my family relocated to northeastern Iowa; he kept in touch with a lot of the local musicians and the Louisville Mandolin Orchestra actually played so many of his pieces that they ended up recording a CD of them (called, of course, “It's All Goodin”). The tunes Keltricity played in that set are all ones that were in the repertoire for my dad's contra dance band, Contratopia, and that recording featured some of his published harmony parts as well. Contratopia still regularly plays for dances here in Minneapolis where I live, at the same folk dance hall where my own band plays, so we're keeping up the music since he's gone.

I'm not sure if you've ever played Contratopia on the show, sorry – – I definitely haven't listened to the full back catalog of podcasts, though I've been an occasional listener for many years! – – but I know you've played a track by another band that their pianist is in, Brass Lassie, so if you haven't checked their recordings out, you might like to! Their albums all have a mix of original tunes by band members and traditional tunes in Celtic and old – time styles. They used to tour the DC area contra dance scene and play for the Sunday afternoon all – waltzes dances there, so there's probably more than your average number of waltzes on their albums.

Sorry for such a long email! Last bit of fun trivia as a thank – you, the “Maggie” in the tune name from that set is our old family dog, a border collie we had when I was little. (She predated the digital age or I'd include a photo!) My dad wrote so many tunes that he named them after anything he could think of (or just the day he wrote them, if he never got around to a proper name), so there's several named after our various pets. This set has another one named after Maggie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56neWaCahc4

I hope you have a good weekend, and thanks again for the great surprise!”

View Details

HIGHLIGHT REEL 3.5 OF 2024

Greetings Celtophiles

You have 4 weeks to cast your vote in this Highlight Reel. I’ll compile the rest of the results at the end of the year. You can vote for as many tracks as you like. And the more you vote, the more your vote counts.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024

• Vote Now for as many songs and tunes that you love. We will filter it down to the best at the end of the year.
• Listen to the playlists on Spotify and YouTube.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC668

1:00 – High Octane “Eastern Vagrant” from High Octane

6:52 – Marc Gunn “Come Adventure With Me” from Come Adventure With Me

669

11:20 – Conamara Chaos “Breton Polkas” from single

15:30 – Poitín “Congress Reel” from Poitín

670

18:38 – Wylde Nept “The Butterfly” from All's Fair

20:35 – Enda Reilly “My Dublin Girl” from Hy – Brasil

22:54 – Kevin Meehan “The Living Bridge” from Spanish Point

671

26:15 – Hanneke Cassel “The Captain” from Dot the Dragon's Eyes

30:46 – Old Blind Dogs “Suite Bretonne” from Knucklehead Circus

34:53 – Jesse Ferguson “Skye Boat Song” from The Bard of Cornwall

38:40 – Runa “Liam's Lullaby” from When The Light Gets In

672

40:57 – Clanna Morna “Virginia / Martin Wynne's #2 / Morning Dew” from From The Lowlands To The High Seas

45:07 – Goitse “Cave of the Wild Horses” from Rosc

48:28 – Luas “Wonky Driveway” from Wonky Driveway

673

51:34 – The Drowsy Lads “Virginia (Reels)” from Wide Awake

57:06 – Poitin Band “Louis Riel/Free Gardeners” from Banks of Red River

1:00:34 – The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery “The Kilmacthomas Girl” from A Little Bit Slanted

674

1:05:15 – The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery “The Town of Ballybay” from A Little Bit Slanted

1:09:01 – Runa “Hùg Air A’Bhonaid Mhòir” from When The Light Gets In

1:13:13 – Fialla “North Sea Holes” from Home & Away

1:16:21 – CREDITS

The Highlight Reels was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. The show was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather. Promote Celtic culture through music with the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

View Details

Céad Míle Fáilte,

It’s Todd yet again. In this week’s issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other podcasts we highlight are National Leprechaun Museum Talking Stories & Mostly Folk. The featured articles include ones about an interview with Rhyss Davies, Doune the Rabbit Hole Music Festival, and the Cornwall Garden society lectures. The featured festival is the Circle City Irish Fest taking place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Indianapolis, IN on September 20 & 21. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #678: DANCING WITH HOBBITS

• Keltricity, The BorderCollies, Dublin Gulch, Louise Bichan, Clanna Morna, Dancing With Hobbits, Celtic Wood and Wires, Clay Babies, Brother Sea, Ironwood, Adria Jackson, The Walker Roaders, Mary Frances Leahy, Toby Bresnahan, Clare Cunningham
• Bruce, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Karen DM Harris, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Spotify

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST

The bands you listen to each week rely on your generosity and financial support. Just like this podcast. Your patronage allows us to create a free show for thousands of people week. It only costs you as little as one dollar per episode on Patreon. Join on Patreon now.

NATIONAL LEPRECHAUN MUSEUM TALKING STORIES: 2024 EPISODE 2: THE CURSE OF MACHA

• This Week's episode of the National Leprechaun Museum's Podcast features Sarah, Niamh and Helena as they sit around with fake candles and discuss the story of “The Curse of Macha”

Listen to the Podcast

TEN MINUTES WITH RHYSS DAVIES OF SAUCE GANG COLLECTIVE

• Sauce Gang Collective are a Dublin hip-hop / pop-fusion six-piece band. They’ve just released their album Mustard Melodies.

Read the Blog

MOSTLY FOLK EPISODE 694

• Tiffany Williams & Dalton Mills, Carla Ulbirch, Danny Schmidt, Cliff Stackonis, & Eugene Ruffolo
• Interview with Rolland Salley regarding his song “Killing the Blues”

Listen to the Show

DOUNE THE RABBIT HOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL TO RETURN AFTER BOYCOTT

• Doune the Rabbit Hole music festival is to be revived next year, after previously being cancelled due to a union boycott over unpaid wages.
• The organisers of the Stirlingshire event say they are a new management team, with no connection to the festival's previous directors.

Visit the site

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF TREES AND TEA AT UPCOMING CORNWALL GARDEN SOCIETY LECTURES

• The Cornwall Garden Society (CGS) is set to launch its Autumn Lecture Programme with a fascinating talk by Jonathon Jones OBE, Managing Director, Trading, of the historic Tregothnan Estate. The estate, located in Tresillian near Truro, boasts the largest private botanical garden in Cornwall and has played a vital role in cultivating rare species for 700 years.

Read the Blog

CIRCLE CITY IRISH FESTIVAL

• Circle City Irish Fest is keeping tradition alive in Indianapolis by celebrating Irish heritage through music, dance, culture, and sport. We will have two days of fun, entertainment, and shenanigans on September 20th and 21st headlined by Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones and The Fighting Jameson’s!
• Other entertainment acts include Brigid’s Cross, Highland Reign, Laughing Jack, & Tullies at the Wakefield

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 19, 2024

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

Go dancing with hobbits for Hobbit Day on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #678. Subscribe now!

Keltricity, The BorderCollies, Dublin Gulch, Louise Bichan, Clanna Morna, Dancing With Hobbits, Celtic Wood and Wires, Clay Babies, Brother Sea, Ironwood, Adria Jackson, The Walker Roaders, Mary Frances Leahy, Toby Bresnahan, Clare Cunningham

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2024 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on Spotify to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists. You can also check out our Irish & Celtic Music Videos.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:07 – Keltricity “Louis Cyr – Motel Henry” from Live at Terra Firma Radio

3:14 – WELCOME

5:28 – The BorderCollies “Kishors” from To the Hills and Back

9:01 – Dublin Gulch “Ballad of the Button Box” from Tap ‘Er Light

14:20 – Louise Bichan “The Little Cowpig” from The Lost Summer

16:32 – Clanna Morna “Maid On The Shore” from From The Lowlands To The High Seas

21:54 – FEEDBACK

25:22 – Dancing With Hobbits “Old Took's Victory Dance” from Dancing With Hobbits

28:31 – Celtic Wood and Wires “The Boatman's Dance” from Close The Back Door

31:49 – Clay Babies “Rakes Of Kildare / Drowsy Maggie / Cup Of Tea / Reel Of Mullinavat” from Speechless Vol. 1: Sloppy Session in the Sticks

36:29 – Brother Sea “Oll' Vel Onen” from Brother Sea Ep

40:56 – Ironwood “Crawl on Duke Street” from Gretna Green

44:42 – THANKS

46:38 – Adria Jackson “Solveig's Song” from Troubadour

50:41 – The Walker Roaders “The Story” from The Walker Roaders

55:02 – Mary Frances Leahy “Dance of the Fairies” from First Light

59:00 – Toby Bresnahan “Jock Stewart” from All In Good time

1:02:12 – CLOSING

1:03:17 – Clare Cunningham “Éireann i mo chroí” from ON MY WAY (AR MO BHEALACH)

1:07:24 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn.

This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. All types. All styles. All instruments. If it’s Celtic music, we play it.

It is here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to keep making music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their communities on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

I have a brand new album that is now on sale. It’s called Dancing With Hobbits. It’s album of all original, hobbit – inspired dance tunes. If you saw the Lord of the Rings movies and heard the music during Bilbo Baggins’ birthday party, then that should give you some idea. It’s fun, upbeat Celtic dance tunes.

It was recorded with Sam Gillogly on fiddle. Sam is no stranger to this podcast, having their own album of Classical Celtic music. But if you’re heard a fiddle on any of my songs in the last 15 years, that was probably Sam.

The album is listed under our band name Dancing With Hobbits. I’ll share music in the coming weeks and later in the show.

If you are a Celtic musician or in a Celtic band, then please submit your band to be played on the podcast. You don’t have to send in music or an EPK. You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music and learn how to follow the podcast. It’s 100% free. Just email Email follow@bestcelticmusic and of course, listeners can learn how to subscribe to the podcast and get a free music – only episode.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!You are amazing. It is because of your generosity that you get to hear so much great Celtic music each and every week.

Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic designer, Celtic Music Magazine editor, promotion of the podcast, and allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show each and every week.

As a patron, you get ad – free and music – only episodes before regular listeners, vote in the Celtic Top 20, stand – alone stories, you get a private feed to listen to the show or you can listen through the Patreon app. All that for as little as $1 per episode.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Bruce, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Alan Schindler, Karen DM Harris, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every week, $1, $5, $25. Make sure to cap how much you want to spend per month.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Please email me. I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening or of a band that you saw recently.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Eric Guarin emailed some photos: “Meanwhile rather belatedly, but some of what me and my wife Terry were doing last summer while listening to the Podcast:

– Running on the beach near Tarifa, Spain and later in Biarritz, France (picture attached with the beach way in the background)

– Climbing the Rock of Gibraltar (see picture of monkey)

– Hiking a piece of the Camino De Santiago pilgrimage trail, near Bilbao (the picture near the ocean).

– Also managed to see Iron Maiden live, a long held bucket list dream of mine to see a concert overseas. We didn't listen to the Podcast on that occasion ha ha but listened quite a bit while driving around 2400 – 2500 km from Portugal through Spain to the Basque tip of France and then Spain.

We were lucky enough in this life to visit Ireland, summer of 2021. So so so so nice, we LOVED it. BUT due to COVID…no live music!

Someday, we'll manage to get on an Invasion… Slainte,”

Mary L Deal emailed a photo: “Hi Marc, I'm sitting here messing around with and printing 3d stuff listening to the latest podcast (Panxty Caper #664) and heard, again dang it, about this year's trip and was wondering if you know if you will be going back to Ireland next year. I would really like to join you on one of these trips. I went to Ireland around1995 with my Mom and would like to share that beautiful place and the people there with my daughter. Sincerely,”

Geoffrey Huff sent a photo from Abilene, TX:

View Details

Céad Míle Fáilte,

Halò, it is Todd again. In this issue we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. The other highlighted podcasts are Irish Family Vacations and Copperplate Time. We have included a list of new CDs. The featured articles include ones about Irish Minister Paschal Donohoe, Mine Water being used to heat homes in Wales, & Brittany’s Best Beaches. The highlighted festival this week is Scotfest in Broken Arrow, OK taking place this weekend September 13 – 15 at Central Park. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #677: THE MUCKERS WHISKEY TANGO

• Keltricity, The Drowsy Lads, Altan, Dan Possumato, Jesse Ferguson, Caliceltic, The Muckers, Kilted Kings, Tradify, The BorderCollies, Tarren, The Inland Seas, An Lár
• A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Bartolome Mayol, Tomohiro Sengoku, Paul Means, TameBush828, Chris Lowe, Andrea Starz, Cris

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Spotify

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

Join us on Patreon

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST

The bands you listen to each week rely on your generosity and financial support. Just like this podcast. Your patronage allows us to create a free show for thousands of people week. It only costs you as little as one dollar per episode on Patreon. Join on Patreon now.

New CDs

• Get weekly updates of New CDs in our Celtic Music Magazine and download 34 Celtic MP3s for free at bestcelticmusic.net. #NewCelticCDs
• Harpaphonics – by Griselda Sanderson
• The Story of the Elves Forest – by Fairy Winds & The Soul of Wind
• Elsewhere – by Olivia Barrett

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

ENCOUNTERS WITH IRISH MYTHOLOGY – AMAZING IRISH EXPERIENCES

• Irish mythology is rich with stories that have been passed down through generations, featuring a mix of heroic tales, tragic love stories, and epic battles.
• These stories are deeply rooted in Irish culture and have influenced literature, art, and even modern popular culture. They are celebrated for their richness, complexity, and the way they reflect the ancient beliefs and values of Ireland.

Listen to the Podcast

IRISH MINISTER PASCHAL DONOHOE ‘HONOURED’ TO BE GRANTED FREEDOM OF THE CITY OF LONDON

• IRELAND’S Minister for Public Expenditure will be granted the Freedom of the City of London.
• Paschal Donohoe, the Fine Gael TD for Dublin Central and Chairman of the Eurogroup, claims he is “privileged to accept the honour” which is one of the city’s oldest traditions.

Read the Blog

COPPERPLATE TIME 482

• Bothy Band, Noel Hill & Tony Linnane, MacDiarmada/Gormley/Harvey, Andy Irvine, Des Donnelly, Liam O’Flynn, Maggie Boyle, Dezi Donnelly & Mike McGoldrick, Liz & Yvonne Kane, Paddy Carty & Mick O’Connor, Dan Brouder & Angelina Carberry, Ben Lennon & Friends, Christy Moore, Paddy Glackin, Danu, Gerry O’Connor, We Banjo 3, Lunasa

Listen to the Show

MINE WATER COULD HEAT THOUSANDS OF WELSH HOMES

• Energy bills could be cut by low carbon heat schemes which use water from abandoned Welsh coal mines.
• One in five properties in Wales lies above an area which has the potential for a mine water heat scheme, the Coal Authority said.

Visit the site

BRITTANY’S BEST BEACHES – FROM FAMILY-FRIENDLY COVES TO ISOLATED SHORES

• Brittany’s 2,000-kilometre coastline is the longest in France and is dotted with sandy beaches and wonderful secluded islands. There are ports patterned with must-visit restaurants and bars, as well as quaint, historical towns and holistic retreats to unwind in. There is much to explore in Brittany and, what’s more, it’s so easy to get there.

Read the Blog

Scotfest

• Scotfest | Oklahoma is an authentic celebration of Scottish and Celtic culture. Primarily modeled after the 178-year-old Lonach Gathering, Scotland and the 189 year old Braemar Gathering, Scotland.
• The 100% volunteer team at Scotfest, Inc., a 501(c)3 public charity organization. With a mission to produce a celebration of Scottish and Celtic culture.
• Scotfest are very proud supporters of the Northeastern State University Foundation. Providing need and merit-based scholarships to students who do well in academics, leadership, community services and other areas. Additionally, Scotfest are extremely proud to support our Veterans associations. Including Folds of Honor, Soldier’s Wish, the Royal British Legion and the Scottish American Military Society. The festival is always held on the third weekend in September in the Broken Arrow Events Park. Scotfest celebrates its 43rd year in 2023.
• Some of the entertainment acts this year include Celtica, Albannach, Plunk Murray, Waxie Dargles, Tullamore, & The Selkie Girls

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 12, 2024

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

View Details

Learn more about The Muckers new album Whiskey Tango plus enjoy a ton of great music on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #677. Subscribe now!

Keltricity, The Drowsy Lads, Altan, Dan Possumato, Jesse Ferguson, Caliceltic, The Muckers, Kilted Kings, Tradify, The BorderCollies, Tarren, The Inland Seas, An Lár

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2024 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on Spotify to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists. You can also check out our Irish & Celtic Music Videos.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Amy Bradley

0:09 – Keltricity “Dance to St Anne's Reel” from Live at Terra Firma Radio

3:16 – WELCOME

5:40 – The Drowsy Lads “Pipe Set (Remastered)_The Drowsy Lads_Time Flies” from Time Flies

9:25 – Altan “The Barley And The Rye (Song)” from Donegal

12:36 – Dan Possumato “Da Eye Wifey (feat. Kevin Burke & Frances Cunningham) from “An Teachín Gorm

15:12 – Jesse Ferguson “The Minstrel Boy” from Ten

17:28 – FEEDBACK

20:23 – Caliceltic “The Fantastic Slapping Adventures of a Tuesday Night” from Some Kinda EP or Sumthin'

24:52 – About The Muckers

29:59 – The Muckers “The Crash” from Whiskey Tango

33:48 – About Whiskey Tango

36:55 – The Muckers “Whiskey Tango” from Whiskey Tango

41:46 – The Muckers are at IrishFest Atlanta.

44:13 – The Muckers “Irish Goodbye” from Irish Goodbye

50:45 – THANKS

53:11 – Kilted Kings “Slainte Mhaith” from Flower of Scotland

55:11 – Tradify “Mise Eire” from Take Flight

58:40 – The BorderCollies “Black Is The Colour” from To the Hills and Back

1:02:37 – Tarren “Super 8” from Outside Time

1:06:58 – The Inland Seas “The Cruel Brother” from Down by the Greenwood Side

1:11:59 – CLOSING

1:12:56 – An Lár “The Man on the Bodhrán” from Deception

1:17:00 – CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn.

This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. If that’s you, then grab a pint, go for a walk, start yard work, and get ready for an hour of great independent Celtic music.

It is here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to keep making music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their communities on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

We are less than two months away from IrishFest Atlanta. We are proud sponsors of the festival. I plan to release a few interviews from artists performing at the festival as we gear up for the fest. This week, I have an interview with Jeff Shaw of the Celtic punk band, The Muckers, about their new album Whiskey Tango.

I have gotten only a couple designs for the 2025 Celtic podcast. I’d like to get a few more before I make any decision. If you’re interested in having your artwork featured on the podcast in 2025, and you want to get paid for it, please email me 3 – 5 art ideas for me to consider. Feel free to send another 3 – 5 per week. That helps me better consider your art.

If you are a Celtic musician or in a Celtic band, then please submit your band to be played on the podcast. You don’t have to send in music or an EPK. You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music and learn how to follow the podcast. It’s 100% free. Just email Email follow@bestcelticmusic and of course, listeners can learn how to subscribe to the podcast and get a free music – only episode.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!You are amazing. It is because of your generosity that you get to hear so much great Celtic music each and every week.

Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic designer, Celtic Music Magazine editor, promotion of the podcast, and allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show each and every week.

As a patron, you get ad – free and music – only episodes before regular listeners, vote in the Celtic Top 20, stand – alone stories, you get a private feed to listen to the show or you can listen through the Patreon app. All that for as little as $1 per episode.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Bartolome Mayol, Tomohiro Sengoku, Paul Means, TameBush828, Chris Lowe, Andrea Starz, Cris

HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

1. Go to our Patreon page.
2. Decide how much you want to pledge every week, $1, $5, $25. Make sure to cap how much you want to spend per month.
3. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONSEvery year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACKWhat are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Please email me. I’d love to see a picture of what you're doing while listening or of a band that you saw recently.

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Steve & Jody Pomper emailed: “Hey Marc, love your show. We're weekly listeners who look forward to your podcasts. Jody is way Irish and while I have some Irish (learned that from Ancestry, I have Breton heritage (grandmother's maiden name Lebreton. A little on – the – nose, eh?). I'm a retired Seattle cop, and Jody's a retired firefighter. So, there's a little about us. Let us know where we can donate. Thanks, Steve & Jody Seattle (originally from Massachusetts and have relatives in Atlanta).”

Go to BestCelticMusic.net/donate

Michael Tilley emailed: “Hi Marc – i was one of your original patrons back in the teens. I’m still a member at a lower level (i retired on fixed income) and want access to #131 which has music i cannot find and would like to play again many times. Please let me know how to get podcast 131.”

Betsy Farley emailed: “Some time ago you aired a song by a guy who got thrown out of bars and finally a Starbucks for ordering a Guinness. Who is the artist and what's the name of the song? I thought I had saved it but can't find it anywhere. I love your show and listen to it whenever I can, especially on long drives.”

That was CaliCeltic with the song “The Fantastic Slapping Adventures of a Tuesday Night”

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Céad Míle Fáilte,

Good morning, it is Todd once again. In this week’s edition we have a new episode of our own Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We have included a list of new album releases as well. The other podcasts highlighted are National Leprechaun Museum Talking Stories & Mostly Folk. The featured articles include ones about upcoming events in Ireland, a Viking-Age treasure found in Scotland, and the National Trust in Wales. This week’s highlighted festival is the Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival, in Estes Park, CO that runs from September 6 – 8. We hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time, slàinte mhath!

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST #676: FISHING FOR CELTIC MUSIC

• Altan, The Irish Lassies, The Drowsy Lads, Dan Possumato, Cleveland Celtic Ensemble, The Secret Commonwealth, Clare Cunningham, The Sternwheelers, Kris Colt & the Black Rose Band, Tuatha Dea, The Langer's Ball, Ian Fontova, The Miles O'Brien band & Betsy Rose, Mark Shelton, Tarren
• A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Bruce, Brian McReynolds, Marti Meyers, Brenda, Alan Schindler, Karen DM Harris, Emma Bartholomew, Dan mcDade, Miranda Nelson, Nancie Barnett, Kevin Long, Gary R Hook, Lynda MacNeil, Kelly Garrod, Annie Lorkowski, Shawn Cali

Listen to the Show

IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC: BEST OF 2024 PLAYLIST

• Every week, Patrons of the Podcast vote in the Celtic Top 20. Those votes are tabulated two weeks later. The most-popular songs are added to these playlists.
• You can vote for your favorite by following the link in this week's show.

Listen on Spotify

CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20

• Every year, I publish the Celtic Top 20. This is your pick of the best, most-popular songs of the year. But to make the show great, I need you to vote for your favorite songs in each episode.
• Just list each of the bands performing those favorite songs to quickly and easily cast your vote.

Vote in the Celtic Top 20

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST

The bands you listen to each week rely on your generosity and financial support. Just like this podcast. Your patronage allows us to create a free show for thousands of people week. It only costs you as little as one dollar per episode on Patreon. Join on Patreon now.

New CDs

• Get weekly updates of New CDs in our Celtic Music Magazine and download 34 Celtic MP3s for free at bestcelticmusic.net. #NewCelticCDs
• Kindlewick Island – by Kindlewick Island
• Scottish Accordion Gems 3 – by Ronnie Ross
• Waxie Dargles LP – by Waxie Dargles
• City Under a Thousand Stars – by The Soul of Wind

Attn Bands: Go to 4celts.com to submit your band to the podcast.

NATIONAL LEPRECHAUN MUSEUM TALKING STORIES: EPISODE 82 THE FIGHT AT THE FORD

• Episode 82 of the National Leprechaun Museum's Talking Stories Podcast. Brendan and Evan discuss Paudie's retelling of the epic fight between Cú Chulainn and Ferdia.

Listen to the Podcast

DRAMA, DEBATE, MUSICALS AND POETRY IN IRELAND OVER THE COMING MONTHS

• This is a list of plays, musicals, and poetry taking place in Ireland over the next few months.

Read the Blog

MOSTLY FOLK EPISODE 692

• Nora Brown & Stephanie Coleman, Andrew Marlin, Paula Boggs Band, Jay Linden, Gordon Thomas Ward, Phoebe White, Kat Goldman,Alex Mabey, Alicia Viani, David Francey, David Maloney, David Massengill, Dayna Kurtz and Mamie Minch

Listen to the Show

‘AMAZING’ VIKING-AGE TREASURE TRAVELLED HALF THE WORLD TO SCOTLAND, ANALYSIS FINDS

• It is a star object of the Galloway Hoard, the richest collection of Viking-age objects ever found in Britain or Ireland, buried in AD900 and unearthed in a field in Scotland. Now a lidded silver vessel has been identified as being of west Asian origin, transported halfway around the world more than 1,000 years ago.

Visit the site

NATIONAL TRUST REVEALS RISE IN VISITOR NUMBERS BUT DROP IN MEMBERS

• The National Trust said its visitor numbers jumped by 5% in the last year with people still prepared to spend money on a day out despite the cost of living crisis.
• But the charity’s annual report, released on Monday, revealed changing visitor spending patterns.

Read the Blog

LONGS PEAK SCOTTISH IRISH HIGHLAND FESTIVAL

• Immerse yourself in the Celtic culture at the Highland Festival in Estes Park, Colorado. Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival, Inc. hosts the largest such festival in the country. The event includes Scottish athletics, the best in Celtic rock and folk music, and live field performances.
• Some of the musical guests include Syr, Albannach, Brother, Rolling Drones, Harp Twins, Skyrie, the Carroll Sisters, Cal, Seamus Kennedy, & Chambless & Muse.

Find out more information

WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHILE LISTENING?

You can send a comment or a picture of what you're doing. You can also send a photo from one of your trips to a Celtic nation or anywhere around the globe.

Slainte!

Todd Wiley & Marc Gunn, The Celtfather

September 5, 2024

TELL A FRIEND

Do you have a friend who loves Celtic music? Why not share the latest episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Share this newsletter or your favorite episode. Tell them why you love it.

celticmusicmagazine

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The fish are biting on great Celtic music on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #676 . Subscribe now!

Altan, The Irish Lassies, The Drowsy Lads, Dan Possumato, Cleveland Celtic Ensemble, The Secret Commonwealth, Clare Cunningham, The Sternwheelers, Kris Colt & the Black Rose Band, Tuatha Dea, The Langer's Ball, Ian Fontova, The Miles O'Brien band & Betsy Rose, Mark Shelton, Tarren

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOXThe Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2024 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on Spotify to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 – 3 weeks. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists. You can also check out our Irish & Celtic Music Videos.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC0:02 – Intro: Mark Shelton

0:13 – Altan “The Letterkenny Blacksmith/John Doherty’s Favourite/Scread na Bealtaine (Reels)” from Donegal

4:25 – WELCOME

5:49 – The Irish Lassies “Fish are Biting on Canandaigua Lake” from single

7:57 – The Drowsy Lads “Donegal Danny (live at the Dublin Irish Festival)_The Drowsy Lads_Time Flies” from Time Flies

13:54 – Dan Possumato “Fly Fishing / Martin O'connor's Flying Clog (feat. Bill Verdier & Frances Cunningham)” from An Teachín Gorm

17:24 – Cleveland Celtic Ensemble “Farewell to Tarwathie” from Cleveland Celtic Ensemble

22:36 – FEEDBACK

25:57 – The Secret Commonwealth “The Bonnie Lass of Fyvie” from Lager & Blood

29:36 – Clare Cunningham “The Best You can” from ON MY WAY (AR MO BHEALACH)