“FANTASTIC, feel-good, happy, lively music,” is how Sharon Shannon described the latest album from Clare’s legendary Kilfenora Céilí Band. Limerick Post chatted to Anthony Quigney who plays flute with KCB to hear about what the group has in store for their Limerick audience this weekend.
The new album ‘Now Is The Hour’ showcases a musical gear-change for KCB with Lunasa’s Kevin Crawford on production duties for the second time with the band. The video for Kilfenora Céilí Band’s rendition of the tune ‘Little Bird’ has got thousands of views on YouTube and received hundreds of positive comments.
Anthony Quigney told Limerick Post that the group was open to finding a fresh approach musically.
“It is a big departure in terms of the mix of songs and music. In the past we would have been solely known as a dance band for céilís. For this record the group wanted to find other sources of good music. We have been amazed with the reaction it has got all over the world especially for ‘Little Bird’.”
For this record Kilfenora Céilí Band have reunited with Don Stiffe on vocals:
“A fantastic singer from Galway who was pipped to the post on the All Ireland Talent Show recently. He has an amazing voice, a great entertainer and we were delighted that he came on board with us.”
The Kilfenora Céilí Band has all ages in its ranks. From 20 to 60 years of age, many have been with the band over 20 years with members coming from all parts of Clare and Limerick.
“Over the years new members have joined and the age and gender balance is pretty good now,” says Anthony.
For the show this weekend, expect material from the two recent albums and plenty of the classic Irish Dance music that is synonymous with Kilfenora Céilí Band.
“Ensuring that our audience has a fantastic night is our number one focus,” he adds.
“The Lime Tree Theatre is a fantastic venue. We have been there a few times over the couple of years and we are delighted to be back to launch the new album.”
Kilfenora Céilí Band performs a concert at Lime Tree Theatre this Sunday October 4.
