Shane Supple Interviews

DIY around the house 2

2020-05-04T08:49:00.001-07:00

The water dripping down my body and gathering in a pool around my feet is dark blue, not clear or sparkling like you see on the adverts for holidays abroad, but a dark, navy, blue with a tinge of grey in it and no, I am not on some Caribbean island swimming with dolphins or other such nonsense. I’m at home in my bathroom under the lockdown. I have been standing under this shower for 20 minutes now, my skin is gone all wrinkly from being in the water too long, its dark blue in most places and red raw in other places from the vigorous scrubbing with a large nail brush. I look like a children’s party clown who was very, very drunk when he applied his makeup or a bank robber who opened the bag of money when the dye used as a security measure exploded all over him. That’s not the worst part, my daughter and herself are trying to clean up our once normal, tidy kitchen. God help me, there is no escape this time.

Paint the kitchen, she said. It will be grand, she said. Sure, what can go wrong, you have no drills, or machinery to deal with just a paint brush and roller. I want my kitchen painted a nice shade of blue and this time I am warning you no messing about, just get it done and finished today. It’s finished all right, as am I. That fecking dog, I blame him it was all his fault.

What started as a normal bank holiday weekend has turned into one, I would like to forget. After herself announced she wanted the kitchen painted I like any reasonable man came up with all the excuses as to why it could not be done at this time. The hardware shops are closed so I can’t get the paint. No problem, she replied. I had some blue left over from the sitting room after you made a mess of the wall and I had some white left over from the ceiling as well, I have mixed them both and added some old grey paint I found under the stairs so we have plenty of paint. With that she produced a 10-litre tub of paint. I have no brush or rollers, again she produced a set of worn but newly cleaned set of brushes and roller. Ah yea but I need masking tape to protect the kitchen cupboards and doors and floor coverings, she handed me a bunch of old newspapers and two roles of masking tape. There you have it, no excuses now, get painting, I cook and clean all week now its your turn to do something around this house apart from trying to wreck it so I’m going to catch up on my soaps and I expect it finished by this evening.

I had no choice, I moved the table & chairs, fridge, dryer, washing machine all out into the back yard. Got my ladder and decided to check the paint before I committed myself to this big job, hoping that it might not be mixed well or that she had used two types of paint, anything to stop proceedings. I lifted up the tub of paint and placed it on top of one stool in the middle of the kitchen and opened it up. To my disappointment it was fine and a nice colour too. Now at this stage I must introduce you to our pet family, we have Meg who is a large cross bred dog between a Labrador and Great Dane, who is getting old in years and she wanders in and out of the house at a nice steady pace, easy to see and not trip over, than we have our second dog, Tico a small, Pomeranian who likes to run in and out of rooms followed by our newest arrival Bobby even smaller than the Pomeranian who is a wildfire in small spaces, a little hyper loves running jumping and just flying all over the place expending boundless energy at the drop of a hat. Meg plonked herself down in the middle of the kitchen floor after deciding she had walked far enough, Tico plonked down beside her and Bobby just came bounding in from the other room like a Tasmanian devil. I went to step over Meg avoiding Tico and as I put my foot down Bobby arrived underneath my foot in a blur.

Before I knew what was happening, I stood down on his tail, he reacted by whelping and at the same time snapping at my ankle, Meg and Tico jumped up barking and my tranquil world ended there and then. The shock of getting bitten on the ankle amid the cacophony of barking dogs sent me flying backwards, again I will use one of my favourite phrases, it all happened in slow motion.

I was falling backwards one leg under me and the other stretched out in front like the John Cleese character in Fawlty Towers, Basil, doing the goose step in the German episode. I too am tall and have long legs, so by the time my backside hit the ground my leg was swinging in a long arch upwards. This would be all well and good if I had not opened the 10-litre tub of paint and placed it on a high stool in the middle of the kitchen. The inevitable happened, like the great Pele doing an overhead kick in front of goal, my foot connected with the tub of paint and sent it spiralling upwards, my life didn’t flash before me, but I saw impending doom heading my way.

The upwards motion of the tub was fine but then gravity took over and the tub was beginning to start its spin on the highest point of the trajectory, the paint started to come out of the tub in a beautiful spray motion, glistening as its form grew, spreading in an ever widening circle before it too reached its height and it simply spread everywhere before returning to earth to land in the middle of our tiled floor where it splashed like a mini tsunami sending waves of dark blue paint outwards and upwards, covering everything in its path, the dogs, myself, the floor and ending up landing on our nice light blue kitchen cabinet doors, before slow motion ended and everything returned to normal speed.

I tried to look around, but I couldn’t see as I was covered in paint, I wiped it from my eyes and looked at the carnage around me. There was paint dripping down all the cabinet doors, there was paint on the ceiling, there was an ever widening pool of paint spreading out from the upturned tub on the floor, the dogs were running all over the place, leaving blue paw prints across the parts of the floor not covered in paint and brushing against the walls and doors smearing blue paint on parts of the kitchen that were not in the blast zone. I tried to get up. I needed to get a cloth or towel even kitchen wipes to stop the ever-increasing pool of paint spreading further but slipped knocking the tub even further across the kitchen floor where it rolled out the kitchen door into our newly covered timber effect flooring in the sitting room.

That was one of the worst moments of my life, and I have had quite a few to be honest. It was like an after shock from an earthquake, it was herself coming to see what had happened. She stood in the kitchen doorway holding the empty tub in her hand with paint dripping down the sides of it. If you think 3 dogs barking can make some noise it was nothing to the screams and shouts, she let out, like a wounded lioness roaring at a Carol Baskin.

My fecking kitchen………what have you done………. you f**king plonker……… my beautiful kitchen, (again because I am posting this on a public forum, I cannot use the language she used) You bleep, bleep, bleep, bleep mother bleeper………. this is the last bleeping straw……... you useless bleeping dimwit. The intense noise and barrage of insults hit me even harder than the paint and I could offer no excuse or explanation that was going to soften the blow of what had just happened or what she was looking at. Luckily my daughter heard the commotion and had arrived in the kitchen and managed to get between mother and me otherwise I would have felt the empty tub across my skull several times no doubt such was the anger being expressed.

Needles to say the women between them stopped the flow of the paint and sent me to the shower to clean up with words of “Don’t get any more paint on anything, you fecking idiot”. My daughter rescued the day and I believe saved my life. After they spent several long hours cleaning up the paint that was on the walls, floor, ceiling, cupboard doors etc herself washed the 3 dogs and my daughter painted the kitchen. I am once again in the garden shed. I am on a mini lockdown in the middle of the lockdown. I think I am going to need some home comforts in this shed. I might start on that once the dust settles or the paint dries.

Once again, let this be a lesson to all out there, leave the DIY, painting, jobs around the house type of things etc to professionals, just leave me out of it, please.

DIY around the house 1

2020-03-27T07:06:00.000-07:00

Ok here's the thing, I'm not the most dexterous when it comes to doing DIY around the house. Everyone in my family knows this, hence a pretty easy time of it, our local tradesmen, friends nephews and neighbours are all aware of this as well, from the countless times herself has asked them to do this or that small job around the place as "he is completely useless around the house" her words or as they say a direct quote......

Anyway as things stand in the current climate we, like many others are more or less housebound and I am lucky to be able to work from home. After 3 years of asking me to hang a picture in our sitting room, she thought it was about time I hang it. After all I was home every day and my excuse of I cant right now, I have to get ready for a meeting etc didnt hold water. She looked me straight in the eye and said I want that picture hung today. I tried the old "my drill is busted" to which she replied it's ok, I bought you one and handed me a brand new drill. Exhibit 1 in the gallery attached.I had no choice but to agree.

With that she went into our sitting room and cleared away a space in front of the wall where she wanted the picture hung. Handed me a tape measure, a hammer, the drill and the framed photo. She had a pencil and marked the exact spot on the wall. "You cant go wrong, drill here, one screw in this spot. I have washing to do so I'll let you to it"

There I was drill in hand and no way out. I got myself sorted out checked the drill, placed it on the wall, pulled the trigger and off it went. I was drilling for about 5 minutes dust everywhere and figured I was done I stopped drilling and examined the wall. There was a small hole and that was it enough to place the tip of the screw into but no further. I got out the instruction manual and read it when I came across a button to switch to for hammer action.

Let me tell you this hammer action works, not so good for me but it sure does make short work of a stubborn block. I placed the drill onto the small hole and as I pushed the trigger I decided to lean into it good and hard. I didnt see the dog, nor his tail wagging as he lay on the ground looking up at me. I pressed the trigger and stood on that dog's tail at the same time. Dust, flew everywhere the dog snapped at my ankle he started yelping and howling while chewing on my ankle. I lost balance, fell forward and my grip on the drill trigger got even tighter. As I said hammer action works.

We have an old house with old style walls built using rocks and stone not cement blocks. Typical, the one place I pick to drill had some loose stone behind the rock I was drilling through. Before I knew it the drill had hammered it's way through the rock and as I was now hanging off the drill having lost my balance it put extra pressure on where I was drilling, causing the drill bit to act like a crowbar and bang.

Before I knew it I was on my knees at the foot of the wall with rubble, stones and cement dust everywhere. When it cleared I took a look at my handiwork. Not pretty see.... exhibit 3 photo below.

The end result I had to call my neighbour, a builder to have a look at the small hole in my wall. He was at home and we agreed and social distancing protocols while he looked over my DIY effort.

He had to remove more loose stones before he could fix the hole, this in turn led to fireplace coming out and god knows what else.

But I'm sure the picture will look good when he has finished.

Lesson here just because your stuck at home does not mean you should become a DIY expert round the house. Guys use my story as an example of the dangers of DIY in case your better half gets on your case.

Shane A Supple Facebook page is with Dee Farrell Supple at Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria. September 13, 2019 · Mogán, Spain

2020-03-27T06:39:00.001-07:00

Day 1

Day one of holiday and it would have to fall on Fri 13th, but we took a chance, everyone said you will be grand.

Yea right...however we got through 15 hours travelling, flight delayed by 4 hours left us sitting in Cork Airport which had the knock on effect when we arrived in Las Palmas airport our transfer to hotel had closed up and gone home so waited for the oldest bus on the island to take us all on a tour.

As is our luck we were the last stop so we got our appt at 11.30pm everything shut so were heading out to see if we can find a cow to milk for the cup of tea scavenge few eggs and mushrooms for breakfast if we can find a hen house.

Will report in later right now we have started our trek in the hotel bar so we will see how it goes.

Day 2.

After a long night searching for a cow to milk, we couldn’t find one and we looked in a lot of bars and pubs in Puerto Rico. but I did find a fella who thought he knew where I could get some eggs for the ould breakfast, hard to understand him the language barrier was a problem his local rum and my southern comfort just didn't gel.

However, we worked it out using sign language. As I explained after, he danced like a chicken in the bar, someone else tried to tell me he was trying to walk home but I know the chicken dance when I see it.

Anyway, we managed to find the henhouse I couldn’t tell because it was dark. But once we got in, he was on all fours, so I followed suite didn't want to startle the hens. As we crawled through the hen house, I was amazed even the henhouse here in Gran Canaria had tiled floors.

We stumbled around quite a bit just as well I was sober cause we seemed to be going around in circles. Eventually he stopped crawling he made me wait outside the inner door to the henhouse when I heard all sorts of screaming from behind me. This woman roaring and shouting God help us she made some racket.

Anyway it transpired it was her kitchen, the fool I was with obviously made a wrong turn so I've been explaining all this to the local Garda but again he must be from west Clare/ Galway as I can’t understand him at all, his Irish is very strange.

Anyway, after Dee had a word with him I was let go with an official letter of recommendation Dee says it's a warning but I know better, it's for helping my guide to the henhouse out. God I'm starving but all I have is this pint to tide me over

Day 3

I know I'm 24 hours late, but I had a small problem tele communication wise. Anyway, since the other night Dee has been keeping an eye on me in case I get into trouble.

As if, like I'm the most responsible person I know. Anyway, she spent Sunday morning marching me round the island looking for a church for mass. We found several interesting places which I intend visiting over next week. It transpires the mass is exact same here as home with few small differences its warmer here, it's also in Spanish but we managed to muddle through.

Afterwards we spent day walking around and it was pretty hot so by time we got back to complex I just wanted to throw myself in swimming pool. It was the perfect end to the afternoon. When I saw the pool glistening in the sunlight looking so clear blue and inviting, I lost it.

I dropped the shopping, kicked off the sneakers and took off running across the tiled pool area, around chairs, over sun loungers, like the wind, finished with a perfect swan dive into the pool. "Look before you leap".... springs to mind.... as I descended from my perfect arc towards the water only then I noticed a red inflatable lie low with two young kids steering it across the pool.

I landed between them both in the middle, my unassuming 19 stone forcing the air out either end and flipping two terrified kids about 8 feet skywards before gravity took over and they returned to the pool. I didn't see any more as i was tangled up in a burst inflatable at the bottom of the shallow end. I got myself untangled and stood up to hear wailing, crying and screaming from two terrified kids either end of the pool.

Seems they couldn’t swim and were terrified of the water. Looking around at two sets of parents and other patrons of the hotel pool all glaring at me was not pretty, once again Dee managed to calm them down, thanks be to God, she has this amazing gift, in all the excitement I had forgotten to take my phone out of my pocket before my perfect 10 Olympic swan dive, and there it was, resting at the bottom of the deep end, so I had to wait till everyone was gone before I could go back to retrieve it and spent the evening with a hairdryer trying to dry it off hence no post till now. Oh, the Joys of it.

Day 4 –

As you can see from the photos attached it rained today. Typical, rain on my holiday, it's not as if we don't get enough of it at home. Still was feeling a little homesick so I didn't really mind. However, if this evening is anything to go by, I might see it sooner than I had planned.

After getting banned from the pool area at our apartment complex which also hosts the complex bar. We now have travel out from complex to get few drinks in. Still don’t know why, something to do with children using the pool for therapy sessions. To be honest I didn't ask and tuned out while the hotel rep was talking about a last chance or something.

Anyway that’s the least of my problems, we headed out to very nice restaurant tonight, herself all dressed up and looking great new dress, shoes, got the hair done and all in hotel salon, and because of the rain all restaurants had their big canopy's all open to provide shelter to patrons eating and dining out.

Great concept but at home we have slates and tiles but here it's a little different canvas striped roof on rollers they can wind in and out as needed. They now come with electric motor which wind them in or out automatically. Great idea in principle. But I think I found a little fault with the whole concept.

We got to this restaurant herself had heard about, very nice and supposed to be the bees knees when it comes to food etc and the hairdresser from hotel called and got us a table even though it was booked out for a private party tonight.

Anyway, while we were eating it rained all the time and I was wondering about the ould canvas roof, would it hold up and keep us all dry. And it did, it was doing a great job, even though I could see a huge inward bulge in the middle where the rainwater had gathered. I was trying to be polite and mentioned to the owner of the restaurant that it was a bang-up job. Now I did pour it on a bit thick as herself had warned me to be on my best behaviour tonight.

He started explaining about motors, how fast it closed, how strong it was, how much water it could hold blah blah blah I lost interest but smiled and nodded politely all the time than he mentioned how it was controlled by an app on his phone which he started to show me before some waiter called him over to the main group of tables.

They were bringing out a cake to the party, a big cake too, 3 tiers high with candles on it. The staff were gathered around the tables all singing happy birthday which has the same tune in Spain as we do in Ireland. It was all wonderful.

His phone rang it was still on our table I thought I would just turn off the call and hit the button to hang up. He was right. The motors move fast on the roof, for no sooner had I hit the red button on his phone all the canopies started to roll up on themselves within seconds they were all closed up and the rain came straight down on top of us all but what was a little worse was the several hundred litres of water causing the bulge in the canvas all came down at once right on top of the party guests.

I have to say I noticed the candles were put out fairly fast on the cake, just before it was washed off the table along with every plate, cup, glass, knife and fork and every person at that table got a right soaking from the wall of water that came crashing down.

Again, must be a holiday thing but the screeching, screaming, shouting and roaring that went on was pretty loud. I grabbed herself by the hand threw €50 on the table to cover the starters we had and headed straight for the exit. Herself was not best pleased, and to be honest neither was the owner of the restaurant, who was running down the street after us, followed by a few of the party guests all roaring and shouting

We made it to the taxi rank and got a taxi back to the appt. Herself went straight to bed locking the bedroom door so I'm just checking Facebook and my email and checking my lotto numbers and I’m trying to figure out why everyone was shouting at us this evening. Strange people these holiday makers........

Day 5

Well it's been an uneventful day. Went on a shopping trip today. Must be a half day thing here because as we walked through the shopping center places were closing as we would get near and I noticed after we passed the opened up again, could have been a fire drill thing.

Anyway, we had some food and I got the eggs and milk for the ould breakfast. Funny thing I saw a printed black and white A4 sized poster with a CCTV picture of a fella who looked very like me, hanging on the wall beside the till in the supermarket where I got the milk. Couldn’t read it as it was in Spanish. Even Dee remarked on it.

We got back to our apartment complex and the electronic key wouldn’t work to our door so we went down to reception and there was a group of people all gathered around the reception desk speaking in Spanish. There was a holiday rep there as well and she took Dee to one side to have "a word"

It seems that everyone was asking how long we were staying and checking to see if we wanted to go to another part of the island while we were here. They even offered to give us a hire car and upgrade our accommodation if we wanted to move. I couldn’t believe how nice they were, all the group were from local business and were checking to make sure we were ok. No wonder people love staying here. They really do care and look after visitors. Board Failte could learn a lesson.

But after seeing this group of concerned local business people checking we were ok. I assured them we were fine and because of their display of concern and generosity in offering us upgrades etc we couldn’t possibly take them up on the offer. Now in fairness they did protest and through the holiday rep, God bless her, fluent in English and Spanish. She was relaying what I was saying to them in Spanish several times I told them. No, that they should give it to a more deserving couple, we were fine. This went on for about 20 minutes, but I managed to convince them we were staying.

Sure, they were so nice we couldn’t leave. They really do care; I could see how disappointed they were when they were leaving. We got our key sorted and went to our room and they had even packed our bags for us. They must have wanted to surprise us. Sure, it only took a minute to unpack everything again but tell you this they have just become my number 1 holiday choice from here on out. Such wonderful people. I couldn’t recommend this place highly enough.

Day 6

Today was a grand day indeed. We spent the day relaxing in the apartment sitting on the balcony and taking in the sun, watching the world go by and just doing nothing. Around six o’clock I had a shower and we got dressed up and went out for a meal at the local centre

As soon as we arrived at the centre, we were greeted by a security guard who told us he would accompany us to our restaurant. I thought that was very nice of him, must have had something to do with the visit from the local business community yesterday who were making sure we were ok.

The meal was lovely and even the staff at the restaurant were fantastic making sure we got everything quickly and never left our side throughout the whole meal and when we finished and asked for the bill the staff made sure we waited for the security guard to walk with us to a few local bars and again we got the same treatment there with staff members never leaving our side

When we did leave the last bar and headed to the taxi rank, we found a taxi waiting door open and another security guard holding a cue of people back. Not only that but we had a police escort as well. Herself was feeling quite pleased with it all. I now know how rock stars feel when going out in public. But here they have taken into a whole new level. I'm loving this place.

Day 7

Strange day don’t have much time to write must hand over my phone to local Guards shortly.

Anyway, long story short we went diving today all looked good, something I wanted to try with ages. Got on the boat I told em I knew how to dive, sure I've seen all the movies, anyway herself went to hairdressers to straighten up her hair after the restaurant the other night. So, I took off on a diving trip.

One thing to remember when they tell you spit into your face mask; they have good reason. I got into a diving suit took 2 people 10 minutes to squeeze me into it. And we listened to all the instructions etc for diving.

Again, I was not really listening, after instructions we all got in the water and started the "dive" after few minutes my face mask got pretty fogged up so I headed up to surface to take it off and clear it.

When I got to the surface the lads in the boat pulled me in and they were talking Spanish so didn't know what they were on about. But seems I was lucky as they were just about to head off when they spotted me. Off we headed to another dive spot, as the one we were at was pretty busy with several diving boats all scattered around. The trip took about 10 minutes and we spent about an hour diving there, it was great and after we finished and were back on board we headed back to shore.

As we were going into the harbour there was lots of activity on the dock and boats heading out past us from what we could hear a diver from one of the other boats was missing and they couldn’t find him. Tough break indeed and kind of spoiled the day.

We got off the boat and carried our gear up to the dive shop and handed it over to one of the guys working there. When I handed in my suit and oxygen etc he looked kind of puzzled.

He asked me my name and I told him, and he said "no, not possible, your name not on my list" I had a look and he was right I couldn’t find it either. He called over his boss and they were both looking through the list, then he called out to someone else in the shop.

Before I knew it there were 5 or 6 people all around me talking in Spanish and asking me where you from.

Ireland, I replied

no no no what boat did you go out on.

Sure, I had no idea, so I told him,

"look take the gear and let me go" I was in a hurry to collect herself from the hairdressers.

Then one fella said, "you English are all the same”.

Now I don’t know what he meant but I was not having it. I replied

"hey, you I am Irish not English" and he just said "same thing"

Now I won’t go into it here but let's just say..... 800 years.... Irish people will understand. So, things got a little heated, there was some pushing and shoving and before I knew it the guards were involved and they asked me who was I and when I told them.

They were not happy at all. "You are here" said one guard. Now his logic was spot on I couldn’t argue so I agreed

"Good man, your spot on, I am here no wonder you’re a guard" whatever that had to do with anything.

But just like previously with the store assistant he called over his boss who in turn called over another few and then and he called over some fella in a coastguard uniform and then they all started shouting at me, the 5 guards the fella from the coast guard the 5 from the shop and the bystanders who had all gathered round. I tell you there wouldn’t be as many people at a first-round championship game a home.

The only thing I understood was the word idiot, which was thrown at me several times. before I knew it I was bundled into a police car and hauled into a station interview room. Which is where I am now.

It seems I was the missing diver they were all out searching for.

It's not my fault I was hauled into the wrong boat.

Not my fault they didn't do a head count before going out to the other dive location.

Not my fault at all and yet here I sit, in a garda station with a lot of unhappy people staring at me through the door waiting for an interpreter.

All I can think is herself won’t be too happy about this and for once, not my fault at all.

Day 8

A very quiet day considering I spent a large portion of last night answering questions about my "Diving" experience. Anyway, as a result I was late to bed and had a good lie in this morning. So, at the crack of 11.30am I got out of bed.

Herself was not pleased, or at least I don’t think she was happy, the silence as she plonked a cup of tea in front of me was fairly loud and she just gave me that look which I have gotten in the past that simply says "I'm too angry to talk to you now, but when we do talk, well, hold onto your hat cause it's going to get windy" that look said it all.

She announced we were going shopping to Mogan as she couldn’t show her face here in Puerto Rico just yet. With that we got the ferry to Mogan both of us on the same boat. We walked around the stalls and stopped for a bite to eat in Dennehys Bar and Restaurant on the quayside in Mogan. We been doing that since our first trip here 23 years ago, so it was traditional for us. We got the ferry home again on the same boat.

Went to the pool bar at our apartment, different staff on so they didn’t notice I was barred, had some drinks well she had some drinks I had tea and we played some 8-ball pool. I won first game but as the Pinacoladas went down her game got better. She won next 3 games in a row.

We headed back to our apartment only to find the electronic key wouldn’t work. I said I'd go to reception and sort it out. She grabbed the key said " you stay here, don’t move. I will sort this out.

As she headed off, I thought to myself, whoever she meets better be able sort this out quickly otherwise someone is going to get a good talking to.

Needless to say, she was back to the door in no time at all and tried a new card key and it worked. As I've said a relative quiet but enjoyable day overall. No drama to report, anyway, why would there be, she’s with me and were on holidays.

Day 9 –

Ok here's the thing, since I got here to start my holiday a few things have gotten a little complicated over small or trivial misunderstandings. Sadly, this evening is no different. However, in my defence herself didn't know anything about it when she posted this evening about eating out and hoping I would behave.

What I didn't tell her was we had no option but to eat out (as far away from the appt complex as possible). Today the senior hurling team from Imokilly were playing in the Cork Senior Hurling championship against another East Cork side, Sarsfields. It was televised on RTE this evening at 6.45pm. We had been out all day so my phone battery was running low, so I needed to charge it to watch the game.

Not only that but were on holidays so according to herself No GAA games for the 2 weeks. It's ok to watch the rugby world cup but no hurling as I'm supposed to be on holiday and getting away from GAA. I digress.

My main problem was low battery and I couldn’t let her know I was watching the match rather than taking her out etc. So, I came up with a plan which almost worked.

Step 1 I sent her to beauty salon at apartment complex from 6.30 to 7.30.

Step 2 get phone charged so I borrowed extension lead from pool bar

Step 3 headed up to our room and figured the balcony was my best option to watch match and I could keep an eye out if she came back early at least I would have time to turn off phone etc.

So far so good, I set up an umbrella/ parasol on the balcony to shade the phone from bright sunlight. I put phone on charge and logged in online to watch the game. Imokilly were on top but I forgot about the time and at 7.15 I heard her at the door to the apartment open. I grabbed the phone but got tangled up in extension cord which was wrapped around umbrella/parasol leg. I tugged at phone while trying to close balcony door at the same time. My arm got caught on the extension lead and before I knew it the umbrella/ parasol was sailing off the balcony. This was a setback but not a major problem.

What was a problem however was where it landed? It sailed straight into the electric power transformer for the whole apartment complex. 300 apartments, 2 bars and reception area etc. I watched as the parasol sailed out and down from my balcony and landed smack dab bang in middle of transformer which led to a brief but very bright and colourful light show followed be a big bang in which the parasol was burnt to a crisp but it had also shorted out all the electricity in our area.

All of a sudden, lights went off, the disco music from the pool bar went silent and I could hear a lot of groans etc from the apartments around my own. Complete power failure.

I knew that once they found the parasol and looked up to see which apartment was missing one, I was going to be in trouble. so, I immediately swung down to the balcony under ours, grabbed their parasol threw it up onto my balcony and climbed back up as quick as I could preying I wouldn’t fall and that no one would see me.

I could hear herself inside the apartment and I was no sooner sitting down in the sun chair when she offered to make tea. Obviously, the kettle wouldn’t work. So, I just said to her don’t worry we will go out. Grabbed her by the hand and headed out the complex as fast as possible. All went well we had a lovely meal etc and arrived back at apartment to find it in complete darkness. I'm saying nothing. Just like everyone else I'm complaining about lack of power etc got to keep up appearances.

Oh, yea. Imokilly won the match, well done to all the lads.

Day 10.

Our holiday is almost done here, only few days left. It's been strange indeed but enjoyable for the most part. Last night was another example of how a simple misunderstanding can lead to problems throw in the language barrier and it can get complicated.

Herself and myself spent most of yesterday lounging around doing nothing and in the evening, we headed out to the centre to get a nice meal and relax a little have a few drinks and just chill. We picked a nice restaurant and had a wonderful meal. When it was over, we had a few drinks nothing extreme and at different stages one of us would use the toilet or select a dessert or go up and order tea another drink etc and this is where our problem started.

We finished our last drink and left the restaurant and walked around the centre a bit and got a taxi back to our apartment and in the taxi I asked herself out of curiosity what the bill came to for the restaurant, she shrugged her shoulders and said " I've no idea, tell me what it was". I said to her “how would I know; you paid the bill”.

She replied “No you did”. That was when we realised neither of us had paid the bill.

We told the taxi driver turn around and asked him to take us back to the restaurant and explained to him why he just smiled and turned the car round and drove us back. When we got to entrance nearest the restaurant, he pulled over I told herself wait in taxi and I would go pay the bill.

I headed into centre and went straight to the restaurant; I could see the owner and a few people in uniform standing around chatting. As I got closer, he saw me and grabbed the nearest uniformed guy turning him around and pointed at me. They all turned around as one, saw me and started running at me.

4 big guys in uniform running at me with them shouting stop I did what any normal person would do. I stopped and before I knew it, I was hi tackled from behind I fell to the ground before everyone landed on top of me. To say the wind was knocked out of me is an understatement. I'm a pretty big guy and a little angry so I was resisting the urge to start throwing guys off me, but one by one they got off me and eventually arms grabbed me and hauled me to my feet.

All the time I was saying "lads let me explain". They were standing round me speaking in Spanish. To any onlooker it must have looked strange this tourist surrounded and captured by local security guards.

The restaurant owner had now arrived along with one or two waiters all shouting and pointing in my direction. This went on for a few minutes when a civil guard arrived, he quietened everyone down and spoke to me in English.

It seems you left without paying your bill sir have you anything to say. I replied I was coming back to pay it when I was jumped on. He looked sceptical until I explained further, herself and our taxi driver would back me up.

It was a strange sight I am sure this tourist being frog marched through the centre to the entrance, held by the arms with security guards either side and two behind with civil guard in front followed be owner and waiters all walking along in my own little parade.

It was a little embarrassing as well. Like I was under arrest and all the other tourists watching this "bad man being taken away"

We got to the entrance and found the taxi herself got out and God bless her she may not be the tallest woman, but boy does she look 10 feet tall when she gets angry. "What the hell have you done now", where her first words to me.

The civil guard put out his hand saying, "excuse me are you with this man".

I think he wished he never opened his mouth she said to him

"excuse me I'm talking to my husband I'll deal with you in a minute".

She brushed him to one side stood in front of me

"Well" she said "what have you done now, speak up".

I was glad I had security guards holding me up.

It took a few minutes for her to restore order she got taxi driver to back up I was returning to pay the bill and all of a sudden everyone was all smiles. I was released and escorted to the taxi.

Herself was in deep conversation with the civil guard explaining that this was a regular thing when we went on holiday, for some reason it always happened that we ended up explaining this to police officers the world over. I think he started to put 2 and 2 together.

He mentioned diving, she nodded, he mentioned soaking patrons on restaurant, she nodded, he mentioned collecting eggs in local apartment she nodded.

He expressed his deepest commiseration and sympathise to herself and shook her hand before opening the taxi door and helping her in.

As we drove away, I could see him telling everyone what he had just learned. Needless to say, it was a quite ride home and a quite night with no words spoken. I am in the doghouse again and not sure why...

Day 11 –

well what can I say another peaceful day here on holiday. Dee didn’t speak to me all day. She was still blaming me for last night’s error.

Again, in my defence I'm married to a wonderful lady but luck is not always on her side and being the gentleman, I gladly accept the blame to avoid her feeling down. So, I held my hands up and apologised once again.

So this evening we went for a game of crazy golf and Dee won, she scored 87 and I only scored 43. Still can’t figure how I lost I honestly thought scored better than her, but Dees logic won out. In football and hurling whoever scores the most wins based on that Dee won the crazy golf today.

Went for a meal after did some shopping and headed back to apartment complex as I said a nice quite relaxing day.

Day 12

Ok I've been slow to put this up today considering all that's gone on last few days and it's a little embarrassing to say the least. Where to start, at the beginning, I guess.

Yesterday was another nice day no drama at all. We found another crazy golf course and decided on a rematch. It went well I scored 54 and Dee 85 and as yesterday she claimed victory again. Afterwards we went for a meal and a few drinks and headed home.

But it was a nice evening, so we walked back to the apartment. Now anyone who knows Puerto Rico knows its hilly and our appt was about halfway up the hill. However, there is a shortcut up steps to a road that zig zag up the hill. We know of a gate on a lower section of the road that goes into the apartment so that's where we headed.

We got to the gate which would save us another half hour walk if we had to go by road as it meandered in a zig zag fashion, taking us away from the complex before turning back on itself to bring you to the main entrance, only a couple hundred metres from where we stood as the crow flies.

However, the gate was locked, and we didn’t know the pass code so being the gentleman I am I decided to climb the gate and use the latch on the inside to open the gate and let herself in.

All was going well I managed to get to the top of the 8ft fence and clambered over the spikes on the top careful not to get cut or get injured. As I tried to get both legs over the top I slipped and fell forward. My fall from the top of the fence was halted somewhat as my shorts got snagged at the back, on one of the spikes.

So there I was facing out from the gate stuck with my body weight forcing the shorts down over the spike, my arms and legs free but I couldn’t turn around to push myself up off the spike. I just hung there not able to move.

When Dee finally stopped laughing, she asked was I all right. In a kind of high-pitched voice, I replied I was stuck. This set her off again. Eventually she said she would walk around the long way and get someone at reception to come and help me down. I had no choice but to agree. She was gone for around 30 minutes in which time I tried all sorts of things to wriggle free and all to no avail.

Eventually I heard voices coming down the steps from the complex and Dee came into view with a girl from the reception area holding a torch she shone it up as Dee said

"see, there he is, the idiot just like I told you, can you get a ladder and we will let him down."

The receptionist said she would be right back just before she too burst out laughing.

About 5 minutes later she returned with two of the staff who had a ladder between them. They placed the ladder against the fence, and I was almost able to stand up but my shorts were well and truly entangled. So after a few minutes trying in vain one of them climbed the ladder and tried to help. It was not working, he exchanged a few words with his workmates who answered "Si", and he handed a pen knife up the ladder to his friend who without asking started cutting through the waistband of the shorts.

All of a sudden, I was free, but I was not prepared, and with nothing holding me I fell forward off the ladder. I fell forward, right down on top of the poor receptionist who screamed as we both went backwards into a shrubbery, I continued rolling till I came to a stop against a low wall in an upside-down position

The lad on the ladder jumped down to see if the receptionist was alright and they picked her up. She was holding her eye where my knee had collided with her as I fell. I got to my feet and was apologising to her when she just stormed off back up the steps muttering in Spanish as she went. I don’t think it was complementary as the two lads were uttering the same thing, then one of the turned and said

"why you not use your door key"

I said it's a card key he said "exactly' and came back down the steps.

"Key please" he asked Dee, she handed it to him he opened the gate with the latch and put the card under the keypad underneath the digital panel, a green light came on and we could hear the latch click.

"Idiot" was all he said as he walked past us up the steps.

Dee gave me that all too familiar look and just turned and walked away. I was holding my cut-up shorts around my waist as I followed her up to the room.

The following morning, I went down to reception to see if I could find the poor girl whom I had fallen on last night. She was not hard to spot, there were two girls on reception however only one had a mother and father of a black eye. I once again apologized to her she just nodded and said ok and went back to work. Now every time I go through reception it gets kind of frosty, strange thing is anywhere I go the staff all give me that look and it's not too friendly, just as well were heading home shortly.

Day 13 –

strangely enough nothing to report, another quite day. However, the night, not so, to be honest we have not had a good night’s sleep since we got here for several reasons. It's too hot, the snoring, the pillows or lack of them, people arriving back from nightclubs outside in the corridor, etc. Actually, looking back on that list it's almost the same as home except for it being too hot.

Anyway, last night I was just nodding off when this group of crickets decided to set up camp in our room. (Well it sounded like they were in the room).

I tried to ignore it to no avail. It was 3am and everyone else was sleeping, including herself beside me while I was getting acquainted quite well with sounds cricket can make.

The longer I lay there the louder they got, till I could hear nothing else every time I closed my eyes. I was even beginning to differentiate between them coming to the conclusion there was only three of them. However, I did start to settle once a rhythm had been established and found myself drifting off.

All of a sudden, I awoke something was wrong I listened and noticed a gap where cricket 2 was supposed to be. It was all out of sync. Cricket 2 obviously got fed up and headed home. Cricket 1 was working as normal and cricket 3 was answering him but at uneven times throwing everything off. Distracting the living daylights out of me.

Earlier on when the full complement was going full tilt I was subconsciously adding musical instruments and creating a kind of song in my head to which I was able to drift off. As a musician this was almost like counting sheep.

But 2 was gone and it all seemed a bit chaotic without him. So, I was left with 2 choices. Find cricket 2 and bring him back or find crockets 1 and 3 and get rid of them. I figured finding cricket 2 was the easier option, only one of the blighters to find. Folks that's what sleep depravity does to your thinking. I actually thought it was a good idea at the time.

What no one tells you is it's impossible to find a cricket in the dark, never mind finding one who is not making noise at all. I had not thought that through, however after forty minutes scrambling around on my hands and knees out on the balcony, along the corridor, out in the green area in front of our apartments, climbing the trees either side of the balcony I was no closer to finding any of the little feckers.

By now I was assuredly wide awake, so I decided to head back to the apartment. The door was locked. There I was, 3.45am in the morning, in my shorts, nothing else, locked outside the apartment. In my haste to track down the sound I forgot to take a key with me I was just following where my ears were taking me. I gentle tapped on the door to wake herself. Tapping louder and louder but with no luck. Herself, for the first time since we got here, was sound asleep, out for the count. I went down the stairs and out the front and looked up at our balcony to see was there any way to climb in. I could I reckon make it if I climbed the tree, I would have about a 5-foot gap to jump across but figured I could do that.

So, with that plan in place I started climbing. Since I got here some things have gone awry, but not this, I climbed the tree and leapt across landing perfectly on the balcony. Delighted with myself I opened the balcony door and walked into the apartment. I was still wide awake so decide to make a cup of tea, so I put on the kettle and turned on the TV. I heard a noise in the bedroom, herself would pick this time to wake, typical. She opened the door and stepped out.

It was not herself. I had no idea who it was but then I realised I was not in my apartment. There was only one thing to do, I turned, ran to the balcony and jumped as far out as I could, landing on a few branches of the tree and fell to the ground. I could hear roaring above me " stop thief" " help help" before I gathered myself together and took off sprinting down the corridor till, I got to the stairs.

I took them two at a time, back along the corridor and got to my door and started banging on it. This woke herself who opened the door and let me in.

"WTF is going on?......

Where were you?.......

What time is it?....... She waited for my reply.

I was out of breath, the silence that followed was broken from the room next door, your man was still on the balcony roaring and shouting. Herself and myself walked out to the balcony and she peered over the wall and asked your man what was wrong.

"We been robbed, some fella was in our room just now he came out here and jumped off the balcony"

By now lights were coming on all over the complex people appeared at their balconies, all asking what's going on? to which our man next door explained it all again to anyone who asked.

Herself turned to me" not a word from you"

she whispered "get back in there" as she pushed me back into the apartment.

She asked our neighbour "did you get a look at him?"

to which he replied "not really, I didn’t have my glasses on, all I saw was a shape of a man as he ran out of the apartment"

Well at least that was in my favour. She came back into the apartment and I spent the next hour explaining several times what went on. She went into the bedroom and came out with a pillow and blanket threw them on the couch.

"You sleep there, do not leave the apartment, we will talk in the morning" I knew she meant she would talk in the morning and I would listen.

Things began to settle down and eventually everyone retreated to their rooms and silence descended once more on the complex. I lay down on the sofa made myself comfortable and was just drifting off when the crickets started their sing song again, all three of them...........

Day 14,15 & 16

Well what can I say my holiday is officially over and on the way home there was a slight hiccup. So, this post is a few days later than anticipated, so sorry about that.

Our final day was a very nice day we had breakfast as normal and then I met up with my uncle and aunt for a few drinks and an evening meal. For once this went well nothing untoward happened, we listened to some music and chatted catching up on family news and all that goes with it. We headed back to our apartment with no drama at all and the following morning we packed up everything and checked out.

We had some time to kill before our flights, so we met Anne & Martin for a cup of tea, again no drama. We had left our luggage in the reception at the apartment complex, so we headed back to collect it and await our pickup for the airport.

When we got back to the complex there was a crowd in the reception area all smiling and happy, I even saw a few with glasses of wine or something and everyone seemed to be celebrating. One person came over to us as soon as he saw us and extended his hand saying

"Sir we believe you’re going home, is this true"

I replied, “Yes we are heading home today”.

He turned to the group of people and said

"It’s true he is leaving the island today" to which the large crowed started clapping and cheering.

"How are you getting to the airport" he asked and I told him we were waiting for a bus to transfer us to the airport.

"No, No, No,", he replied, we will deliver you in person ourselves, right now, to make sure you get to the airport, come with me please" and he grabbed our suitcase and headed out to a large car.

We had no choice but to follow him and as we sat into the car the crowd had moved out onto the roadside all waving and cheering, I swore I even saw some of them crying. I turned to Dee and remarked that the people on this Island are simply amazing see how they treat visitors, so warm and kind and with true feelings, none of that plastic smiles or insincere words here, straight from the heart. I am getting emotional even thinking about it now.

We got to the airport and it seems that our driver was one of the local politicians who had arranged everything, we were whisked straight through security, no que, into a V.I.P waiting area, we even had a security guard standing at the door to make sure no one disturbed us or got in, simply amazing and when Dee mentioned that she wanted to get some duty free items they insisted we stay in the room and they would have it brought to us, so nice these people.

Eventually our flight was called and once again we were whisked out onto the tarmac with great speed, we had a bus to take us to the plane all to ourselves, even the security guard came with us and he was joined by four more, who all stood around the bus making sure we were ok. We were first onto the plane and the security guards all took positions at each door on the plane until everyone was aboard and they only got off when the stewardess went to close the doors. The captain came on the intercom, welcoming us all on board and said there was a delay and we would be sitting on the tarmac for another 40 minutes.

About 2 seconds later he came back on the intercom to announce that strangely enough we were actually pushed up in the departure schedule and would be leaving straight away.

With that we took off and I slept for most of the flight home finally we arrived in Cork and we got off the plane. We did have a problem at immigration desk where the guard went over my passport several times saying

"your home, I heard you had a good holiday, we had a few calls from Spanish police asking about you and Interpol were on checking out that you were who you said you were, so were just making a final check before we allow you through".

After a few minutes another senior officer came down to the desk and escorted us through customs and out onto the arrivals area.

All in all, I can only say Puerto Rico we will be back, you have impressed me and herself no end, you took care of us and made sure we got home safely. I loved every minute of our holiday and despite a few small setbacks here and there it was a great trip. I would highly recommend Puerto Rico in Gran Canaria to anyone

Shane A Supple Facebook page with Dee Farrell Supple at Vilamoura in Portugal September 25, 2018

2020-03-27T06:05:00.001-07:00

Shane A Supple Facebook page with Dee Farrell Supple at Vilamoura in Portugal September 25, 2018 ·

Day 1
First cup of Barry’s tea to get us started for a week of R&R for the wedding of our good friends Sean & Niamh............25 degrees here at 8.45am going to be a scorcher.

Day 2
And so, the story continues., more wine. (Seemingly it’s a requirement) anyway, the sun seems as bright as ever a, little on the hot side as they say "you could fry an egg on a stone, if you had an egg" but we shall push on through regardless .......

Day 3 of our adventure. Supplies running low, the hot sun continues to bake us and those around us with unrelenting vigour. Ran out of eggs to fry since yesterday hence a long trek to replenish our food stocks with the necessities. A local staple is the "Pinocalada" by all accounts several good meals in one glass (so Dee tells me). We will continue despite the heat and report in again soon.

Day 4

things have improved we have tied in with a large group of travellers like ourselves who are here for fun food sun and to celebrate a good friend’s wedding.... beautiful day but now the serious matter of drinking eating and celebrating with Sean & Niamh begins.

Day 5

I think not sure dehydration can have a strange effect on the mind. Today I thought I saw two kangaroos having a pint on the 9th hole at the Portuguese Open, but I know that’s not possible they don’t serve Guinness on the golf course. Dee is holding up better than me and is developing a taste for the local wine, God Bless her strength but it will be dark soon and we will have some respite from the hot sun. More tomorrow if we survive the long night ahead....

Day 6

the Natives are getting restless, throughout the night the drums were incessant, almost hypnotic, we found ourselves surrounded by other people in a trance like state dancing along till our bodies could take no more. Awoken at the crack of noon by the local church bells signifying it was time to fry eggs on stones. Dee my ever pillar of strength found a local witchdoctor who sold her this local brew of fermented grapes which seems to work. Today the sun at its height, reaching 30 degrees, continues its unrelenting heat. I hope we will make it another 24 hours, but I am wilting..........I am worried I won’t last the pace........

Day 7

all-out war was declared last night. Those native drummers decided to take over my head. The pounding from within was vicious I swear I had 60 of the feckers all pounding away quite happy to a beat, similar to that wonderful classic "Firestarter" by the Prodigy. It was 4am before I managed to wrestle the last one out the door. At a little after dawn about 1pm we went foraging for supplies one last time. This time tomorrow we will be on a plane heading home (thanks be to god) I miss my bed and I’m more than fed up of fried eggs at this stage. (everywhere you look there is a group of tourists huddled around a stone frying eggs).

My sanity is in question at this stage as I keep running around kicking the said eggs off the tops of said stones. I lost the local police in the sand dunes and am waiting for cover of darkness. Its 34 degrees right now. I mean come on 34 degrees at home is the temp on the oven for Sunday dinner. They call this a holiday......there all mad every last one of them. Dee is been brainwashed with the local brew even talking of extending our stay.............only 24hrs left I will make it......I must......

Day 8,

home at last, after a night spent crawling through the sand dunes avoiding local search parties out with torches and sniffer dogs (like scenes from an old horror movie) all seeking the mad Irishman who was last seen kicking stones and eggs into oblivion. We made it back to our hotel before dawn broke in the back entrance up to our apartment unseen I bribed the cleaners with the last of my cash, a crisp 10 euro note pulled from my sock to allow us use the service elevator. We gathered our belongings in a mad scramble and headed for the airport before the locals knew we were there. As you can see the wine has run out Dee is reduced to a simple coffee. It seems she drank two local vineyards dry in our 8 days in Portugal. They don’t want us back. They told us to leave but not come back. Home at last.... I made it.

Shane opening for Max T Barnes in Cork Opera House

2014-02-17T05:14:00.000-08:00

Well it is my own blog so might as well advertise my good news this week.

On March 19th I get to open for the legendary country songwriters Max T Barnes & Craig Curtis on the Cork Opera House stage. Max T, who has written countless hits for many of my idols,(Collin Raye,George Jones,Gene Watson,Randy Travis,Diamond Rio,Joe Diffee, Jodee Messina,Trace Atkins & so many others) has had nine number 1's in the USA.

Max has been a staff writer and producer in Nashville for nearly thirty years. Working under contract for Sony, Warner Brothers, Polygram, MCA, Island Bound, Curb And Ray Stevens. Early on however he also played lead guitar. Touring with Bobby Bare, Shelly West, Joe Sun, Linda Davis and Tanya Tucker to name a few. He did tours with Reba, Garth Brooks, The Judds, Merle Haggard, George Jones and too many more to mention.

“Love, Me", the career launching hit For Colin Raye also took Max T. to the CMA awards as a CMA “Song of the Year” Nominee. But Max T. did not win it that time around. Among other greats, he was up against his dad, legendary songwriter and Hall of Fame member, the late Max D. Barnes. His father took home the award that night with “Look At Us”, a co-write with Vince Gill

http://www.maxtbarnes.com/
http://www.craigcurtis.cc/main/index.php
http://www.shanesupple.com

As for Craig Curtis another successfull writer he has had countless songs recorded by big stars Craig landed his first gig at Fiddle and Steel Guitar Bar and soon became a household name on Printer's Alley and several other local establishments. After several years, Craig became a fixture on Broadway with a two year run playing at the world famous Tootsie's Orchid Lounge.

Nine years after his sojourn to Nashville and making a living out of the tip jar, Craig met up with songwriters/producers Max T. Barnes and Gary Hannan. The result of this collaboration is Craig's first CD, the self-titled "Craig Curtis". The CD was recorded at the legendary Curb Records under the direction of Barnes/Hannan and engineer Craig White. Curb Records is home to mainstay artists such as The Bellamy Brothers, Lee Greenwood, Hal Ketchum, Tim McGraw, LeAnn Rimes, Ray Stevens, and Hank Williams, Jr.

Craig's first CD was released in May, 2005, and displays the versatility and dedication inherent in his music. In his own words, Craig's goal is "To preserve the true meaning of Country Music today".

I am so looking forward to singing a few of my own songs. I will be joined onstage by guitar player, songwriter, singer and local legend - The Mr Padraig Parker. Its great to see another great local singer songwriter Michelle Cotter on the bill. Rock on Cork. Please share or pass this along to any of your friends in the Cork area

Shane Supple being interviewed on Youghal Radio Fri 21st Feb 2014 by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Listen in here to Shanes interview with Justin Maher on CRY today Friday 21st Feb 2014

Avi McGourty

2013-07-26T23:46:00.000-07:00

Today I had the task of sitting back and chatting with a very talented singer songwriter from Tipperary living in Waterford called Avi McGourty. Now while this in itself was a treat for me it was even more so since this was our first time chatting face to face. I have known Avi with several years now and have been trying to get her into the studio for the chat, However schedules just didn't seem to fit and for some reason its taken this long to get it together where both schedules worked .

Avi first began singing live in "Johnny Walsh's Irish Pub", Lyon in 1996. She had just graduated from University College Dublin and came to France to teach English in College Victor Schoelcher . After only a few nights of singing in "Johnny Walsh's, she continued to perform full time in pubs, cafes and festivals wooing the French / Irish audiences for the following two years. She also availed of the opportunity to travel to Norway where she played in Trondheim and Steinkjer Return to Ireland:

In 1999 Avi decided to put her skills to the test on home ground, a challenge she took even more seriously in Ireland, a country which is reputable for its wealth in music and talent. And you know what they say about finding it easier to let go of inhibitions further away from home!!?? Well, she needed to 'feel the fear' and do what she loves best...and that's singing! A qualified secondary school teacher, Avi found herself back in a routine job and lifestyle ( paying back all her debts!!!) enabling her to entertain at weekends mainly in Kilkenny, Tipperary and Waterford while working on her album, No Alibis, No Lies.

In September 2002, after returning from a short backpacking holiday in Australia Avi began recording for her debut album " No Alibis, No Lies".Inspired by her adventures and experiences in Oz ," Less than a Second"( Track 3 ) has become one of her most popular songs on the album!!. Many attribute this to her unique style and a voice that exudes both a sense of enjoyment and deep emotion. In August 2003 Avi won first prize in the Midlands 103/ Smirnoff Ice Star Search where she was awarded 5,000 euro, studio time with Roseland Recording Studio, sales and promotion with Heartbeat City Records and prime time advertising on Midlands Radio 103. Launch of "No Alibis, No Lies" In August 2004 Avi launched her Debut Album "No Alibis, No Lies" both in Kyteler's Inn, Kilkenny and in Polly's Pub, Templemore.

The album contains eleven tracks, ten of which are written and composed by Avi. Davy Russell, bass player on her cd has written the song "Closure" . Her songs from the album have received extensive airplay from local radio stations nationwide particularly from Tipp Fm , Midlands 103, KCLR Fm, Northern Sound / Shannonside Fm. Avi received excellent reviews from Today Fm listeners after she performed live on Phil Cawley's Lunchbox Show on Friday 13th of August.
ASvi is touring around constantly and currently is getting ready to go into the studio again to start her next album. Keep an eye out for this very talented singer songwriter in a venue near you.

Listen in to the interview here

Shane Supple interviews singer songwriter Avi McGourty by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

www.myspace.com/avimcgourty
www.myspace.com/musicavi
www.theplatformtv.com

Fiddlers Dream

2013-05-31T08:35:00.001-07:00

There are days when the sun shines down on you and it almost feels like summer, when all you want to do is sit back have a drink , let it be tea coffee, beer and listen to some nice gentle music while the music fills the air around you. Today was one of those days , Ok, I will admit the sun wasn't shining to bright but it had a summer feel and to it. In Studio today the group Fiddlers Dream from Fermoy took time out of their own busy schedule to join me in the studio for a chat about music and song.

Fiddlers Dream are made up of Lisa Howard on Uillean pipes, John Coughlan on acoustic guitar, Michelle Hurley on fiddle, Ger Ahern on acoustic guitar and rounded off with Padraig O Brien on banjo. the group got together initially playing sessions in Cheers Bar Fermoy and have been getting new tunes, new members and new gigs since they started.

Listen in to the interview here

Shane Supple interviews Fiddlers Dream 31st May 2013 by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Have a listen to the interview and look through the photos and keep your eye open as this bunch of musicians will be playing in a venue near you soon.

Andy Dunne

2013-04-19T08:17:00.004-07:00

Well today after many years of trying to get local entertainer, singer songwriter Andy Dunne into the studio I finally got my wish at approx 1.15 when Andy walked in with his guitar under his arm. It has to be said the reason for the delay would sometimes be my fault or the schedule just didn't work when Andy was free I would be booked up When I had a free slot Andy was doing something else. Andy sat down and we started chatting about music and songs and then I asked him to sing something for the listeners. Up to then I had almost forgotten why I wanted to interview Andy so much and why I thought this talent should be heard by my listeners. As soon as he started to sing his self penned song "Living Proof" I was reminded of the amazing ability that is simple known as Andy Dunne. Andy will tell you himself that first and foremost he is an entertainer but here I would have to disagree a little, he is a gifted songwriter and a gifted story teller who has the unique ability to tell his story in song format. To me that's what Andy is first and foremost, after that there is no doubt that he will entertain you if you ever take the time out to go see him play live.

A little about Andy and this information is taken from his own website www.andydunne.com.

"I love to write songs but there are so many great songs out there from other people that I just think it’s impossible for me not to cover those as well”. Though never an easy task, it’s becoming harder and harder for Andy to slip into any one genre as he continues to perform possibly the most eclectic set of songs you will hear from a solo Entertainer. Known also for his ability to create audience interaction on even the quietest of nights, Andy’s natural onstage wit and banter add another dimension to what is already a great night’s performance and entertainment. .

A few years ago Andy guested on Mick Flannery’s Debut CD, “Evening Train” providing vocals and harmonica on the track Take It On The Chin. When it comes to songwriting, Andy has always written from the heart. Seldom delving into subjects such as politics or social philosophies Andy’s songs are more focused on matters of the heart and personal experience.” For me songwriting has always been like keeping a diary. It is also a very therapeutic way of self expression” Being influenced by such a vast range of songwriters and genres has given Andy’s songs depth and diversity.

Not only does Andy work as a solo artist he also plays with a verity of groups like Galleon, and is involved in many music projects. Galleon are a Folk and Balad group from Cork City Ireland. They first began playing together in 1979. Andy has been part of the Galleon team for a number of years now. With regular concerts for whatever charity should need their help and occasional trips to Germany, Galleon keep the show alive because of their strong bond and love of music.

If you see a poster advertising Andy Dunne in your area take my advice its a night worth going to.

Listen in to the interview here.

Shane Supple interviews Andy Dunne by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Tommy Flemming

2013-04-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

Tommy Fleming has many times been described as the “Voice of Ireland” and is one of Ireland’s top entertainers. I was lucky enough to get a chance to talk with Tommy before his up coming concert in Youghal on Saturday April the 13th 2013.

Tommy, who was born in Aclare Co. Sligo, Ireland in 1971 and was the youngest of six children, started singing while still at school. While fronting his own local band, a chance encounter with Phil Coulter at a charity function near his home lead to a big break onto the world stage where Tommy appeared as a guest singer on Phil’s USA tour. This then lead to the singer entering into the music business as a solo artist.

While still at school his first band was born – a rock band (!) called “The Face of February” and thus began the a life of ”gigging” in local clubs and pubs. After leaving school (in 1990) Tommy started to establish himself as part of a Castlebar quartet known as “Jarog” performing in pubs and clubs around the country and regularly packing in the fans wherever they appeared. Their flame haired vocalist was also attracting attention at their many festival appearances across the country. However, despite this success in many venues through the early 1990’s, record companies didn’t appear to be too interested in his work. Then a chance encounter with renowned producer and composer Phil Coulter changed all that. In July 1993, Phil overheard Tommy performing at a charity event in Westport, County Mayo and within days he was ‘guesting’ with Phil and his Orchestra at the Opera House (Cork), the National Concert Hall (Dublin) and The University Concert Hall (Limerick). Four months later he was touring North America, playing to huge audiences all across the USA and Canada, culminating in two shows in the Boston Symphony Hall and the legendary Carnegie Hall, New York.

Upon returning from the successful US tour, Tommy’s career took another leap forward when he was invited by Galway traditional group De Danann, to join them as lead vocalist, following in the footsteps of such living legends as Mary Black, Maura O’Connell, Dolores Keane and Paul Brady. This collaboration lasted three years and introduced Tommy to a worldwide audience touring Australia, Hong Kong, China and the U.S.A. Tommy also featured on the De Dannan album “Hibernian Rhapsody”. Tommy still had ambitions of a solo career and moving on, he finally recorded his first solo album in 1996, entitled “Different Sides to Life”.

Tommy continued to tour and achieve huge success on the live circuit as well as many radio and TV appearances. This ultimately led to his idea for an incredible one-of-a kind concert at the Basilica in Knock. The local boy had made good and the Monsignor was delighted to welcome him home for an evening of uplifting and inspirational music. The seeds were sown. The Knock Shrine Basilica in County Mayo is a magnificent building with the capacity to seat 5000 and is set in the town of Knock in the West of Ireland. The Basilica has played host to Pope John Paul 11, Mother Teresa of Calcutta and millions of pilgrims for over a hundred years.

A concert of this type had never taken place in the Basilica but on the 12th December 2004 Tommy Fleming succeeded in staging exactly that, and after many months of planning and preparation a “Voice of Hope” was born. 5000 people packed the Knock Basilica for a once off concert that words cannot describe. The material was specially chosen for the night and was meaningful, spiritual and relevant to the setting in this revered place performed by an enlarged band, orchestra and choir and guests Phil Coulter, Cara Dillon, Eileen Ivers and Naoise Stewart-Kelly.

Shortly after securing a record deal everything looked set to flourish when a tragic car accident left the singer with a broken neck leaving his music career on-hold indefinitely. After many months of convalescence, Tommy returned to the stage having had to start over and is now regarded as one of the finest singers worldwide and is currently enjoying a hugely successful career spanning the last 18 years.

Tommy turns each song into his own with his own unique and powerful style touching emotions in you that only music can reach.

A Tommy Fleming concert is a musical experience not to be missed with one song more haunting than the other. He has a universal appeal to all ages and backgrounds with a fan base that is growing stronger worldwide year by year.

Listen in to Shanes interview with Tommy Fleming here

Shane Supple interviews Tommy Fleming 2013 by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Visit the Tommy Fleming website for news and touring information here

Tanya Louise

2013-03-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

This week I had the pleasure of sitting in the studio chatting to local singer songwriter Tanya Louise. It was one of those days where I was feeling lazy and relaxed and Tanya was laid back and relaxed herself so the interview turned into more of a chat then your typical music interview. She brought into the studio some copies of her new CD "Better in Twos" All tracks on the CD were written and recorded by Tanya and she plays acoustic guitar on it. Tanya Louise was born in Cork City, Ireland and at 18 years of age her composure and song writing style is that of a more mature writer, She has an elegance and innocence in her writing that also contains a steely reserve and adds great depth to each of the songs. . From Tanya's early childhood she showed a love and passion for music.

Tanya covers many styles of song from old Irish ballads, Jazz, rock classics and modern day hits. Tanya also has a lovely range of original music. Tanya is in constant demand. Her unique guitar skills and sweet melodic voice captivates her audiences at every venue. Her influences are varied with a long list of name including Nirvana, Charlie Winston, Furey's, Dubliners, Tom Waits, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, Neil Young, Tom Petty, The Pogue's. The list goes on and on.

Tanya can be seen playing in one of Corks premier music venues The LV bar so keep an eye out for her in the local press for details on her gigs. Currently Tanya is running a Wed night showcase where she along with other great musical guest will entertain the audience at the LV in a unique styled, fun night, filled with great music.

Below are are few of the different websites and places you can hear more of Tanya and her great music so feel free to click on the links and add her on your facebook page and hey tell her Shane from the radio in Youghal says a big big hello.

To hear more of Tanya go here to listen in to some of her songs

To listen into the interview click here

Shane Supple interviews Tanya Louise 29th March 2013 by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

To visit her Facebook page log in here

To check her out on YouTube click here

Sharon Shannon

2013-03-22T11:20:00.001-07:00

Today, I got the chance to interview on of my hero's in the music world, Sharon Shannon, before her forth-coming gig in "The Grainstore" in Ballymaloe on Sunday night March 31st. Sharon best known for her work with the accordion, also plays the tin whistle and melodeon as well as the fiddle. Her 1991 album, Sharon Shannon, is the best selling album of traditional Irish music ever released on Ireland. Beginning with Irish folk music, her work demonstrates a wide-ranging number of musical influences, including reggae, cajun music, Portuguese music, and French Canadian music. She is an avid supporter of animal welfare groups MADRA and Animal Health Animal Rescue. She won the lifetime achievement award at the 2009 Meteor Awards.

At eight years old, Shannon began performing with Disirt Tola, a band from County Clare. With Disirt Tola, Shannon toured the United States at age fourteen. Shannon also worked as a competitive showjumper, but gave it up at age sixteen to focus on her music performing. Shannon similarly abandoned studying at University College Cork. In the mid-1980s, Shannon studied the accordion with Karen Tweed and the fiddle with Frank Custy, and performed with the band Arcady, of which she was a founding member.

Shannon began her own recording career in 1989, working with producer John Dunford and musicians such as Adam Clayton, Mike Scott and Steve Wickham. The work with Scott and Wickham led to Shannon's joining their band, The Waterboys. Shannon was with the band for eighteen months, and contributed both accordion and fiddle to their Room to Roam album. Her first world tour was with The Waterboys. Like Wickham, she left the group when Scott and group member Anthony Thistlethwaite wanted to move the band back to a more rock and roll sound.

In 2004 Sharon Shannon released the album Libertango with guest spots from Róisín Elsafty, Sinéad O'Connor and the late Kirsty MacColl.
In 2005, she appeared on Tunes, a collaboration with Frankie Gavin, Michael McGoldrick, and Jim Murray.
In 2006 a celebration of 15 years of recording came out with The Sharon Shannon Collection 1990-2005 .
In 2007 Shannon has worked with Belinda Carlisle for her album Voila.

As a solo musician, Sharon Shannon has toured Australia, Europe, Hong Kong, and Japan. She has also performed for politicians such as Bill Clinton, Mary Robinson and Lech Wałęsa.
Shannon has played benefit concerts for causes that she supports, such as animal welfare.

MADRA Patron Sharon Shannon pictured with her dogs Lily and Bengy at the launch of the Canine Carnival fundraising event at Brigit's Garden in aid of MADRA Dog Rescue and Adoption.

For more information log on to www.madra.ie and www.ahar.ie

She continues to record her music and perform with her tour band, The Woodchoppers. A live version of Galway Girl recorded with Mundy was the most downloaded track in Ireland in 2007, winning a Meteor Award In 2008, Shannon featured in the Transatlantic Sessions. In 2009, she played "Galway Girl" live at the Meteor Music Awards 2009, where she also picked up a Lifetime Achievement Award and won Most Downloaded Track again for Galway Girl with Mundy.

Albums
Sharon Shannon (1991)
Out the Gap (1994)
Each Little Thing (1997)
The Diamond Mountain Sessions (2000)
Live in Galway (2002)
Libertango (2003)
Tunes (2005)
The Collection 1990-2005 (2006)
Live at Dolans CD & DVD (2007)
Renegade (2007)
Saints & Scoundrels (2009)
Upside Down (2009)
Flying Circus (2012) with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra

Listen in to the Shane & Sharon interview here.

Shane Supple interviews Sharon Shannon by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Maria Butterley

2013-02-15T08:35:00.000-08:00

This week I had the chance to chat on the phone with Maria Butterly, the Irish Songstress, has returned to Ireland from Los Angeles where she has resided for several years. With two independently released albums ‘Its Just Me’ & ‘Nashvillain Days’s, Maria has teamed up with Bill Shanley who has produced her upcoming album, to be released later this year 2013. Her new single ‘Angel’ awaiting release, produced by Bill, speaks volumes of what to expect from this diversified artist. Ireland AM (TV3) cited her as “One of Ireland’s most talented Singer – Songwriters. Multi-instrumentalist, self taught on Guitar, Mandolin & Piano. Her original style of music draws on influences from the Celtic/Irish Folk genre, American Country genre winning her accolade audiences around the country.

Maria has opened & performed with artists such as Damien Rice, Michele Shocked, Raul Malo (The Mavericks), Hal Ketchum, Eleanor McEvoy, Mundy, among others. She has performed in the House of Blues (LA), New York’s famous rock club The Mercury Lounge, to Nashville’s Bluebird Café. Maria was featured in ACOUSTIC GUITAR MAGAZINE for the worldwide Ghs String company whom she is endorsed by along with Breedlove mandolin. She has toured with Johnny Cash’s legendary guitar player Bob Wooten and headlined the Angelica Huston Gala Event hosted by TV presenter Grainne Seoige at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA.

She is an award winner of the ’New York International Film and Music Festival’ & her amazing story behind her song ‘Kieran’ was recently published in the book ‘The Singer & The Song’ by Irish Author Audrey Healy, along with other well known artists Christy Moore, Luka Bloom, Phil Coulter, Maura O’Connell, Brian Kennedy, Charlie McGettigan.

Maria is becoming a popular request for her judging skills after judging with Louis Walsh at last years finals of the Coca Cola School Stars competition in TLT Theatre and this years ‘Meaths Got-Talent’. Maria recently performed & presented her song ‘Quiet Man’ one of the tracks from her upcoming album, to Hollywood Star MAUREEN O’HARA on her 90th Birthday & also headlined the Cong-Festival celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the movie ‘Quiet Man’.

Maria has co-writes with Nashville’s #1 hit writers Kostas Lasarides (wrote the hit song‘What a Cryin Shame for Mavericks’), Charles Quarto (written for Garth Brooks, Crosby Stills ‘ Nash) & Irelands own Charlie McGettigan. Her new album, which also includes the song ‘When the Light is Dancing’ made it through to the finals of the GLINSK SONG CONTEST. Although Maria has made a mark in US, she has high hopes this album will be the door opening back in her homeland.

Please visit Maria’s website for more info, videos, reviews, awards & see how to DOWNLOAD the single ‘Angel’ FOR FREE! www.mariabutterly.com

Shane Supple interviews Maria Butterly by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Diarmuid De Guide & Carol Rice

2013-02-01T06:48:00.000-08:00

This week we caught up with another regular guest to the program and that was the wonderful ballader Diarmuid De Guide. We were also joined in studio by the fantastic Carol Rice who manages Diarmuid De Guideas well as other top acts in the music scene. Diarmuid hails from Blarney in County Cork. He is quite the acclaimed musician with the ability to play Guitar, Harmonica, Banjo, Whistles, Mandolin, Accordion, Bodhran, the list is endless. His musical influences ranges from Christy Moore, The Clancy Brother, Dubliners, Wolfe Tones to The Fureys and Davey Arthur. Diarmuid has a natural ability to play by ear and he soon realised this at the very young age of 7 when he began to play the Tin Whistle in School and picked it up instantly.

He claims that music is in his blood because even though his brothers and sisters tried their hand at it, they unfortunately don’t have a note between them and he is the only musician in his family but he was inspired by his uncle who played the banjo and this is where his love of the banjo comes from. One of his biggest musical influences would have to be Finbar Furey who also plays the banjo.

It wasn’t until he was 15 years old that he started playing the Guitar, with the mandolin to follow, then the harmonica which was quickly followed by the banjo. Diarmuid has travelled all around the world with his music and played all over Europe in Scotland, England, Germany, Spain, France, Sweden, Jersey Island, Gran Canaries, Lanazarote before moving onto Asia and Canada.

He firmly believes that by travelling away tightens up a musicians’ performance especially for young people who are learning the trade and working hard as a solo act in these countries it gave him confidence and an appreciation of the work involved with playing solo or with a band. At present Diarmuid is working on his new album and is hoping to put pen to paper and start working on his own material

Shane Supple interviews Diarmuid De guide and Carol Rice by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Ray Lynam

2013-01-31T09:42:00.000-08:00

This week I had the chance to chat on the phone with a legend in the Irish Country music scene Mr Ray Lynam. Ray was born in Moate, County Westmeath. Ray Lynam played saxophone with a local group, the Merrymen, while still at school. He was so greatly influenced by the recordings of George Jones and Buck Owens that in his early career, he carefully reproduced their vocal styles in his own singing. In 1969, he became front man for the Hillbillies, a band led by lead guitarist Kevin Sheeran that also included Billy Condon (both later members of Daniel O’Donnell’s band). In 1970, a recording of ‘Busted’ attracted attention, while the follow-ups, ‘Sweet Rosie Jones’ and ‘Gypsy Jo And Me’, firmly established Lynam on the Irish country scene by their chart success. In 1971,

Ray Lynam and the band proved a hit in London at the Wembley Festival, which led to concert appearances in the UK. In the early 70s, he began to work with Ireland’s Philomena Begley. They were very popular on the 1974 Wembley Festival and voted Top European Duo by the British Country Music Association. They also proved a highly successful duet recording partnership, recording two albums together and scoring Irish chart hits with ‘You’re The One I Can’t Live Without’ and ‘My Elusive Dreams’.

In 1974, Lynam visited the USA to record, Something Special, his first Nashville album. In the early 80s, he returned to recordMusic Man and gained a US single release with ‘There Ought To Be A Law’. He and Begley were reunited for an album on Ritz, while Lynam had UK success with his cover of David Allan Coe’s 1984 hit ‘Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile’. Since that time, he has remained active and a popular figure on the Irish and UK country scene.

Shane Supple interviews Ray Lynam by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Lana Gibson

2013-01-25T06:05:00.000-08:00

Country Music touches and tugs at the hearts of all and listening to pioneers in Country music such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline and Jim Reeves are Lana Gibson’s earliest musical memories. Her parents were avid fans of those country greats. Like most singers Lana starting singing at a young age in local talent shows. She then joined a local folk choir and in her late teens and taught herself to play the guitar. Lana married her husband John in 1983. John also plays guitar and has a passion for Country music and introduced Lana to many new singers in the Country genre. That's where her love of country music really began. The couple went on to form a two piece band in early 1992 called “Two of A Kind”. The duo gained moderate success until 2000 playing pubs and small dancehalls around Munster (Southern Ireland).

They were also a very popular support act for some of Irelands top country bands at that time. In 1999 Lana also founded a local folk choir which often featured instruments like Pedal Steel and Dobro. This musical apprenticeship developed Lana into quite a songstress. When you hear Lana Gibson for the first time, you will hear her bring excitement and passion to her music and at live venues she has a strong stage presence. By the late 1990’s Lana had two children Ursula and Simon, but she still continued her interest in music. In 2001 Lana went on to front a band called the “Ranch Hands”.

As lead singer with the band, audiences were impressed with her vocal prowess and commanding alto with soft undertones. In 2003 the “Ranch Hands” split and Lana went on to perform briefly with “The Show Band All-Stars” and “The Fender Band”. At this point Lana formed “The City Limits Band”. The band played pub gigs, private functions and weddings and even were invited to England to play in 2007. The band continued gigging locally until her husband John who played lead guitar with the band fell ill in late 2009. Due to the economic downturn also at that time many pubs and bars gave up having live bands and as a consequence came the demise of the City Limits Band.

You may wonder why you haven’t heard of Lana Gibson before, well maybe sometimes the best wine is saved until last. She also has raised monies for various charities especially the (Irish Cancer Research Society)down through the years and still continues to do so. Lana Gibson is a dedicated, hard working singer with the passion of music in her heart. . She's a master of the hardest instrument in the world, the voice! She sings pure Country authentically. Distinctive, unique, talented, terrific, are just some of the positive comments she's received from around the World.

Her musical journey has taken some unusual turns, ups and quite a few downs but she continues and still finds the time to keep her music moving forward. Every now and then someone comes along that makes us sit up and listen............Lana Gibson does exactly that and more.

Listen into the interview here

Shane Supple interviews Lana Gibson by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Visit Lanas website here

Ilse de Ziah

2012-11-29T04:32:00.000-08:00

Ilse de Ziah was born in Connecticut USA, where she started music theory classes and sat for hours under the piano listening to her mother play Chopin and Bach. From 7 she grew up in Sydney, Australia where over the years she had lessons in Piano, Cello, Pipe Organ, Harpsichord, Recorder and Violin. With sisters and father all musicians too, there was rarely a moment where music was not being played. Ilse’s great-grandmother, a Jewish Hungarian pianist living in Vienna used to sit on Brahms’ knee as a 3yr old, her father being his ear nose and throat specialist and an accomplished violinist. Her Austrian grandfather was a cellist and escaped from Vienna just before WW2 Her Czeck grandmother a pianist with a gypsy background, escaped with him. Her English grandfather was an accomplished violinist and was known to socialize with Jasha Heifez and Fritz Kreizler on their trips to Australia where he moved at 12yrs.

Her Irish Grandmother a pianist, improviser, move to Australia in her youth (her father was a harp and accordion player from Limerick) She began cello lessons at age 12 and continued her musical studies at Sydney Conservatorium of Music. She spent many years touring with singers and folk bands around Europe, Australia and America, before settling in Ireland nine years ago. She is leader of the cello section of the Cork Symphony Orchestra, and has been involved in theatre, folk music, free improvisation, and dance.

She composes music for dance and film, does many recording sessions, and arranges strings for singers and other musicians. Ilse also performs with Contemporary Australian ensemble Ozmosis and experimental Quiet Music Ensemble, with her classical Scarlet String Quartet and Baroque Beyond the Pale, From Irish Airs to Australia Fair - Solo Cello Expressive, ‘out-of-the-ordinary’ performances of Irish Airs and contemporary cello pieces composed and arranged by Ilse, performed on modern and Baroque cello.

Well known and lesser known Irish airs sing gloriously in their new raiment. Modern compositional techniques create ancient ethereal atmospheres and earthy moods. Taking inspiration from the Irish and Australian landscapes Ilse creates a fresh, lyrical and emotional style of cello music.

A magical musical journey to lose and find yourself.

Shane Supple interviews Ilse de Ziah by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Listen in to Shanes Interview here

Visit Ilse de Ziah website here

Roy Buckley & Eli O Keeffe

2012-11-08T10:13:00.000-08:00

This week we had the double pleasure of two of Corks most talanted musicians joining me in studio. Roy who has been on the show everal times and Eli who we have spoken to over the phone but this was her first live visit to the studio. We started by talking to Roy about his Song writer Sessions and how they are going. We then talked to Eli about her work, her music and how involved she is in the music scene in Cork. She plays along at a lot of live sessions and you can see her backing many other great singer songwriters in the Cork area.

Why dont you listen in to the interview below. In the mean time here are some photos from the session on the day. Once again keep an eye out for the Song Writer Sessions which happen about once a month in Cork and host a list of gusts that any show would be proud of.

Listen to the interview here:

Shane Supple interviews Roy Buckley & Elli O Keeffe by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Vincent Lynch

2012-11-03T12:38:00.001-07:00

Well its almost 2 years since we spoke with Cork singer songwriter Vincent Lynch. So we caught up with Vincent this week. In a week which saw Vincent release his new song for Suicide awareness in Cork , The song Shine a light is available to buy on I tunes and other online digital stores. Vincent was approached and asked tow rite a song for this worthy cause and he duly obliged with this new song which was recorded in Claycastle Studios in Youghal with the help of John Burke and Warren Tivy.

Dont let anyone tell you that there are no earthquakes in Cork! The rebel city's Vincent Lynch packs a seismic punch with enough magnitude to knock any rock fan off their feet! With fierce guitars and full throttle rhythm, Vincent Lynch is a definite force of nature. You'll be equally impressed with his spirited melodies and insightful lyrics that ride atop the bands aural attack like a Harley gliding on the open road.

Vincent Lynch first & foremost is a bad-ass rocker, but that’s only half his story. Listen to the tracks, and you will be equally impressed with his superb song writing skills. Vincent writes songs that you want to sing along with - and raise your fist in the air.

The true test of any rock band is the ability to leave the crowd clambering for more, and Vincent Lynch never leaves a room in silence! The screams are deafening until the last breath is drawn….. This is THE band to rock your venue!

Vincent Lynch is a singer, songwriter & musician, based in Cork, Ireland and has exploded onto the Irish music scene in the past 6 months. Keeping in mind Vincent has only been writing original material since february 2008, his catalogue has risen to over 350 original pieces, and has had his work showcased to some of the biggest names in the recording industry. His unique vocals and astounding chord work has gained him notarity amongst his peers. His debut album is being recorded in 2012 with some seasoned Irish musicians lending their talents to the album!

This year is heating up already with a number of local gigs as well as a few more confirmed around Ireland 2012 is gonna be a big year for Vincent! This is Vincents 2nd interview with Shane, also sitting in on the day was Vincents Manager, Aisling O Leary and who also spoke and his guitarist Bart.

Listen in to the interview here.

Shane Supple interviews Vincent Lynch 2 by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Pierre Bensusan

2012-11-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

Today it was a privilage to chat with world renowned guitarist Pierre Bensusan before his upcoming gig in The grainstore Ballymaloe Co Cork. If “World Music” is music that pays tribute to the spirit of a collection of human beings through distinct rhythms, traditional instruments and harmonic colors,

French-Algerian guitarist, singer and composer Pierre Bensusan can be recognized as one of the most eloquent and diverse world musicians of our time. Born in Oran, French-Algeria, in 1957, when France was decolonizing its Empire, Pierre Bensusan's family moved to Paris when he was 4.

He began formal studies on piano at the age of 7 and at 11 taught himself guitar. Influenced in those early days by the folk revival blooming in Britain, France and North America, Bensusan began first to explore his own diverse musical heritage and then moved to the horizons beyond. At 17 he signed his first recording contract, and one year later his first album Pres de Paris won the Grand Prix du Disque upon his debut at the Montreux Festival in Switzerland. Described by the L.A. Times as "one of the most unique and brilliant acoustic guitar veterans in the world music scene today",

Pierre Bensusan was voted "Best World Music Guitar Player in 2008" by Guitar Player Magazine Readers Choice. His name became synonymous with contemporary acoutsic guitar genius, long before the terms New Age, New Acoustic Music or World Music were invented. He has the ability to make a single guitar sound like an entire band as he brings the audience on a mesmerizing musical journey. And yet, Bensusan is more than what any musician or music lover expects from a guitarist. He is a composer as well as a bilingual and a brave improvisational vocalist, melding whistles and resonant low notes with something like his own scat technique. There is a sense of something both playful and serious in his work, an unparalleled sense of freedom in his compositions and his improvisations. His "manner" of playing defies classification - crossing world, classical, jazz, traditional, folk and more. None can be isolated as simply “Brazilian”, "Arabic" or “French”; rather, they represent our world in its current state, a world sharing itself, fusing cultures together in ways we have never experienced. Not to be missed!

Listen into The interview here :

Shane Supple interviews Pierre Bensusan 02 Nov 2012 by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

The Mandolas

2012-11-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

Today I had the pleasure of chatting with some members of the group The Mandolas, they are a 4-piece folk/pop group based in Cork, Ireland. The band make use of a wide range of acoustic instruments (mandolin, mandola, acoustic guitar, bouzuki, banjo and viola) as well as incorporating lavish 4-part harmonies into their music. The Mandolas perform original material and combine Irish and English folk traditions with a unique blend of contemporary pop.

The group consists of Michael Grace (Kilkenny), Colm Hayes (Cork), and brothers Paddy & Dorian Kelly (West Cork/ originally hailing from Yorkshire). Drawing inspiration from the likes of Planxty, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Fleet Foxes,

The Mandolas unique folk stylings combine a wide array of musical influences to create a fresh, warm sound. In the last year, The Mandolas have been steadily making a name for themselves nationally, and have had the privilege of playing alongside the likes of Paul Brady, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Mike Hanrahan, Duke Special & Neil Hannon.

The Mandolas have recently released their debut EP, 'My Greatest Day' and have recently finished a tour of the country promoting the release. The EP Launch Tour saw the group play established venues such as Cyprus Avenue (Cork), De Barras (West Cork), Doyles (Dublin), McCarthys Bar (Dingle), The Brewery Lane Theatre (Carrick-on-suir), The Sky & The Ground (Wexford) The White Horse Sessions (Kenny's, Lahinch) along with many more. (Details of which can be found on www.themandolas.com.)

The Mandolas have recently recorded a new single with Christian Best entitled "Marianne" which will be released for digital download on itunes on Friday November 9th. The band have recently embarked on an extensive 16-date Irish tour and are likely to be performing at a venue near you!

Check them out on facebook here http://www.facebook.com/themandolas
Check them out on their own website here http://www.themandolas.com/index.php

Listen in to the live interview here

Shane Supple Interviews The Mandolas 1st Nov 2012 by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Willie Collins

2012-10-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well this week in the hot seat in studio was singer songwriter Willie Collins from Fermoy. I have known Willie for a long time now and about 2 years ago he sent me on a CD of some songs he had written himself and recorded in Fiona Studios in Fermoy. Between his busy schedule and mine it took that long to get him into the station. Today was a nice day looking back over previous times, talking music and having a chat about the scene today.

I started with the usual question as to where did it all start for Willie. His reply was it started when he was working for one of the top cabaret bands in Ireland during the 80's Art Supple & The Showstoppers. Willie was the Roadie for the band and in travelling around with the band , setting up gear and watching musicians at work, he caught the bug and it has never left some 25 years later. The only difference is this time around he is singing his own songs as well as cover songs, he plays guitar and keyboards and is often seen playing at local venues in and around Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford to name but a few. In the midst of all this he began playing with a local Gospel group and even had the privilege of playing alongside Liam Lawton at many different gigs over the years.

This soft spoken songwriter who has many songs written and is planning on releasing an album of self penned songs in the future, currently he is doing ti the way 90% of singer songwriters do it, working saving and then recording to pay for the new album.

It was nice to talk but as I had mentioned on the show in the past it was also nice to listen to Willies songs. He plays from the heart in a style that allows the listener to picture the song in many settings. The two songs we aired on the program today" Back In My Arms" and " Sweet Sweet Smile" are easy listening / laid back / well produced / gentle but engaging songs. I look forward to the release of the new album next year and my advice is for anyone who comes across him playing in a venue near you take the time to go see him live it is well worth the effort.

To hear more of Willie songs go to this link
http://soundcloud.com/willie-collins-band

To hear the interview listen in below

Shane Supple interviews singer songwriter Willie Collins by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

John Blek & The Rats

2012-10-17T07:03:00.001-07:00

On this occasion I was joined in studio by members of the John Blek and the Rats band, in the hot seat were John and band member and fellow musician Robin. This week we were talking about their upcoming gig in Coughlans Bar in Cork a new venue for bands songwriters and musicians which Cork musician Edel Curtin has taken on herself to run in association with Coughlans, its for bands to preform in a new warm venue. While in studio the lads preformed a few songs and for those that have not heard from them "John Blek and the Rats are a six-piece folk and country group from Cork City whose infectious brand of Americana influenced balladry has travelled up and down the roads of Ireland, the UK and Europe for the last two years."

The interview started with the usual introductions and this was followed by the first of the songs they sang live in studio that day, The first song was "Calling out my name", a tuneful self penned song with great melody and nice guitar playing, that when the whole band are playing it must sound truly wonderful, as it was It was great to hear this live on air (this is the reason I continue to do this program, hearing great songs in their original form, just vocals and guitar).

I asked the lads how the people who hear them play live react to the style of song and music they do the response was " most people find its great, we have had a great reaction from every where we play. The audience, from young and old seem to like the music and understand the way the lads play. The band have the ability to mix the style and sounds depending on the night and audience from calm music with great arrangements to the night when its all about energy and fun rather then the arrangements and nice sounds. Everyone in the band is involved in the arrangements and John brings his ideas to the group who then flesh out the song and add arrangements to the finished piece.

Born in the modern day dustbowl that is Ireland, John Blek and the Rats take inspiration from range of musical styles such as the outlaw country of Willy Nelson, the protest ballads of Woody Guthrie, the 100 mile-an-hour lyricism of Jack Keruoac and the melancholic country rock of Neil Young. Despite their musical roots being deeply embedded in the past, John Blek and the Rats have a sound that is fresh and modern, while also doffing its hat to a gonebye era. The streak of melancholy that runs throughout their music is tempered only by their penchant for footstomping rhythms and contagious choruses, a passion for revelry and, at times, lunacy.

This is a band well worth listening to, if they are in your area make sure you go along to see them. Great sounds and a nice band who are despite the fact that they are already at a very high standard musically are continually striving to improve their songs, style and playing. Check out their page on facebook or here for updates and gigs http://breakingtunes.com/johnblekandtherats

Meanwhile listen in to the interview here

Shane Supple interviews John Blek & The Rats by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

Tommy Tiernan

2012-10-12T03:22:00.004-07:00

Tommy Tiernan October 2012 World Tour of Cork
Shakespeare once wrote "All the worlds a stage and we are merely players", well in Oct 2011 the county of Cork will be the stage for the peerless Tommy Tiernan as the multi award winning comic embarks on his ‘World Tour Of Cork 2011’.
(Scrol down to bottom of page to listen to interview)

11/10 DOUGLAS Rochestown Park Hotel – SOLD OUT
12/10 YOUGHAL Walter Raleigh Hotel
13/10 MITCHELSTOWN Firgrove Hotel – SOLD OUT
17/10 BALLINCOLLIG Oriel House Hotel – SOLD OUT
18/10 BALLYMALOE The Grainstore – SOLD OUT
20/10 CHARLEVILLE Charleville Park Hotel

Fearless, inspiring and armed with a breath of comic abilities rivalled by no one in stand-up today, Tommy is able to expertly write and perform jokes born from every corner of the mind, politics, sex, family relationships, international observations, religion and drugs, it’s all there.

Tommy has the highest selling DVD sales in Ireland. ‘Cracked: Live at Vicar Street’ went straight to number 1 in the 1st week of release and will reach Four times Platinum Status. His ‘Loose’ DVD went straight to number 1 as well and reached Eight times Platinum Status. ‘Jokerman: Tommy Tiernan in America’ not only reached Quadruple Platinum Status but got also nominated for an IFTA award, followed by Hit DVD’s “OK Baby” and “Bovinity”.

Tommy is second only to U2 when it comes to live ticket sales in Ireland. The Bovinity Tour culminated in 3 sold out shows to a total audience of 12,000 in the Marquee Cork. No other artist, Irish or International has ever managed to do this. It’s an astounding amount of tickets to sell for 3 days in one city. With his Loose tour he broke all Irish box office records by selling out in venues across the country including a to date staggering 166 dates in Dublin’s one thousand seat theatre, Vicar Street.

Not only has Tommy success at home in Ireland and the UK but also in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and America. The Gala performance in the Just for Laughs Tour in Montreal in 2005, saw 2000 Canadians on their feet crying out for more. In 2006 he headlined the first ever Irish gala at the Just for Laughs Montreal Comedy Festival and he was invited to join the Just for Laughs National Tour in 2007. Tommy was invited back to perform a solo run at this year’s Toronto Comedy Festival and has been booked by JFL for a huge Solo Nationwide Canadian tour for Spring 2011.

In America, Tommy has been invited to perform three times on the ‘Late Show with David Letterman’ to rave reviews with his fourth in the offing. His DVD ‘Something Mental’ has been aired numerous times now on America’s huge TV Comedy Network, Comedy Central as part of their popular ‘Secret Stash’ comedy slot and has now been viewed by over 3 million. Comedy Central UK are currently broadcasting a number of his live shows this year. The Comedy Channel & ABC in Australia are now planning to broadcast a number of Tommy’s shows this year too.

2009 Tommy set the Guinness World Record for the longest Stand-Up Comedy Show by an individual by a staggering 36 hours and 15 minutes. He also completed many sell out “World Tours” of various Counties in Ireland and re-released a new edit of his Number 1 selling DVD called Cracked: (The Comedians Cut) Live at Vicar St. So far in 2010 Tommy has performed in The Royal Albert Hall and completed a sell out solo tour of Australia and New Zealand, The Udderbelly Festival in London, The Toronto Just For Laughs Festival in Canada, The Edinburgh Festival to 5 star reviews & headlining “The Michael McIntyre Comedy Roadshow” in the UK.

2010 is jam packed with a number of Irish “World Tours”, a run at “Comix” in New York, a 6 week Solo UK tour and to finish off the year in style, Tommy will return to his very own Anfield Road, Vicar St. in November and December. Phew! 2011 will see Tommy begin his year with a run at Vicar Street in Dublin, then off to Australia & New Zealand for his solo tour, which has doubled in size since last year, then a solo tour of Canada, a new live DVD and a UK solo tour not to mention his continuing “World Tours” of Ireland.

Shane Supple interviews Tommy Tiernan by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

http://tommytiernan.com/

Management:
Yvonne Tiernan
Mabinóg Ltd
The Loft, Century Buildings
7-9 Upper Abbeygate Street
Galway, Ireland
Email: mabinog@eircom.net
Tel: +353 (91) 564 875

The Rivets

2012-10-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

This week in studio I had two very talented guests who have been in the studio with me before on separate occasions, David Blaize was on talking about his own song writing and Che Horgan was in with the group The Wall St Thieves. The Rivets however are a second project that David and Che work on when not busy working with other bands and writing songs, They are a Dynamic Acoustic Duo who guarantee to give you a show to remember, performing Classic 50's & 60's Rock’n’roll songs you all know & love. With rhythmic guitars and melodic harmonies, this band will have you singing and dancing along to every song.

Influenced by The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Hank Williams, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Neil Young, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, The Beach Boys, The Turtles, Nilsson, The Rolling Stones, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fleetwood Mac, The Bee Gees, The Band This duo are taking the best of the 50's and 60's songs and adding their own unique style and vocals to each song.

I asked the lads how and why they decided to get together as a two piece in the middle of very successful personal projects. David replied saying that they got together to concentrate on the songwriting, He had seen Che playing with the Wall St Thieves and liked what he heard so he asked Che if he would have been interested in co writing songs. Che added that they both saw themselves as songwriter first and foremost but along the way their love of music from the 50' and 60's started to shine through so they decided to do a few songs and throw in their own as a program for local venues.

Throughout the interview I asked the lads to sing some songs the first song they sang live was a number written by a friend called Tonight. I have to say that the sound was in itself simple uncomplicated but at all times tuneful, clear, melodic the arrangement was tight, two great vocals in harmony with two guitars establishing a solid rhythm and lead. It seems that the lads have spent a lot of time getting a sound and making it work well. On a personal note its great to hear two guys singing harmonies on two acoustic guitars with no special effects, digital sounds breaking the style and melodic style The Rivets bring to the table.

The reaction to what the lads are doing has been fantastic, the people who come to hear them play are both young and old, and the sound is refreshing to all. They followed this with an old Bee Gees classic Massachusetts, to be honest I was lost, I was transported to a corner of heaven on earth. For musicians no matter what style or sounds you like when you hear something done well by another group, band, singer well expectations go out the window and an appreciation of something done well will always override the first thought of" I don’t like that song, singer, style etc" The Rivets have managed to do something that very few guests on my show have been able to do in over 18 years doing this program. They shut me up……. If the program was two hours longer I would have simply turned off my mic and asked the lads sing away till we would have to end the program. They sang several more songs for the listeners.

Since that program went on air I have had many people asking me to have them back on air, and this time just let them perform a full set without any interviews etc, so I am glad that I was not alone in my thoughts and feelings about the Rivets. Listen in to the interview, listen in and judge for yourself.

Meanwhile let it be said you heard it here first The Rivets are a band not to be missed, If you see them advertised in your area, go sit listen enjoy the music and on the way home in your car, on the bus or walking remember I told you how good they are.

Shane Supple interviews The Rivets by Shane Supple on Mixcloud

The Rivets Band Cork - Mobile: +353(0)87 9955465 E-mail: therivetsband@gmail.com

Rob Carlile

2012-10-05T08:24:00.004-07:00

Rob Carlile was the guest this week. I have to say meeting Rob for the second time was great fun, The last time I spoke with Rob he was on the show as part of the group "The Buachaills" In his own time Rob writes songs, and plays with different bands. In his own right Rob Carlile is a talented singer songwriter who is going places.

To give you an idea of how Rob thinks here is a brief look at his Bio on his Reverbnation page,
(just in case you think I dont do research )

"Rob was born under a shooting star beneath a double rainbow (twice as good as regular rainbow) during a solar eclipse in a village that only exists for one day every hundred years, and growing up he was known to the locals only as "Traduje esto usando un sitio web", which means 'He who travels in shadows and webs"
At the age of 16 Traduje killed a man who insulted him by not replying with 'Hammer time!' quickly enough after Traduje had said 'stop!' In order to properly seek vengeance on that man, Traduje took both his guitar and his name, so to use them more effectively than the man ever could, and has devoted the rest of his life to music to ultimately shame the insulter. That insulter's name was Rob."

Anyway Rob has been writing songs since he was a child and playing music just as long. You can hear most of the chat we had in the interview below. All I can say about Rob is that over the next few years you will be hearing a lot more from this new and upcoming songwriter here in Cork

Shane Supple interviews Rob Carlile by Shane Supple on Mixcloud