A few years ago, at one of my favorite festivals in the world, the Baltimore (West Cork) Fiddle Fair, I was totally blown away by a singer I had never heard of. In a darkened, packed hall, a bearded young man took the stage and riveted the crowd (who knew exactly who he was) with a set of songs that told a single story. It was simply brilliant. More than that, it was riveting.
Mick Flannery, Cork guy. Singer. GREAT songwriter. Small part Tom Waits, small part Nabraska Springsteen, all Mick Flannery. Stories of dreams unfulfilled, small time tragic hoods, loyalty and family betrayal, with a depth and pathos that belies the writer's age. Riveting. Riveting.
Three years ago, Mick came and performed for us as part of the Backroom Series. He sold out almost instantly. This was one of the songs he covered that night: A poignant remembrance of a visit to Boston in 2010.
The Burren Backroom series is just over a year old but has created already many memorable, intimate, informal presentations held in a truly atmospheric space which was created by well-known traditional musicians Tommy and Louise McCarthy in Davis Square, Somerville, Masachusetts.
Hosted by Brian O'Donovan of A Celtic Sojourn on WGBH radio, these gatherings feature core performers from many aspects of traditional music as well as special guests, and conversations around the music. As is the custom of the Burren, it is anticipated informal and dynamic post concert sessions will be a feature.
Tickets are $23 in advance, with a $5 discount for WGBH Members. If you are a member, send an e-mail to celtic@wgbh.org and we will send you the code.
Seating is VERY limited and these events have been selling out, so get your tickets today!
Location
The Burren Backroom (View)
247 Elm Street, Davis Square
Somerville, MA 02144
United States
