Posts filed under 'Ireland'
There are many great wines – some that are known for the vibrant colour, some because they are bursting with flavour, some because of the pleasing packaging.
Beaujolais Nouveau stands out from the pack. It is a wine free of pretentiousness, without the complexities that may intimidate those new to wine tasting.
From Thursday 15th November, Beajolais Nouveau is available at La Mere Zou, in St Stephen’s Green, Dublin. You can book a table at this wonderful restaurant quickly and easily with DublinEvents.
Beaujois Nouveau is very much an ‘immediate’ wine, so don’t miss your chance to sample this year’s vintage.
November 13th, 2007
Perched comfortably on the banks of the river Dodder, Ashton’s is the restaurant you’ve been looking for.
By combining a quality menu with excellent atmosphere and convenience you won’t believe, Ashton’s seems almost to good to be true.
Ashton’s unique selling point is its address. Unlike other restaurants amid the jostle and traffic of the city centre Ashton’s is on the Clonskeagh Road; right in the heart of D6.
Convenience is the order of the day at Ashton’s, lying as it does within easy reach by many bus routes and the luas, or maybe even within the reach of a leisurely stroll – which you’ll certainly feel the benefit of after sampling their wonderful menu! There’s no better time to enjoy hearty local produce, especially since the food is so excellent.
When dining al fresco, you’ll find Ashton’s beautiful riverside garden to be one of the most unique, relaxing and atmospheric outdoor locations in the city.
Having recently refurbished their bistro and introducing a new seasonal menu, Ashton’s are a restaurant that is sure to be talked about for years to come, in fact, it’s already becoming quite the place to be seen among the city’s bold and beautiful, so you never know who you will be seeing propping up the bar or sitting down to dinner – unless you are there first.
For added convenience, you can reserve a table at Ashton’s with DublinEvents.
November 12th, 2007
Find out about the scandalous and fantastic lives of infamous criminals and other leading Dublin personalities from times past, in Hidden Dublin – Deadbeats, Dossers and Decent Skins by Frank Hopkins.
The author of Rare Old Dublin has produced a great collection of true stories from the murkier regions of Ireland’s capital.
Criminal incidents, accidents, whippings, beatings, jail escapes and hangings were all a regular feature of life in Dublin in the 18th and 19th centuries. In this gripping new collection of true stories, Hopkins creates a vivid picture of violent crime in Dublin’s past. He describes the poverty, soup kitchens, food riots, street beggars and workhouses that were part of life in the capital.
He also introduces us to the weird, wonderful, and often downright strange customs and pastimes of Dubliners stretching back to the Middle Ages. These included the ‘bearing of balls’ annual parade by the city’s bachelors and the ritual humiliation of would-be bridegrooms at the bullring – not so different from today’s stag nights!
Frank Hopkins grew up in Ringsend and now lives with his family in Rathfarnham. He contributes a twice-weekly piece on Dublin history and characters to the Evening Herald and is also the author of Rare Old Dublin, published in 2002.
Hidden Dublin is published in hardback for €20.
October 30th, 2007
Who would travel to Italy and not eat spaghetti?
Well, when you travel to Ireland you have to try the local speciality – boxty. And where better than Gallagher’s Boxty House, who specialise in this rustic dish.
Boxty is a traditional potato pancake. While the name comes from the Gaelic “Aran Bocht Ti” (meaning “Poorhouse Bread”) the chefs at Gallagher’s Boxty House have turned this simple dish into a wonderfully special and mouth-watering meal.
Gallagher’s Boxty House is situated along the old cobblestone streets of Dublin’s cosmopolitan Temple Bar district, and has made serving unique Irish food presented in a contemporary, European context a speciality.
The ambience is just right for a restaurant located in vibrant Temple Bar with live traditional and modern Irish music played every day.
Prices start from €9.95 to €12.95, making Gallagher’s Boxty House an ideal choice for a lunchtime meal, available from 12.00pm – 4.00pm). The Early Bird Menu offers great value at €15.95 for 2 courses or €18.95 for a three course meal, available from 4.30pm – 6.30pm.
You can also pick up a Gallagher’s Boxty House polo shirt, cigarette lighter or keyring as a souvenir of your visit to a restaurant that celebrates the finest traditions in Irish cuisine.
You can book a table at Gallagher’s Boxty House quickly and easily with DublinEvents.
October 29th, 2007
Versatile comic all-rounder Sean Hughes returns to his first love of stand-up with his latest show at Vicar Street on Saturday the 27th of October.
Although he’s been away from the stand up scene for some eight years, he hasn’t exactly been resting on his laurels. With TV appearances in The Last Detective and Never Mind the Buzzcocks, his own show on Channel Four and even a stint on the West End stage in a serious role – not to mention two critically-acclaimed novels under his belt – it’s not surprising that he’s had little time for stand up. But now he’s back and in fine form on his home turf.
Behind Sean’s crumpled, hangdog looks and laconic delivery lies a surprisingly acerbic wit that veers effortlessly from the sublime through the surreal to the ridiculous, with plenty of audience interaction thrown in to spice up the mix. A real veteran of the comedy scene (having been the youngest ever winner of the coveted Perrier Award), stand up is obviously Sean’s natural medium, and his innate confidence on stage gives his material a laid-back spontaneity that can’t fail to impress.
Age hasn’t mellowed Sean one bit: in fact, if anything it’s lent a slightly darker tinge to his act as he bemoans his lot as a still-unmarried fortysomething with a self-deprecating honesty that’s at times almost touching while remaining consistently hilarious. That’s not to say his show is entirely self-absorbed, however – he retains his sharp eye for topical gags as well, sending up the absurdities of modern life with some perfectly-crafted one-liners.
In his own words: “I used to work in a subliminal message tape factory. We were only paid £2 an hour but no one seemed to mind…”
If you want to see a comedy great at the height of his powers, check out Sean Hughes this Saturday at Vicar Street.
October 25th, 2007
Restaurant Six is a popular pre-theatre dining venue, just outside the Gate Theatre in Parnell Square.
Formerly part of Groom’s Hotel, the building is rich in tales of after-hours socialising by politicians. It recalls an unlamented by-gone era of gombeenism (loan sharking) which may be good for a laugh as you await your starter of spicy crab or enjoy a traditional dish of boiled bacon and cabbage served with rich parsley sauce.
Highly recommended is the scallion mash which is the complement for braised shank of lamb – a quality alternative to fish or steak. The mash tastes delicious, especially when mixed with the juice of the meat. That menu is available from 5.30 p.m. to 7.15 p.m. from Monday to Saturday.
The main evening menu is a different kettle of fish! The excellent choice of starters includes Dublin Bay prawns, battered mussels tossed in smoked bacon and parsley dressing or seafood chowder.
Surf and Turf provides an interesting combination for main course indulgence. Prawns are served with fillet of prime beef and make an excellent combination.
Fowl choice includes shredded roast duck (greatly enhanced by the hoi-sin sauce) and pan fried breast of chicken (stuffed with spicy chorizo sausage). Lamb and steak are also available, but the roast tail of monkfish with mussel and prawn provencal is truly special.
A thought has been spared for the vegetarian diner who can opt for a baked spinach and cherry tomato omelette which is served with tasty pan fried onion and herb fried potatoes. Access to Restaurant Six is through Hotel entrance.
October 24th, 2007
I’m just looking I’m not buying, I’m just looking keeps me smiling – yes the Stereophonics are back after two years away and will be touring Ireland.
They will be playing in Belfast on 27 November, Killarney on 28 November and Dublin on 29 November. Tickets can be purchased from Ticketmaster.
The boys’ fantastic sixth album, Pull the Pin, written by Kelly Jones includes the lead single ‘It means nothing’ and will be released on 15 October. The album can be pre-ordered from HMV.
This tour really will be amazing – with so much energy stored up for two years, I’m sure they will blow us all away.
UK and Ireland Tour Dates – 2007
Mon 29 Oct Lincoln, University of Lincoln SU
Tue 30 Oct Dundee, Caird Hall
Sun 4 Nov Bournemouth, International Centre
Mon 5 Nov Brighton, Brighton Centre
Wed 7 Nov Manchester, MEN Arena
Thu 8 Nov Hull, Arena
Fri 9 Nov Sheffield, Hallam FM Arena
Sun 11 Nov Birmingham, NEC
Mon 12 Nov Birmingham, NEC
Tue 13 Nov Nottingham, Nottingham Arena
Thu 15 Nov London, Wembley Arena
Fri 16 Nov London, Wembley Arena
Sun 18 Nov Cardiff, CIA
Mon 19 Nov Cardiff, CIA
Tue 20 Nov Cardiff, CIA
Thu 22 Nov Newcastle, Metro Radio Arena
Sat 24 Nov Aberdeen, AECC
Sun 25 Nov Glasgow, SECC
Tue 27 Nov Belfast, Odyssey
Wed 28 Nov Killarney, INEC
Thu 29 Nov Dublin, RDS
October 8th, 2007
Kanye West may be the biggest name in hip hop for most of the world, but based on record sales, 50 Cent is the man in Ireland.
50 Cent vowed to stop making solo albums if Kanye West’s Graduation sold more than his own album, Curtis. In most countries, 50 Cent has been blown out of the water, except for Ireland.
So is Kanye West bringing his excellent live show to Dublin and Belfast to help him get a clean sweep?
He certainly deserves it. Kanye West’s brand of hip hop is more imaginative and political than Fiddy’s gangsta fodder.
In fact, Kanye West is a controversial figure in the US, never afraid to criticise the government or the macho posturing of the hip hop community.
If you haven’t heard Kanye West yet, this live show is a great chance to discover his music. Kanye puts on a great live show, and even if 50 Cent is more popular in Ireland, tickets are sure to sell fast.
Find out more about Kanye West in Dublin or Belfast. Or get tickets for Kanye West live from Ticketmaster.
September 24th, 2007
One of the world’s most successful musicals written by the team of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice will be performing at Gaiety Theatre in Dublin, from Monday 15 to Saturday 20 October.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat stars Craig Chalmers as Joseph, a popular finalist in the recent BBC television programme Any Dream Will Do.
The long-running (over twenty years) musical is based on the biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours. It includes well-known songs such as Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me and One More Angel.
This magical performance, with direction by Bill Kenwright and choreography by Henry Metcalfe, is one for all the family and you can be assured that once you have experienced this enchanting display, you will be singing and dancing all the way home – yes even you dad!
The price of tickets ranges from €20 to €39.50 and can be obtained from Gaiety theatre & ticketmaster.
Why not prepare yourself for this dazzling show by learning one of the musical’s songs. Try the popular hit made famous by Jason Donovan, Any Dream Will Do.
Any Dream Will Do lyrics:
Joseph
I closed my eyes, drew back the curtain
To see for certain what I thought I knew
Far far away, someone was weeping
But the world was sleeping
Any dream will do
Joseph & Children
I wore my coat, with golden lining
Bright colours shining, wonderful and new
And in the east, the dawn was breaking
And the world was waking
Any dream will do
Joseph
A crash of drums, a flash of light
My golden coat flew out of sight
The colors faded into darkness
I was left alone
Joseph & Children
May I return to the beginning
The light is dimming, and the dream is too
The world and I, we are still waiting
Still hesitating
Any dream will do
Give me my coloured coat,
my amazing coloured coat
September 10th, 2007
Thankfully, Brian O’Driscoll will be able to guide Ireland into their first world cup game against Namibia this Sunday.
The Irish captain sustained a fractured sinus injury when playing against the French club Bayonne last month.
Now that the captain is fully recovered from his sports wound, he can now help Ireland on their way to victory!
The Namibian team will have less support than they had predicted. The president of the Rugby Union of Namibia and all of his executives have been banned from the Rugby World Cup due to suspected irregular sales of tickets. All the more support for Ireland!
Ireland’s games this month
Ireland v Namibia on Sunday 9th September (Bordeaux)
Ireland v Georgia on Saturday 15th September (Bordeaux)
France v Ireland on Friday 21st September (Saint-Denis)
Ireland v Argentina on Sunday 30th September (Paris)
Ireland’s expected line up against Namibia
15 Girvan Dempsey
14 Andrew Trimble
13 Brian O’Driscoll
12 Gordon D’Arcy
11 Denis Hickie
10 Ronan O’Gara
9 Peter Stringer
1 Marcus Horan
2 Rory Best
3 John Hayes
4 Donncha O’Callaghan
5 Paul O’Connell
6 Simon Easterby
7 David Wallace
8 Denis Leamy
Replacements
16 Jerry Flannery
17 Simon Best
18 Malcolm O’Kelly
19 Neil Best
20 Isaac Boss
21 Paddy Wallace
22 Geordan Murphy
Read more information at the official Rugby World Cup site.
September 7th, 2007
Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes has opened his first Irish venture, the exciting new restaurant RhodesD7.
RhodesD7 has Gary Rhodes distinctive touch, using top quality local ingredients, as well as inspiration from his travels across the world.
The food in RhodesD7 is a fusion of traditional Irish favourites and European cooking – Gary Rhodes always tries to celebrate local cooking in his restaurants, and RhodesD7 is no different.
Main courses include braised shank of lamb, served summer vegetable ragout and champ potato. Among the other hearty, rustic mains is the RD7 Ploughman’s, a speciality at the restaurant. This is made with Cashel Blue quiche, baked ham and piccalilli, smoked salmon, Irish Camembert, rabbit and foie gras terrine, tomato and basil salad and chips. The combination of flavours is stunning.
A selection of 120 wines is available to compliment your meal, with every major wine producing region represented.
Gary Rhodes will oversee RhodesD7, while head chef duties go to Paul Hargreaves. Paul has worked with Gary Rhodes for the past six years, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to RhodesD7.
Find out more about RhodesD7 or book a table.
September 3rd, 2007
Hard Working Class Heroes are true heroes as they bring an action-packed live music event to the Pod in Dublin to celebrate their 5th birthday.
The festival is run in conjunction with Bud Rising and will see new bands from across Ireland showcase their talents at this unique live music event. In keeping with the theme of “5” the gigs will be held at five separate venues in Dublin’s Pod.
Two of the 300 capacity rooms haven’t yet been named and HWCH are running a competition to win two weekend passes and fame on their website if you email: info@hwch.net with your ideas (and room names in the subject line).
Hard Working Class Heroes is the only festival dedicated to Irish bands and the place to see the next big stars or to support your local favourites.
Tickets for each night are €17.45 each and available for:
Friday 28 September
Saturday 29 September
Sunday 30 September
Or get tickets to all 3 events for only €33.60 and try hard to fit in as many live gigs as you can while in Dublin!
August 30th, 2007
Donny Osmond gives a live music performance here in Dublin on 30 October at Vicar Street. This is one live music event in Dublin that will draw huge fans from across Ireland.
Donny is sure to enjoy himself in Dublin’s fair city where the girls are so pretty! Although the girls that idolised him as a teen are likely to be your mum or your granny, so why not give them a treat with tickets to see Donny in Dublin.
Book tickets for Donny Osmond’s live gig in Dublin now at Dublin Events.
For some reason I always want to say Donny Osbourne when I say Donny’s name, it’s a bit of a tongue twister for me. It probably stems from the Pepsi Twist advert that starred Donny and his sister Marie turned into Ozzy’s son and daughter!
See the ad here, on YouTube, Ozzy is hilarious!
As well as appearing in TV adverts, Donny has enjoyed a varied career, from a singing sensation (starting out at the age of four) as part of “The Osmonds”, to a duo with his sister Marie as a musical act and then co-host of the Donny and Marie Show in the 70s.
Now approaching 50, Donny continues his career starring in musicals and touring, charming audiences throughout the world. So book tickets for the gig in Dublin now and be prepared to be charmed!
August 29th, 2007
If ever a business entity occupied a pivotal location Fitzsimons Bar is it.
Fronting onto three streets gives it an exceptional two corner presence particularly when it fronts onto the River Liffey at the new landmark Millennium footbridge. On its other flank it is in the heart of Temple Bar, Dublin’s Left Bank experience.
The Fitzsimons Hotel caters for a wide variety of visitors who pass through Temple Bar every year. The level of service and customer commitment ensures that their visitors return year
after year. Fitzsimons Hotel is located on the banks of the River Liffey in the heart of Dublin’s thriving “left bank” area known as Temple Bar.
The hotel offers comfortable rooms in the best location in Dublin. Right outside is the new Millennium Bridge providing access to the heart of the city’s best shopping areas, cultural attractions and entertainment venues.
The Fitzsimons Hotel is a 5-minute walk to all the major shopping districts including Henry Street and the upmarket Grafton Street. At night, Temple Bar comes to life right on our doorstep with great restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
If Temple Bar is your hot spot destination you need go no further than Fitzsimons Hotel which embraces quality accommodation overlooking
the River Liffey.
Fitzsimons Hotel
21-22 Wellington Quay
Temple Bar
Dublin 2
Tel: 01 677 9315
August 28th, 2007
Rihanna’s live music events take place in Dublin on Sunday 2 December and Belfast on Monday 3 December, and as they’re both indoor gigs there’s no need to bring along an umbrella. Mind you the last gig I was at I got soaked with a pint of beer, so standing under someone’s umbrella-ella-ella-ella-ella, eh-oh- oh oh oh, mightn’t be such a bad idea after aaaall.
Book tickets for Rihanna’s gig in Dublin
Book tickets for the live event in Belfast
Umbrella was the theme tune for many a summer festival and extremely catchy! The latest single Shut Up and Drive is equally as catchy and set to be the theme tune for a drive.
I was watching the making of the Shut Up And Drive video with great pleasure on MTV earlier this week.
I really like all of the effort that went into sourcing the classic cars not to mention the young ladies washing them (ahem) of course I was looking at the cars, not the ladies, don’t mistake me for some kind of pervert!
The video is as slick as Rihanna’s new hairdo – have a look for yourself.
Enjoy the gigs!
August 22nd, 2007
Red, the MS Ireland reading superhero, is urging you to sign up to this year’s MS READaTHON. The 2007 READaTHON is extra special, because it is the 20th birthday of this great sponsored read.
Children who join in will get to read some of their favourite stories and they will be raising money for the 7,000 in Ireland who who living with Multiple Sclerosis.
During last year’s READaTHON, more than more than 30,000 children aged 6-16 read over 500,000 books, raising €1.2million for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland. Red and everyone else hopes the 2007 READaTHON will be even bigger.
The MS READaTHON runs from 19th October – 19th November. This year it is supported by lots of famous authors, including Jacqueline Wilson – the creator of Tracy Beaker.
Children can take part in the MS READaTHON individually or classes can be signed up by their teacher. Everyone who takes part will recieve a thank you gift and a Certificate of Appreciation.
There is also the change to win lots of major prizes, including a computer, a trip for two to see Manchester United play at Old Trafford, a portable DVD player and a bike.
Schools can compete for the Winning Schools Trophies and for thousands of euros worth of books with which to update their school libraries. There are prizes for teachers and librarians too. In addition, ten per cent of the money raised in each school can be kept to buy books or reading aids for the school. This year a school can also win a brand new top of the range computer plus a digital camera.
The sign up period begins on 10th September. Schools can sign up by filling out the entry forms that they will all receive in September. Individuals can pick up entry forms from their local library or bookshop.
For more information visit www.msreadathon.ie or phone 1850 650 950.
MS READaTHON Manager, Cheryl Gunning, says: “The MS READaTHON encourages children to read, giving them one of the greatest gifts possible, a love of books – all the while helping to raise funds for much needed services for people with MS. Last year, we were thrilled that school children raised €1.2 million for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland. And this year we’re really looking forward to celebrating our 20th birthday with even more success stories!”
And one last word from our Superhero Red! “The more I read the more superpowers I get – and now with my incredible knowledge and wisdom I outsmart the villains. My mission is to encourage children to read more, which helps them to develop a fantastic imagination and to broaden their knowledge!”
By taking part in the 2007 MS READaTHON, you can be more like Red!
August 21st, 2007
UB40 get back to their reggae roots almost 30 years after they first got together to perform 3 live gigs in Ireland in November. Live music performances take place on and at:
Ali Campbell’s warm voice will melt Irish hearts as UB40 belt out old favourites like Red, Red, Wine and I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You.
They will also perform newer music from the album Who You fighting For, a return of UB40’s political voice mixed in with meaningful lyrics and beautiful beats.
UB40 are amazingly talented and their unique reggae sound, with influences from Jamaican Ska to Elvis, is what has made their career so successful.
Here’s a live music clip of Kiss and Say Goodbye – from Who You Fighting For with Ali at his soulful best
Facts about UB40
- They formed in the summer of 1978.
- UB40 began as mates who knew each other from various colleges and schools across Birmingham.
- Birmingham is their home town.
- UB40 stands for Unemployment Benefit Form 40.
- Before they even picked up an instrument, Ali Campbell and Brian Travers travelled around Birmingham promoting the band, putting up UB40 posters to promote the band!
- £4,000 in compensation paid out to Ali Campbell after a bar brawl paid for the band’s instruments (even though few knew how to play!).
- Ali and Robin Campbell’s father is Ian Campbell, a popular folk musician.
- They made it big when Chrissie Hynde heard them play in a pub in Birmingham and asked them to be her support act.
- John Peel was so impressed with the group’s first demo tape that he invited them to perform on his Radio One show in 1980.
- Their injection of life into many old Jamaican hits resulted in many musicians’ and producers’ renewed popularity and income. (Source: Wikipedia)
- UB40 named their first album Signing Off because they were ‘signing off from the dole’ in other words, getting a job. The album even had a reproduction of the unemployment benefit card on the cover with the words, “Signing Off” stamped on it.
- In 1985, the group celebrated a hit single with I Got You Babe, recorded with Chrissie Hynde.
- UB40’s first single, a double coupling of King, a song for Martin Luther King and Food for Thought, a song about third-world poverty, was the first record to reach the UK top ten without the backing of a major record label.
- The band formed their own record company in 1980 called Dep International.
- In August 1983, UB40 achieved their first No.1 single in the UK.
Red Red Wine was released ahead of the album Labour of Love, which went straight to No.1 upon its release in September 1983.
- The Labour Of Love Album, produced and co-written by saxophonist Brian Travers, was made into a short movie and features most of the music from the album and some members of the band.
- UB40 were the first British band to tour Russia.
- (I can’t help) Falling In Love With You was the bands third No.1. It proved to be the second top selling single of 1993.
- (I can’t help) Falling In Love With You reached No.1 in 17 other countries around the world.
- (I can’t help) Falling In Love With You was initially featured in the Sharon Stone film Sliver and spent seven weeks at number one in the USA.
- Promises & Lies entered the UK charts at No.1 and stayed there
for 7 weeks which was the longest time for any album to have stayed at the
top in 1993.
- Swing Low was recorded with the multi-cultural choir United Colours of Sound and became the official anthem for the 2003 English Rugby Team.
- Promises And Lies was the inspiration for a musical performed by the Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company in 2006.
- Sparta Florida Music Group started legal action against heiress Paris Hilton and Warner Chappell Music in June 2007 for plagiarism due to similarities between the song Kingston Town, originally by Lord Creator and Paris’s Stars Are Blind song.
Visit UB40’s official website: http://www.ub40.co.uk/
August 20th, 2007
The white-tailed eagle has been reintroduced to Ireland, over a century since they were driven to extinction.
Twelve white-tailed eagles were released in the Killarney national park. This follows successful schemes to reintroduce the golden eagle and red kite. Both species had also been hunted to extinction in Ireland.
The Rural Environment Protection Scheme aims to reintroduction other species and encourage the development of cereal plots to provide food for wildlife.
The release of the white-tailed eagles should delight birdwatchers and anyone interested in the environment in Ireland.
Enthusiasts could even join this new online network for birdwatchers I’ve just found, called Geobirds, and post sightings of the eagle in Killarney!
August 17th, 2007
The live musical performances of Natasha Bedingfield in Dublin and Belfast have been rescheduled and she’ll now perform in February due to her commitments in the USA.
I’m bruised, as I was really looking forward to see her play live in Dublin, and Natasha, like you, I bruise easily!
Nevermind, at least it’ll chase away my winter blues seeing her beautiful face in February! Also, as the event is round about Valentines Day, maybe I can give her a card!
Dates are as follows:
If any of your friends are going to the gig, then send them a note from a cute little baby!
See the video of
I Wanna Have Your Babies
:
August 17th, 2007
After ten years as a mainstay in the Irish rugby team, winger Denis Hickie has announced he will retire after this year’s World Cup.
Disco Den will bring an end to his glittering career after no doubt picking up a few more caps in the tournament in France.
He currently holds a joint-record of 29 caps, along with captain Brian O’Driscoll. This is a testament to the teamwork and individual skill of Hickie, who has perhaps not won the silverware his prowess deserves.
Regular injuries are the reason for this frustration, but Hickie’s determination ensured he always bounced back, without losing any of his pace or power.
Of course, it isn’t all frustration. Denis Hickie was part of the Ireland squad that won the Triple Crown in 2006 and he has enjoyed phenomenal success for Leinster – averaging a try in every second game during his 130 appearances.
Announcing his decision, Denis Hickie said: “I have had a very enjoyable and fulfilling career as a professional rugby player.
“This is not a decision I have come to hastily and I am content that it is the right thing for me to do and that I am doing it at the right time.
“Now my focus is entirely on doing everything I can to help Ireland win the Rugby World Cup.”
Irish coach Eddie O’Sullivan paid tribute to Hickie, saying: “I think Denis will be remembered as one of the great wingers of Irish rugby.
“I first came across him when I was coaching the Ireland U21 side and he has always been the consummate professional, as is reflected in his performances with Ireland.
“I wish him every success in his retirement, but not before he has a major impact with us at the World Cup.”
Denis Hickie made his first appearance for Ireland ten years ago against Wales, when his amazing pace led to a marvellous debut try.
Here’s hoping his final game for Ireland (in the World Cup final perhaps?) will be marked the same way.
August 14th, 2007
On Thursday 4 and Friday 5 October at Tripod you’ll be swigging lager-lager-lager-lager shouting, lager-lager-lager-lager-shouting, lager-lager-lager-shouting to classic tunes from Underworld—boy!
Best known for Born Slippy of Trainspotting fame, the dance mixmasters bring their DJ talents to Dublin. So if you’re looking for a dance event in Dublin then get yourself along to Tripod to tap your toes to tunes that will permeate your mind faster than a pink microdot.
Book tickets for Underworld, Thursday 4 October at Tripod in Dublin
Book tickets for Underworld, Friday 5 October at Tripod in Dublin
Visit Underworld’s MySpace page and listen to Born Slippy, as well as the brilliant Crocodile, the latest track from their new album Oblivion with Bell. You can also check out the rest of their tour dates if you happen to miss out on the live event in Dublin.
If you do miss it, or simply want more, then Underworld are also playing Belfast’s Kings Hall on Saturday 6 October.
August 14th, 2007
Tickets are now on sale for Sinead O’ Connor’s live gig in Dublin on 18 November @ the Olympia Theatre.
I’m a big fan of Sinead, (bigger than Britney Spears who shaved her head to imitate her idol) and I can safely say that nothing really compares to you Sinead, nothing.
Sinead O’Connor’s gig in Dublin ties in with her re-emergence into making music after semi-retiral in 2003 and recovery from an illness I can’t pronounce.
She has recorded her own double CD album, Theology (as well as having studied the subject at a Catholic College in Dublin) and, at 40, is said to be feeling more spiritual than the outspoken youth who tore up a photo of the Pope live on television. Perhaps since her ordainment as Mother Bernadette Marie she has put her life in order.
“Theology is an attempt to create a place of peace in a time of war,” said Sinead. “It is my own personal response to what has taken and is affecting everyone around the world since and including September 11, 2001.
“I want to be very clear – there is no message. No preaching. Nothing deep and meaningful the artist wants to say, nothing trouble making. I simply wanted to make a beautiful thing, out of something beautiful, which inspires me.”
(posted on: http://www.myspace.com/sineadoconnormusic)
Sinead recently recorded a couple of tracks (Illegal Attacks and Some Folks Are Hollow) for Ian Brown’s album, The World Is Yours. Sinead’s haunting voice, drives home the message of Illegal Attacks which is due to be released on the September 17 with the full album due out September 24. Brown recorded the music for the album with O’Connor live at Windmill Lane studios in Dublin, Ireland.
Sinead is notoriously outspoken and Illegal Attacks, with the line “So bring the soldiers back”, speaks out against the war in Iraq. She has also criticised the use of Ireland’s Shannon Airport as a stopover, so it seems controversy still pulses through her veins as much as her devotion to religion.
LINKS etc:
Find out more about this live music event in Dublin over at our main site @ Dublin Events
Her main site has “The Healing Room of Sinead O’Connor” as a warning before you enter; I wonder if she has healed at all!
Visit Ian Brown’s MySpace. Ian Brown will play Big Top at Phoenix Park, Dublin on Sunday 28th October.
Book tickets for Ian Brown’s amazing live music event in Dublin.
August 9th, 2007
It’ll be a Happy Monday in Dublin when the Happy Mondays perform live on 24 September at the Olympia Theatre. So if you want a happier face than Bez, book tickets for this live music event in Dublin now!
Just like the Happy Mondays, I’ll be taking by mate along, he doesn’t do much but likes a good night out and a dance. He also hates Mondays, so hopefully the ticket will cheer him up! Either that or I’ll order him some “herbal” hallucinogens.
Are they happy?
Notorious as much for their lifestyle as much as the music itself the band has had spurts of disbanding and reforming, with this being their third attempt at unification, so we hope this time they’ll stick around!
Whilst many bands are checking into rehab, Shaun seems to have cleaned up his act a bit, with a brand new pair of teeth, a healthier lifestyle (he’s rumoured to have taken to cycling round the Peak District!), a new album (Unkle Disfunctional) and a timetable of live shows (including the gig in Dublin). So it seems the Mondays are looking at happier days!
See before and after pics of Shaun Ryder’s gnashers
None of the singles from the album have been released yet and there are a couple of hidden tracks to look forward to which you might be treated to if you go to the live music event in Dublin.
You’ll see Bez freaky dancin’ to some of their new material including Cuntry Disco and Anti Warhole On The Dancefloor as well as my favourite, Kinky Afro.
See you there!
LINKS:
Buy tickets to see the Happy Mondays perform live in Dublin.
Visit the official Happy Mondays site – with live music videos of their recent performances.
Twist your melon man, look at the band’s official MySpace page and listen to some of their new music.
August 8th, 2007
On Wednesday 22 August, Bud Rising commences in Dublin at 17.30 bringing three rebellious acts to whip your Wednesday into shape. The line up:
- Silversun Pickups 17.45
- Nine Inch Nails 18.45
- Foo Fighters 20.30
Silversun Pickups (also known as SSPU)
A well thought out opener to a well thought out festival – SSPU open the live music event at Dublin’s Marlay Park blasting out favourites such as Well Thought Out Twinkles and Kissing Families.
The band have been likened to The Smashing Pumpkins, so you know there’s no need for them to visit the School of Rock – well there wouldn’t be as band member Tanya Haden has already picked up tips from husband Jack Black.
Nine Inch Nails
Industro-rocky sounds and anti-US political messages are to be expected from Trent Reznor’s live ensemble at the gig at Marlay Park.
The release of the latest Nine Inch Nails album, Year Zero, in April is part of a concept album and spin off reality game that aims to capture the imagination of future generations.
Reznor’s album envisages an Orwellian existence and is a reaction against the Bush administration and US Military – so music fans should be prepared for some speeches and stunts dotted throughout the performance.
Previous NIN gigs saw Reznor plant flash drives randomly for fans to find – so who knows what to expect at this live event in Dublin.
Find out more about the Year Zero spin-off game
Foo Fighters
Foo fans will be anxious to hear new material from the Foo Fighters when they play live in Dublin. The band’s latest album Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace, is set for release on September 25, 2007 and marks a reunion for the band with record producer Gil Norton. Gil helped produce The Colour and The Shape in 1997.
Foo Fighters front man and lead vocalist Dave Grohl also has links with funnyman Jack Black as they appeared dressed in drag as frisky rednecks on the video for Low which was banned from MTV! Grohl also played drums on Tenacious D’s 2001 debut album and played the devil in the video for Tenacious D’s song Tribute.
Get a sneak preview of The Pretenders, the first single to be released off the new Foo Fighter’s album
For the latest Foo music news and tour dates, visit the main site
No patience? Book tickets to see them headline and kick off this Bud-tastic live music event in Dublin
August 6th, 2007
Josh Ritter performs his own blend of folk music live in Dublin’s Tripod on 8 September.
You might have heard his musical talents before, as a couple of years ago, the Idaho singer-songwriter performed at the Oxegen festival and has also supported home-grown act The Frames. He is a big fan of Dublin, so it’s great that he is performing here and his Live EP was recorded here in the city.
His live performances in Ireland have won him many fans in Dublin and beyond who love his Dylanesque ballads and heartfelt lyrics.
Josh loves his audience too and is known to tell little stories as he plays his music, so Dubliners are in for a treat.
I urge you to book your tickets for this live music event in Dublin now as tickets are sure to sell out.
Find out about the man behind the music, here’s an interview where Josh talks about how “great” he thinks Ireland is!
August 1st, 2007
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