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Gearing up for her appearance as part of the 'Live @ The Royal' series of gigs, New York native and Ferrybank citizen Oatsie Jones joined Rob in the studio to chat about musical influences, the local scene and her hope for the show on 18th September. Includes a live performance of her song 'Kumquat' Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 5th September 2021
Rob caught up with Julia Spanu of Moxie to chat about their new album 'The Dawn of Motion' as well as her own background, growing up in Tunisia, then moving to France and eventually joining an Irish trad group largely based in Sligo. Audio Note: due to COVID19 this was recorded in an outdoor setting. There is wind noise and some of the volume level jump. The piece was recorded on the 27th August 2021. An edited version of this conversation was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 29th August 2021.
Ahead of his appearance in the 'Live @ The Royal' series of gigs run by the Theatre Royal (Waterford) and Beat 102-103, Toucan frontman Conor Clancy dropped into Irish Beats to chat with Rob about working as a musician over the pandemic and how he's itching to play live again. Contains an in-studio performance of 'In The Warm Morning Light.' Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 29th August 2021.
Dermot Quinn of the Theatre Royal Waterford was Rob's guest in studio to announce the Live @ The Royal series of gigs taking place in September. Beat and the Theatre Royal have teamed up to put on four shows featuring some of the finest original acts based in Waterford. Three acts per night, performing to a live audience. The gigs will also be recorded, with highlights being broadcast on Irish Beats the following evening. 10th Sep – Conor Clancy (Toucan). CuXack. Tadhg Williams 11th Sep - Bankrupt. One Morning in August. Aliens in Caves 17th Sep – Culture Night! Alex Gough, Jess Reinl. Waiting Space 18th Sep – Joe Meaghar. Liam Merriman. Oatsie Jones. Tickets go on sale on Tuesday 10th August from theatreroyal.ie Originally broadcast on Sunday 8th August 2021.
Faye O'Rourke and Adam O'Regan from Soda Blonde were in Rob's virtual studio to talk about their new album 'Small Talk' - lots of discussion about the difference of this release compared with material from their careers as Little Green Cars, sonic space, lyrical themes on the record and even how they arrived at the name 'Soda Blonde' in the first place! An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Irish Beats on 11th July 2021.
Rob spoke with all four members of Inhaler on the eve of the release of their debut album 'It Won't Always Be Like This.' They spoke about shaking off the lockdown rustiness, the relevance of guitar driven bands and what they're best Spinal Tap moments have been so far. An edited version of this podcast was broadcast on Irish Beats on 11th July 2021.
Rob spoke with Daithi O'Dronai and Paul Noonan - collectively known as HousePlants - about their debut track 'What's With All The Pine', how their collaboration came about, plans for the future and also how their respective lockdowns led to bouts of creativity. Plenty of laughs in this one! An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on Sunday 30th May 2021.
Steve Wall and Simon O'Reilly spoke with Rob about how their track 'Rise With The Sun' was written and recorded across distance during lockdown. They discuss some of the technical nuts and bolts and the joys of pedal steel guitar! There's also chat about their solo work, including Simon's forthcoming soundtrack for the documentary 'Father of the Cyborgs' and how Steve Walls acting career came together. There's a good bit of laughter in this one as Steve and Simon have great banter between them. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on 23rd May 2021.
Rob caught up with Pete O'Hanlon from The Zen Arcade to talk about a wide range of topics - regrouping after the demise of The Strypes, punk sensibilities, setting up a 'zine and a podcast AND the terrible majesty that is Spider-Man 3. There is also a brief discussion about The Zen Arcade's music! The interview was recorded on 14th May 2021. An edited version was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 16th May 2021 05 14
Rob spoke with Dara Quilty of Apella about their debut album 1963. This deep conversation covered topics as diverse as recording & production techniques, releasing during a pandemic AND the importance of support services for cancer patients and their families (sounds like an odd topic, but the conversation makes sense when you listen.) An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on Sunday 25th April 2021.
Rob spoke with Ann Scott about her new album 'Lily', the genesis of the songs, how it was recorded and some of the techniques applied. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 18th April 2021.
Releasing her first new music in over 2 years, Cork musician Stephanie Rainey spoke with Rob about overcoming disillusionment with the music industry, the dangers of buying musical instruments online, unexpected benefits of lockdown and offering positive advice to her 16 year-old self. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 7th March 2021.
On the day of release of their second album 'Awake You Lie', Caoimhe Barry of Wyvern Lingo spoke with Rob about their new record - how it's not a COVID album, but it also kinda is - musical influences, video games and the inside scoop on being on one of Ireland's most successful indie record labels (RubyWorks). An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on Sunday 28th February 2021.
Rob spoke with Jim Carroll, one of the founders of the Choice Music Prize, about this year's competition. They chatted about how the judging works, how representative the Prize is of Irish music, the spread of genres and diverse voices AND how the pandemic has changed the running of things this year. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on Sunday 7th February.
Waterford native Alex Gough sat on his couch to speak with Rob O'Connor about his new single and live EP (Bonus Features). The conversation covered the recording of the live EP, Alex's involvement in Normal People, future recordings and his ambition as an artist. An edited version of this interview was originally broadcast on Irish Beats on Beat 102-103 on 31st January 2021.
As her debut EP was released, Rob spoke with Kynsy about musical influences, her favourite sound toys and the line between "Kynsy" and "Ciara Lyndsey." An edited version of this was broadcast on Irish Beats on Beat 102-103 on 31st January 2021.
On release day of his new single 'When It Calls', A. Smyth took the time to chat with Rob O'Connor about sci-fi song inspirations, sonic palettes, celebrity fans and what he misses most about gigs. The conversation took a few left hand turns - who'd have though the Voyager space probe would feature! A. Smyth's debut album 'Last Animals' will be released on 19th February 2021. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 24th January 2021
Direct from her Parisian apartment, rising R&B voice spoke with Rob about her EP 'Me 2 Me', the influences on her sound and overcoming anxiety through music. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Irish Beats on Beat 102-103 on 17th January 2021.
As part of the Dublin Bowie Festival, Rob spoke with Shobsy of the band State Lights about his re-imagination of David Bowie's 4th album Hunky Dory for the festival. They chatted about turning the album into a live concept movie with some of Ireland finest musicians. The conversation also turned towards LGBTQ+ issues and State Lights' activities during the Lockdown. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 10th January 2021
On the day of the release of her new EP ‘This Is How We Connect, While You Stand So Tall’, Rob chatted with Gorey-based musician Patricia Lalor. The spoke of the inspiration behind her songwriting, putting video ideas together and the joy of watching Radiohead streams during lockdown An edited version of this interview was originally broadcast on 6th December 2020 on Beat 102-103.
RuthAnne (Cunningham) and Rob O'Connor chatted over Zoom about the Irish Women In Harmony Christmas single and her forthcoming solo album (due sometime in 2021). The conversation also turned to RuthAnne's professional relationship with the Future Cut production duo, gender representation in music, the craft of songwriting, magical wizard wishes and more. Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 29th November 2020
Rob spoke with JyellowL a few days after the release of his debut album D|Vision 2020. The talked about where JyellowL draws inspiration from in his writing, the production process and his goals for the future. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on Sunday 22nd November 2020.
With Kerbdog re-releasing both of their albums on vinyl, Rob spoke with lead singer Cormac Battle about his memories of the 90s Kilkenny scene, how Kerbdog went from playing in The Pumphouse to recording in Sound City LA. They also had a bit of DJ talk with Cormac indicating what he listens out for when choosing music for his radio shows on 2fm and he offered some advice for upcoming musicians. Note: An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 15th November 2020.
Rob chatted with Eve Belle about her new album 'In Between Moments.' Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 8th November 2020.
Rob chatted with Oliver Cole on the morning of the release of his third solo album 'Father Brother Son', which follows on from three other albums with his band Turn in the early 2000s. The conversation explored some of the deeply personal themes and experiences Ollie Cole is working through on the record. Not to get too serious, the conversation also covers mistaken online identity, learning to play Abba songs on the guitar and answering calls without wearing pants. An edited version of this interview was broadcast on Beat 102-103 on Sunday 1st November.
Direct from her apartment in Berlin, Rob caught up with Lydia Ford to chat about her new single 'A Year', her production process & direct lyrical style and the Irish queer-pop scene.
Rob O'Connor from Irish Beats had an extended chat with Louize Carroll a psychologist with Minding Creative Minds. MCM is a new mental health initiative aimed at members of the Irish music industry which can offer short-term intervention and advice covering practical day-to-day issues that cause anxiety or stress. As well an occupational psychologist, Louize is also the bass player with The Blizzards and Irish Women In Harmony and the conversation also took in her own musical obsessions. Minding Creative Minds can be contacted via mindingcreativeminds.ie or by calling 1800 814 244 in the Republic or 0800 0903677 in Northern Ireland. Photo credit: Carl McGrath
Rob spoke with Mick Flannery about his new live album, which turns out was a bit of an unexpected release. Mick spoke about sharing all the proceeds with his band and crew and plans for the not-too-distant future. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats on 26th July 2020
Creator of infectious pop banger 'All My Love' FiCat spoke with Rob about creating music during lockdown and spreading happiness instead of gloom. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats on 26th July 2020
Rob spoke with Nealo over the phone about his forthcoming album, creating hip-hop sounds with a live band and the correct pronunciation of his collaborator Uly. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats on 26th July 2020.
With the release of their first new music in nearly two years, Caoimhe Barry of Wyvern Lingo chatted with Rob about new single 'Don't Say It', creating music during the lockdown and their plans for the near future. Originally broadcast on 19th July 2020
Rob spoke with Miles Graham over the phone, as he took a break from shooting his latest music video, to chat about his new EP 'All The Right Things', putting labels on music and his plans for the future. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats, 19th July 2020.
Tadhg spoke to Hugh Mulligan, a.k.a. Malaki, about his current 'Cocoon' project as well as spoken word, production, his now international fanbase and previous projects. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats on 12th July 2020.
Following the release of her stand alone single 'Cavalry', Róisín Lowry, otherwise known as Lōwli chatted to Tadhg about influences, production and her musical background. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats on 12th July 2020.
On the release of her new single 'Time Difference', Ailbhe Reddy chatted with Rob O'Connor about her forthcoming album, collaborating with others AND her love of milky tea in the studio. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats on 28th June 2020.
Rob spoke with RuthAnne (Cunningham) about the Irish Women In Harmony project which has produced a stunning version of The Cranberries' "Dreams", featuring over 40 female Irish artists. This project is in aid of SafeIreland, which assist domestic abuse victims. In the interview, RuthAnne explains how the project started, the complexities of recording 40 people remotely and her hopes for the project into the future. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats, Sunday 21st June 2020.
Rob spoke with brothers Harry and Alfie (better known as Hudson Taylor) a few days before the release of their 2nd album 'Loving Everywhere I Go.' The coversation was recorded over pizza and included toppings such as sibling harmony, touring the US with Hozier and their hopes for the future. Originally broadcast on 1st March 2020
Eve Belle spoke on the phone with Rob about her current single 'Smithereens' and upcoming Dublin show. Originally broadcast on 1st March 2020
Poacher turned gamekeeper turned poacher again. Rob spoke with Tadhg Williams (of Beat 102-103) on the eve of the launch of his debut single. A singer, a songwriter and a poet. Originally broadcast on 23rd February 2020
Rob chatted with Tony Konstone from Hare Squead about their latest EP and turning a chance encounter with a Tory politician into a tune. Originally broadcast on 16th February 2020
Cork duo Kudos were in to chat about their latest single and upcoming gigs. Originally broadcast on 9th February 2020
Interview with Sion Hill. Originally broadcast on 2nd February 2020.
Interview with Damien Dempsey about his upcoming Irish tour. Originally broadcast on 2nd February 2020.
Interview with David Keenan about the release of his debut album 'A Beginners Guide To Bravery.' Originally broadcast on 19th January 2020.
Shortly before Wallis Bird took to the stage in the Theatre Royal Waterford, she had a great chat with Rob about various aspects of her latest album and career to date. Includes insights in recording backing vocals, putting a band together, approaching sensitive subjects when songwriting and her plans for the near future. Originally broadcast on 5th January 2020
Here's the hour from Irish Beats when Rob counted down his Top Ten Irish Albums of 2019. Originally broadcast on 29th December 2019. The full list is below: 1. Fontaines DC - Dogrel 2. Lankum - The Livelong Day 3. Soak - Grim Town 4. Daithi - L.O.S.S 5. Wallis Bird - Woman 6. Mango X Mathman - Casual Work 7. whenyoung - Reasons to Dream 8. Sorcha Richardson - First Prize Bravery 9. All Tvvins - Just to Exist 10. The Man Whom - The Dancer From The Dance
Rob chatted with Hotpress supremo Stuart Clarke about their upcoming Music Industry eXplained (MIX) course, starting in early 2020. They also chatted about Irish music in the year 2019, including the rise of Fontaines DC and Stuart tips Inhaler for greatness in 2020. Originally broadcast on 15th December 2019.
Rob spoke with Sean OB about his new EP Cigarettes & Perfume and Sean performed an acoustic version of his song 'Wake Up.' Originally broadcast on 8th December 2019
Julie and Matt from esoteric sound merchants HAVVK paid a visit to the Beat studios to chat with Rob about their new album 'Cause & Effect' as well as their mutual love of And So I Watch You From Afar's music. Includes an acoustics performance of their track 'Hush' Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 1st December 2019
Ahead of their live date in Kilkenny's SET Theatre, Rob spoke with And So I Watch You From Afar's Rory Friers about the life of a touring band and being retrospective on their career to date. Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 1st December 2019
One of Wexford's most driven musicians Sean McComish dropped by the Beat studios to talk with Rob about his latest single and to discuss his plans for world domination. Originally broadcast on 24th November 2019
Rob chatted with Tramore-native Moncrieff on the eve of his EP release and just after announcing his first headline show at Dublin's Button Factory. Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 24th November 2019
Guitar-based noisemakers from the West of Ireland, Fox Jaw sat down with Rob O'Connor in the Beat studios to talk about the changing face of gigging in Ireland, the resurgence of guitar sounds and their mutual love Billie Eilish's music. Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 17th November 2019
Rising from the ashes of Little Green Cars like the proverbial phoenix, Soda Blonde have just released the first EP (Terrible Hands) in what promises to be a long and exciting career. All four members (Faye O'Rourke, Adam O’Regan, Donagh Seaver O’Leary and Dylan Lynch) were in the Beat studio to have a chat with Rob and perform an acoustic version of their track 'Perfume.' Originally broadcast on Beat 102-103 on 10th November 2019
The Wha are a post-punk new wave whateveryouwannacallit band from Kilkenny. They're pretty awesome and 2 4th of the group (Sam Cullen and Finn Cusack) found the time to talk with Rob about life, the universe and everything. Includes an acoustic version of a new song 'Blue For You.' 20191103
A native of Wexford, but resident of Barcelona, Davy Lyons channels deeps lyrical meaning in his songs. During a trip home to perform some shows, he dropped into the Beat studios to chat with Rob about his musical journey. Originally broadcast on 27th October 2019
Wexford singer/songwriter Niall Cash had a chat with Rob about his new single 'When We're Home' and revealed he's about to make a shift Stateside. Includes an acoustic cover of a certain song by a B. Eilish. Originally broadcast on 6th October 2019
Dave Geraghty of Join Me In The Pines (and Bell X1) was in the Beat studios to chat about the release of his new album Melomania. The conversation took a few left turns and also includes two live performances. Originally broadcast on 29th September 2019
Growing pop sensation KEHLI took some time out of her manic schedule to venture down to the south east to visit Tadhg and have a chat about all things exciting in her life at the moment. She also played us an acoustic version of her latest release 'Believe It'. Originally broadcast on Irish Beats on the 20th October 2019
Despite playing a festival in Longford the night before, Paul Savage of O Emperor managed to find time to drop in Irish Beats to chat about their new album Vitreous, how the band built and then nearly destroyed their own studio and he dishes dirt on their dummer's fashion sense. Paul also performed an acoustic version of 'This Is It' from the album.
Wexford songsmith and string-noodler Joey Ryan popped into Irish Beats as he gears up for his new album release 'Morning Will Come Soon.' Joey financed the recording of the album through a FundIt campaign, which we promoted on Irish Beats, so it's great to hear the fruits of the effort. The podcast includes a haunting version of Springsteen's "I'm On Fire" accompanied by Clodagh Kearney.
Mark White and Alan Aylward from electronic rock/dance outfit King Kong Company finally made it into the Beat studios to discuss their project to release one new track and music video a month for a calendar year. The show co-incided with the final entry in the series, with Irish Beats having the world premier of their last track 'Eamonn de Valero.' The King Kong Company lads, being sound and decent people, also have allowed us to included no less than THREE full tracks in the podcast. If you like what you hear, head over to soundcloud.com/kingkongcompany and download them for yourself. Oh yes, and they did the interview naked. Sure why not? It's radio after all!