A treasure worth digging up
What would you do if somebody suggested to review of a gig that took place 30 years ago? The first thought might be: what’s the point? Too late now. Well, there are special cases where certain gigs deserve to be mentioned and written about even after all this time. That’s exactly the case of a gig that took place in November 1989 in Dublin at a venue called Beal Bocht. Sadly, the venue closed soon after and was demolished in the early 1990s. Interference don’t need a long introduction. Legendary band centered around singer, songwriter, painter and all around inspirational human being Fergus O’Farrell.
This gig presented the band in a fashion which might be surprising to some who discovered their music a bit later. Seeing Fergus play the electric guitar is something you will never forget. And of course, the voice. As good as ever. You can instantly feel this is when he’s in the zone. And probably feels the most alive.
Colm McCaughey’s fiddle takes center stage alongside Fergus’ voice and creates that remarkable sound the band is renowned for. Those familiar with the line-up changes might also be surprised to see Kevin Murphy playing the bass as some might know him for playing the cello later on. .
As Fergus stares into the camera a few times throughout the night it's that kind of stare that sees right through you and you only wonder what is going through his mind at that moment.
There so many gems in the setlist. Songs like Rain Song (the line "I've got to sleep to get up in the morning" will creep into your head), Everyman, Star hunters (a gentle yet powerful ballad where the fiddle adds extra dose of emotions) or Lady Song which, according to the band, takes you right back to 1969. Maurice Culligan on keys puts a remarkable touch to the song (and quite a handful of youth energy you could say). A tune impossible not to dance to. Good old rock'n'roll.
There are also the classics that survived the test of time and are being played at gigs to this day – Breaking Out, I am your man, Down so long blues.
Three decades may have passed but the band keeps going from strength to strength.