Ye Vagabonds - The Bothy Lads (single)
Carlow brothers Diarmuid and Brían Mac Gloinn already made their mark on the Irish music scene with their debut EP Rose & Briar in 2015. Their ability to combine Irish and English folk influences is just extraordinary. They started out busking on the streets of Carlow before going on to host a Monday night folk session in Walsh’s pub, Stoneybatter. It was through this that the brothers caught the eye of the filmmaker Myles O’Reilly whose videos of them led to an upsurge in recognition, having drawn the attention of Glen Hansard who invited them on his European tour. The brothers are now based in Dublin. They released two albums and one EP to date. Recently they shared two new tracks I'm a rover and The Bothy Lads on limited 7-inch vinyl. The Bothy Lads has now been released on all digital platforms.
The Bothy Lads is a song the brothers learned and honed at singing sessions before becoming a highlight of their live shows. Their version of the song was recorded Hellfire Studio, Dublin, by Lankum producer John "Spud" Murphy, in March 2020.
The bouzouki gives the track mediveval feel and the melody is urguing the listener to dance along. How fitting for a medieval royal ball. The two vocals compliment each other, creating the remarkable sound the duo is known for. Their love for these songs comes across very well. They respect the tradition and with all the craft in their veins they make it their own.
"Well it's hush-a-ba for I'm yer ma
The lord knows where's your daddy
But I'll take care and I'll be aware
O' the young lads in the gloamin' "
Cover photo: Alain McFadden
Design: Black Rogue Design