The McGoldrick Family
Families continue to be an important route by which Irish and other traditional music gets passed on. This is just as true for the diaspora as it is in Ireland, and the McGoldrick family in Manchester exemplify the transmission of musical heritage and talent from generation to generation. ‘One For The Road’ captures four family members bridging the gap between the past and the present. Led by Michael on uilleann pipes/flute, the band also comprises his nieces, Catherine on wooden flute, Ciara on concertina/vocals, and Mairead on whistle/bodhrán, accompanied on guitar by Jimmy Patrick from Barrow-in-Furness.
Brendan, Michael's father, is a skilful tin whistle player from Co.Galway and his mother Teresa, an ardent ballad singer from Co.Mayo. Michaelʼs older siblings all learned whistle, and he followed in their footsteps after starting on bodhrán. Influenced by the likes of Matt Molloy and Seamus Tansey, Michael graduated to flute, and later uilleann pipes, going on to be one of the most prominent traditional musicians of his generation, playing with many major acts including Flook, Lúnasa, Capercaillie, Sharon Shannon, Mark Knopfler, the Transatlantic Sessions, Usherʼs Island and in a trio with John McCusker and John Doyle. Michaelʼs playing and compositions, embracing a wide range of musical influences, but always strongly based in traditional music, have inspired younger musicians, especially in Manchester, and he unfailingly makes time to encourage and mentor the next generation.
Michael's three nieces are accomplished musicians in their own right. Sisters, Catherine and Ciara, developed their skills studying Traditional Music at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, exploring the thriving traditional music scene in Glasgow. Their considerable ability and dedication shine through in every note they play. Ciara, taking after her grandmother, also showcases her vocal talents on the album. Her heartfelt and emotive singing bring a distinctive depth and authenticity to the songs. Mairead, brings her own exceptional talent as All-Ireland Fleadh whistle champion and third place bodhrán medallist to the mix. Her rhythmic agility provides the backbone of the band’s infectious grooves.
Having each inherited, sustained, and built on Brendan and Teresaʼs love of the music, Michael, Catherine, Ciara and Mairead have come together playing live gigs and making this recording, which represents a legacy of the familyʼs shared instrumental and vocal prowess. Together, they have created a collection of tunes and songs that is both deeply rooted in tradition and infused with contemporary flair. Their seamless blend of instruments and heartfelt performances transport the listener to Ireland, Scotland and Brittany, evoking a sense of place and exuberance. From foot-stomping jigs and reels, to hauntingly beautiful ballads, each track is a testament to the family's passion for their craft and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional music.
The Jolly Angler depicted on the front cover was, until its permanent closure in the pandemic, one of Manchesterʼs best loved Irish traditional music session pubs, perhaps most renowned for its late night, occasionally all night, sessions. ‘One For The Roadʼ is Brendanʼs favourite saying at late night sessions watching his son and granddaughters grow up playing with others, and whether referring to another tune, another pint, or most likely both, itʼs a fitting title for the McGoldrick Familyʼs debut album.
Written by Dave McNally