The Wood of O supported by Karen Coss, Ruth Lydon and Shane Sweeney

The Wood of O are a Tipperary-based folk trio, built around the songwriting of Will McLellan & Breege Phelan; a pairing that’s been quietly winning over audiences across Ireland since 2020. Their sound is hard to pin down, in the best way; acoustic finger-style guitar, influenced by 60's and 70’s folk, anchored by outstanding vocal harmonies, weaving stories of myth and magic. Their sound takes inspiration from their eclectic tastes, citing influences from 60s folk bands 'Trees', 'Pentangle', and Bert Jansch, 'Steeleye Span', rock icons 'Led Zeppelin', modern icons 'Radiohead', to vocalists like Kate Bush, Anne Briggs and Joni Mitchell. Their music also has deep roots in Irish cultural identity: their 6 track EP was written and recorded at home during lockdown and encapsulates this duo’s diverse storytelling ability, with songs inspired by the pirate queen of Irish history, Gráinne Ní Mháille, the abolitionist Harriet Tubman, the Leannán-Sí of Irish mythology, the political Aisling style poems of the 17th and 18th century and of course, the obligatory nod to heartbreak and revenge. “These songs were born over the space of four years and the theme of the EP comes from stories that reflect our interest in human history and Irish mythology & folklore”.

This EP has a distinctly folk sound, opening with the sounds of Gráinne Mhaol’s masts creaking in the wind as she sailed along the Mayo coastline and closing with a rendition of the ancient Irish song ‘Ūrchnoc Chéin Mhic Cáinte’ written by Peadar Ó Doirnín in the mid 1700s, which blends into the atmospheric outro; an original instrumental piece called ‘Macalla’.Their appearances at The Galway Folk Festival and Clonmel World Music Series this summer has gained them a new following as they play their way around Ireland, winning hearts with their unique sound.Their debut EP 'MountainSkyMoon' is available now.

Support by Karen Coss & friends

Ruth Lydon, harpist from Kilkenny, Karen Coss, singer-songwriter from Galway, and Shane Sweeney, singer-songwriter from Kildare, come together for their first performance as a trio.

Blending Celtic roots with experiences gathered from Ireland and beyond Ireland’s shores, their music is a meeting of stories, journeys and influences, both intimate and atmospheric.

Featuring mainly original songs, Ruth’s evocative harp sits alongside Karen and Shane’s distinctive voices and songwriting, creating a sound that is deeply connected to Ireland.

An introduction to this trio's original songs, Celtic influences and stories shaped by three very different journeys.

Description supplied by the event organiser.