Clear Cool Crystal Streams: How Irish Rock Music Found Its Roots + Special Discussion

Background to Clear Cool Crystal Streams

Director Peter Lydon shares his insight into the making of the film:

Joe Strummer with Peter Lydon and the crew

“I was approached by Bob Geldof and Planet Pictures to create a documentary exploring the connection between Ireland’s rock music explosion and its poetic and folk traditions. Bob’s idea was to embark on this journey, and thanks to his influence, I had access to Irish rock royalty—including the elusive Van Morrison, who rarely spoke on film. With Bob in the interviewer’s chair, he couldn’t refuse! The result was a fascinating conversation between two icons, each representing different aspects of Irish culture at the time.

Shane MacGowan with Peter Lydon

The rest of the stellar cast were deeply engaged with the film’s themes, happy to explore how their music drew from Ireland’s rich cultural past. On a personal level, this project reconnected me with my own Irish heritage, as a London-born child of Irish parents. Decades later, Brexit finally pushed me to get my Irish passport! It makes me wonder—if we spoke to a new generation of Irish bands, like The Fontaines, how would they interpret these connections in the 21st century?”

About the Director: Peter Lydon

Peter Lydon began his career directing documentaries for ITV’s South Bank Show and BBC Arena. His three-part biography of Peter Sellers was both BAFTA and RTS nominated. Transitioning into TV drama, he directed acclaimed series such as Shameless, Secret Diary of a Call Girl, Teachers, and Poirot. Now a sought-after commercial director, he has worked with major brands including Sky, Carlsberg, Qatar, Samsung, and Mercedes. Known for his sharp comedic storytelling, he has collaborated with A-list talent such as Mads Mikkelsen, Benedict Cumberbatch, Al Pacino, Joanna Lumley, and Scarlett Johansson. (Peter is also a prolific cartoonist—but that’s another story!)