ICC Christmas Hooley with the London Lasses + the ICC Sessionists

This concert sees internationally-renowned traditional Irish band ‘The London Lasses’ continuing the celebrations of the release of their 25th anniversary album ‘LL25’ (their sixth album to date).

LL25 features all new material and includes both past and present band members, the recording celebrates the band’s musical journey over the past quarter-century and showcases the powerfully traditional signature sound which they’ve become known for.

The album spans four centuries of Irish music, from ‘Planxty Thomas Burke’ penned by the harper-composer Carolan (1670-1738) to newly composed tunes by concertina player Edel Fox, flute player Tommy Fitzharris and harper Michael Rooney. Captivatingly sung by vocalist Bróna McVittie, the album’s four songs include the beautiful ‘Bánchnoic Éireann Ó (The Fair Hills of Ireland)’, a song in praise of Ireland dating from the 1700s.

LL25 is also a celebration of both the close-knit group of musicians who have been part of the Lasses’ story so far, and the long history of traditional Irish music in London, a rich cultural heritage which they are extremely proud to be part of. As band leader Karen Ryan, Director of the annual Return to London Town Festival and one of the leading lights of traditional Irish music in London, says: “This album is one that’s very close to my heart. It brings together 16 wonderful musicians and brings back a lifetime’s worth of musical memories and friendships.”

Since first getting together for an informal tour of the US in 1997, The London Lasses have performed at some of the biggest festivals and venues in the world including the Royal Albert Hall in London, where they played the first ever BBC Proms céilí, Cambridge Folk Festival, Dublin City Hall, the Concertgebouw, Philadelphia Irish Festival and Glastonbury. Extensive media appearances has also seen them featured on BBC’s ‘Eastenders’ and most recently in an extensive interview on RTÉ Radio 1’s ‘Rolling Wave’. From mellifluous vocals to lively instrumentals, The London Lasses invite you to join them on this special musical journey and experience the beauty and richness of traditional Irish music.
Ireland launch

“There is great life and energy in the music from start to finish and it’s wonderful to see past members joining the current group for this celebratory recording.” Neansaí Ní Choisdealbha, Head of Music, RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta

“A brilliant bit of music. If you love traditional music with strong vision, give this one a close listen – it’ll be time very well spent.” Daniel Neely, The Irish Echo

“An exciting new album and a valued addition to London’s long history of Irish music.” Alex Monaghan, Irish Music Magazine

‘Fortunately this precious heritage is in safe hands with the likes of the London Lasses playing the music in formidable fashion, promoting it widely, and handing it on to the next generation’ Mal Rogers, The Irish Post

‘A thrilling hour of Irish music from the 18th century up to the present day’ Folk London

The London Lasses, LL25 CICD210 (LoLa Records in association with Cló Iar-Chonnacht) CD and digital album available now at www.londonlasses.net