Madam, - I read, with a feeling of disappointment, your recent article in The Ticket (December 10th) belittling what I consider the renaissance of Irish music.
It all just seemed a little mean-spirited, lamenting the emergence of the singer songwriter, in a world that has become increasingly global and manufactured.
May I suggest that the recent resurgence is based on the following.
In a world where everyone lies, acts and pretends, from national leaders to most pop musicians, there is an emotional honesty in a great singer-songwriter, which reminds us of what life is really about.
Secondly, many of the artists mentioned in the article, such as the Frames, Paddy Casey and Damien Rice, have a powerful presence on stage, a great ability to entertain and engage with their audiences as well as write and record songs/music.
Thirdly, other musicians may be technically brilliant, but often lack soul.
Many of the most powerful songs are very simple in melody, with beautiful sincere and touching lyrics. This is what I love most about a great singer-songwriter. I don't believe these musicians set out to write "safe" music as the article describes.
If so, why has it taken years of persistence and determination, protecting the integrity of their music against the backdrop of the ruthless business of selling records?
Finally, I would suggest, it is much more difficult to write a good song than write about it. And I wonder, would the great songwriters and performers of our time agree that it is even harder, to truly listen? - Yours, etc.,
FINOLA REILLY, Newport, Co Mayo.