Nonetheless, they bounced on stage with the kind of resolve that wins wars. Their set was a sprawling affair that spanned their four albums to date. They performed with admirable levels of humour and conviction, and also delighted the crowd with their references to the beauty of Sligo.
They kicked off with ‘Provider’, which is built around an infectious rhythm, and also boasts sweeping strings and impressive harmonies. From there, it got even better. The powerful ‘Antiphon’ followed, the wall of sound from the band matched by audience harmonies – most of them on target!
Their pastoral side was showcased with a beautiful version of ‘The Courage Of Others’. Opening with acoustic picking, it featured a flute melody reminiscent of Jethro Tull. A stunning reading of ‘Roscoe’ followed, the harmonies redolent of The Beach Boys. Such was the enthusiasm of the audience, the band eventually performed three encores. Sligo Live witnessed a group at the peak of their powers, delicately balancing folk, psychedelia and rock to mesmerising effect. A total triumph.
The following night, in Calry Parish Church, it was the turn of LAPD to set out their stall, in one of the loveliest venues around. They have been steadily picking up plaudits – well deserved, too, when you take into account such top drawer performances as their Electric Picnic appearance last year. Opening with a set of jigs, they performed at a breakneck tempo that never flagged through their 90-minute set. Andy Irvine was in exceptional form: his gorgeous version of ‘Indiana’ was especially moving.
Additionally, the instrumental sets were absolutely superb. ‘The Humours Of Carrigaholt’, preceded by a very funny intro from Liam, featured stellar interplay between pipes, fiddle, bouzouki and mandocello. Quite simply, it was electrifying. There were many marvellous moments throughout the evening, underscoring the genius not only of the participants, but the strength of the music itself. No problem with a return booking, I’d say!