Music
20 Aug 26

Claddagh Records announces spoken-word album from Manchán Magan

Manchán Magan

Manchán Magan was an acclaimed Irish writer, documentary maker, and broadcaster celebrated for his advocacy for the Irish language, native folklore, and the natural landscape.

Claddagh Records have announced a spoken-word album from Manchán Magan to be released on October 5.

Slí na Samhaíochta (The Way of Imagination), a new album from the late writer and broadcaster, features musical composition by musician Myles O'Reilly under the direction of Simon O'Reilly.

In 2023, O'Reilly met Magan while working at the Hedge School Festival in Doolin. The three collaborated to create the live score for a spoken-word piece that Magan performed as the festival's closing act, based on the concept of Tír na nÓg, 'Otherworld' or 'An Saol Eile.'

In the months following Magan's passing in October 2025, Simon revisited the show's recording.

The album was then recorded at the National Concert Hall with the addition of Crash Ensemble, vocalist Branwen Kavanagh and harpist Méabh McKenna. The album brought O'Reilly back to Doolin, with the addition of violinist Ultan O'Brien and double bassist Neil O'Loughlin.

In celebration of the release, the National Concert Hall is presenting a live performance of the album on October 5.

The performance includes Irish artists such as Lisa O'Neill, Liam Ó Maonlaí, Crash Ensemble, Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Méabh McKenna, Myles O'Reilly, Branwen Kavanagh, Neil Ó Lochlainn and Ultan O’Brien.