Alltacht Album Launch

The Roundy, Castle St.

Fri 24th Jul, 8:00 pm

Alltacht is an Irish traditional music band consisting of current and former

students of the Irish World Academy: Jamie Troy (bodhrán), Sarah Fox

(fiddle), Ciarán O’Connell (button accordion), and Liam Broderick (guitar and

vocals). Formed in October 2024, the band made an immediate impact,

winning the prestigious and highly sought-after Molloy Award at Birmingham

Trad Fest on their very first appearance as a band. Since then, they have

performed at festivals and venues across Ireland, including the Blás Summer

School, Forest Fest, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, and Dolans.

The name Alltacht is an Irish word that translates as “wildness,” “amazement,”

and “astonishment” — qualities that are reflected in their music. Blending

traditional and contemporary influences, the group combines songs and tunes

with modern styles of accompaniment and arrangement. Drawing inspiration

from their local musical traditions while incorporating contemporary

compositions, Alltacht has developed a diverse repertoire and a distinctive

sound shaped by both rhythmic and harmonic influences from past tutors and

mentors. Their arrangements place a strong emphasis on both

accompaniment and melody, capturing the energy and drive of the youthful

band.

The band is delighted to release its debut album and proud of the journey they

have shared since forming. As the music reflects both their identity and

development as a group, they chose to self-title the album ALLTACHT.

“There are clear reference points on the recording to past and present

masters – hints of Altan, Séamus Begley and groups such as Pólca 4 and The

Olllam – showing that the band has built their creative practice on solid

foundations and a healthy respect for the various elements of the tradition” Dr

Conor Caldwell, Course Director, MA in Irish Traditional Music Performance in

the Irish World Academy, UL.

“Each member of the group steps up to take the lead at various points,

demonstrating both individual talent and wealth of instrumentation played by

the group. When you then realise that this is a new, young and exciting group

and this is their first foray into recording, the future looks very bright for

Alltacht”. Deirdre Scanlan, Traditional singer, tutor in the Irish World Academy,

UL and lead singer with Solas (1999-2007)