Muriel O’Connor is not resting on her laurels after the major success of her last single, Whatever You Say Say Nothing, a song composed by the Sands family from Co Down. This week sees Muriel back with a brand new release, Waltzing An Angel Tonight.

The song was written by the Irish songwriter Matt Manning, who now lives in California. It was previously released by Matt and was also a major hit for Derry man Kieran McGilligan some years ago.

Muriel’s version was produced by Fran Curry in Tipperary with harmonies supplied by Danny Sheerin, who is one the most sought after harmony singers in Ireland. The single also features the guitar and mandolin playing of Dave Keary, currently of the Van Morrison band.

Muriel has achieved much in her career to date with three previous albums and is currently working on a new album. The Limerick lady has toured all over the world, including tours with Brendan Grace, with whom she recorded a duet.

Muriel performs live with session keyboard player Fran Curry, who spent many years with legendary folk group The Bards. He has produced recordings for Louise Morrissey, Trudi Lalor, John Hogan, Dave Lawlor and many more. Fran has also featured on recordings with Mick Hanly, Philip Donnelly, Chris Rea, Donal Lunny and many more of our top artists.

“There is a great response to the new song already and it has wonderful lyrics that so many can relate to,” enthuses Muriel.

“A good song is like a jewel and I think this one will be around for many years to come.”

Matt is guest of Sheerin Band in Ballymahon

The Sheerin family continue with their regular once-a-month gig in Cooney’s Hotel, Ballymahon, on next Tuesday night, 2 September. The gig has built up a great following over the last three years with aficionados looking forward to the shows from one month to the next. The very talented Sheerin family feature a different guest each month and this time Matt Leavy from Athboy will join them for the sessions. Matt has shared the stage with such entertainers as Jonny Cash, George Jones, Ricky Skaggs and Buck Owens. It starts at 10pm. Admission is free.

Big night in Cahir

The annual dance in support of Crumlin Children’s Hospital will take place in Cahir House Hotel on Tuesday night, 2 September. An array of artists from the showbiz scene will feature on the show, which starts at 8pm.

The bill includes Philomena Begley, Louise Morrissey, Crystal Swing, Davitts Country Band, John McNicholl, Michael English, Des Willoughby, Johnny Brady, Vicky Kenny, Lisa McHugh, Patrick Feeney, TR Dallas, Damien Bowe, Trevor Loughrey, Paul Kelly, Aidan Quinn, Carmel McLoughlin, Grainne Gavigan, Nicky Kealy, Richie Hayes, Gerald Ahern, Larissa Garrigan, Morrissey and Daniels, Simon and Amy Donegan, Celtic Blonde Dancers and the Ryan Turner Band. The compere is Norman Morrissey.

Admission is €20 and tickets and further details can be had from Cahir House Hotel on 052-7444000.

Cork country nights

A new series of country dances get under way in Cullen Community Centre in Co Cork this Saturday night 30 August. The show will feature The Garth Brooks Experience and Mossie’s Country Roadshow. Dancing is from 9pm to midnight.

On Saturday 13 September, Willie Fitzgerald is organising a special night in the Cullen Centre in support of the Bring Jamey Home Fund. Jamey is a nephew of country singer Louise Morrissey who took seriously ill with major health problems while on a recent visit to Thailand.