An 18th Century song referring to the displacement of native Irish farmers from their traditional lands during the reign of Oliver Cromwell. Although some might think of the song as being from Galway or Donegal, it is deemed to be from Cavan in Sam Henry’s songs of the people and by traditional song collector, John Moulden.
Cathy Jordan – Vocals, Accordion
Lisa O’Neill – Vocals, Shrutti Box
Peter Crann – Artwork
The Crankie Island Song Project
The “Crankie Island” Song Project Album is a celebration of Ireland’s musical heritage, spearheaded by acclaimed singer Cathy Jordan. This ambitious project breathes new life into traditional Irish songs from every county on the island, preserving a vibrant tapestry of stories, emotions, and folklore. Cathy, the voice behind “Dervish”, has meticulously gathered these treasures to ensure their timeless legacy endures.
During the pandemic, Cathy embarked on a journey to archive songs from her native Roscommon, before expanding her mission to all 32 counties. She teamed up with artist Peter Crann to bring these songs alive using the Crankie box—an enchanting 19th-century storytelling device featuring hand-cranked illustrated scrolls that unfold as the songs play. This mesmerizing blend of music and visuals creates an immersive storytelling experience, transporting audiences into Ireland’s rich cultural past.
With Arts Council support, Cathy recorded 32 songs, working with over 70 musicians, artists, and sound technicians from all across Ireland. It includes collaborations with Lisa O’Neill, Donal Clancy, Andrew Hendy (of The Mary Wallopers), and the band Réalta among many others. Each song is paired with a stunning, custom-made “Crankie box” illustration crafted by Irish artists, offering a unique visual interpretation that enriches the audio experience.