Irish Tour

[Stephen]

The Irish Tour dates are here.

Steve.




MAY
27 Thurs
LETTERKENNY - An Grianan Theatre

28 Fri
OMAGH - Strule Arts Centre

29 Sat
GALWAY - Black Box Theatre

30 Sun
KILKENNY - Set Theatre


JUNE
1 Tues
NEWBRIDGE - Riverbank Theatre

2 Weds
ENNIS - Glor Theatre

3 Thurs
WATERFORD - Theatre Royal

4 Fri
LIMERICK - Dolans

5 Sat
CORK - School of Music

6 Sun
SLIGO - Model Theatre

8 Tues
LONGFORD - Backstage

9 Weds
BELFAST - Waterfront Studio

11 Fri
DUBLIN - Tripod

[loopylolly]

Excited :D:D:D

[medusa]

No Derry, Boo!!

Will make it to letterkenny and maybe one other, cant wait.

[Mrfizzy]

Excited :D:D:D

Man - he's back in action!

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/Picture2.png

[IrishGreenSheep]

Oh should be a good one :) By the way, Mrfizzy how did you plot the places on Google maps? Have been trying for ages to do something similar but to no effect?!?!

[loopylolly]

No Derry, Boo!!

Will make it to letterkenny and maybe one other, cant wait.

Thought there might have been a gig in Derry. Would have been close for me. Will just have to go to omagh instead :D

[runnerbean]

A lot of Counties being visited!! Again, hope to get to a couple during June.

[Mrfizzy]

Oh should be a good one :) By the way, Mrfizzy how did you plot the places on Google maps? Have been trying for ages to do something similar but to no effect?!?!

I started with the wee movie below IrishGreenSheep.

This is the link to my map but I still have to cross-check against ticket links when we have them to make sure I have the venues accurate.

http://tinyurl.com/DukeIreland2010

TftFnot5uXw

[MandyK]

Oh good Lordy...I forsee yet another Ireland trip in the works. Perhaps for my love's June birthday prezzie?

[Stephen]

Ticket details are now live.

[rattle]

Ticket details are now live.

Great! Row A in the Waterfront booked :cool:

[Mrfizzy]

Great! Row A in the Waterfront booked :cool:

Even better - no need to queue ages before the show in the cold rattle - we saw in Belfast that you are a keen fan!

[rattle]

Even better - no need to queue ages before the show in the cold rattle - we saw in Belfast that you are a keen fan!

I'm too old to admit to being keen, I just hide behind Michelle's enthusiasm and blame her for it all :D

[Mrfizzy]

I'm too old to admit to being keen, I just hide behind Michelle's enthusiasm and blame her for it all :D

If you are "too old to admit to being keen" there's no hope for me...

On the other hand I'm too old to be bovvered!

[loopylolly]

Are the tickets for the gig in Letterkenny on sale yet? Searched wegot tickets but nothing came up for it.

[old git]

Was in the Backstage theatre in Longford this morning. Managed to get the first Duke Special tickets to go on sale, so the OGs have secured the "Guildford Ghost seats" ( centre of front row) :D

[jaycee]

where can i get tickets for the cork gig? oh and its a bank holiday weekend - will be SAVAGE!!!!!

[Stephen]

http://www.dukespecial.com/tour/details/cork_-_school_of_music/

http://www.cyprusavenue.ie (http://www.cyprusavenue.ie/)

[Fizzy]

Just found a link here
http://www.ticketmaster.ie/event/18004470D4894C8D?majorcatid=10001&artistid=943271&minorcatid=60
:)

[Fizzy]

Tickets on sale for Ennis June 2nd now :D

[Mrfizzy]

Tickets not on sale on the Waterford website just yet (am Fri 26th Mar)
http://www.theatreroyal.ie/events/duke_special

But you can order direct from the box office +353 51574402 :)

[malteaser]

Anyone going to the Dublin gig?
Am finding the seating plan a bit confusing :(

[rattle]

Great! Row A in the Waterfront booked :cool:

Better still, just checked the seating plan and our tickets are for the three middle seats in said front row!!!! :cool:

Also, Mrs. Rattle will be attending her first Duke concert that night.

[atkygal]

Very exciting rattle, frony seats sound gd. Have planned a little get away and am now coming to the Killkenny and newbridge gigs - hurrah. Will just leave hubbie at home with kids!

[Mrfizzy]

Very exciting rattle, frony seats sound gd. Have planned a little get away and am now coming to the Killkenny and newbridge gigs - hurrah. Will just leave hubbie at home with kids!

Only one week to go for lucky Irish fans to see this fab show starting in Letterkenny. Duke and the band are in top form and went down a storm at the UK gigs that we went to. Looking forward to the first reports from "the mainland" as Duke puts it.

As atkygal says, a few of us can't bear to miss all of these great shows in wonderful Irish locations and are joining friends in Dublin and Ennis to see various gigs starting from Kilkenny. Expect to see a few Hector moustaches around! :o:o:o:o:o:o:o

[Niamhy1]

Roll on the Dublin gig i say! It's been way too long and by the sounds of things it looks like we are in for a grrrreat one!

[rattle]

As atkygal says, a few of us can't bear to miss all of these great shows in wonderful Irish locations and are joining friends in Dublin and Ennis to see various gigs starting from Kilkenny. Expect to see a few Hector moustaches around! :o:o:o:o:o:o:o

Any boardies planning on coming to the mainland for one of the Belfast gigs?

[FTFairy]

what was the set-list like for the English tour?

[loopylolly]

Cant wait for Thursday :D

[rajkid]

@FTFairy
Hector Mann
Interval
Mother Courage
Encore

[Mrfizzy]

Any boardies planning on coming to the mainland for one of the Belfast gigs?

I can't make it :( but a few others (and Fizzy!) from this side of the water are coming to the Belfast gigs :o

@loopylolly - A treat indeed in store for Thursday!
I'm sure I'm not the only one looking forward to hearing your opinion and any others from the Irish Tour gigs :)

[atkygal]

Hurrah, another trip heading my way. Somehow have to fit 5 days worth of clothes into Ryan air size hand luggage. Do they not know how many shoes I need. Can't wait to see Duke and the guys in Kilkenny and Newbridge. Loved kilkenny last time I was there. Also managed to gently persuade hubbie to let me come to dublin!! He's so good.

Hope to meet some lovely folks there and see some fab music of course. So far have loved the tour and had a diff fav song each gig. Be interesting to see if I get some more!!

[pinksacha]

Sally - you'll be fine with just a couple of pairs. I am not coming so the shoe war will have to wait til June:redface:

[atkygal]

That is very true. Phew can stick with sandals and trainers - slumming it!!!

[old git]

Anyone else coming to Longford ??

[old git]

I notice that the Galway date has been changed from 30th may to 7th june which should be the Sligo gig. Is this going to have a knock on effect for other gigs?

[Mrfizzy]

I notice that the Galway date has been changed from 30th may to 7th june which should be the Sligo gig. Is this going to have a knock on effect for other gigs?

It's not quite so bad OG. There was no gig date for the 7th June, Sligo is on the 6th June not the 7th and Galway was 29th May! - I looked at the dates earlier today on the main page while the tour calender was in the process of being updated and also got confused. I checked the venue websites to confirm.

I have updated the google map that I made earlier here
http://tinyurl.com/DukeIreland2010 :o

Sun 29th May was the original Galway date at the black box, this is now postponed to Mon 7th June in Galway at Róisín Dubh, Dominick Street (http://www.roisindubh.net/)


http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/Galwaychange.jpg

[pianofan]

Have an AMAAAAZING Irish-leg-of-the-tour !! I am very envious of course but will sit patiently awaiting the reports and reviews :o

[Delly]

Have an AMAAAAZING Irish-leg-of-the-tour !! I am very envious of course but will sit patiently awaiting the reports and reviews :o

Ditto!
:o

[old git]

didn't anyone go to Letterkenny last night ? :confused:

[elvisleslie61]

:o pleased to say i am now going to newbridge and ennis with my daughter rosie. I also found out that a friend and work collegue Cathy is holidaying in ennis next week so i am bringing her too!

[tmcgartland]

Was really nice to see DS in my hometown tonight, Omagh Arts Centre. Thanks for coming Peter!! I enjoyed the show despite the fact that there was little from Dukes early era - apart from Diggin which brought the night to life.

the Arts Centre was packed to capacity and many friends who were there for the first time were really impressed. I have to admit I was a little disappointed that I didn't get the early DS. There were moments when he played solo at the piano and these were the highlights for me.

I was glad to see a very receptive audience and Duke really did enjoy himself.

[runnerbean]

^^^

What a coup tmcg to see DS in your home town. My town wouldn't know what hit it!

If you haven't seen him for a while or kept up with Mother Courage, Hector Mann and Huck, I'm sure you found it different.

To be honest, I find it stranger now listening to early stuff, still love it though. :) Maybe if you could fit in a couple more gigs on the Irish Tour you will be more impressed. Alice and myself saw the show in Belfast at the beginning and then
Edinburgh/Glasgow, it just grows and grows on you. I can't wait until the next one.

The whole band is so tight and it shows. True professionals!!!

[rattle]

didn't anyone go to Letterkenny last night ? :confused:

http://photosworldwide.wordpress.com/2010/05/28/the-duke-again-an-grianan-letterkenny-this-time/

[Mrfizzy]

http://photosworldwide.wordpress.com/2010/05/28/the-duke-again-an-grianan-letterkenny-this-time/

Thanks for the link rattle - lovely review :)

Agree completely with runnerbean and love the new album projects although we regularly listen to our "earlier Duke" music and love it.

That's not why we follow Duke though. There are many talented singers and bands around.

We follow his work with a passion precisely because his phenomenal creative talent drives him to explore new music constantly whether it's a reworking of his existing work or in a brand new area.

No doubt some fans will be disappointed that many of the songs in this tour are unfamiliar but he has also made many new fans through Hector Mann, :o Mother Courage and Huck Finn. These fans have the added delight to come of discovering his back catalogue to which he will no doubt return on a regular basis.

We love it all and can't wait to see how the new album tour goes down in Ireland

[pianofan]

Thanks for the link rattle - lovely review :)

We follow his work with a passion precisely because his phenomenal creative talent drives him to explore new music constantly whether it's a reworking of his existing work or in a brand new area.

No doubt some fans will be disappointed that many of the songs in this tour are unfamiliar but he has also made many new fans through Hector Mann, :o Mother Courage and Huck Finn. These fans have the added delight to come of discovering his back catalogue to which he will no doubt return on a regular basis.



Perfectly put! You gotta love bands without boundaries :o

[Brixton]

http://photosworldwide.wordpress.com/2010/05/28/the-duke-again-an-grianan-letterkenny-this-time/

Great review Paul! :-)

[Fizzy]

Great show at a lovely venue last night :)
All the band having a good time...

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs571.snc3/31179_1384503664498_1589213392_30923931_6263502_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs591.snc3/31179_1384504664523_1589213392_30923953_8097573_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs531.ash1/31179_1384504344515_1589213392_30923946_4695869_n. jpg


http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs591.snc3/31179_1384504264513_1589213392_30923944_3663855_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs591.snc3/31179_1384504584521_1589213392_30923951_5822344_n. jpg
Everything A OK :o:o:o

[runnerbean]

Great stuff Fizzy! Brilliant photos, thank you.

[loopylolly]

Great photos!

[IrishGreenSheep]

Great show in Kilkenny last night!

Heres some of my pics from the night

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc115/AmyMolyneaux/Duke%20Special/DSCF7394.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc115/AmyMolyneaux/Duke%20Special/DSCF7401.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc115/AmyMolyneaux/Duke%20Special/DSCF7409.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc115/AmyMolyneaux/Duke%20Special/DSCF7432.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc115/AmyMolyneaux/Duke%20Special/DSCF7443.jpg

There are more here:
http://s213.photobucket.com/albums/cc115/AmyMolyneaux/Duke%20Special/

[okcomputer4]

Great review Paul! :-)


I thank you! I'm sorry about the photos - I really need to upgrade the gear as I think mine is on it's last legs!

This stuff, for those who haven't seen the tour, is not the usual greatest hits - and thank God, because it's great to see something that isn't formulaic emerging. As I said in my wee blog, it's always a risk touring with something so different, but I daresay Duke fans KNOW they're coming to something different every time he plays a show.

I hope y'all enjoy the rest of the tour. Roll on June 10 - I am taking my eldest niece to the Duke at the Waterfront - her first gig - cos that's what uncles do.

:-)

PS There's a little known talent bubbling under called Nell Bryden. She's a fabulous, hip-swinging, jazz-playing gal from Noo Yoik, and apart from sending my heart a-flutter, y'all need to sample some of her music. Check her out - she'll be a big star someday. :-)

[Mrfizzy]

@okcomputer4 - Thanks again for a great review and supporting the new albums - as far as we are concerned the bigger the Duke Special musical portfolio the better :)

@IrishGreenSheep - Wonderful photos from the balcony in the cosy set theatre. I don't think that the band appreciated quite how many people there were in the balcony until the applause came back!

Raring to meet up with a few more fans in Newbridge today for the show tonight :o

[Delly]

Great show at a lovely venue last night :)


http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs591.snc3/31179_1384504584521_1589213392_30923951_5822344_n. jpg
Everything A OK :o:o:o

Are you absolutely sure that's what's being referred to here Fizzy? ;)
Fab pics, keep em coming for us poor souls who can't get to the mainland for the Hector Mann experience! :o:o

[alice]

Great to see the photos and reviews, thanks for posting - some friends joining RB and myself for the Belfast show and will be very interesting to see what they make of it all. I imagine they will be totally bowled over even though it is quite different to what they may be expecting from DS.

[okcomputer4]

Will anybody here be at the 10 June show? Is there a meet organised or anything like that? Just wondering.

[atkygal]

Funny enough we saw Nell Brydon last year when she supported duke. She is fab!!

[Mrfizzy]

Great audience at Newbridge last night, a few surprises and energetic performances all round from Duke and the band - very special show indeed. Duke opened the show with a brand new song, a romantic ballad recalling childhood (no title yet) that he had just written that day!

The three album sets were as good as ever and in the encore we had "Our love goes Deeper than this" and "Digging'" that the audience joined with gusto. During the first of these two Ben brought a microphone over for two especially tuneful fans. They finished with "I'm Still Standing" to yet another standing ovation.

Lovely to meet Treed and friends and Dublinram afterwards :o

Headed for Ennis today and will report more if we can get online :)

[atkygal]

Phew, arrived home after a brillliant few days in Ireland. Had an amazing few days as always when we travel.

The Kilkenny gig was in one of the most beautiful venues I have seen and the band played beautifully as always. They all seemed very jolly and apart from a slight hiccup in Country weekend, which just adds to live performances, it was perfect. The crowd were really appreciative and afterwards the guys all came out for a natter and a drink or two.

Yes I did have the coat, but contrary to popular belief I did try to give it back and was told to hang on to it til newbridge so 'duke coat' enjoyed a day around Dublin. Children Very jelous when I told them!!!

Had a great day in DUblin and then onto Newbridge. This was also a lovely - if slightly more modern venue and full up pretty much. Again a lovely performance, very interesting new piece at the beginning and great to see I'm Still Standing, esp at the end when duke poked his head round to curtain to carry on the 'fading'.

I particulary liked the new chauffeur hat!!!! I'm never disappointed when I go see duke and the band, regardless of what they play. I spend the majority of the time either, singing, laughing (and possibly drinking wine) and life doesn't get much better.

Can't wait til dublin now!!! You keep the fire burning for us Fizzies!!! And keep an eye on that coat! It has a tendency to wander

[okcomputer4]

Jaysus, there's me thinking three gigs on the one tour was doing well....!

[runnerbean]

Great to see the photos and reviews, thanks for posting - some friends joining RB and myself for the Belfast show and will be very interesting to see what they make of it all. I imagine they will be totally bowled over even though it is quite different to what they may be expecting from DS.

I think they will be suitably impressed. On every occasion, either listening to, watching or attending a Duke gig, JO has said he always feels so happy afterwards. Best medicine!

[Delly]

New chauffeur hat?!! Description/photos please!
:o

[Fizzy]

Sorry Delly I did a video so no pics of the hat yet. Will try to remedy that in Waterford :o
We were treated to an impromptu performance by Duke and some of the boys outside the Irish shop in Ennis in support of the show.They were surprised to see us! ;)

Will try to post more pics later

:o:o:o:o

[elvisleslie61]

heres portrait in Ennis from dukes impromptu gig, look out for bens solo;)

Oij8rMFqJoY

[pianofan]

Oh wow! Love it!! Thanks for posting - a few more watches and I won't be quite SO upset at not travelling to Ireland :o

[beth gaddis]

Awesome. Thanks for posting! Ben makes me giggle every time I see him doing his little dance :p

[teddy10]

Loving this!
Wish I could make it for the "mainland" tour, but sadly I need to work....
Please, just keep the the report etc. coming.

[elvisleslie61]

heres closer to the start


T6vdjNoqBmM

hearth and home

8izf2CZCBJ4

song of the hours

TxP78rHxmjQ

[Andyru]

Amazing video of Closer to the Start, I take it that was one of the encores? Is he alternating with random encores each night then? Im very excited to be seeing the Belfast show next Wednesday! Has been far too long since Ive seen a proper headline Duke hometown show as I missed Dukebox last year, think the last proper Duke gig was December 08 in St Georges! Looking forward to hearing the new songs in the live environment. Should be a great wee night.

[Fizzy]

Oh wow! Love it!! Thanks for posting - a few more watches and I won't be quite SO upset at not travelling to Ireland

(Fizzy photos but MrFizzy text)

Sorry to say I can't make you less disappointed pianofan - the Irish venues are brilliant!!!

Great to see a few vids from Elviesleslie - we're still on the road and not able to upload movies but will catch up eventually. In the meantime have to say that the Mediterranean climate of Ireland and the sunny disposition of the locals is lovely. Each venue, performance and atmosphere has been amazingly different but always entertaining and a Duke Special gig evening is of course the perfect way to end a day - Sorry for the mammoth post but have to make the most of limited internet access.

Here are a few fine Fizzy photos from Newbridge

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs590.snc3/31129_1387865988554_1589213392_30933016_4090765_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1387866188559_1589213392_30933021_2934035_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs530.ash1/31129_1387866508567_1589213392_30933028_7351421_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1387866548568_1589213392_30933029_698848_n.j pg

The Dish
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1387867748598_1589213392_30933055_2474462_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs530.ash1/31129_1387867868601_1589213392_30933057_8182516_n. jpg

Ennis was extra Special as we had a street show as well as the Glor theatre in the evening...

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs590.snc3/31129_1388007752098_1589213392_30933436_5859227_n. jpg

Video artist at work
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs530.ash1/31129_1388007792099_1589213392_30933437_1572231_n. jpg

Richie ("The Hunk" according to Fizzy, "The Master" according to Duke - you choose)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs530.ash1/31129_1388008112107_1589213392_30933443_2035434_n. jpg

Duke Diggin'
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1388008312112_1589213392_30933446_6065819_n. jpg

Just a couple of photos from the Glor
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1388010152158_1589213392_30933479_3335721_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs530.ash1/31129_1388010472166_1589213392_30933483_2462466_n. jpg

And more pics below from Waterford tonight - we were highly delighted to meet radiowhatsnew and several other Duke fans - what an enthusiastic crowd!!! Wonderful reception. It was an incredible gig though with everything you could possibly want in a live show. Hector songs to perfection (escalating violence between Ben and Duke in Tango Tangle) and beautifully sung ballads then the raw power of Mother Courage after the interval. Duke and the band have been pushing the curfew time and we had an encore starting with a preview of yet another brand new Duke song - quite stunning! This was followed by Huck Finn and audience participation faves starting with Sweet Kisses then Diggin' including a broom and cymbal battle between Duke and Richie! Our love goes deeper than this was the finale. Every gig has been absolute magic and we wouldn't have missed a one for anything but Waterford will take some beating! Even more excited to see the gigs in Limerick and Cork if that's possible.

This is the replacement chauffeur hat that we found in Dublin (next to the Gaiety theatre) to replace the one lost in Bristol for Delly's interest
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1388402961978_1589213392_30934597_7162640_n. jpg

Battle for the cymbals!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1388404802024_1589213392_30934629_7014898_n. jpg

Richie giving Duke the brush off
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs530.ash1/31129_1388404922027_1589213392_30934632_4602625_n. jpg

:o!!!!!!!!!!!!!! UNMISSABLE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:o

[pianofan]

Thank you elvisleslie, fizzy and mrfizzy - makes up a little for not joining you !! I can just feel the excitement in the photos and report (and yes 'Hunk' is right, fizzy ;)!!!)

Very grateful that you all take the time to share these moments with those of us sitting at home :o

[Fizzy]

Thank you for the vids elvisleslie but will have to wait til we get home to watch them fully as internet conection not good enough.
I know they will be fab :)

:o:o:o

[Delly]

Thank you so much Fizzies and Elvisleslie!!! :D
The vid in the street is absolutely classic, Ben is superb. If he wasn't such a good instrumentalist I'd say he's lost his way as a comedian!
I sincerely hope someone had a hat on the floor for a bit of income augmentation ;)
Closer To The Start made me cry (.....again .....yawn, boriiing!) You are so lucky to be seeing all these fabulous gigs. Especially to be hearing brand new songs as well. Where does he find the time ??!!
Can't wait to see more pics and vids.:)
Loving the new hat btw :o

[Ladytron42]

Thanks a mill for the pics of last night in Waterford, as you say a truly brilliant performance of such a gifted artist. A great night was had by all. I was able to record the new song by Duke and will attempt to put it on youtube tomorrow as Unknown new song Waterford Duke Special. Twas only recorded on my phone but at least we can hear it again.

[rajkid]

Hi Fizzy,
Is the Duke diggin' with a fishing rod? :confused: :)

[alice]

That all looks soooo good - and new songs too! Thanks for the photos/videos once again.

[Playful]

Well done elvisleslie - much appreciated!

[Fizzy]

Hi Fizzy,
Is the Duke diggin' with a fishing rod? :confused: :)

Always one for improvisation Duke borrowed a walking stick from the Irish shop :)

Another fabulous gig in Limerick with more Richie antics in the encore which included Hank Williams' I'm so Lonesome and a tiny snippet of Freewheel ;)

Our last gig in Cork tomorrow...
:o:o:o:o

[Mrfizzy]

All of the Duke entourage are multi-talented - here's Joe who you'll see on merch on the tour - operating the spotlight at the Dolan's gig - he also plays guitar etc! :o

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/JoeatDolans.jpg

[Fizzy]

I can just feel the excitement in the photos and report (and yes 'Hunk' is right, fizzy ;)!!!)


Hunk is now official the official nickname.:) Is it Hunk or Dish girls?:)

Just time for one of my fave pics of last night
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs570.snc3/31129_1389554670770_1589213392_30936971_4919363_n. jpg
:o:o:o:o

[runnerbean]

In the Duke's words "Cian is declared officially the Dish!" ;) A genius on the piano too!

[gazbo]

Amazing video of Closer to the Start.

This performance takes a bit of beating. In my opinion his best done solo at the piano.

[Delly]

All of the Duke entourage are multi-talented - here's Joe who you'll see on merch on the tour - operating the spotlight at the Dolan's gig - he also plays guitar etc! :o

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/JoeatDolans.jpg

Not to be trusted with a moustache on a tourbus though! :p

[Delly]

Another fabulous gig in Limerick with more Richie antics in the encore which included Hank Williams' I'm so Lonesome and a tiny snippet of Freewheel ;)

Our last gig in Cork tomorrow...
:o:o:o:o

I'm getting greener with envy every time I check out this forum, you lucky, lucky people :o

[thedinz]

Is anyone going to the final show of the tour in Warrenpoint?

[mrs lolly]

Slightly later than planned in posting ... but had an amazing few days in Ireland at the beginning of the week. Managed to get to the Kilkenny and Newbridge gigs with Atkygal and meet up with lots of lovely boardies and non boardies, some who very kindly offered transport and accommodation.
Having been to some of the English shows, it's brilliant to see that Duke and the boys were not tiring of the similar ... but I don't think ever ... same set list each night. And neither am I! Infact I left Ireland on Wednesday really wishing I could stay for more or make it back for the Belfast / Dublin shows next week which v annoyingly Lolly is going to instead, swapping our childcare responsibilities!
A lot has been posted about the gigs but one of the highlights for me was to hear a new song from Duke at Newbridge (really sorry I don't know if there is a name for it yet) but he came on and sang it before the band came on to join him for Hector Mann. Although I think it may still be a work in progress (in fact if I remember rightly he may have said he had written it that day!), it sounded as though he had been singing it for years. It was full of emotion and although I instantly loved it, you know it's a song that will grow the more you hear it.
Also was great to revisit Kilkenny and be able to spend some time in Dublin and Newbridge.
All I can say is the boys really are on top form. If you're able to get to a show, I strongly suggest you don't miss the opportunity ... you just won't be disappointed. From what I hear they seem to be getting better, longer and wilder(!) each night.
As always, thanks for all the pics and vids (and particularly the 'busking' leslie). V jealous of those of you who have more to come!

[elvisleslie61]

this is for you emma x

_BX3WUTr9rM

[runnerbean]

^^^^

Priceless! Fantastic!

Thank you EL61

[atkygal]

Brilliant reviews everyone. Am as green as that shop with jelousy!! I thought the shows I saw were fab but looks like they got better and better!!! Can't wait to dublin!!

[loopylolly]

Anyone going to gig in Sligo tonight? 

[jodieaitken]

Just wandered into this thread. That was perhaps a bad idea. I'm seriously jealous. They all seem to be far more in their element over on the mainland. I may ask my mum if I can move over to Northern Ireland... ;)

Glad everyone is having a great time, you lucky swines!
xx

[jaycee]

OMG Peter et al never cease to amaze me with their endless catalogue of talent.... the gig was fantastic.. was like something out of the west end..

But where was Chip?

And I have to say all the band members were v easy on the eye....

And was great to see Ben even though he is a cheeky buggar (he knows what I mean)...

[Ladytron42]

Hi there and thanks for the welcome. You are right about the new song, I know it would be wrong to put it on the web and will now not do it. I was just so excited after the Waterford gig that I wanted people to enjoy the experience as much as me.

[Mrfizzy]

We've just got back from the most amazing trip of part the Irish tour and are busy sorting out all the photos - more later. We loved every show and just got more and more excited as each evening drew nearer. It's an order of magnitude of musical ability and depth more than you could possibly expect from a "gig night". Ben, Phil, Cian and Simon are simply World class musicians and there aren't enough superlatives to describe Duke's amazing voice and performance.

It's wonderful teamwork and in addition to Duke, The Matador Ben Castle, Detective Phil Wilkinson, The Dish Cian Boyle, Undertaker Simon Little, The Hunk Richie Mills, Spotman Joe (also on merch) I thought I should add the Prince of Darkness himself, Scottish Johnnie on sound

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/017DukeCork10_06_05_ScottishJohnnie.jpg

We made a point of talking to people from the audience at the interval and after the show, many of whom were seeing Duke Special for the first time. In many cases the format was a surprise but praise and appreciation for the talent on stage was universal from our wee straw poll.

For many, the bulk of the show Hector Mann, Mother Courage and Huck Finn are all new works and merit rapt attention to appreciate the maturity and skill that only comes with many, many hours of live performance. Watching the merch stall you could see the boxed triple albums been snapped up eagerly and sold by a happy Joe. There's pathos, drama, love, ballads and comic capers a plenty in this. As an added bonus, the encore section has grown to include surprise songs, audience participation Duke favourites and hilarious high jinks!

We already have the most terrible withdrawal symptoms and would see all of the tour if we could. Neither of use can make Sligo, Galway, Lonford or Warrenpoint (*sigh*) but Fizzy will be headed for the two Belfast and the Dublin show next week that I can't make due to work commitments :(

I couldn't be more proud of Duke's achievements if I was from Belfast myself and I'd love to see the shows in his own home town especially, but I plan to wangle Dublin if I possibly can :o

@jaycee - "Where's Chip" - hold on to your hat! - word has it that Duke and Chip will be touring the 32 counties of Ireland with a slew of new Duke songs in Jan/Feb next year! - Fizzys are feeling a definite pull of an epic Irish tour coming on ...

@Ladytron42 - Lovely to have you aboard :) We get pretty excited ourselves about Duke! There are no hard and fast rules and we all want to share our excitement and experiences of Duke's music. I think that we would all respect Duke's wish if he explains that he's trying out a draft song or requests no filming. As you will have seen already there are plenty of photos and movies otherwise to share on the board and the more posts the merrier :o

Regarding the new songs, many are based on the pledge poems that Duke has written - For those lucky fans that did this, you may well have the original draft masterpiece :)

[Dawn S]

Is the Dublin gig definitely on Friday 11th? On the tour dates page on the website shows Saturday 12th. It's a bit worrying as people have flights booked for home Saturday.

[Fizzy]

Yes Dawn it's definitely the Friday 11th
:o

[rebelsoul]

i said i wasnt going!! i did, i said it lots of times but...........i just got the last 2 tickets for wednesday!! cue lots of tango tangling round my living room!!!

[xlaurax]

I can't afford it at all at the minute, but I NEED to go to the Thursday gig in Belfast! Surely I deserve a reward in the form of Duke given that I will just have sat 2 A-Levels...?!

[jaycee]

My fellow DS fans,, here is a vid from the gig in cork.. it is not great cos I missed the start of it but at least I am not singing over this one..


3XnysSjJr3I

[loopylolly]

I can't afford it at all at the minute, but I NEED to go to the Thursday gig in Belfast! Surely I deserve a reward in the form of Duke given that I will just have sat 2 A-Levels...?!

Of course you do and if last nights gig in Sligo was anything to go by, the Belfast gig will definetly be a 'reward'!

[Mrfizzy]

My fellow DS fans,, here is a vid from the gig in cork.. it is not great cos I missed the start of it but at least I am not singing over this one..

There's nothing to beat the power of the drums vibrating through you in the room jaycee but I like the way you have Duke glowing like the spirit guide he was supposed to be in the play!

@rebelsoul Great you can make it - Who knows - one day there may be a Duke Street, a plaque or even a statue in Lisburn of it's talented son :rolleyes: Say hello to lucky Fizzy who has got time off for the Belfast shows - She's traded me in for a younger man for a couple of days! :o

[Mrfizzy]

i said i wasnt going!! i did, i said it lots of times but...........i just got the last 2 tickets for wednesday!! cue lots of tango tangling round my living room!!!

We've been travelling so much that we haven't had time to sort all photos and a few videos but here is a taster of Tango Tangle from the Nottingham gig :o This song has "Ben" running all the way through it like a stick of rock.

I should add that it's been hilarious but improvised differently every time we've seen the duo in action - this is a relatively "straight" version!

0ohQ71dAiCg

[Andyru]

Im loving the Fizzy's video updates as always! Really gets me excited for the homecoming gig in Belfast on Wednesday night. Should be something really special. And considering I couldnt make it to Mother Courage it will be the first time Ive ever heard any of the songs live. Only 2 days to go! Cant wait!

[Mrfizzy]

Im loving the Fizzy's video updates as always! Really gets me excited for the homecoming gig in Belfast on Wednesday night. Should be something really special. And considering I couldnt make it to Mother Courage it will be the first time Ive ever heard any of the songs live. Only 2 days to go! Cant wait!

It's OK to get excited Andyru - get very excited - we do every single time!

I thought that I should post the setlist as a reminder of the treasure chest of wonderful stories and songs to come. Some of the lyrics are quite complex and even with Duke's crystal enunciation take a while to follow fully. How he remembers so much dialog is quite amazing. I should also add that the musicianship of the band is incredible.

Act I
Hector Mann :o

Hearth and Home (Ronnie Mintor)
Wanda, (Darling of the The Jockey Club) (Neil Hannon)
Jumping Jacks (Ed Harcourt)
Tango Tangle (Ben Castle)
Mr. Nobody (Duke Special)
Country Weekend (Paul Pilot)
Double or Nothing (Phil Wilkinson)
You'll Be Detective (Clare Muldaur Manchon)
Prop Man (Thomas Truax)
Scandal (Pete Noback)

INTERVAL

Act II
Mother Courage

Prelude
Mother Courage
Elif's Song
Yvette's Song
Song of Capitulation
Soldier's Song
Farmhouse Song
Cook's Song
Song of the Hours
Mother Courage Reprise

Encore - Variable!!! :D:D:D
Usually Catfish Song and Applejack as Huck Finn tasters
Teller's Tale (Matt Hales) is an extraordinarily beautiful hymn of a song and a personal favourite of mine and twice we've had brand new songs penned by Duke and just rehearsed that day!

These three new concept album songs are for the heart, soul and head rather legs and sing-a-long but don't worry! the evening will end lively enough with familiar Duke favourites to get the audience up on their feet!

[mrs lolly]

this is for you emma x

_BX3WUTr9rM

Thanks Leslie - this really is much appreciated. Can't believe we missed this - what a tip top treat!

[Andyru]

It will be very special indeed. Ive had the three concept albums since they were released on the online store last year so I know each song by word now, will be interesting to see how many others in the audience are familiar, but those who havent heard the new material are sure to fall in love with it and many new CDs will be bought! As someone who has seen Duke many times on hoem teritorry it will make a nice change to only hear new songs, because as brilliant as his other material is, the fanboy songs such as Freewheel get old over time. It will be good to keep things fresh before (hopefully!) Duke revisits the older material on a tour in the not too distant future!

[mrs lolly]

@rebelsoul Great you can make it - Who knows - one day there may be a Duke Street, a plaque or even a statue in Lisburn of it's talented son :rolleyes: Say hello to lucky Fizzy who has got time off for the Belfast shows - She's traded me in for a younger man for a couple of days! :o[/QUOTE]

Well Mr Fizzy, Lolly is now very much dwelling on the issue of being referred to as a 'younger man' - having to remind him he's still ancient to me!

[Mrfizzy]

@rebelsoul Great you can make it - Who knows - one day there may be a Duke Street, a plaque or even a statue in Lisburn of it's talented son :rolleyes: Say hello to lucky Fizzy who has got time off for the Belfast shows - She's traded me in for a younger man for a couple of days! :o

Well Mr Fizzy, Lolly is now very much dwelling on the issue of being referred to as a 'younger man' - having to remind him he's still ancient to me![/QUOTE]

Well of course you are just a slip of girl mrslolly but its all relative :)

@andyru I can tell from your avatar that you will be good at remembering lyrics! We did notice a few audiences were a bit stunned with so much new material at first listening. Like you, I love Duke's back catalog but true creative artist that he is, it's going to get much bigger very rapidly at his current rate of new song writing!

[Elaine]

Thank you to ALL who have posted vids and great photos. Very jealous as I can't get to the Irish gigs. Must say Duke and Ben are in fine form. Shaw theatre gig was fantastic and am already looking forward to lots more!

Great news that Chip is rejoining Duke for future gigs, though the ''hunk'' and the ''dish are more than making up for him!

Keep up the good work Fizzies as always great to read your posts.:o

[Mrfizzy]

Thanks Elaine,

I only made one movie of the Ennis street performance as Elviesleslie was doing such a fine job on his Flip camera. Although the only audience that you can see in the clip are at the end of the street, there were many more in front of the boys that I should have included in shot. We love Cian's piano but not sure his dancing skills are quite ready for public display ;)

There were six of us from the UK and our local Ennis friend Mary who has recently become hooked on Duke. There were a group of four French tourists who liked the music and bought tickets on the spot after talking to Peter and Dorothy. After the show in the evening at the Glor theatre they bought the album box set and came over and asked if we were "Duke Special Groupies!" We said that we were great admirers of his work but had no other designs in mind :o

4YKOWaZoYXQ

[Elaine]

Yes Mr Fizzy, not sure we can be classed as groupes! but ardent fans, yes we most certainly are. Don't get the most time to post but Duke is definately not out of sight out of mind. He just gets better and better. Can't wait to hear the new song(s). Perhaps Mrs Fizzy can capture that at the Belfast gig. :)Thanks Elaine,

I only made one movie of the Ennis street performance as Elviesleslie was doing such a fine job on his Flip camera. Although the only audience that you can see in the clip are at the end of the street, there were many more in front of the boys that I should have included in shot. We love Cian's piano but not sure his dancing skills are quite ready for public display ;)

There were six of us from the UK and our local Ennis friend Mary who has recently become hooked on Duke. There were a group of four French tourists who liked the music and bought tickets on the spot after talking to Peter and Dorothy. After the show in the evening at the Glor theatre they bought the album box set and came over and asked if we were "Duke Special Groupies!" We said that we were great admirers of his work but had no other designs in mind :o

4YKOWaZoYXQ

[pianofan]

Thank you so much for sharing the stories as well as the photographic and video gems from this tour.

The Ennis street performance looked a real treat .. and so well captured for us :o

[Snoopy]

I see tomorrows Belfast gig starts at 8pm. Is there a support act or is Duke on at 8pm.

[Mrfizzy]

Thank you so much for sharing the stories as well as the photographic and video gems from this tour.
The Ennis street performance looked a real treat .. and so well captured for us :o

Although I took the street show, you have Fizzy to thank for most of our photos and video - She's become rather an ace photographer since I bought her a new camera at Christmas.

Love this one she took from the last show we went to at Cyprus Avenue in Cork

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs542.ash1/31729_1392222577466_1589213392_30945105_2203981_n. jpg



@Snoopy - As you saw above it's a long setlist! If it goes as all of the other Irish shows, this will be a wonderful feast of pure Dukiness and the boys (15 min interval after the Hector Mann set) :o

[Mrfizzy]

Fizzy is packing for Belfast tomorrow and as excited as can be to see the reaction to the two shows in Duke's home town. After so many live performances Duke and the band could record a pretty much perfect album in one take and Belfast should be stunning. :o

One more video "taster" from the UK tour (Salford). It's not possible on a video to feel the full power of the relentless war drums and Ben's amazing Sax in the introduction to the Mother Courage theme - you just have to see it live.

YX4bWSp2Nxo

[Delly]

Oh thank you so much for that Mrfizzy! That's certainly got my day off with a bang (literally :D)

I know Fizzy will have a fab time in Belfast with her younger man and I'm eagerly awaiting reports.

:o:o

[Mrfizzy]

Oh thank you so much for that Mrfizzy! That's certainly got my day off with a bang (literally :D)

I know Fizzy will have a fab time in Belfast with her younger man and I'm eagerly awaiting reports.

:o:o

To save annual leave Fizzy is on an afternoon flight to Belfast so hoping she gets the victory tune on landing for "yet another RyanAir Flight on time!"

Meantime another of the fabulous Hector Mann stories to cheer us up - the rather seedy salesman in "Jumping Jacks" from the Salford UK show. What a treat those lucky Belfast audiences are in for :o v. jealous (need a green sad face) :(

IJCNgtUCS-Q

[old git]

As I work in Longford and meet different people every day, I was a little apprehensive about the possible turnout for this gig. When I occasionally steer conversation onto Duke Special I'm constantly met with "never heard of him!". As we took our (very comfy) seats I soon realised that I should not have been concerned,The theatre was packed..a full sell out.

The set list was exactly the same as per MrFizzy's earlier post. I thought we might get the "play us something we already know" from the audience but that was not the case,every song was very well recieved and appreciated.

The camera police made it quite clear that no cameras could be used so I have no accompanying pictures but in a way I was glad because I find when you become obsessed with capturing the moment, sometimes you are actually missing out on the performance if that makes sence to anyone.

During the performance of cook's song there is the moment where Peter takes off his trusted military jacket and throws it into the audience. He threw it at me so I hung on to it till the end of the show.

When the guys came back out for the encore, Peter was just about to introduce the Huckleberry finn songs when a girl shouted out "slip of a girl" followed by a long "pleeeeeeease". Peter asked the band if they were happy with this to which they all nodded. They performed the song so tightly that you would swear that they had been rehearsing it all afternoon.

The rest of the encore was Catfish and applejack followed by sweet sweet kisses, "Diggin" and finally our love goes deeper than this, at which point everyone in the audience without exception was out of their seats singing and jigging around!

After the show the girl sitting behind me asked me if she could have Duke's jacket. I declined and said that I thought Peter might like it back! Speaking to Peter later he told me that I was singled out for the jacket because he knew he would get it back :)

One last thing..You know you've arrived when meeting Peter the customary hand shake has been replaced wit a friendly hug :D

Thanks to Duke and the band for (yet again) a fantastic night.

[old git]

It's not possible on a video to feel the full power of the relentless war drums and Ben's amazing Sax in the introduction to the Mother Courage theme - you just have to see it live.



Couldn't agree more MrF!

[Mrfizzy]

As I work in Longford and meet different people every day, I was a little apprehensive about the possible turnout for this gig. When I occasionally steer conversation onto Duke Special I'm constantly met with "never heard of him!". As we took our (very comfy) seats I soon realised that I should not have been concerned,The theatre was packed..a full sell out.

Thanks to Duke and the band for (yet again) a fantastic night.

Thanks for the super and fulsome report above that I've abbreviated in the quote OG - wonderful to hear that Duke and the boys had a full house and an appreciative Longford audience. I agree you about just enjoying the show rather than watching it on a teeny camera screen! We collected some photos and a movie example of most of the songs but this was over an awful lot of performances in the UK and Ireland. Most times we just lost ourselves in the live experience.

I was wondering if a certain fish made an appearance after the "Catfish" song?

We found a wee inflatable fish in Cork and handed it up to Duke (much to his surprise) at the end of the song when he leans over to the edge of the stage "looking for a fish".

When we spoke to the band afterwards we told them that we had to return to the UK after Cork and Ben accused us of a lack of commitment to the tour. We asked Scottish Johnnie to look after the fish but then saw on tweets from Simon and Ben that there had been a mishap unpacking the tour equipment in Sligo. Apparently the tour van was parked on a slope and when the doors were opened their kit came tumbling out. Ben said he wanted danger money if he was to dodge runaway monitors as well as play. I guess the poor wee fishy was lost or burst in the carnage :(

We called him Lee after the Cork river and fed him up with local refreshment before the show. We at least have a video of what looks like it may be his one and only stage performance ...

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs512.ash1/30228_1391601484377_1662353591_917832_1154052_n.jp g

[old git]

I was wondering if a certain fish made an appearance after the "Catfish" song?

We found a wee inflatable fish in Cork and handed it up to Duke (much to his surprise) at the end of the song when he leans over to the edge of the stage "looking for a fish".



Brilliant post MrF! But alas Peter was looking out over the stage in vain :(

[Mrfizzy]

Brilliant post MrF! But alas Peter was looking out over the stage in vain :(

How sad :( - just had a call from Fizzy at 7pm from her hotel in Belfast on her way to the gig - told her about the piscatorial deficit at the show - no doubt she'll think of something ...:o

[old git]

piscatorial

Is that a real word or are you just making it up :D

[beth gaddis]

Is that a real word or are you just making it up :D

It does sound a bit fishy, OG...get it...."fishy".....hooo boy, I amuse myself. :redface:

[Playful]

After the show the girl sitting behind me asked me if she could have Duke's jacket. I declined and said that I thought Peter might like it back! Speaking to Peter later he told me that I was singled out for the jacket because he knew he would get it back

Made me smile:)

Oh and the big man should not try and keep up with the student drinking games... he'll know what I mean

[rattle]

Just back from the first of the Belfast gigs.

An altogether excellent evening, almost two-and-a-half hours in length if you time it from Hannah Peel to the last of the six song long encore!

It was Mrs. Rattle's first Duke gig - she'd be listening to the Hector Mann/Mother Courage albums intently for the last few weeks as training for tonight - and she was totally blown away by the occasion, commenting that the songs are really something else experienced live. Looks like I'm buying three tickets from this point on.

Highlights? Too many to mention although at one point during Tango Tangle I thought we were going to have to call security to seperate Messrs. Wilson and Castle!

We had excellent seats too, literally centimetres from the stage making it quite an intense, almost personal, experience at times.

Nice to meet Fizzy again although it is my sad duty to report she was sans fish although I'm reliably informed that situation will be rectifed in time for the Thursday night gig!

[alice]

Missed Hannah Peel unfo but the rest of the evening more than made up for it.

Brilliant evening as only to be expected with the show entertaining, thought provoking and spellbinding. Ben doing his usual clowning was great - and he also played quite well. Amazingly talented bunch. Friends who had joined us were quite awestruck and really impressed by the show.

[runnerbean]

Truly, madly, deeply dishy!;)

The whole show was fantistic. Enjoyed the funny pictures of the band on screen at the end.

Touring obviously takes its toll!

[alice]

[QUOTE=runnerbean;59437]Truly, madly, deeply dishy!;)

/QUOTE]

Referring to any band member in particular RB? ;)

[pianofan]

[QUOTE=runnerbean;59437]Truly, madly, deeply dishy!;)

/QUOTE]

Referring to any band member in particular RB? ;)

They are ALL so "truly, madly, deeply dishy' :D:o

[Mrfizzy]

Just back from the first of the Belfast gigs.

Highlights? Too many to mention although at one point during Tango Tangle I thought we were going to have to call security to seperate Messrs. Wilson and Castle!

We had excellent seats too, literally centimetres from the stage making it quite an intense, almost personal, experience at times.

Nice to meet Fizzy again although it is my sad duty to report she was sans fish although I'm reliably informed that situation will be rectifed in time for the Thursday night gig!

Wonderful to see the early reports of the Wednesday show - I find it impossible to believe that anyone could fail to be bowled over by the incredible range of musical style and talent on stage. You're quite right about Tango Tangle rattle - the "tangling" between Ben and Duke has become increasingly physical! :o

Regarding Lonely Lee the fish mentioned earlier - this is the Catfish song that Fizzy took at Cyprus Avenue in Cork. The spotlighting makes for poor video but it's worth watching for the reactions at the end ...

vbQ2Xh3EQNo

Fizzy enjoyed and meeting you rattle, runnerbean, alice, xlaurax and her friend. She tells me that some of you are also going to the second show - hopefully you'll have a bit more time to chat than last night. Should be another fun evening.

PS - Great picture tweeted by @simonlittle "Immortalised on the walls of Belfast...! Class"

http://s3.amazonaws.com/twitpic/photos/large/113191104.jpg?AWSAccessKeyId=0ZRYP5X5F6FSMBCCSE82&Expires=1276167495&Signature=pMO%2BG9FBg9TuJ%2ByxYKrRKGXg5RE%3Dhttp://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/DukewallBelfast.jpg
http://s3.amazonaws.com/twitpic/photos/large/113191104.jpg?AWSAccessKeyId=0ZRYP5X5F6FSMBCCSE82&Expires=1276165536&Signature=cXGNv%2FycaLsZUN793EDklRBq%2Bh0%3D

[Dublinram]

Final part of the tour for me last night and once again left wanting more.

My only dis-appointment - Hannah Peel not joining in on Song of Fratenization : that really would have been the icing on the cake, but Duke if you happen to be reading its not too late for tonight! (I'm sure Fizzy could oblige with a recording).

Finally a thank you to Fizzy and Mr Fizzy for your infectious support for all things Duke.

[Mrfizzy]

@Dublinram - Great idea - Hannah would make a lovely "Yvette" - Fizzy told me about Hannah's defunct harmonium through RyanAir's delicate handling - not a company renown for their customer support so hope it's nothing too major :(

We do try to be as infectious as possible, but Duke is quite "catching" anyway once you see him live :o

[Stephen]

Get the most out of your 'tach smilies, cause I'm going to be removing them at the end of the tour. I don't know about you, but I have to stare at them every day and they're getting irritating as hell. :)

I'll be at tonight's gig all being well.

[Elaine]

Ah Stephen! You ol' spoilsport! Well I guess if you see them all day long...........:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o X X

Get the most out of your 'tach smilies, cause I'm going to be removing them at the end of the tour. I don't know about you, but I have to stare at them every day and they're getting irritating as hell.

I'll be at tonight's gig all being well.

[xlaurax]

Last night's show in Belfast was fantastic...well worth missing out on 6 hours worth of studying for my A Level today!
Thanks so much to Gail and Lol..was great to meet you both :)
Hope you enjoy your last 2 shows of the tour!

Just a few (not brilliant) photos from last night...

Tango Tangling:
http://i47.tinypic.com/e6suc5.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/1zd4wmx.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/2n6d9uc.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/ht9ugw.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/2i77aj5.jpg

Encore:
http://i48.tinypic.com/sbsktk.jpg

[FTFairy]

*awaits Hulk outburst from admin*:p

Who's doing support for the tour?

[xlaurax]

Hannah Peel was support in Belfast!

Fizzy-we were reliably informed last night by Johnnie and Joe that the fish is in the van, they just didn't have that van with them...!

[rebelsoul]

wednesday night in belfast was sensational!! the hector mann stuff gave me shivers, jumpin jacks and double or nothin especially. country weekend and tango tangle were hilarious! the audience seemed wrapt during the mother courage half of the show, no heckling for older material at all. my only risk of the evening was taking a duke virgin with me but she was sold from hearth and home!!.i will admit i wandered slightly from duke for a while but i am recommited fully!! absolute musical genius x

[Mrfizzy]

Last night's show in Belfast was fantastic...well worth missing out on 6 hours worth of studying for my A Level today!
Thanks so much to Gail and Lol..was great to meet you both :)
Hope you enjoy your last 2 shows of the tour!

Just a few (not brilliant) photos from last night...

Much as we're Duke nuts we couldn't recommend missing revision for A levels! Hopefully you'd done plenty before and went into the exam refreshed.
From a selfish point of view I think your pictures are brilliant especially as I couldn't be there. I particularly like the movement you've caught in Tango Tango and the Mother Courage drums. I'm sure that the band have more to worry about that the wee fish! There were no support acts at the other Irish shows but Hannah Peel is fun :o

[elvisleslie61]

wednesday night in belfast was sensational!!
i will admit i wandered slightly from duke for a while but i am recommited fully!! absolute musical genius x
I totally applaud you for your honesty and am so pleased that you have found what it was that led you to liking Duke
but i think we should all be giving credit to your man for having the courage to follow his musical belief. It has been a tough but ultimately rewarding journey

[Stephen]

I've photos from tonight's great gig, but I admit that it'll take me a while to get them online. I'll try to get to tomorrow night's gig in Dublin, but I'm not sure if I'll make it.

I tried to get out of the way of the crowd for the most part. Hope I succeeded!
Was great to see Duke get out from behind the piano, I know how hard that can be!

[runnerbean]

I've photos from tonight's great gig, but I admit that it'll take me a while to get them online. I'll try to get to tomorrow night's gig in Dublin, but I'm not sure if I'll make it.

I tried to get out of the way of the crowd for the most part. Hope I succeeded!
Was great to see Duke get out from behind the piano, I know how hard that can be!

The whole show was absolute magic.

I'm sure you got some brilliant shots. Think I saw you discreetly skulking, only because you twittered you would be there, or I would never have noticed. ;)

[alice]

This evening was even better than last night at the Waterfront - sound much improved and the whole evening just flowed wonderfully well. The usual setlist of HM followed by MC but with a few little asides and encores of Catfish, Applejack and a brilliant I'm still standing, further encore of Digging and OLGDTT which had the crowd on their feet and really joining in.

A wonderful evening. The pair who were at the Waterfront last night with us had said how impressed they were at the sheer courage needed to do something so different and great to see it so well received.

Saw Stephen in the background, discreet as always, and really loooking forward to seeing the photos.

Hope RB got home OK after leaving me back (many thanks) - you just do the opposite.....?

[alice]

Good, she did!!!! Visions of you ending up in the Lough!

[okcomputer4]

I've photos from tonight's great gig, but I admit that it'll take me a while to get them online. I'll try to get to tomorrow night's gig in Dublin, but I'm not sure if I'll make it.

I tried to get out of the way of the crowd for the most part. Hope I succeeded!
Was great to see Duke get out from behind the piano, I know how hard that can be!

Stephen, I must really drop you a line on lenses for gigs. Had some great luck with some that I have, but I am upgrading soon, and need a bit of help.

Cheers

Paul

[runnerbean]

Hope RB got home OK after leaving me back (many thanks) - you just do the opposite.....?

A bit of a character flaw, I usually do the opposite! Scenic route preferable and still reeling from tonight's performance at the Waterfront.

Sorry to have missed other boardies. Mrs Fizzy and Mr Lolly, in particular. Great artwork with the fish! Late arrival due to family committments and hasty depart due to work in the morning. No doubt we will meet up at a later stage.

[okcomputer4]

Oh...and....what a great show. I only attended the An Grianan one, and I know there have been many gigs before that one, but tonight's seemed to (as someone says above) flow much more smoothly. The craic was great and managed to secure a couple of seats on the second row. Niiiiice....

I think I mentioned this before, but I was taking my 10 year old niece to this one - it was her first gig. She raved about it all the way home. Another convert!! Oh and I couldn't resist a couple of snaps.

[alice]

[QUOTE=xlaurax;59456]Last night's show in Belfast was fantastic...well worth missing out on 6 hours worth of studying for my A Level today!
Thanks so much to Gail and Lol..was great to meet you both :)
Hope you enjoy your last 2 shows of the tour!

Just a few (not brilliant) photos from last night...

QUOTE]

Sorry we didn't see you last night and missed Fizzy and Mr Lolly tonight too. Great you enjoyed last night and hope that Fizzy and Mr Lolly have a wonderful time in Dublin.

Back to the revision XLX - hope the rest of the A Levels go well - my daughter accidently deleted her Scarlet Letter revision notes earlier today - not a good day in our household - I was really quite glad to get out for the evening!!

[Niamhy1]

After reading every single post from the start of the tour and looking at all the fantastic pictures I can honestly say I am sooooo excited about tonight's gig, it's going to be a long day in work thinking about it for sure....aw it's only just after 10am :D

[rattle]

Thomas Truax is supporting DS tonight - makes me wish I was there even more.

[Dublinram]

Part 1, a few photos from Wednesday.

[Dublinram]

Part 2

[Studio54]

Thomas Truax is supporting DS tonight -.


Oh this is great news... can't wait for the show tonight:o:o:o:o

[rebelsoul]

i did laugh during the interval as realised that while explaining the hector mann/mother courage thing to my sis in law the girl behind me was deoing exactly the same thing! id love to know what her friend made of it!! i hit my head off her knee at one stage, you know who you are if your out there! (dukebox t shirt??) dont think my sis in law really got it but she enjoyed it anyway!

[elvisleslie61]

Part 2

great pictures ian

i give them :o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o

[beth gaddis]

Thank all of you for posting all these pictures and videos, it makes a girl in the middle of nowhere feel a bit more connected :)

[runnerbean]

Last one tonight :( Just for a while!

[atkygal]

Phew. Last show of the tour for me in Dublin and I Do need a rest now - god knows how the band have managed with 12 shows on the trot. Was an amazing gig again. Thomas Truax was strangely brilliant and his instruments were inspired.

Unfortunatley the projector system didn't work this time but it didn't spoil anything. Had great seats in the front but thought was odd that the tables at the front weren't all full. In fact the 2 seats on our tables were purloined by two random girls who stayed for Hector Mann, then disappeared leaving their coats never to return!!

Brilliant gig as always plus a very funny converstaion with lady next to me about why Duke really didn't have to play Freewheel every concert!!

I am quite exhausted but yet again the band have made my life a happier place!! Thanks guys. Thanks to to the lovely people we met including Tre. Must sleep now......til the next tour will just have to make do with cd's!!! Fab fab Fab

[xlaurax]

i did laugh during the interval as realised that while explaining the hector mann/mother courage thing to my sis in law the girl behind me was deoing exactly the same thing! id love to know what her friend made of it!! i hit my head off her knee at one stage, you know who you are if your out there! (dukebox t shirt??) dont think my sis in law really got it but she enjoyed it anyway!

*raises hand* me, me, that was me! lol Yeah, what was funny about me filling my friend in is that she's actually a really big fan, has been to loads of Duke gigs with me before etc, but has gotten kinda out of the loop in terms of what he's been doing since INTTDWC, so she's still been listening to all his old stuff, but not been keeping up to date and therefore hadn't known about any of the other new stuff he's had out!

[Mrfizzy]

After reading every single post from the start of the tour and looking at all the fantastic pictures I can honestly say I am sooooo excited about tonight's gig, it's going to be a long day in work thinking about it for sure....aw it's only just after 10am :D

Us Fizzys freely admit to having extreme cases of Dukemania and one of the most encouraging aspects of following the tour for us has been to find that we are far from alone! In addition to the great fans that we travelled with or met at various points we met many new enthusiastic fans mentioned earlier. Niamh1 just about bowled us over with Duke enthusiasm when she recognised us at the Dublin gig - couldn't help thinking of Tigger! :o

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/Niahmy1Fizzys11Jun10.jpg

Can relate completely with Atkygal and also wonder how on earth Duke and the band stayed upright after 12 nights of travel and gigs on the trot!

As it's Sunday today I thought that one of the beautiful "Song of the Hours" performances would be nice (taken by Fizzy). This was particularly effective in the surroundings of St Philips Church at the Salford show.

z_-Iidusv_o

[Lolly]

Just back from the Belfast & Dublin gigs & thought it was about time that I posted. I decided to do these 3 gigs as my glamorous other half, mrs lolly & our lovely friend atkygal made a trip out to Ireland a week or so ago for a couple of shows & I stayed home to look after the "Dukettes" so I was due a bit of R & R ! :o


Fizzy had been generously donated some excellent tickets for the 2 Belfast shows by some fans who couldn't make it & as Mr Fizzy was tied up (yes, no way he was escaping to Ireland) with work until Friday I immediately decided to accept her offer to meet in Belfast on Wednesday. :o


Although the first Belfast show was a good one, I felt the audience were a little subdued & quiet ... however the second night was a different story and the audience were full of life & yet again the show was amazing. :o


On Friday, we travelled down to Dublin & met up with Mr Fizzy, atkygal, Dawn S & Tanya & much drinking of the Black stuff was done ! Thomas Truax supporting was quite bizarre but thoroughly enjoyable ! And great to see a surprise appearance from Hannah Peel again. So many great moments over these gigs that it is hard to pick one out but I think the encores in Dublin were pretty special !


I know it has been said before, but we really have met some great people via this forum, real friends for life ! Oh, and I hope xlaurax's exam went ok.:o


Whatever our man does in the future he will have my support & all I can say is - Mr Wilson, as Groucho Marx once said - "Can't you see what I'm saying, I love you !".... or do I mean "I could dance with you till the cows come home... On second thoughts I'd rather dance with the cows till you came home"! :o


To sum up - Had a fantastic time, saw 3 tremendous shows & spent quality time with some great people ! ... cheers to you all !! :o

[Mrfizzy]

[FONT=Calibri][SIZE=3]To sum up - Had a fantastic time, saw 3 tremendous shows & spent quality time with some great people ! ... cheers to you all !! :o

Nice report Lolly of your experiences and what a true Duke fan MrsLolly is to let you fly off and have your share of the fun in Belfast and Dublin - and with my better half at that! We're constantly grateful that we met up with the Southampton crew so early to share our passion. With you guys and the many other great fans we'll get Duke properly acknowledged for the remarkable talent that he is.

I see that you are making the most of your Hector Mann smileys while you can lol :o

[Niamhy1]

Us Fizzys freely admit to having extreme cases of Dukemania and one of the most encouraging aspects of following the tour for us has been to find that we are far from alone! In addition to the great fans that we travelled with or met at various points we met many new enthusiastic fans mentioned earlier. Niamh1 just about bowled us over with Duke enthusiasm when she recognised us at the Dublin gig - couldn't help thinking of Tigger! :o

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/Niahmy1Fizzys11Jun10.jpg

Can relate completely with Atkygal and also wonder how on earth Duke and the band stayed upright after 12 nights of travel and gigs on the trot!

As it's Sunday today I thought that one of the beautiful "Song of the Hours" performances would be nice (taken by Fizzy). This was particularly effective in the surroundings of St Philips Church at the Salford show.

z_-Iidusv_o

Fizzies - it was a real pleasure to meet you both and everyone else we met that night, it was a fantastic evening although I possibly had one or two more glasses of wine than I should have :D

Am I missing something with the refererence to Tigger or do I want to know!? :confused:

[Mrfizzy]

Fizzies - it was a real pleasure to meet you both and everyone else we met that night, it was a fantastic evening although I possibly had one or two more glasses of wine than I should have :D

Am I missing something with the refererence to Tigger or do I want to know!? :confused:

Don't worry Niamhy - it's a compliment! Tigger is Winnie the Pooh's bouncy, lively friend who's full of enthusiasm and energy :)

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss244/itsMrAG/Duke%20Special/tigger_and_pooh.jpg

[Niamhy1]

Ha ha - that put a big smile on my face - does he drink wine too? :D

[Mrfizzy]

Ha ha - that put a big smile on my face - does he drink wine too? :D

I only know that Tiggers don't like honey!

Mrslolly asked if we had the brushman in action at the end of the Dublin gig - fortunately Fizzy was on hand and I think that you will also like to see it again - it's a bit of a riot with brushman, Thomas Truax and Hannah Peel on stage!

kiP5B0TRe88

Just to show the huge range of Duke's musical talent I couldn't think of a better example for contrast than the beautiful "Teller's Tale" from the Cardiff Glee Club. I know that Delly loves this song and he seldom had time in the setlist to include it. Although Dawn has already posted a nice movie of "I'm Still Standing" from this gig I don't think a second viewpoint from Fizzy of the first ever live performance is overdoing it. Believe it or not, some people still ask why we want to see as many Duke shows as we can!

0btwFjyoWyo

I'm Still Standing
SjNNUl4a0-U

[Delly]

Just to show the huge range of Duke's musical talent I couldn't think of a better example for contrast than the beautiful "Teller's Tale" from the Cardiff Glee Club. I know that Delly loves this song and he seldom had time in the setlist to include it. Although Dawn has already posted a nice movie of "I'm Still Standing" from this gig I don't think a second viewpoint from Fizzy of the first ever live performance is overdoing it. Believe it or not, some people still ask why we want to see as many Duke shows as we can!

0btwFjyoWyo

I'm Still Standing
SjNNUl4a0-U

Aaaarrrggghhh!!
Teller's Tale - How BEAUTIFUL, both the song and the performance!!!!
I was so overjoyed when he sang it at Glasgow I almost screamed :)

And the brilliant rearrangement of what is, lets be honest, not Elton's greatest moment is wonderful. This first performance is an absolute triumph for all the band. Did Ben do the arrangement do we know? Cos it's fab.

I've no idea why you want to see as many Duke shows as you can Mrfizzy, he's obviously talentless :rolleyes: :D:D

I'll just get a couple of these in while I still can too :o :o :o:)

[beth gaddis]

Fantastic videos! I too would like to throw in a few of these before their forced extinction ;)

:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o:o

[robi]

:) Thanks to Fizzy for taking these videos, and to you Mr Fizzy for uploading them. Appreciate all the hard work that goes into the process, so that we can enjoy them!
Love the video of 'Digging an early Grave'. It was hilarious - and also slightly surreal!!
Love the version of I'm still standing as well. I've never really been a fan of Elton John, but this is beautiful. I think what DS does so well with his music, is to combine a vulnerability with strength, that is very appealing!

[Niamhy1]

Oh and thanks to the Fizzies for my new updated avatar, thanks for taking the pic. My first and only Hector smiley :o

[old git]

In the "I'm still standing" video, does anyone else think that Duke looks like Robert Smith from the Cure?

[jan]

In the "I'm still standing" video, does anyone else think that Duke looks like Robert Smith from the Cure?

It has been said before but the resemblance can only be passing.....it's the kohl!
xx (massive Cure fan)

[Stephen]

A few photos from Belfast here. Not the best lighting, so I'm not too happy with them. A lot of red light too. Grrrrrr.

http://www.stephenlynn.co.uk/gallery/music/DukeSpecial/DukeSpecialWaterfrontStudioJune2010/


http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs046.ash2/35685_10150213581975298_573970297_13392179_1856096 _n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs046.ash2/35685_10150213581960298_573970297_13392177_2088043 _n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs086.snc4/35685_10150213582150298_573970297_13392197_1685224 _n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs046.ash2/35685_10150213581880298_573970297_13392167_2856261 _n.jpg

[Maggie]

Stephen... don't know what your worrying about. The photos are amazing as always.
Love the one of the white Jacket!!! Just love, love, love it
And number 15 slumped over the double bass...

Wish I could take photos anywhere near as good

[runnerbean]

Fantastic!! You are way too hard on yourself. As Maggie says, it would be great to be able to do half as good. It was a great night.

[pianofan]

Simpy stunning photos!

[xlaurax]

Brilliant photos as always Stephen!

I spot Fizzy and Lol!

[Delly]

Brilliant photos as always Stephen!

I spot Fizzy and Lol!

Me too! I'd forgotten Lolly was so tall, it's cruel to others letting him on the front row :D

[Fizzy]

Those two seats were empty in the first half so it was our duty to fill them :D
:o:o:o:o

[Delly]

Those two seats were empty in the first half so it was our duty to fill them :D
:o:o:o:o

Of course it was! Otherwise he might think you don't care! ;)

:o:o:o:o
Get em while they're here!

[rattle]

Those two seats were empty in the first half so it was our duty to fill them :D
:o:o:o:o

I think it was the same two seats Mrs. Rattle and I occupied the night before yet there was, inexplicably, an empty seat beside us as well.

Why would someone not take up their place in the front row, especially as well placed as those particular seats are?

[Elaine]

Great photos Stephen! Makes me wish I had been there more than ever. ;)

[Stephen]

Thanks for the kind words folks!

[alice]

Brilliantly atmospheric photos Stephen - you really seem to be able to "cage the minute/ within its net of gold". They are wonderful and thanks for sharing them.

Great selection of videos too, MrF.

[Firsthome]

Photos are brilliant Stephen, as usual. Having seen Duke in Newbridge I really enjoyed the show. Duke is really impressing as a frontman / showman. Really is a great talent.

[Mrfizzy]

Photos are brilliant Stephen, as usual. Having seen Duke in Newbridge I really enjoyed the show. Duke is really impressing as a frontman / showman. Really is a great talent.

I have been away for a few days and it's a treat to catch up and see Stephen's photos - black and white is such a good choice sometimes and I especially like the viewpoint behind the band toward the audience. Great stuff.

I've uploaded yet another Fizzy vid that shows the trials and tribulations you can have with props. In this performance of Country Weekend Duke struggles mightily with the chauffeur hat - he told us afterwards that he had tied his hair in a different way from usual hence the balancing act

qw3Ct79eXFU

[beth gaddis]

I think Fizzy has surely earned a press pass! She's doing beautifully on these videos :)

[pianofan]

I think Fizzy has surely earned a press pass! She's doing beautifully on these videos :)

They are really top quality - well done and thanks, Fizzy:cool:

[runnerbean]

kiP5B0TRe88



It is brilliant the way Phil's silhouette is on the drum during this vid.

[Mrfizzy]

It is brilliant the way Phil's silhouette is on the drum during this vid.

Well spotted runnerbean - I believe that Fizzy has some nice photos of this wee feature :)

I thought I'd better give Fizzy a break and recorded this very beautiful version of Duke's Mr Nobody in Limerick. The range and talent of your man is a constant source of amazement to me :o

4tqBJXxjsr4

[pianofan]

Fizzy has obviously taught you well ;) - excellent and such a steady hand!

[beth gaddis]

Lovely!

[runnerbean]

Quote: ^ ^ ^I thought I'd better give Fizzy a break and recorded this very beautiful version of Duke's Mr Nobody in Limerick. The range and talent of your man is a constant source of amazement to me :o



I've loved this song since the first time I heard it. Definitely one of my favourites, among many.

Thank you.

[Mrfizzy]

Fizzy has obviously taught you well ;) - excellent and such a steady hand!

Less flexible joints and steady video may be one of the very few advantages of getting older! Glad you are liking our vids runnerbean.

Here's the Soldiers Song from Ennis I took on a wee camera - can't zoom while filming but that's not necessarily a bad thing.

7BtlWav2NUw