The intersection of landscape and lyricism finds a novel focal point as the fifth season of Ireland In Music goes deeper with new host Denise Chaila. Returning to RTÉ 2 on April 16, the series shifts its creative lens to provide a more intimate, concentrated study of the island’s musical landscape. Rather than a broad survey, this season dedicates each individual episode to a single artist, pairing them with Chaila in some of Ireland’s most iconic and visually arresting locations.
Under the guidance of programme maker Donal Scannell, the series has evolved into a sequence of “live spectacles” designed for a singular witness. Chaila acts as the viewer’s proxy, experiencing these performances in a way that emphasizes the hypnotic quality of the music and the environment. The production’s reach extends beyond the Irish coast, with the series also airing in the United States and Australia, exporting a curated vision of contemporary Irish artistry to a global audience.
The season’s premiere focuses on David Kitt, arriving just days after his two sold-out performances at the National Concert Hall. Kitt is currently revisiting his legacy with a re-recording of The Substantial Romance, titled the “Kittser’s Version.” This project serves as a sonic bridge across 25 years, where the songs of his youth are filtered through the wisdom of a mature voice, transforming previous naivety into a resonant reflection on adulthood and the relief found in music amidst a relentless modern pace.
A Study of Emotional Resonance and Craft
Beyond the nostalgic reflections of Kitt, the season explores a diverse spectrum of Irish talent, from the avant-garde to the traditional. Wallis Bird appears in the second episode, utilizing the platform to highlight her ninth studio album. Bird’s contribution is characterized by a seamless flow of songwriting that seeks to navigate the complexities of the human experience, reinforcing her position as a vital voice in the contemporary indie scene.
The series also highlights emerging and established voices through unique settings. Ailbhe Reddy appears in an episode filmed at the Bellinter House Hotel—a site with a storied past as a former nunnery. Reddy discusses the dichotomy between her comedic persona in real life and the emotional intensity she pours into her music. Her latest album, Kiss Big, is described as a lean, insistent work that demands repeat listening, coinciding with her scheduled appearances at the Button Factory.
The narrative arc of the season continues with Mundy, who uses the program to preview an album currently in progress. The episode is anchored by the song “Childish Heart” and a candid conversation with Chaila regarding his upbringing. In a moment of levity that highlights the rapport between host and guest, Mundy quips about his childhood spent in pubs, noting that while Chaila wasn’t allowed into them as a youth, he “wasn’t allowed out of them.”
From Blues Mastery to National Treasures
The penultimate episode features Muireann Bradley, whose rapid ascent into the Irish cultural consciousness is attributed to her mastery of the blues. Bradley’s presence on the show underscores a growing appetite for authenticity in music. In addition to her sonic craft, the episode delves into her personal history, revealing a surprising background in boxing and martial arts that contrasts with her musical persona.
The series concludes with Conor O’Brien, performing as Villagers. Often described as a “national treasure,” O’Brien’s episode is less a formal interview and more an exploration of his preoccupations and passions. The chemistry between O’Brien and Chaila allows for a rare glimpse into the inner workings of an artist often viewed as an enigma, rounding out the season with a series of quiet, eavesdropped moments.
Season Five Programming Schedule
| Episode | Featured Artist | Key Focus / Project |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | David Kitt | The Big Romance (Kittser’s Version) |
| 2 | Wallis Bird | Ninth Studio Album |
| 3 | Ailbhe Reddy | Kiss Big / Button Factory Gig |
| 4 | Mundy | Album-in-progress / “Childish Heart” |
| 5 | Muireann Bradley | Blues mastery and personal history |
| 6 | Conor O’Brien (Villagers) | Artistic preoccupations and passions |
By placing these artists in iconic Irish locations, the series functions as both a promotional vehicle for new records and a cultural document. The decision to dedicate full episodes to single artists allows for a depth of conversation and performance that is often missing from standard variety formats, turning the series into a curated gallery of Irish sound.
Ireland In Music airs on Thursdays on RTÉ 2 starting April 16 at 11:05 pm. Viewers can also access the episodes via the RTÉ Player for catch-up streaming.
The series continues its broadcast run through the spring, providing a scheduled window into the current state of Irish music and the evolving careers of its most prominent figures. We invite readers to share their thoughts on this season’s lineup in the comments below.
