Many of us know Conor from his successful tours of the US with the band Connla. While Connla is still a focus for Conor, the shutdown gave him time to work on a solo project that had been percolating for years. The result was, “Unearthed”, a beautiful album that honors tradition while exploring the potential of the uilleann pipes. Already a favorite showcasing band, Conor is taking Unearthed on the road and will be coming to North America starting in 2024. Joined by Jack Warnock, Paul Starrett, and Fintan Mulholland, this is a spectacular group.

Throughout his career Jack Warnock. a multi-instrumentalist and singer from Maghera, Co. Derry, has performed as a soloist, accompanist, and in groups such as TRODA, Cóiriú and The Doc Flock. He has performed at events, festivals, and venues across the world. He is an incredible singer and according to The Irish News “Jack Warnock's voice could entice the birds from the trees”. Add in Paul Starrett; Electric Guitar, and Fintan Mulholland, Bodhran and whistles, and you’re in danger of having the roof raised!

Mallon’s debut solo album has exploded on to the folk/traditional scene, featuring mostly his own compositions. The Irish Times has praised Mallon’s “High-octane production” debut. He is joined in the band by three of Ireland’s finest exponents who all recorded on Unearthed, playing some amazing tunes and songs together as a live touring band.

In his own words:

“The Unearthed project was created during the 2020/2021 lockdowns. Most musicians, including myself, were unable to perform or channel their creative energy into in-person collaborations. The project itself was created during this reflective period in which I decided to focus my attention into my own compositions and arrangements.

Unearthed has a number of meanings to me in relation to this project; unearthing my own solo adventure with the project, unearthing the many unique sounds of the Uilleann Pipes and using them in combination as a percussive element within my own original compositions. ‘Unearthed’ nods to traditions from the past, cast from deep passion and respect, to push boundaries of innovation and creativity whilst never losing sight of the source. I composed and recorded original contemporary Irish music alongside more common repertoire, and used the authentic and unique sounds of the Irish Uilleann Pipes as programming samples-as percussion and rhythm underneath the melody of the track.

Music connects us all, no matter of race, religion, or background. Music affects us all individually in different ways, emotionally and physically. Music brings us closer together sometimes when words alone cannot. Music connects us to a moment in time, in the past, present, or looking to the future. This is part of my musical journey; I hope you can connect with it in some way to guide you on yours.”