It’s Clearly Christmas by Loyola

Loyola describe themselves as the first music band to come out of Galway Ireland!  While that is clearly a joke, their brilliant first single is clearly not.  Launched just in time for Christmas, It’s Clearly Christmas takes a critical look at the excesses of the season.  A strong melody, clever lyrics and haunting chords make this debut our Christmas Number 1.

You  can follow Loyola on Instagram at @loyolatheband, purchase the single at bandcamp, itunes or apple music, or listen to them on Spotify, Tidal, or your favourite music streaming app.

 

 

Come Shopping with Me, by Ash Reddington

Ash Reddington is a talented Irish actor, writer and filmmaker who is based in New York City.  In this short comedy film, her character Svetlana goes window shopping in Manhattan during lockdown.

You can find out more about Ash at her Backstage page.

Come Friendly Bombs (with apologies to John Betjeman)

I wrote this poem a couple of years ago (and well before Covid 19), but I think the issues it refers to still stand.

Come friendly bombs and fall on Slough
It’s time to say this is enough
The future’s looking very tough
Don’t hold your breath

Don’t be disabled or be sick
ESA won’t miss a trick
You’re made to feel like you are thick
By DSS

And now we’ve left the EEC
There’s no appeal for you and me
Beyond the Tory hierarchy
Which we detest

Come friendly bombs and fall on Slough
And help us as we mourn for how
Our futures bright have vanished now
Compassion’s death

Mary Tynan