Leonard Barry’s affinity for journeys and relationships is greatly evident in his latest music offering, Littoral. Drawing inspiration from the ocean and all maritime elements, this album deeply resonates with the north Kerry piper who has crafted his own journey in the musical world through his three unique individual projects.
His years of service at Dublin Simon Community, a charity focused on housing and homelessness, have given him unique insights into the complexity of ‘journeys’ and ‘relationships’. Barry had the opportunity to witness the tumultuous journeys of individuals struggling with chaotic personal issues and develop relationships to help improve their lives.
His work let him observe the various life paths of these individuals. While some stories had tragic endings, others were still unfolding, positively or otherwise. He cites the transformation of a woman, who was initially a detox patient but eventually began volunteering at the organisation, as one of his most poignant experiences. Such impactful journeys have been humbling and enlightening for him, particularly noting the resilience displayed by his charges amidst their chaotic lives.
Barry reveals that the pandemic-induced pause in his musical journey significantly influenced the creation of Littoral. During the lockdown, he had the opportunity to introspect and contemplate his own path, from Kerry and onto Kilkenny, and then moving from Dublin to Sligo. It was during this journey that he found himself reconnecting with the sea, despite it not being a planned move.
Barry’s early life in Kilmoyley, near Banna Strand in Co Kerry, fostered a lifelong connection with the sea, which was ever-present in his surroundings. His subsequent move to Sligo led to a rekindling of this maritime relationship that has been a critical part of his journey. Before we spoke, Barry shared, he strolled on the beach reflecting upon the influences that shaped his new album, Littoral, which was an outcome of a rich blend of life experiences and produced along with Mike McGoldrick, a Mancunian piper, and whistle player.
For his latest album, Littoral, Barry aspired to reflect his journey as a musician in each song. With collective contributions from renowned artists such as Kevin Burke from The Bothy Band, Dervish’s Andy Morrow, Michael Holmes, and Brian McDonagh, Barry manages to curate a diverse mixture of tunes derived from Clare, Fermanagh, Sligo, Dublin, and Brittany. Known for his skill in merging tunes from various origins, including some unusual choices for the pipes, Barry imparts a sense of unity.
The artist shares a personal anecdote about his track ‘The Pipe in the Bob’, which was the first he heard on a cassette given by his uncle featuring The Bothy Band. This tune is succeeded by ‘The Fly in the Porter’, a song he learned in Sligo, and ‘The Stolen Purse’, which was often played at the Cobblestone, a popular Dublin bar.
Barry expresses his delight about collaboration with Sligo resident Kevin Burke, who appears on Littoral. He fondly recalls listening to the influential musician’s track at a very young age and comments on the joy of witnessing his idol become a personal friend and part of his album. He notes that one of the unique aspects of Irish music is the accessibility of admired musicians.
Barry took advantage of the global pandemic break from touring and used the Arts Council’s support to build a humble home studio. With more time on his hands, he started playing and recording songs that he hadn’t played in a while. He kept track of what he was playing in a diary, which served as the foundation for the creation of his album.
“Littoral is an assemblage in which, as he puts it, “the melodies chose the participants”. Besides being a part of the production team, McGoldrick also serves as the flute and bodhrán player, while Alice Allen beautifully brings the cello to life. Barry has introduced his pipes to an unprecedented path, a road rich in personal stories. “I count myself fortunate to collaborate with these premier-league musicians,” he expresses. “Each person added a unique charm to the melodies. I was wrapped up in the warmth of wonderful folks whom I placed my trust in.”
Like numerous traditional artists, the joy that Barry feels at seeing Burke join forces with his previous colleagues in The Bothy Band is palpable. “He merely uttered to me: ‘Its potency is still so incredibly profound.’ I become teary-eyed simply reflecting on this remark. This is what I discern in this music. It possesses such exceptional originality and potency.”
On Thursday, April 18th, Leonard Barry embarks on a music tour across Ireland and England. He will be in Ireland between April 24th and 28th, making stops in Galway, Westport, Sligo, Dungannon, and Dublin.”