Paddy O’Brien of County Offaly, the All-Ireland accordion champion renowned as one of the most powerful and passionate players of Irish traditional music today, has released a second volume of his historic recording project, The Paddy O’Brien Tune Collection. Over the past half-century, O’Brien has earned a reputation as a walking encyclopedia of Irish traditional music; according to conservative estimates, he carries in his head more than 3,000 Irish melodies.

Paddy’s new solo CD, MIXING THE PUNCH, will be released in September by New Folk Records in North America, and distributed in Ireland by Cló Iar-Chonnacht. Paddy plays solo accordion on the recording, accompanied by Teresa Baker on piano. There’s also a special guest appearance, an accordion solo by fellow Offalyman Felim Egan. Here’s the lineup: 1. Reels:…

Paddy O’Brien, often described as ‘a walking encyclopedia of Irish music’ will celebrate the release of his lastest recording, ‘The Sailor’s Cravat,’ with a concert at 7:30 pm on June 25 at Celtic Junction, 836 Prior Avenue North (just north of University Avenue) in Saint Paul. Joining Paddy for the CD release are his ‘Cravat’…