The new Grand Social (previously Pravda) proves an appropriate setting for tonight’s tribute show. Over the course of the evening, nine acts take to the stage to perform several songs each, and honour the memory of Derek Nally, the popular promoter, manager and music lover who sadly passed away in July.
The small, candle-lit room is soon filled with relations, friends and music fans. The stripped back, mainly acoustic set-up suits the occasion, lending an intimacy to proceedings and allowing the artists to perform in quick succession. It feels more like a family get-together or a musical love-in than a conventional gig.
Richie Egan (of Jape and The Redneck Manifesto) is first up. Though his cover of ‘Up The Junction’ is a little ill-advised, his own songs shine, highlighting real lyrical prowess.
David Kitt is next, his delicate, finger-picked take on his own song ‘It’s Yours’ proving one of the highlights of the night. James Vincent McMorrow makes it three accomplished troubadours in a row. Later, Freddie White and Tir Na nÓg roll back the years. White remains an accomplished interpreter, whilst Tir na nÓg’s ‘Time Is Like A Promise’ and ‘Down In The City’ sound timeless.
Mundy lifts the atmosphere once again, getting the crowd cheering and clapping along for the first time. Singalongs of ‘10,000 Miles Away From Harm’ and ‘Mexico’ are the perfect lead-in for tonight’s closing act, Bell X1.
The Kildare band mix the hits with old favourites and throw in a new song for good measure. Paul Noonan is particularly eager to pay tribute to Derek, reminiscing about the first time they played Whelan’s. It was Pancake Tuesday, and Derek was quick to ensure everyone in the place had a pancake. It is but one of many touching memories shared over the course of the night. In fact, the tributes paid onstage are easily as affecting as the songs. Midway through, Giant Sand mainman Howe Gelb sums it up best when he talks about coming to terms with the loss. “When you get to know everything you need to know,” he says. “That’s when it’s time to go.”
The ending sees many of tonight’s acts return to the stage for a run through of Townes Van Zandt’s ‘If I Needed You’. It’s unrehearsed and a little ramshackle but endearing and utterly joyous nonetheless. Derek Nally would surely have approved.