Haven't been around these parts for a while ... there was a bit of very parochial angst got an airing here some time back and I thought I'd stay away for a bit and ... well, you just get out of the habit, don't you?

Anyway, a chance message from The Bard Of Harlow the other day caused me to peer round the door and see what was going on ... seemed peaceful enough (the barrelhouse piano didn't suddenly stop and the card-players didn't look up from their game), but I'd things to do and so I couldn't stay.

Tonight I got some time to spare and so I'll take a seat by the bar and order a drink. (Pint of Guinness with a Black Bush chaser, please...)

Can't say that I'll be as regular a visitor/contributor as I used to be in the past. But I reckon I'll poke my head in from time to time.

Now, those people who used to trade musings, anecdotes and (friendly) insults, such as Áine, katlaughing, Seamus (he of the OTHER Kennedy family - not as wealthy, but better musicians and better crack!) and others too numerous to mention, might be interested to know that I've been somewhat productive musically in the wee while since I've absented myself from here.

There are now three CDs on the stocks ... the last of which I completed today (hence my need to check in somewhere for a breather - ah, another pint! ... That'll do nicely!). Check out here for details.

Happy New Year to all of you! Keep on doing what you do as well as you do it - even better if you're able!

AC