Blackbox Music is delighted to announce the release of After the Morning, the eagerly anticipated new album from Roscommon born accordionist, Alan Kelly.

One of the busiest performers on the traditional and folk music scene, it’s hard to believe that it’s almost a decade since Alan Kelly’s last solo outing.  Nonetheless, in that time Alan has reaffirmed his stature as one of Ireland’s top musicians touring and recording with artists such as De Dannan, Arty McGlynn, Eddi Reader, Lúnasa, and Michael McGoldrick.

For his 3rd solo, self -produced album, Kelly has brought together a diverse group of superb musicians, many of which he has worked with, in different equations, over the past decade.    The result is a stunning album, both fresh and mature.  It features the talents of Jim Murray on guitar, Jim Higgins on percussion, Tola Custy on fiddle and Ian Carr on guitar among others with guest vocals from Scotland’s Eddi Reader and Kris Drever (BBC Horizon award winner 2007).

After the Morning takes the listener on a musical journey from the heart of Roscommon to the craggy hills of Scotland, Brittany and beyond.  Though at times having a slightly contemporary feel, Alan acknowledges his roots with tunes such as The Jolly Tinker (trk2) and The Rookery Reel (trk7).  Lively up-tempo numbers contrast tastefully with gentle rhythmic tunes and Alan proves that he hasn’t lost his touch on the technically demanding tune from Galicia, Jota da Maia (trk9).

After the Morning features four original tracks including the title track, the haunting and beautiful Eolann (trk4), the playful Siena Waltz (trk 6) and New Years Day (trk12).  The guitar and percussion combination of Jim Higgins and Jim Murray on tracks 1,2 and 7 create a groove that is just plain addictive.  After the Morning is not to be missed!

"The arrangements are world class, as are the guest musicians.....breathtaking.......... Each of the dozen tracks here is a work of art, carefully crafted and polished: no fireworks, no grand gestures, and the accordion isn't always centre stage, but Alan Kelly is in total control throughout, doing what he does best, and I love it." - Alex Monaghan - Living Tradition & Irish Music Magazine