Pale Blue Jak

This post is dedicated to the one guy who re-lit my fire or rather my passion for writing.  He's the one whose beautiful music can put a smile on your face. The one who is there when life is good and bad. He knows how to make women of all ages swoon.  He is my sunshine,  my only sunshine.  He is my muse, in a round about way.  The leading man in most of my CT fan fiction stories online and offline.  Neil Byrne is definitely one of a kind, an original. He makes the world a better place doing what he loves, making beautiful music.  His passion for his music is what drives him to succeed.

Faces

Pale Blue Jak is the brand name that was created to express a new form of music that is unconventional, energetic, charismatic and very quirky.  If you never read his blog on http://www.neilbyrnemusic.com/2011/10/pale-blue-jak/, you'd never know that Neil Byrne of Celtic Thunder fame and Pale Blue Jak are one in the same.

It's not really a name one might think would be in the same category of musicality as Madonna, Lady Gaga or even Adele.  He is truly a unique character.  His songs are as varied as are the tempos. One song on Pale Blue Jak's album Faces can be found on Neil Byrne's Sensitive Souls Ep.  Sadie Jones is quickly becoming a popular lady that many female fan would love to trade places with, if even for a moment.  Here is the video from YouTube so you can decide if you'd like to be Sadie for a day, month, or year. http://youtu.be/OIsg8KKwrcw

This is not your A typical pop album you might get from any random artist.  This Cd was put together with a lot of thought  into what would not only please the listener but the artist as well.  When you listen to the album in its entirety you can really get a sense that this wasn't just thrown together but carefully crafted.  Each song shares a common thread that is carefully woven into a fine silk tapestry. 

This album will excite your visual taste buds.  Every character is unique with his/her own style.  It is not hard to imagine what a video for any of the 13 tracks might look like.  Its as if this album is a part of a bigger picture or maybe a larger compilation of music.  

I was really impressed by the quality of the music on this Cd, not only did I find myself tapping my toes but dancing about the house.  I don't own a lot of albums simply because there aren't generally enough tracks to warrant making a purchase that big.  I generally only  like a couple songs on a particular album but that is not the case with Faces.  I love every song.  I guess I'm a bit biased but I think I know what good music is when I hear it.  I am a fan of Madonna, Lady Gaga and Adele but I don't think I'd ever purchase one of their albums simply because there's only maybe one or two songs I really like on any one Cd.

Faces was released on Oct. 14, 2011.  It is definitely a favorite of mine as well as many other Thunderheads.  We know him as Neil Byrne but with the release of his debut solo Cd he's has become the personification of Pale Blue Jak.  This album is nothing like his Ep Sensitive Souls cause there are more characters to fall in love with as well as more interesting stories to be told this time around.

The first track on the album is "Captain Lane",  who comes and goes in the blink of an eye.  This character is unlike any I can imagine but he may come close to Captain Morgan in "Two Pina Coladas" by Garth Brooks.  Captian Lane is the alter ego for the shy guy but he's only interested in one night stands.  One day the guy finds a girl he likes, someone he'd like to see more of but she ends up pulling a Captain Lane on him, leaving before he wakes.  The moral of this song is you'll never be able to find true love as long as you rely on Captain Lane to help you out.  Here is a sneak peek at Captain Lane with Neil Byrne and Declan O'Donoghue. http://youtu.be/ct5CWzKLJf8

Second track is "Pale Blue Jak," usually the title of the Cd is one of the tracks on the album but I guess that Neil wanted to change things up a bit by creating a track for the brand name.  This track is very upbeat and uptempo. When you listen to this song you'll find yourself taping your foot as well as dancing about the room.  After listening to this song a few dozen times I see that Pale Blue Jak is a DJ/VJ at a local radio/TV station and  a singer is asking him to play their Cd again.  The song kinda reminds me of "Music" by Madonna.  In that song Madonna is asking the DJ to put on a record to dance to. In "Music" the DJ is at a club where as in "Pale Blue Jak" the DJ/VJ at a radio/TV station.  He mentions going from the TV to the radio which means he does a live music show on television maybe something like American Bandstand.

The third track on the album is "Grenade" which was originally recorded by Bruno Mars.  Track number seven, "Mr Blue Sky" was recorded first by Electric Light Orchestra and track 10, "Let Em In" was recorded by Paul McCartney.  These are the only tracks recorded by other artists prior to them appearing on this album.  Even though these three tracks that were originally recorded by someone else before, I think that Neil put his special touch on them, to make them in a way his own.   The other ten tracks are all originals which is great to see on an album of this caliber.  

Upon further research into this debut solo album by Neil Byrne a.k.a. Pale Blue Jak, I've found that you never know what this guy is thinking.  He isn't into really depressing or sad songs which are usually steeped in country music but then again there are songs like "Candlestick" and "A Life I Once Had" which causes you to take a step back and rethink the meaning of those songs. These are the kind of songs that have an air of perplexity about them, they are the songs that make you wonder what was he thinking.  I think you'll find quite a few songs that will cause you to have that reaction which is a good thing, I think.

I don't really want to give away too much of this album because the whole point to this blog is to get you interested enough to buy it.  The one major flaw in that argument is that it isn't available at any retail stores just yet but can only be acquired online either by purchasing the physical album itself or by downloading it directly to your computer.  I found that Amazon is definitely the best place to either purchase the CD or download all 13 tracks.  It will cost you $17.44 for the actual Cd or $8.99 for the download at Amazon.  There are other options at Amazon if you want to buy the tangible product but downloading seems to be the most economical option available.  It's also available for download on iTunes for $9.99. You can download it at eMusic.com for $5.99 when you become a member. It can also be purchased through Neil's website in the CDs and Limited Edition items with free postage to anywhere in the world.  http://www.neilbyrnemusic.com/limited-edition/

Before I end this post I need to thank those who gave me the inspiration to write such eloquent words that I am overwhelmed and somewhat speechless every time I read it. I know I've already got three other posts under my new name but this one just feels different.  Maybe I have a greater connection to this music. I'm not  really sure but I feel like this is my maiden post, my baby.  It's taken a little longer than I thought to finish this post about Pale Blue Jak - Faces but I definitely think it is worth the wait.  

I need to thank everyone from the Listening Lounge for Neil Byrne's Fans on Facebook, CT Fans as well as anyone who helped me during my hour of need.  I'd also like to thank everyone that contributed to this album, those whose talent has made this one terrific CD to listen to. I'd also like to thank those people who have always supported Neil.  


  

Ryan Kelly

IN TIME

On Oct. 11, 2010, In Time the break out solo Cd for Ryan Kelly of Celtic Thunder was released to much acclaim and success.  All the information in this blog is taken from either www.ryankellymusic.com or from www.facebook.com/RyanKellyMusicOfficial.

The first time I ever saw Ryan Kelly was on Detroit Public Television on Easter Sunday in 2011 when he appeared live in studio with fellow Celtic Thunder member,  George Donaldson. There was just something about this black haired blue eyed man I couldn't quite put my finger on.  Maybe it was those piercing blue eyes or was it something else?  I wouldn't find out until I did some more reading about Ryan Kelly.

I didn't know he had already released a solo Cd given the fact that I just became aware of Celtic Thunder in 2011.  I bought the Heritage Cd in late summer of 2011 before their concert in December.  I just started to explore YouTube to see what I could find from Celtic Thunder.  I even started going to the group's website and then one day I was reading a blog post that said Ryan was leaving the group. I think my heart stopped. I bet I wasn't the only one that felt that way.  Neil Byrne who was the lead guitarist joined the other lads as a performer taking over for Ryan who left unexpectedly.  Emmet Cahill joined the group in 2010, he took Paul Byrom's spot but wouldn't go on tour with the rest of the lads until 2011.

Then before the fall 2011 tour started it was announced Ryan would be returning and that Damian was leaving to do Glee.  There were lots of changes for 2011 but everything worked out.  Ryan was back that was all that mattered.  Now I was searching for Ryan Kelly on YouTube to see what I could find that's when I came across the Official video of "Not Far Apart."  The first time I listened to the video I cried, the second time I listened to it I cried.  This song just brings back memories of my grandma.  Though she's been gone for a while its still hard because she's not there anymore especially when she loved Christmas.  Loss is a terrible thing to experience and this song really speaks to that emotion. Here is the link for the video of "Not Far Apart."  http://youtu.be/y0AfdSgK9Mc

The next song on YouTube I found  was the fan video for "Broken Things" which is another sad song. This song is about a broken heart which I can relate to 100 percent, because I have had a broken heart as do a lot of other people who've listened to this CD.  This was one of the first songs Ryan sang from In Time at the Acoustic By Candlelight show, it was the song he'd received a lot of comments about. I'm pretty sure there isn't a fan of either Celtic Thunder or Ryan Kelly that hasn't experienced heart break.  Loss of a loved one is heart breaking but loss from a breakup is just as bad.  With so many broken hearts its no wonder this song is so popular even if it is sad.  Here is the link for the fan video for "Broken Things." This is the video that was uploaded by RKMusicLTD. There is another fan video for this song but its not as good.  http://youtu.be/vaw8qI-QB0o

After "Broken Things" there was "The Village That They Call The Moy" which features photos of Ryan's beloved Moy in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland.  I love this video because it gives you have a peek at the town Ryan holds so close in his heart. I know everyone that has seen that video can't wait for the chance to view The Moy for themselves.  This is one of four songs that have a uptempo beat, I could be wrong but then again I could be right.  Since it is not possible for me to put into words what this song means I'll just include the link to the YouTube video for you to enjoy.  http://youtu.be/duXXKPAJZ10

You can find just about all his music on YouTube with the exception of "Secret Bit of Right from Wrong" and "Heaven Bound."  Those seem to be two songs that fans haven't figure out how to create a video for.  I could post every link to all his songs but that would take up too much space besides I have much more to write about and I don't really want to cloud this blog with too many videos.  There seems to be only one official video for the song "Not Far Apart" and two fan videos that have been uploaded by RKMusicLTD, they are "In Too Deep" and "Broken Things."  If you want to check out any of the videos Ryan's fans have created just log into YouTube and search for the title of the song making sure to include the phrase "by Ryan Kelly" which will help narrow down the choices.

I only recently downloaded Ryan's CD In Time which I purchased from www.emusic.com which is available to members for $5.39.  At iTunes you can download In Time for $9.99.  You can purchase the actual CD from CdBaby via Amazon for $19.99 or just download it from Amazon for $8.99.  It is also available on Amazon from other suppliers in the US priced from $19.42 - 28.11 plus 2.98 shipping.  There are also 3 suppliers that ship from outside the US but be aware of import fees associated with making a purchase from them. Shop around to find the best deal especially if your just going to download it, you can still save some money.

Ryan Kelly is a gifted artist with many talents.  Lets not let his talents go to waste because with our support he can shine.  His music speaks to many of us, it comforts us in our time of need without it where would we be.  Personally I am willing to do anything to help him in his career, I'll write about him and I'll write about his music.  I'll sing his praises because he's the genuine article.  He is sincere and sweet and oh so suave.  He is the total package which is a rarity in the music business.  I've had the pleasure of meeting him twice once on Dec. 7, 2011 and once on May 11, 2012.  He is a perfect gentleman with his female fans who absolutely love him.  So please check out his Cd and the various videos on YouTube you won't be sorry.  I love In Time and wouldn't trade it for anything else.  I also have a signed copy of his Cd which I hold very close to my heart.

Please check out my other posts again you won't be sorry.

Update: In April of 2013, Ryan Kelly asked his fans to send in photos to help him create a special video for one of his songs from his debut album In Time.  Fans from all over the globe submitted their pictures helping to create a one of a kind video for the song, "Secret Bit of Right From Wrong"a video for the fan by the fans.  The following link is the end result that was posted on YouTube on May 5, 2013. http://youtu.be/9mn4SGx3EHI

Neil Byrne

Sensitive Souls - EP

This is my second new post since I've changed direction from what I'd previously blogged about.  Now I'm going to delve straight into the subject matter for which I am dedicating this blog to.  My first subject  is going to be Neil Byrne's EP - Sensitive Souls.  I started re-reading his bio again today to see what else I might say about him that isn't already known.  He is a sensitive soul there is no denying it.  He is true to his craft and deserves nothing but great success in his future endeavors.  However there is one thing he needs more than anything, he needs our support to get him over the hurdle that lies ahead of him.  In order to be a success you need to have fans willing to give you 110% of their time.  When we purchase his Cd's, merchandise and pay to see him perform live we are helping to further his dreams.

When I watch his videos on YouTube I'm mesmerized by his fingers and the way they move.  I know it sounds weird but I've always been intrigued by musicians that way.  Like the way Declan attacks the drums during Heartland.  The way his fingers move from one note to the next is very interesting.  I like paying attention to details like that which is why I've grown so attached to him as an artist.  His voice is very soothing to the ears and he's not to bad on the eyes either.  He has a way with words and is a very gifted songwriter as well as guitarist.  He was lucky that he didn't have to go through the audition process like the other lads in Celtic Thunder.  He was hired to do the the backing vocals in the studio for Phil Coulter's new show "Celtic Thunder" and  he would also be asked to be the guitar player for the production as well.  He is the complete package, a one man band with the talent and the skill to back it up.  His first venture outside of Celtic Thunder is a testament to his drive and ambition to be the best.

Sensitive Souls is his debut EP which was released on September 6, 2010  has 3 original songs and one song most everyone should be familiar with because it was originally recorded by Madonna as a dance track.  Sadie Jones and I is the first track on the Cd, Neil and his dad wrote the lyrics for it and he wrote the music.  It's an uptempo and lighthearted song about meeting a girl, going to work every morning and years down the road marrying this girl and having a family with her then reflecting on the whole thing.  Raoul and Her Ladyship is the second song on the Cd was co-written with Nichole Hudson. The third song is Truador which is an acoustic version of the song that was on his website.  The fourth song  is Cherish which has been reworked into a love song after the tempo was lowered.  I really can't do an introduction to Sensitive Souls the justice it deserves so I've added the actual introduction to the EP that Neil Byrne uploaded toYouTube. http://youtu.be/q702RhfsrSk.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

I absolutely love this Cd even though I only recently downloaded it from eMusic, I have seen several of  Neil's acoustic videos  plus the video of Sadie Jones which is really great and can be seen on YouTube.  I've listened to some of his music from his reverbnation page.  Once you get hooked your basically hooked for life.  He is good at drawing you in and keeping you there for the long haul.  I'll write more about Neil when I take a look at his solo Cd, Pale Blue Jak - Faces. Please check out Neil Byrne on Facebook and on YouTube.  He's definitely worth it.  I've had the pleasure of seeing him perform live as well as meeting him twice.  He's an absolute doll but next time I think I'll ask for a hug and give him a kiss.

Taking A New Direction

New Directions....

As the heading suggest I'm taking this blog on a new direction.  I've taken this blog on several unsuccessful journeys which have not gone as I would have like instead they just ended miserably.  I decided that I would devote this blog to promoting great music from Ireland.  

What does a girl in Michigan know about Irish music or even Irish musicians.  I know what I like and what I don't.  I was amazed at how many different bands that I like are from Ireland.  The band Snowpatrol is from Belfast in Northern Ireland and The Chieftains are from Dublin .  Celtic Thunder they are from the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland.  Gaelic Storm another great Irish band.  U2 another hugely successful band from Dublin, Ireland.  

The purpose of this blog is to promote the music of Neil Byrne and Ryan Kelly, who are current members of the group Celtic Thunder.  I think they need to get a little more exposure if they are to be successful in the United States and Canada.  I know they are probably more popular in North America and Australia then in their home country.  PBS has helped to a point but now its time to further the cause of great Irish musical talent.  I should probably include George Donaldson as well into the mix but alas he hasn't yet had a show in Michigan. 

On May 11, 2012 I had the opportunity to see Neil Byrne and Ryan Kelly perform live at the Old Shillelagh in Detroit, MI.  Acoustic by Candlelight, the name of their shows, was absolutely amazing there is no way to really sum up the experience of seeing them live.  If you have the opportunity to see their show it is well worth the money.   These shows are nothing like the Celtic Thunder shows because it is a more intimate setting where as the CT shows are grand productions.

Last December 7, 2011 I experienced my first Celtic Thunder concert.  I was blown away by the whole experience.  I loved every minute of it and wouldn't trade that memory for anything.  I'm not a regular concert goer because my past musical concert taste are rather dated so I was glad when I got to spend a night in the company of great Irish talent.  I didn't want to leave the vicinity of The Fox Theater in Detroit, MI without meeting the lads in person.  I didn't have the coveted meet&greet tickets from PBS but just regular main floor seats which were priced a bit cheaper than if I'd pledged for them through PBS.  

I've only recently downloaded Neil Byrne's EP - Sensitive Souls as well as his solo CD entitled Pale Blue Jak - Faces and Ryan Kelly's solo CD In Time.  I even downloaded Celtic Thunder's newest CD Voyage.  I hope that I'll be able to see them in Windsor, Ontario, Canada when they come to The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor on September 16, 2012.  

If you can get the opportunity to see Neil and Ryan live during one of their acoustic concerts or even when they start touring with Celtic Thunder.  I've posted the link to Ryan Kelly's blog for the Acoustic By Candlelight with the dates for all the shows and you might still have time to catch one before they leave for Ireland.

http://www.ryankellymusic.com/blog/acoustic-by-candlelight-may-2012/