Mick Mulvey, Shane Meehan and Pete Quinn

London audiences will know Mick Mulvey as an erstwhile of the London-Irish traditional music scene through the 70s, 80s and 90s, but he always maintained strong links with his Leitrim roots. His two acclaimed solo recordings; Within a Mile o ’Jamestown (2003) and Bridging the Gap (2009) – were both launched in Leitrim and at the Return to Camden Town Festival in London.

Shane Meehan grew up in Carrick-on-Shannon, starting off his musical journey with his grandfather, John, in Cootehall, Co. Roscommon. John’s passion for researching rare tunes was passed down to his grandson. Shane listened avidly to composers such as Charlie Lennon, Josephine Keegan, Ed Reavy, Joe Liddy, and Paddy Fahy. Major playing influences include the legendary Sligo fiddle players and the Leitrim musicians he grew up playing with, mainly in Cryan’s Teach Cheoil. Shane and Mick were both founder-members of The Moylurg Ceili Band, winners of the Senior Céilí Band in Derry in 2013.  In 2019 Shane’s debut solo album Twill Do – featuring 19 of his own compositions.

The new album from this duet, The Missing Guest, is a celebration of Leitrim’s musical heritage – a treasure trove of old and new tunes brought to life by these two outstanding musicians. Their deep understanding, respect and passion for the music of Leitrim and north Connacht shines through every track.

Liverpool-born pianist Pete Quinn has performed with some of the greats of traditional Irish music including Brendan McGlinchey, Bryan Rooney, Mary MacNamara, John Bowe and Mick O’Connor. He has featured as accompanist on a number of recordings including five albums with The London Lasses, plus solo albums from whistle player Peter McAlinden, fiddlers Karen Ryan and Seán Casey, and flute player Mick Mulvey.