Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Inni-K (Eithne Ní Chatháin) has released her fourth album, Still A Day, and undertakes a nationwide tour this October and November. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Released on Green Willow Records, Still A Day follows 2022's Iníon, which earned multiple RTÉ Folk Award nominations.
It features Inni-K on vocals, fiddle, keys, synthesizer and electric guitar) alongside Matthew Jacobson (drums and percussion) and Seán Mac Erlaine (woodwinds, programming, synthesizer).
Speaking about the album, she says, "Songs help. These songs really helped me - accompanied me through a very emotionally difficult time. I wrote this album because I needed to do more than anything.
"I suppose I hope a melody or a line, or a few words might catch listeners in a way that just helps or soothes or energizes. That would be great.
"I hope they might feel something of their own experience in coming through loss or challenges, and also the strength and joy that is inherent in us, even still, when the challenge in front of us is very unwelcome or the loss is very great."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
This year, I’ve had the great honour of being the Traditional Artist in Residence at University College Cork - exploring and sharing traditional music and song, and connecting with students and staff.
I’m a singer, songwriter, composer, fiddler - and I also tinker on piano, guitar, and a few other instruments.
My new album of original songs, Still A Day, is out now. It’s my fourth Inni-K album, and I’m really excited to bring it on the road with a 10-date Irish tour this October and November. There’s nothing like sharing new music live.
How would you describe your music?
I’ve been singing sean-nós since I was 11 and playing fiddle since I was four, so traditional music is in my bones. But I’m also driven by a need for personal expression, and I like to keep things open and free - so there’s a strong contemporary edge to what I do as well.
My last album, Iníon, was entirely sean-nós, though framed in contemporary arrangements. Still A Day is made up of completely original material. Earlier albums are a mix.
But it’s always about voice, a feeling or a mood, and melody for me - and beautiful arrangements; creating a space where emotion can be shared and felt.
Who are your musical inspirations?
It’s an almost impossible question - the list is inexhaustible. But here are a few who come to mind: Joni Mitchell, for the incredible, evolving arc of her career; Joe Heaney, for the remarkable wealth of songs he shared and left behind; Björk, for her bold imaginings and creativity; Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh, for his magic and beauty; Sinéad O’Connor, for her vulnerable and powerful voice - and her bravery; Nina Simone, for her greatness; Feist, for her beautiful, textured songs and voice; Tony MacMahon and Noel Hill playing together - magic!, Rachel Sermanni, Sam Amidon, Tune-Yards - and many, many more.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Radiohead in the RDS or The Eels in Crawdaddy, Dublin - I’m not sure which was first.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Damien Rice - O.
What’s your favourite song right now?
I’m kind of in love with Abandon Window by Jon Hopkins right now. It soothes me deeply.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Ceolta sí na cruinne bheadh de shíorchur im’ chluasa, ach ba bhinne liom géimneach na mbó ag teacht chun buaile" - roughly translated as, "the music of all the fairy people to be forever in my ears, but it’s the lowing of the cows going to milking that I’d prefer". Love it! (from the song Aililiú na Gamhna).
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That’s a tough prospect. I think I’d end up hating any song I loved if I had to listen to it forever! But if I had to pick one, it might be what I consider a perfect song: Who Knows Where the Time Goes by Sandy Denny.
Where can people find your music/more information?
People can find me via my website, Instagram @innikmusic, and Patreon. I’m also available on all streaming platforms, but I’d especially recommend checking out Bandcamp for my releases and the most direct support.
Alan Corr
