Like many of the greatest bands in history, the formation of Asgards was a combination of luck, (some bad luck), providence and being in the right place at the right time.
Where it all began… well, where to start?
Alison and Martin have known each other for a very long time. Martin and Pat (Alison’s dad) played together in many sessions in Dublin and a few overseas. Ali played Martin’s bride down the aisle… the favour was returned years later, but first
Fast forward to 2010, Wrights Anglers Rest in Chapelizod. Alison was reminiscing about tunes played there in the 1990’s with Barney Bowes and Tommy Walsh (Inisheer). Ollie the general manager had started managing the restaurant and was looking for some Irish musicians… “Do you know any?” A definite yes was the answer.
Many phone calls later Alison had drummed up some musical legends around Dublin to bring life back to what was a great musical pub in it’s time. Some members passed, some emigrated and many came through the doors on a Wednesday and Friday night. Mick was pals with Darragh De Brun (composer) pipes and whistles from their days in Milwalkee Folk Festival. Gerry Byrne (flute), Ali and Mick were getting really busy with weddings and agreed a name was in order.
After a restaurant launch in Howth named after the (in)famous gun-running ship it seemed to fit the adventurous nature of the band. Asgards were born. Sadly, not long after this our good friend Gerry passed away. Martin joined us and … the rest is just a small part of our very intriguing history.
Stay tuned for more…..