With Shorelines is a new thematic recording by the Ennis-based singer and flautist Nuala Kennedy, which has received acclaim in national press at home & abroad, both for its musicianship & concept. It tells the story of a resilient seaborne heroine, who faces hardship & adversity. However, she surmounts her trials, embarking on a redemptive voyage towards success & prosperity — a rare narrative in the realm of traditional song! Nuala takes the album on tour, starting at the Mermaid Arts Centre Bray on March 30th, joined by the County Clare fiddle virtuoso Tara Breen (The Chieftains) and by the great Dublin guitarist Tony Byrne (Danú).

Nuala Kennedy who is originally from County Louth, but living in Ennis for several years, grew up playing traditional music in Dundalk often steps outside of that genre – she works with the well known American Indi-poet Bonnie Prince Billy (with whom she will tour Ireland/UK later this year) Norman Blake (Teenage Fanclub) and Mike Scott (The Waterboys) amongst others. She has also recorded improvised soundtracks to the hit TV series 'American Gods' while living in Los Angeles.

Speaking about the tour Nuala says "I can’t wait to bring the music of Shorelines to The Balor Arts Centre. It has been a long time brewing in my mind, and now the music is out there and alive, and developing further as we perform it. The theme delves into the role of women in traditional song, and by extension examines their place in society. With this tour we can shine a light on the work of some of our foremothers while also playing some great live music. Tara and Tony are internationally regarded players and have performed in huge venues around the world. Now we have the opportunity to perform together in trio for local venues across Ireland".

Nuala has also invited a special guest in each venue she plays on this national tour, and for the Balor Theatre concert she and the band will be joined by Altan's Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh

‘“Tales of fortitude and resilience, endurance and grit fuel this exceptional concept album from the singer, flute and whistle player and composer Nuala Kennedy". * * * THE IRISH TIMES

“Shorelines the fifth solo album from the Irish multi-instrumentalist is an exciting, inspiring and thoroughly enchanting listen.” * * * * * Songlines Magazine