Tracks Of My Years: Flo McSweeney

Playing at The Whale on Thursday, February 14th, as part of the Love Bites night, the somewhat legendary Flo McSweeney took time out to let us know all about the songs that can make her break down and cry. 

Over to you, Ms McSweeney…

I love a young band from Boston called Lake Street Dive – they do a fab version of the Jacksons’ I Want You Back. 

In my kitchen at home, I listen to all the jazz greats – Billie Holiday, Julie London, Nina Simone, etc – but, week to week, the music just keeps changing.

There’s a real joy in discovering something new, something you didn’t expect, but, at the same time, the comfort blanket of much-loved songs is one of the sweetest feelings in the world. 

And the fact that you can share that feeling with a roomful of people is pretty amazing.

Given that my musical tastes vary and are constantly changing, let’s go with what’s currently playing in my car…

Fleetwood Mac Second Hand News
Have never tired of listening to this album. I play it in the car on long journeys. Play it loud.

Carole King I Feel The Earth Move
The amazing Tapestry was released when I was in my late teens. I played it until I knew every song, every harmony. That was when I discovered that I could sing.

Steely Dan Babylon Sisters
Another great one for the car.

The Eagles Desperado
As a family, we used to drive to Cork, where my parents were from, and dad had this album on one of those huge cassette type players. This song reminds me of him.

kd lang Ingenue
She is one of my favourite singers… a voice like velvet.

David Bowie Hunky Dory
Who doesn’t love Bowie?!!! This reminds me of the beginning of my rebellious years!

You can check out Flo McSweeney, Carmel McCreagh and Fiachra Trench‘s Love Bites gig on Valentine’s Night at The Whale right here.