In April 2020, myself and Dónal Dineen started putting out a podcast called Make Me an Island.
The culmination of many false starts and lengthy chats. The sense of looming apocalypse at the time was the perfect kick we needed. It began as an almost daily upload if I remember, and was a great panacea to the those weird days.
I’ve been a huge fan of Dónal’s since my Junior Cert. I’d say his show and John Kelly’s on just before it really defined my musical taste, and I suppose my love for radio too.. I had a whole process developed, and not the only person I’m sure; listening religiously, tape deck at the ready, recording anything that jumped out, and listening back over and over and over. I still remember so many of the transitions. You’d get the song title if you were lucky. Then into town at the weekend to Vibes&Scribes or Comet or Virgin armed with some new gems to hunt for.
Happy days…
I fell over when I met Dónal first in Sligo, back in 2007 I’d say, at the Model Niland I was there to film a gig for James Yorskston, another hero. Dónal forgot his bag heading back to Dublin the next day, and I was only delighted to bring it back for him… We filmed lots together over the next few years, along with the wonderful Hector Castells, Myles O’Reilly, and many others. Dónal’s radio days came to an end back around 2012, but his ability to seek out and shine lights on unsung musical corners of the country and further afield never faded.
As a fan, I think the Islands are a perfect new outlet for Donal. I’m so happy to hear his voice back on the air, guiding me through his unique musical whims, incredible conversations, and unexpected new musical adventures. And to be helping him make the show is my teenage self’s dream come true.
Episodes below, or subscribe here for free magic delivery to your own podcast app…
