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Muff UNPLUGGED launch with Cliona Hagan


It certainly wasn't your normal or average Tuesday night in Muff village. But it might well become such! Earlier tonight saw the first in a series of 'UNPLUGGED' music nights at the 'Visit Muff Liquor' visitor centre in the village.

Renowned singer Cliona Hagan and her husband Simon Sheerin played an acoustic set to a full house in the Muff Liquor home. Starting the night off in the 'For the Better' bar was Inishowen duo 'The Two Bucks'. These bucks never disappoint, and tonight was no exception. They served to whet the musical appetite of all there ahead of Cliona and Simon taking to the stage area around 8pm in the 'Main Room'. 

Having popped upstairs to the mezzanine area prior to the main gig I was very delighted to meet Cliona and Simon who were very excited to be playing this acoustic gig in our wee village. Both were so warm and friendly that they really did blend right in with our village life here in Muff. 

I have no shame in admitting that I am not a Country music fan, but on meeting Cliona and Simon I was really excited for what was to come. And they did NOT disappoint. 

As Cliona and Simon took to the stage/floor area, they told us (the jam packed room) that this was their 'first acoustic gig since the Facebook lives' during those Covid times. They both looked right at home and very comfortable as they embarked on the set. And what a set they did deliver. 

Cliona opened with a few of her own songs and followed with a selection from Dolly Parton, Shania Twain, Colin Rae, Erma Franklin, a selection of Irish favs and so much more. They even threw in some rock by Black Velvet, The Cranberries, pop from Belinda Carlisle, Cindy Lauper and a vast selection of artists. It was a night that every music genre lover could enjoy, and every single being in that Muff Liquor room did enjoy wholeheartedly. 

There was a real ease and sense of comfort tonight between the married duo. And there was a real love and admiration towards each other throughout. This really was an intimate, special, fun, and memorable night in our village. And it was made even more special as Cliona sang her new single which is out tomorrow, 'It's not There'. 

A huge thanks to Jodie Harkin, media promoter, who is bringing us these 'UNPLUGGED' nights and to 'The Muff Liquor Company', manager Clare, and all her staff for hosting. A huge shout out to staff member Donna who sang to every single song tonight - we shall await your debut solo Donna!!!

Cliona and Simon brought the night to a close with Tina Turner's 'The Best', and it was so apt as tonight really was 'the best' in Muff on a Tuesday night mid November. 

Cliona and Simon openly agreed that this was 'our favourite gig of all time'.  Guys thank you for coming to Muff and we promise we will try and get that 'lock in' at Muff Liquor next time.

Muff UNPLUGGED  will host Gary Gamble on Tuesday Dec. 9th. Tickets are available online via 'Eventbrite' and are already selling fast. Muff UNPLUGGED is fast becoming a much sought after night out. Book early to avoid disappointment. 

Jodie Harkin and Claire at Muff Liquor are helping put our wee village on that world music map for sure. Cheers ladies for a truly fabulous night. 


GMcC

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