On behalf of all of us here at Dolans we wish to express our sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Brian Mulcahy who passed away on Friday.
Brian was a member of Limerick band The O’Malleys and was part of the Limerick music scene for almost half a century.
Brian played a key role in helping to create the unique sound for which the O’Malleys became known.
The O’Malleys have been great friends of Dolans since we opened in Limerick 25 years ago, ringing in the New Year here almost every year.
We were privileged to once again see Brian take to the stage when the O’Malleys launched their latest album Can You Hear Me at the Limetree Theatre earlier this year.
The O’Malleys started out as a three piece band playing a mix of country, blues and folk. They recorded an (E.P.) in Germany and were a main feature in the large folk scene across Europe.
They returned to Limerick and like Dylan went electric. The full band really gelled together with the legendary gigs in the Savoy.
Under the stewardship of Brendan Murray they began a comprehensive touring schedule of Ireland, playing all the main venues (Midnight at the Olympia, Whelan’s, Dolan’s, Lobby, Cork Concert Hall, The Waterfront).
They released ‘The O’Malleys, The Record’ which resulted in television appearances including The Late Late Show, Pat Kenny Show, Sunday Night at the Olympia, Brendan Grace Show and Shay Healy's Nighthawks weekly show. As the band got bigger, so did the tours – a memorable one across Europe in a red V.W. Van (God Bless it) as well as the States, England and Russia.
To his family, friends and bandmates we offer our deepest sympathies. Thank you Brian for the music, the memories and, most importantly, the laughs. You will not be forgotten.