Acclaimed Cork singer-songwriter, John Spillane, to release album inspired by legend of the Lough 

Acclaimed Cork singer-songwriter John Spillane is set to release a new album inspired by the legend of the Lough.

Fíoruisce - The Legend of the Lough is a three-act Gaelic folk opera. The work is an imagined re-Gaelicisation of the Victorian Cork fairytale Fior-usga, collected by Thomas Crofton Croker in the 1800s and published in his book Fairy Legends and Traditions of the South of Ireland (1828).

The story is a surreal tale, culminating in a drowned kingdom, which, as lore tells us, becomes the Lough in Cork city.

Recorded at Wavefield Recordings in Clonakilty, the upcoming album features the voices of a host of other folk and sean nós singers, including Ríoghnach Connolly, Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin, Niamh Farrell and Nell Ní Chróinín.

Described by Spillane as his “magnum opus”, the project draws on his life-long dedication to storytelling, the Irish language and music.

“I’m so thrilled to present this album in honour of the Lough of Cork,” the singer said.

“The Lough is a hidden gem and a natural place of healing. Fíoruisce means springwater.

“This Gaelic folk opera has been a labour of love over many years... I’m thrilled with the singers on this record.

“I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed performing it.”

Fíoruisce - The Legend of the Lough, a folk opera by John Spillane, will be available on CD and digital, from Friday, September 13.

Spillane will launch the new album by unveiling a site-responsive art exhibition by artist Megan Clancy at the Lough on Sunday, September 15,at 4pm, followed by a listening party at MTU Cork School of Music.

Admission is free, however, booking is essential.

Booking is via Eventbrite: www.eventbrite.com/e/john-spillane-fioruisce-launch-tickets-936471540587?aff=oddtdtcreator.