CMP Special 19 - Damh the Bard Interview

News & Views

Overview of the Celtic Myth Podshow

Gary and Ruth - your Hosts!

We welcome all of our new listeners and guide them through how to find their way around the show. So far, we have completed the Irish Mythological Cycle (which starts at Episode 1 Gods in the Mist) and have started the Welsh Mabinogion with Episode 30 Restless Dreams. This episode completes the first story, or Branch, in the Mabinogi - Pwyll, Prince of Annwn.

We also mention that Special Shows (those starting with the prefix SP (SP01, SP02 etc.) will be found which contain modern stories, music, factual pieces and interviews about Celtic History, Music and Culture.

You can also find a Help Page that will help you with everything to do with Podcasts, subscribing and how to listen to each new show.

Names Used in this Story

Listed in order of appearance

• Teyrnon
• Gwri of the Golden Hair
• Pwyll
• Rhiannon
• Dyfed
• Arberth
• Gwent
• Ceffyl-Aur
• Annwn
• Calan Mai
• Beltane
• Pryderi ("Worry")
• Pendaran
• Gwri Gwallt Euryn
• Teyrnon Twerf Lliant
• Pwyll Pen Annwn
• Summerlands
• Ystrad Tywi
• Ceredigion
• Seisyllwch
• Bryn Caerau
• Casnar Wledig
• Gwyn Gophoyw
• Gloyw Walltlydan

Post-Roman Wales

This map shows the locations of the cantrefs of Ystrad Tewi and Ceredigion that Pryderi added to the realm of Dyfed. Those seven cantrefs were known as the Seisyllwch.

Promo - The CUUPS Podcast

Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans

The CUUPS Podcast

The Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans (CUUPS) is an organization dedicated to networking Pagan-identified Unitarian Universalists (UUs), educating people about Paganism, promoting interfaith dialogue, developing Pagan liturgies and theologies, and supporting Pagan-identified UU religious professionals.

Starting in January 2010 CUUPS began producing monthly Podcasts. These are approximately 45 minute long audio programs which bring together recorded material from a variety of sources. You can find the show in iTunes or listen/download the Podcast directly from the Libsyn website.

Music Welcome in Another Year

by Blanche Rowen & Mike Gulston

The Dance Goes On

This show was released at Samhain in 2015 so this song by the very talented Blanche Rowen and Mike Gulston is especially appropriate. Their album, The Dance Goes On, is an amazing treat with songs for each of the seasons of the year making it a joyous exploration of the Turning of the Wheel! You can find out more about Blanche & Mike on their website or on our Contributor Page.

Competition Results

In our last episode we set a competition by asking you if you could find out the name of Charlie Allan's dog.

Odin

Charlie is from Saor Patrol and the Duncarron medieval Village and his dog, Odin, can be frequently seen at events watching the Burgers cook!

The answer to the competition is: the dog's name is Odin and our lucky winner is Helen from the UK. It's on it's way to you, Helen - congratulations!

Listener Feedback

Marco

We play some lovely feedback from Marco from New Mexico. Marco asks about the old drinking habits and the hospitality of the ancient Celts. Ruthie did some research and came across two ancient recipes for beer that might interest him. You can find them at http://byo.com/hops/item/1537-two-ancient-brews ... just scroll to the bottom of the page. Please do let us know how they come out if any of you decide to try them! :)

Thank you so much Marco!

Sources used in this Episode

http://www.maryjones.us/jce/eufyd.html, Hyfaidd Hen as one of the Children of Don.

Mabinogi Study: Enlivening Y Mabinogi, Welsh Pronounciation for the Mabinogi

Places Mentioned in the First Branch, Fascinating website.

Bullfinch's Mythology, The Celts, section 8.

The Mabinogion, pp ix-xxxvi, 3-21, 227-232, Sioned Davies, Oxford, 2007, ISBN 978-0-19-283242

The Mabinogion, pp 9-41, 45-65, Jeffrey Gantz, Penguin, 1976, ISBN 0-14-044322-3

The Mabinogion, pp ix-xliv, 3-24, 275-278, Gwyn Jones & Thomas Jones, Dent & Dutton, 1977, ISBN 0-460-01097-2. Can also be found online at www.donaldcorrell.com

Pwyll Pendeuc Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, Mary Jones

Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1877, Sacred Texts

Notes to Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1877, Sacred Texts

The Mabinogion, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1849, Project Gutenberg

The Mabinogi of Pwyll, W. M. Parker, mabiongi.net. Notes at mabinogion.info

'The Lord of Dyfed', from Legends of the Celts, p.134ff, Frank Delaney, HarperCollins, 1991, ISBN 0-586-21151-9

Tales from the Mabinogion, Gwyn Thomas & Kevin Crossley-Holland, Gollancz, 1984, ISBN 0-575-03531-5

Celtic Myths & Legends, p.147ff, Michael Foss, Selectabook Ltd., 1998, ISBN 0-75252-402-X

Prince of Annwn, Evangeline Walton, Del Rey, 1974, ISBN 0-345-27060-6

Encyclopaedia of Celtic Wisdom, p.117, 156, Caitlin & John Matthews, Element, 1994, ISBN 1-85230-560-6

The Celts, p.211, Frank Delaney, Grafton, 1989, ISBN 0-586-20349-4

Women in Celtic Myth, Moyra Caldecott, Arrow, ISBN 0-09-955920-X

Celtic Heritage, p.41 ff, Alwyn & Brinley Rees, Thames & Hudson, 1978, ISBN 978-0500110089

Pagan Celtic Britain, p.288, Anne Ross, Constable, 1967, ISBN 0-09-472330-3

'Myth in the Mabiogion', from A Celtic Reader, p.151, John Matthews, Aquarian, ISBN 0-85030-935-2

Celtic Myths and Legends, p.356 ff, T. W. Rolleston, 1995, ISBN 978-1859580066

Celtic Folklore: Welsh & Manx Vol.2, pp 499ff, John Rhys, Wildwood House, 1980, ISBN 0-7045-0406-5

The White Goddess, p.215ff, Robert Graves, Faber, 1952

And, of course, the Awen - inspiration and imagination!

Additional Thanks

We also give thanks to Raincloud, battery Discharger, Jenga Lill and Ariel from the Druidic Craft of the Wise podcast for their superb reviews on iTunes!

Special Thanks

For Incidental Music

Kevin MacLeod, for String Impromptu Number 1, Not As It Seems, Water Prelude, & Minstrel Guild. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Bach Cello Suite 1, Beautiful, & Dark Days from Free Stock Music.

Jason Shaw for A Moment's Reflection, & Renaissance. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details

Adragante for Resonance 3 from Resonance. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Doc for Dancers in Mist from An Island of Joy. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Kubi for Siempre Contigo and Mystery Dungeon. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Therese Schroeder-Sheker for her track Longing from Rosa Mystica. See her website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Diane Arkenstone The Secret Garden. See her Contributor page for details.

Kim Robertson The Hangman's Noose. See her Contributor page for details.

Jigger Time Ticks Away. See her Contributor page for details.

For our Theme Music

The Skylark and Haghole, the brilliant Culann's Hounds. See their Contributor page for details.

Extra Special Thanks for Unrestricted Access to Wonderful Music

(in Alphabetic order)

Anne Roos Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of her masterful music to Anne Roos. You can find out more about Anne on her website or on her Contributor page.

Caera Extra Special thanks go for permission to any of her evocative harping and Gaelic singing to Caera. You can find out more about Caera on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Celia Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of her wonderful music to Celia Farran. You can find out more about Celia on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Damh the Bard Extra Special thanks go to Damh the Bard for his permission to use any of his music on the Show. You can find out more about Damh (Dave) on his website or on his Contributor page.

The Dolmen Extra Special thanks also go to The Dolmen, for their permission to use any of their fantastic Celtic Folk/Rock music on the Show. You can find out more about The Dolmen on their website or on our Contributor page.

Keltoria Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of their inspired music to Keltoria. You can find out more about Keltoria on their website or on their Contributor page.

Kevin Skinner Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of his superb music to Kevin Skinner. You can find out more about Kevin on his website or on his Contributor page.

Phil Thornton Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of his astounding ambient music to the Sonic Sorcerer himself, Phil Thornton. You can find out more about Phil on his website or on his Contributor Page.

S.J. Tucker Extra Special thanks go to Sooj for her permission to use any of her superb music. You can find out more about Sooj on her website or on her Contributor page.

Spiral Dance Extra Special thanks go for permission to use Adrienne and the band to use any of their music in the show. You can find out more about Spiral Dance on their website or on their Contributor page.

We'd like to wish you 'Hwyl fawr!', which is Welsh for Goodbye and have fun, or more literally Wishing a Good Mood on you!

The Giant's Rest

Wilmington, East Sussex

The Giant's Rest Pub

We meet the guys at the fabulous 'Giant's Rest' pub in Wilmington, East Sussex on their 2014 UK tour. The pub has awards for being the most Druid-Friendly pub in Sussex!

The Holly Lord

from Woman of the Earth

Woman of the Earth

One of Spiral Dance's earliest albums, 'Woman of the Earth' is where Celtic folk rock meets pagan inspired tales of magick, myth and legend. It contains not only Holly Lord, but the Goddess and the Weaver, Into the Green, Hour of the Wytch, the title track - Woman of the Earth - and others. It is now sadly out of print but can be found as a digital download at CD Baby or Soundclick. One of our favourite albums.

Spiral Dance Band Members

The Band

The band was formed in 1992 as a project to explore some of the more mystical elements in life and has drawn its energy from the song-writing and vocal skills of Adrienne Piggott. Adrienne’s haunting lyrics are supported by Nick’s driving guitar work and Paul’s innovative accordion lines.

Adrienne Piggott

Adrienne hails from an immigrant family and grew up surrounded by stories and songs from Ireland and the British Isles that were part of every day life, ensuring her love of the music, legends and traditions from these cultures.

She began singing in pub sessions in her late teens and early twenties, then went on to sing in a cappella groups and folk bands. Her interest in the occult and magic led to the creation of the band Spiral Dance - her ‘dream child’- a passionate union of her voice and song writing gifts.

Adrienne has won awards for her vocal talents and wordsmith skills and has written most of the songs that appear on the Spiral Dance albums. [source]

Nick Carter

Nick had always wanted to play guitar for as long as he can remember and says he would still love to know how to play. He started playing in his early 20s for fun and had a passion for rock and blues, Eric Clapton being the main influence. The blues was followed with lead guitar and a very short stint of heavy metal. He auditioned for Spiral Dance in late-1996, an ordeal that consisted of playing all the songs from the bands first album (Woman of the Earth) and then a live gig two days later!

And the best thing about being in the band? "The biggest thrill when playing live is watching the audience singing the words back to us, whether it is a gig in Australia or overseas!" [source]

Paul Gooding

Paul is one of the leading exponents of the button accordion in Australia, his skilled honed in the folk clubs and festivals of his native England. He moved to Australia in 1998 and joined Spiral Dance in 2000, bringing with him his love of English folk ballads and passion for European dance tunes.

In 2009, he was very proud to win "Most Outstanding Instrumentalist" at the South Australian Folk Awards. [source]

The Gathering

from 'Over the Nine Waves'

Over the Nine Waves

Over the Nine Waves was originally a song cycle featuring narration and songs. The narrative tracks and album artwork are available free at www.spiraldance.com.au. Based securely in Irish Myth, this album contains 10 superb tracks by Spiral Dance as well as some enchanting narration by Vince Brophy.

Tales told with song and narration of the legendary characters from the Irish Mythological and Ulster Cycles, which are the oldest surviving prose in western literature, memorised as they happened and handed down from generation to generation by bards before the introduction of literacy. You can still get this album from Soundclick with the narrative tracks as a free download directly from Spiral Dance.

Willyaroo, South Australia

Adrienne mentions the town of Willyaroo which is near Adelaide in South Australia. We had to look this one up to get the right spelling for you! She also mentions the terrible injustices that the White Man inflicted upon the aboriginal tribes,in particular, the Peramangk.

Damh the Bard and Cerri Lee

& 'Oscar' the Dog

Damh and Cerri

We are joined for a surprise appearance by Damh the Bard, Cerri Lee and Oscar the Dog!

'Oscar'

Fae Dance & Through a Sylvan Doorway

from 'Through a Sylvan Doorway'

Through a Sylvan Doorway

Two tracks from the seminal work in the Spiral Dance discography. A fine collection of songs & tunes, pagan rhythms and folk ditties, all set in the latest and brightest, unique Spiral Dance double album.

Wickerman & the English Ale Festival

Wickerman

The Wicker Man burning at the English-Ale festival in Mylor, South Australia this year, 2015. The English Ale ('Ale' meaning singing, dancing and making merry) is a seasonal gathering to celebrate the historic customs of England. Free events include masked torchlit giants procession, bonfire, Morris dancing, Punch and Judy, traditional music, Beating The Bounds and more

The Burning Wickerman at Mylor

As the English Ale Festival website says: The first of our winter rains has come; in the Adelaide Hills the creeks and streams trickle and begin to run, the European trees have lost their leaves and the beautiful eucalypts shimmer in the early winter sunshine. The seasons are changing.

Promo - Christy Jackson Nicholas

Books by Christy Jackson Nicholas

Ireland: Mythical, Magical & Mystical - Do you find yourself drawn to the magic of the Emerald Isle? Would you like to see places beyond the typical tourist traps? Come, join me on a journey through the mists of legend, into the hidden places of mystery. Immerse yourself in the legends and myths, the history that has made this island precious in the hearts and minds of millions.

Scotland: Stunning, Strange & Secret - Immerse yourself in the legends and myths, the history that has made this island precious in the hearts and minds of millions. Along with the tales and history, there is practical information on planning your trip, budgeting your costs, and finding the best places to while away the magical hours of your holiday.

Christy Jackson Nicholas can be found on Facebook, on her website or her blog. Ireland: Mythical, Magical & Mystical can be obtained from Tigearr Publishing here, and Scotland: Stunning, Strange & Secret can be obtained here.

To Finish Off!

Meal at ‘The Happy Dragon’

Another occasion saw us all at the Happy Dragon - our favourite Chinese restaurant. You'll see Ruthie and Gary, Spiral Dance (Adrienne, Nick & Paul), Damh the Bard, Cerri Lee and Josh. A grand time and super nosh to boot!

Thanks again to Adrienne, Nick and Paul of Spiral Dance, Damh the Bard, Cerri Lee, Josh and 'Oscar' for taking part in our 'Pint and a Chat'!

We hope you enjoyed the show and we look forward to more of these wonderful 'chats' in the future! We'd like to wish you many, many blessings!

Extra Special Thanks for Unrestricted Access to Wonderful Music

(in Alphabetic order)

Anne Roos

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of her masterful music to Anne Roos. You can find out more about Anne on her website or on her Contributor page.

Caera

Extra Special thanks go for permission to any of her evocative harping and Gaelic singing to Caera. You can find out more about Caera on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Celia

Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of her wonderful music to Celia Farran. You can find out more about Celia on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Damh the Bard

Extra Special thanks go to Damh the Bard for his permission to use any of his music on the Show. You can find out more about Damh (Dave) on his website or on his Contributor page.

The Dolmen

Extra Special thanks also go to The Dolmen, for their permission to use any of their fantastic Celtic Folk/Rock music on the Show. You can find out more about The Dolmen on their website or on our Contributor page.

Keltoria

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of their inspired music to Keltoria. You can find out more about Keltoria on their website or on their Contributor page.

Kevin Skinner

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of his superb music to Kevin Skinner. You can find out more about Kevin on his website or on his Contributor page.

Phil Thornton

Extra Special Thanks go for permisssion to use any of his astounding ambient music to the Sonic Sorcerer himself, Phil Thornton. You can find out more about Phil on his website or on his Contributor Page.

S. J. Tucker

Extra Special thanks go to Sooj for her permission to use any of her superb music. You can find out more about Sooj on her website or on her Contributor page.

Spiral Dance

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use Adrienne and the band to use any of their music in the show. You can find out more about Spiral Dance on their website or on their Contributor page.

Names Used in this Story

Listed in order of appearance

• Pwyll
• Rhiannon
• Hevaidd Hen
• Dyfed
• Arberth
• Gwent
• Prydain
• Hafren
• Cantref
• Gwent Is Coed
• Teyrnon
• Teyrnon Twryf Lliant
• Silures
• Gruffydd ap Llewelyn
• Delwyn
• Beltane
• Calan Mai
• Gwri Gwallt Euryn

Teyrnon fighting against the Sea-Monster

From: The Mabinogion (Lady Charlotte Guest)

Teyrnon (Pedair Cainc) From: darlun o'r gyfrol Chwedlau Cymru Fu, Merthyr Tudful 1906: llun gan Anatiomaros

Pre-Roman Wales

The Map, circa 40 AD, shows the territiories occupied by the Brythonic tribes at the time. Our story takes place in Dyfed which is in Demetian lands.

By this time it was approximately 200 years after the death of Gruffydd ap Llewelyn, whom Gary wrongly calls Gruffyd ap Llewellyn in the Show. In 1056, he won another victory over an English army near Glasbury. Now a true King of Wales, he claimed sovereignty over the whole of Wales. By the 13th Century, the South was ruled by the Marcher Lords and the indigenous Brythonic Welsh who had retreated into the (Green) North of Wales. Later in the Mabinogi our stories tell us more about this area.

Political Lanscape of Post-Roman Wales

Listener Feedback

Ben

We play some lovely feedback from Ben in Adelaide, Australia. Thank you so much Ben!

Competition

Duncarron Medieval Village

The Lads of Saor Patrol

Do you fancy winning a fantastic Hoodie in XXL size from the Duncarron Medieval Village run by the Clanranald Trust for Scotland Charity and Saor Patrol? If so, then read on for more details about them and listen to the end of the show for how you can enter! The Clanranald Trust is currently building a full-scale replica of an early Medieval Fortified Village. This will be typical of the Scottish Clan Chief’s residence throughout the earlier part of the last millennium.

Our Prize - The Duncarron Hoodie!

Promo - Story Archaeology Podcast

Story Archaeology Podcast

Story Archaeology combines the breadth of knowledge and skills of the storyteller with academic exploration of ancient texts. We focus on the Irish tradition, peeling back the layers of modern folklore to unearth the potsherds and treasuries of our heritage. On StoryArchaeology.com, you will find regular podcasts and articles about Irish Mythology by the Story Archaeologists, Chris Thompson and Isolde Carmody. You can find the show in iTunes or listen/download the Podcast directly from the Story Archaeology website.

Music - Blessings of Beltane

by Cernunnos Rising

Nature’s Child

The beautiful and ethereal version of Blessings of Beltane that could originally be heard on their album, Wild Soul, has been re-mixed to include the lovely vocals of Carla Lewis and the beautiful harmonies of Katie Nicholas in the new track Beltane. This track is the first that we have played from their latest album which will be available on July 1st, Nature's Child, and you can find out more about Cernunnos Rising on their website or on our Contributor Page.

Additional Thanks

We also give thanks to AFS Fish, Natty Lizard King and John 7 Ash for their superb reviews on iTunes!

Special Thanks

For Incidental Music

Kevin MacLeod, for Peaceful Desolation. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Heroic Struggle from Free Stock Music.

Jason Shaw for Antartica. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details

Densle for Dragon's Breath from Elatheria. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Kubi for Siempre Contigo. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Diane Arkenstone The Secret Garden. See her Contributor page for details.

Kim Robertson The Hangman's Noose. See her Contributor page for details.

Jigger Time Ticks Away. See her Contributor page for details.

For our Theme Music

The Skylark and Haghole, the brilliant Culann's Hounds. See their Contributor page for details.

Extra Special Thanks for Unrestricted Access to Wonderful Music

(in Alphabetic order)

Anne Roos Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of her masterful music to Anne Roos. You can find out more about Anne on her website or on her Contributor page.

Caera Extra Special thanks go for permission to any of her evocative harping and Gaelic singing to Caera. You can find out more about Caera on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Celia Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of her wonderful music to Celia Farran. You can find out more about Celia on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Damh the Bard Extra Special thanks go to Damh the Bard for his permission to use any of his music on the Show. You can find out more about Damh (Dave) on his website or on his Contributor page.

The Dolmen Extra Special thanks also go to The Dolmen, for their permission to use any of their fantastic Celtic Folk/Rock music on the Show. You can find out more about The Dolmen on their website or on our Contributor page.

Keltoria Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of their inspired music to Keltoria. You can find out more about Keltoria on their website or on their Contributor page.

Kevin Skinner Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of his superb music to Kevin Skinner. You can find out more about Kevin on his website or on his Contributor page.

Phil Thornton Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of his astounding ambient music to the Sonic Sorcerer himself, Phil Thornton. You can find out more about Phil on his website or on his Contributor Page.

S.J. Tucker Extra Special thanks go to Sooj for her permission to use any of her superb music. You can find out more about Sooj on her website or on her Contributor page.

Spiral Dance Extra Special thanks go for permission to use Adrienne and the band to use any of their music in the show. You can find out more about Spiral Dance on their website or on their Contributor page.

Sabbat by Damh the Bard

Damh the Bard

Damh tells us that this is an old traditional English folk Song, which has elements of a Scarborough Faire and another song, called Elfin Lover. The songs have become merged over the years.

Names Used in this Story

Listed in order of appearance

• Pwyll
• Dyfed
• Rhiannon
• Wales
• Pendaran
• Cantrefs
• Cantrevs
• Arberth
• Preseleu
• True Companions
• Delwyn
• Annwn
• Fae/Fey
• Ceryss
• Calan Mai
• Bychan

Map of Pre-Roman Wales

The Map, circa 40 AD, shows the territories occupied by the Brythonic tribes at the time. Our story takes place in Dyfed which is in Demetian lands.

Listener Feedback

Chris

St. Piran's Cross

We had a great question from Chris in South Australia about Celtic tattoos, specifically about any that are Cornish in nature. As we say in the show, there aren't many original and ancient designs from Cornwall. There are a few books that may help with more general Celtic knotwork or art. We recommend having a look at:-

• Celtic Art: The Methods of Construction by George Bain
• Art of the Celts: From 700 B.C. to the Celtic Revival World of Art by Lloyd Laing
• Gaelic Tattoos: Top 50 Irish Gaelic Tattoo Ideas Book
• The Celtic Design Book - Aidan Meehan

We suggested either using a variant of St. Piran's Cross or a form of the Piskie - the little pixie unique to Cornwall. We have images of both (and the Tintagel Labyrinth) below.

Field Piskie by Josee Saurus

The Tintagel Labyrinth from the Cornish Store

Promo - Live Wire! Podcast Radio - Savvy

Live Wire! Podcast Radio

We think we've found Chris' podcast for you. He calls himself Savvy and showcases superb music on his Radio Podcast. You will not come across a finer Multi-Skilled Producer then SAVVY!! Skilled in Audio, New Media and Television Production techniques, Savvy has been a professional in the entertainment industry for the past 12 years in various markets from Live audio and sound design to music production and Television. He also does new media works which also involves video and editing. Join the sav each week on Live Wire! Podcast Radio. You can also email him - chrisontheradio@hotmail.com

Lindsey Stirling

We used the beginning of one of his superb shows (the amazing episode featuring Lindsey Stirling!) as a Promo for his Radio Podcast. Make sure you go and listen at Live Wire! Podcast Radio. Lindsey Stirling is well known as breaking the mould with her rocking violin and astoundly energetic stage shows! Find out more about Lindsey on her website.

Music - Sabbat

Damh the Bard

Sabbat

Sabbat, the opening track on the album, is a rousing song about the eight seasonal festivals of the year (known as sabbats to Wiccans). Whether in Druidry or in Wicca, or in our distant past these times of the year are special to the Old Gods. Damh celebrates these great community celebrations with this superb song. Make sure you check out Damh's new album and where to get it on his website or on our Contributor Page. He has also made a video about his feelings for this song (as well as the others on the album) which you can find on YouTube.

Additional Thanks

Kristoffer Hughes

We'd like to send out a shout of thanks to Kristoffer Hughes for his help with some of the Welsh language used in this episode. Kris Hughes is a native Welsh speaker, born to a Welsh family in the mountains of Snowdonia in 1971. He lives on the Island of Anglesey, Wales, the ancestral seat of the British Druids. His love of Celtic literature and traditions guided his path into the exploration and practice of Celtic paganism. He is the founder and Head of the Anglesey Druid Order and studies with the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids.

Badge of the A.D.O.

In 2012 he was awarded the Mount Haemus Scholarship for original research in Druidism and related subjects. Kristoffer frequently presents workshops and lectures throughout the United Kingdom. His love of Celtic heritage and culture caused him to pen his first book "Natural Druidry" in 2007 and he is currently writing for Llewellyn Worldwide publications in the USA. [source]

Huge Thanks to Special Guest Actors

Damh the Bard

Damh the Bard

Damh, taking on the role of Gwawl and other parts in the second half of our re-telling of the First Branch, is a musical storyteller who works within the world of myth that cannot be proved; where the Faerie really do dance on Midsummer's Eve, where the trees talk, and the Hollow Hills take you into the realms of Annwn. Where the Goddess rides her horse, guiding you to magic, and the Horned God of old calls us from the shadows of the Greenwood.

You can find out more about Damh and his work on his website at paganmusic.co.uk or on our Contributor page.

Cerri Lee

Cerri Lee

Cerri Lee, playing the role of Rhiannon, is a multi-talented visonary artist who can turn her hand to almost anything creative. She is inspired by nature, and the ancient Pagan myths and legends of many cultures, her beliefs as a modern day Druid as well as those around her. Cerri is equally in her element when she is up to her elbows in clay or painting one of her fabulous pictures. She is partner to Druid musican and long-time supporter of our show, Damh the Bard and can be found supporting him at many of his performances.

Emma Doubleday

Emma Doubleday

Our dear friend, Emma, is an Essex girl, born and bred. As an actress and artist of some renown, we are privileged to feature her voice talents on this show as one of Rhiannon's Hand-maidens. Check out her work and biography on her Contributor Page.

Extra Special Thanks to Show Friends

Kevin Skinner

Kevin Skinner

We are very proud to feature another dear friend, Kevin Skinner in this show as he sets the mood for the beginning of our story with his beautiful track At the Gates of Dinas Afferon from his album Fire Walk With Me. You can find out more about Kevin's wonderful music and services on his website or more details on his Contributor Page.

Our Sources for the Episode

Places Mentioned in the First Branch, Fascinating website.

Bullfinch's Mythology, The Celts, section 8.

The Mabinogion, pp ix-xxxvi, 3-21, 227-232, Sioned Davies, Oxford, 2007, ISBN 978-0-19-283242

The Mabinogion, pp 9-41, 45-65, Jeffrey Gantz, Penguin, 1976, ISBN 0-14-044322-3

The Mabinogion, pp ix-xliv, 3-24, 275-278, Gwyn Jones & Thomas Jones, Dent & Dutton, 1977, ISBN 0-460-01097-2. Can also be found online at www.donaldcorrell.com

Pwyll Pendeuc Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, Mary Jones

Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1877, Sacred Texts

Notes to Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1877, Sacred Texts

The Mabinogion, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1849, Project Gutenberg

The Mabinogi of Pwyll, W. M. Parker, mabiongi.net. Notes at mabinogion.info

'The Lord of Dyfed', from Legends of the Celts, p.134ff, Frank Delaney, HarperCollins, 1991, ISBN 0-586-21151-9

Tales from the Mabinogion, Gwyn Thomas & Kevin Crossley-Holland, Gollancz, 1984, ISBN 0-575-03531-5

Celtic Myths & Legends, p.147ff, Michael Foss, Selectabook Ltd., 1998, ISBN 0-75252-402-X

Prince of Annwn, Evangeline Walton, Del Rey, 1974, ISBN 0-345-27060-6

Encyclopaedia of Celtic Wisdom, p.117, 156, Caitlin & John Matthews, Element, 1994, ISBN 1-85230-560-6

The Celts, p.211, Frank Delaney, Grafton, 1989, ISBN 0-586-20349-4

Women in Celtic Myth, Moyra Caldecott, Arrow, ISBN 0-09-955920-X

Celtic Heritage, p.41 ff, Alwyn & Brinley Rees, Thames & Hudson, 1978, ISBN 978-0500110089

Pagan Celtic Britain, p.288, Anne Ross, Constable, 1967, ISBN 0-09-472330-3

'Myth in the Mabiogion', from A Celtic Reader, p.151, John Matthews, Aquarian, ISBN 0-85030-935-2

Celtic Myths and Legends, p.356 ff, T. W. Rolleston, 1995, ISBN 978-1859580066

Celtic Folklore: Welsh & Manx Vol.2, pp 499ff, John Rhys, Wildwood House, 1980, ISBN 0-7045-0406-5

The White Goddess, p.215ff, Robert Graves, Faber, 1952

http://www.maryjones.us/jce/eufyd.html, Hyfaidd Hen as one of the Children of Don.

Mabinogi Study: Enlivening Y Mabinogi, Welsh Pronounciation for the Mabinogi

And, of course, the Awen - inspiration and imagination!

Special Thanks

For Incidental Music

Kevin Skinner, for At The Gates of Dinas Afferon from Fire Walk With Me. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Zero Project, for Darkness Falls from Gothic. See his Contributor Page for more details.

Kevin MacLeod, for Pepper's Theme, End of the Era and Anguish. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Tactical Warfare, Top of the World and Espionage from Free Stock Music.

Theresa Schroeder-Sheker for Ma Navu from Rosa Mystica. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Diane Arkenstone The Secret Garden. See her Contributor page for details.

Kim Robertson The Hangman's Noose. See her Contributor page for details.

Jigger Time Ticks Away. See her Contributor page for details.

For our Theme Music

The Skylark and Haghole, the brilliant Culann's Hounds. See their Contributor page for details.

Extra Special Thanks for Unrestricted Access to Wonderful Music

(in Alphabetic order)

Anne Roos Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of her masterful music to Anne Roos. You can find out more about Anne on her website or on her Contributor page.

Caera Extra Special thanks go for permission to any of her evocative harping and Gaelic singing to Caera. You can find out more about Caera on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Celia Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of her wonderful music to Celia Farran. You can find out more about Celia on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Damh the Bard Extra Special thanks go to Damh the Bard for his permission to use any of his music on the Show. You can find out more about Damh (Dave) on his website or on his Contributor page.

The Dolmen Extra Special thanks also go to The Dolmen, for their permission to use any of their fantastic Celtic Folk/Rock music on the Show. You can find out more about The Dolmen on their website or on our Contributor page.

Keltoria Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of their inspired music to Keltoria. You can find out more about Keltoria on their website or on their Contributor page.

Kevin Skinner Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of his superb music to Kevin Skinner. You can find out more about Kevin on his website or on his Contributor page.

Phil Thornton Extra Special Thanks go for permisssion to use any of his astounding ambient music to the Sonic Sorcerer himself, Phil Thornton. You can find out more about Phil on his website or on his Contributor Page.

S.J. Tucker Extra Special thanks go to Sooj for her permission to use any of her superb music. You can find out more about Sooj on her website or on her Contributor page.

Spiral Dance Extra Special thanks go for permission to use Adrienne and the band to use any of their music in the show. You can find out more about Spiral Dance on their website or on their Contributor page.

We'd like to wish you 'Hwyl fawr!', which is Welsh for Goodbye and have fun, or more literally Wishing a Good Mood on you!

Names Used in this Story

Listed in order of appearance

• Pwyll
• Hevaydd Hen
• Gwawl
• Rhiannon
• Delwyn
• Fae Ones/Fey Ones
• Dyfed
• Arberth
• Ceryss
• Caer Hevaydd
• Bryn Caerau
• River Sea-Voice
• Ceredigion
• Powys
• Gwynedd
• Pendaran
• Plant Cael
• Plentyn
• Changeling
• Awen

Locations Visited in this Episode

The Court of Hefaydd Hen

The Court of Hefeydd Hen (or Hyfaidd Hen) is of unknown location, but, according to the Mabinogion, certainly not in Dyfed.

But according to some other traditions, Hefeydd was the first King of Dyfed. Gorsedd Arberth was his burial place and also the entrance to Annwn. Is this the enchanted castle we shall see in the third Branch?

A hero called Hefeydd Hir is found in the 6th century epic poem Y Gododdin (composed by a Briton named Aneurin who lived in a land which is now part of Scotland). In the second Branch of the Mabinogion he appears as one of the Seven Knights, King Hefeydd of Dyfed who died in 892 etc. Hefeydd was a common name in Mediaeval Wales.

Medieval Wales, showing the Kingdom of Gwent

Listener Feedback

Timothy

We send thanks to Timothy from Finland for his greeting and play a wonderful chant based on the Song of Amergin sent in to us by our long-time friend, Inish.

Music - Wickerman

Spiral Dance

Wickerman

Wickerman – a song to celebrate our annual English Ale held in the beautiful Adelaide Hills town of Mylor. We honour many of the customs of our English Ancestors; Morris dancing, hobby horses, blackened faced guisers, the fiery torch lit procession with our pageant giants and the burning of the Wickerman. Our ritual celebrates the turning of the year after harvest and honours the old gods, ancestors and spirits of the land as we move into the darker time – the time of the Crone. Find out more about Spiral Dance and where to get hold of this superb track on their Contributor Page.

Huge Thanks to Special Guest Actors

Damh the Bard

Damh the Bard

Damh, taking on the role of Gwawl and other parts in the second half of our re-telling of the First Branch, is a musical storyteller who works within the world of myth that cannot be proved; where the Faerie really do dance on Midsummer's Eve, where the trees talk, and the Hollow Hills take you into the realms of Annwn. Where the Goddess rides her horse, guiding you to magic, and the Horned God of old calls us from the shadows of the Greenwood.

You can find out more about Damh and his work on his website at paganmusic.co.uk or on our Contributor page.

Cerri Lee

Cerri Lee

Cerri Lee, playing the role of Rhiannon, is a multi-talented visionary artist who can turn her hand to almost anything creative. She is inspired by nature, and the ancient Pagan myths and legends of many cultures, her beliefs as a modern day Druid as well as those around her. Cerri is equally in her element when she is up to her elbows in clay or painting one of her fabulous pictures. She is partner to Druid musician and long-time supporter of our show, Damh the Bard and can be found supporting him at many of his performances.

You can see a gallery of Cerri's artist work on our website at Cerri's Gallery and you can find out more about Cerri and her work on her website on cerrilee.com or on our Contributor Page.

Extra Special Thanks to Show Friends

Phil Thornton

Phil Thornton

We are proud to feature Phil in this show as leads us in our celebrations with the wonderful track Desert Rhythm (Fallahi Rhythm) from his album, Eternal Egypt. You can find out more about Phil's wonderful music and services on his website or more details on his Contributor Page.

Portcullis

Portcullis

A special thank you to Jason, Sue and Haydon for the wonderful courtly sounds of Portcullis playing The Lovers and Hare in the Barley from their brand-new album, Forever... And A Day that can be heard as the Minstrels playing at the courts in this episode. You can find out more about Portcullis on their website or on their Contributor Page.

Our Sources for this Episode

Places Mentioned in the First Branch, Fascinating website.

Bullfinch's Mythology, The Celts, section 8.

The Mabinogion, pp ix-xxxvi, 3-21, 227-232, Sioned Davies, Oxford, 2007, ISBN 978-0-19-283242

The Mabinogion, pp 9-41, 45-65, Jeffrey Gantz, Penguin, 1976, ISBN 0-14-044322-3

The Mabinogion, pp ix-xliv, 3-24, 275-278, Gwyn Jones & Thomas Jones, Dent & Dutton, 1977, ISBN 0-460-01097-2. Can also be found online at www.donaldcorrell.com

Pwyll Pendeuc Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, Mary Jones

Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1877, Sacred Texts

Notes to Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1877, Sacred Texts

The Mabinogion, Lady Charlotte Guest, 1849, Project Gutenberg

The Mabinogi of Pwyll, W. M. Parker, mabiongi.net. Notes at mabinogion.info

'The Lord of Dyfed', from Legends of the Celts, p.134ff, Frank Delaney, HarperCollins, 1991, ISBN 0-586-21151-9

Tales from the Mabinogion, Gwyn Thomas & Kevin Crossley-Holland, Gollancz, 1984, ISBN 0-575-03531-5

Celtic Myths & Legends, p.147ff, Michael Foss, Selectabook Ltd., 1998, ISBN 0-75252-402-X

Prince of Annwn, Evangeline Walton, Del Rey, 1974, ISBN 0-345-27060-6

Encyclopaedia of Celtic Wisdom, p.117, 156, Caitlin & John Matthews, Element, 1994, ISBN 1-85230-560-6

The Celts, p.211, Frank Delaney, Grafton, 1989, ISBN 0-586-20349-4

Women in Celtic Myth, Moyra Caldecott, Arrow, ISBN 0-09-955920-X

Celtic Heritage, p.41 ff, Alwyn & Brinley Rees, Thames & Hudson, 1978, ISBN 978-0500110089

Pagan Celtic Britain, p.288, Anne Ross, Constable, 1967, ISBN 0-09-472330-3

'Myth in the Mabiogion', from A Celtic Reader, p.151, John Matthews, Aquarian, ISBN 0-85030-935-2

Celtic Myths and Legends, p.356 ff, T. W. Rolleston, 1995, ISBN 978-1859580066

Celtic Folklore: Welsh & Manx Vol.2, pp 499ff, John Rhys, Wildwood House, 1980, ISBN 0-7045-0406-5

The White Goddess, p.215ff, Robert Graves, Faber, 1952

http://www.maryjones.us/jce/eufyd.html, Hyfaidd Hen as one of the Children of Don.

Mabinogi Study: Enlivening Y Mabinogi, Welsh Pronounciation for the Mabinogi

And, of course, the Awen - inspiration and imagination!

Special Thanks

For Incidental Music

Psicodreamics, for Bewitched by the Faeries from Ancient Wisdom. See his Contributor Page for more details.

Celestial Aeon Project,, for So It Was from Miracle. See his Contributor Page for more details.

Adragante, for Les cordes de l'ame from his album Les cordes de l'ame. See his website or our Contributor Page for more details.

Cyril Pereira for Margueritte from The Revenge of Glory. See his Contributor Page for more details.

Diane Arkenstone The Secret Garden. See her Contributor page for details.

Kim Robertson The Hangman's Noose. See her Contributor page for details.

Jigger Time Ticks Away. See her Contributor page for details.

For our Theme Music

The Skylark and Haghole, the brilliant Culann's Hounds. See their Contributor page for details.

Extra Special Thanks for Unrestricted Access to Wonderful Music

(in Alphabetic order)

Anne Roos Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of her masterful music to Anne Roos. You can find out more about Anne on her website or on her Contributor page.

Caera Extra Special thanks go for permission to any of her evocative harping and Gaelic singing to Caera. You can find out more about Caera on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Celia Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of her wonderful music to Celia Farran. You can find out more about Celia on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Damh the Bard Extra Special thanks go to Damh the Bard for his permission to use any of his music on the Show. You can find out more about Damh (Dave) on his website or on his Contributor page.

The Dolmen Extra Special thanks also go to The Dolmen, for their permission to use any of their fantastic Celtic Folk/Rock music on the Show. You can find out more about The Dolmen on their website or on our Contributor page.

Keltoria Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of their inspired music to Keltoria. You can find out more about Keltoria on their website or on their Contributor page.

Kevin Skinner Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of his superb music to Kevin Skinner. You can find out more about Kevin on his website or on his Contributor page.

Phil Thornton Extra Special Thanks go for permisssion to use any of his astounding ambient music to the Sonic Sorcerer himself, Phil Thornton. You can find out more about Phil on his website or on his Contributor Page.

S.J. Tucker Extra Special thanks go to Sooj for her permission to use any of her superb music. You can find out more about Sooj on her website or on her Contributor page.

Spiral Dance Extra Special thanks go for permission to use Adrienne and the band to use any of their music in the show. You can find out more about Spiral Dance on their website or on their Contributor page.

We'd like to wish you 'Hwyl fawr!', which is Welsh for Goodbye and have fun, or more literally Wishing a Good Mood on you!

News & Views

News: The Banquet

The Banquet

The Banquet is the latest Album by The Dolmen. The 14 Track album is a sincere blend of Medieval Celtic Rock, unique to the Dolmen spirit. The band purposely composed 'Banquet' as a forerunner to "Nuada" a second album release due for this year (2014) in May. It was decided after they had finished their 2013 Euro Tour, that there were to many songs for Nuada, and more in production, so decided that Nuada should be split and Banquet should introduce an exciting yet bizarre theme of which the band are presently enchanted, hence laying a musical foundation for 2014 the "Nuada, God of the Sun Tour" and the adventure of musical discovery. You can buy Banquet on The Dolmen website.

News: The Four-Cornered Castle (Songbook)

by Damh the Bard

The Four-Cornered Castle (Songbook)

"This chord book contains the chords from my last three studio albums, The Cauldron Born, Tales from the Crow Man and Antlered Crown and Standing Stone". As with Songbook 1 there is no musical notation in the book - Damh doesn't read music himself - but the chord shapes and locations within the lyrics will show you more about his writing process, and how to play the songs as he does. He says: "As with my last songbook, I hope you enjoy singing these songs around your camp fires, in your covens and groves, or simply on your own or with friends." Get strumming! Order now on Damh's website.

News: Edge of Dreams 2

by Phil Thornton

Edge of Dreams 2

Phil Thornton's first album for New World back in 1986, Edge of Dreams, developed from a 5 minute demo at the 'Enid' studio which at that time was based a few miles from Halesworth in Suffolk. The Enid's lead guitarist Stephen Stewart had by that time developed into a brilliant producer, so when New World gave me a budget to record an album for them it was a dream come true. Phil has let us know that he is currently working on a follow-up to this album. Keep your eyes on his website or Facebook page for further news! Good luck Phil!

500 Tub Thumps

by Pandora Celtica

Faerie Revel

Pandora Celtica is a Dark Celtic Faerie a cappella band local to Denver. Their combination of powerful harmonies and tragic subject matter have been thrilling audiences for the last nine years. Whether they're singing ancient tunes or original songs, their style has been described as dark and tribal - something that gets right into your heart and spirit. They are unique and distinctive. They are passionate. They are Pandora Celtica.

This complex and beautiful medley, 500 Tub Thumps, comes from their fifth album, Faerie Revel. You can find out more about Pandora Celtica on their website on our Contributor Page on this website.

Interview with Philip Shallcrass, aka Greywolf Head of the British Druid Order

PArt 1 of our Interview

Greywolf, the Chief 'Wolfsbody' of the British Druid Order (the BDO) created the Order from his realisation he was a Druid in 1974 and his simultaneous realisation that Druids were the shamanic folk of ancient Britain and Europe. He has been chief of the BDO since 1979, sharing the role with Bobcat (aka Emma Restall Orr) between 1995 and 2002. He is a writer, musician, singer-songwriter, artist, roundhouse builder and thatcher. He currently lives in Wiltshire with two of his three sons, not far from his beloved Avebury. He writes regular blogs on Greywolf’s Lair.

You can find his books and music on the BDO Website. You can find out more details about Greywolf on his Contributor Page on this website.

The Green Man

by Jonathan Kershaw

Bizarre Tales

Jonathan is a guitarist/songwriter originally from Yorkshire in northern England but now based on the south coast. Although known in various areas for his rock playing, he has quietly been applying his talents to an altogether different sound. In his early 20s, Jonathan relocated for a number of years to Somerset in the Southwest of the UK. This was quite a rural area and provided his first insight into folk and Celtic style music.

Listen out for the incredible and powerful sounds of The Green Man, from Jonathan's brilliant album, Bizarre Tales in this show! You can find out more about Jonathan's incredible music on his Contributor Page or find out more on his website.

Philip Shallcrass

Part 2 of our Interview

First ceremony with the World Drum, on Dragon Hill in 2008 by John Whittlestone

In this part of the Interview Philip talks about the World Drum and many other things.

The World Drum in front of Philip's Altar, pic by Philip

The Prayer for Mother Earth

We are all human beings,
all people, you, me, our neighbours.
No matter where you live in this world,
if it is in Africa or South-America,
if it is in Asia, Europe or U.S.A,
we are all sisters and brothers in humanity.
All people of the world.
Whether rich or poor,
whatever colour, religion or political thinking,
we are all residents of this one planet, Mother Earth.

The time has come to answer the questions.
Do we really want to destroy our home?
Do we really want war, hunger or disasters?
Do we really want to give our next generations
a planet in such a condition that there will not be any hope for survival?
Mother Earth is crying.

She is shivering in fear of losing all her entrails,
as we dig and drill to get hold of what we think is our right
towards a better wealth.

Mother Earth is crying.
Soon she will not have any tears left,
and then it will be too late.
The time has come to unite and stand together.
Please, I ask you,
take each other’s hands,
lift them high and make a prayer
while The World Drum sings her song
and we feel her heartbeat.
It is the heartbeat of Mother Earth.
It is our heartbeat,
from each and one all over the world.
It is the heartbeat of life itself.

Let us join together as one that this heartbeat may continue.

Morten Wolf Storeide, Norway 2006

Philip mentions the Screaming Blue Messiahs - they disbanded in 1990, but you can fnd them on YouTube or more details on their wiki page. You can find detaills about Philip's books and music on the BDO Website. You can find out more details about Greywolf on his Contributor Page on this website.

The Lament of Miach

by The Bards of FoDLA

Sacred Oaks

The Lament of Miach is a wonderful harp piece by Eva Gordon of the Bards of FoDLA, inspired by the story of the Diancehct and his son Miach. Check out the tragic story in Episode 3, The Rule of Bres the Beautiful. This beautiful piece coems from their astounding album, Sacred Oaks.

The Bards of FoDLA are American balladeers inspired by the ancient Druids, the Bards of FoDLA celebrate the spirit of the sacred oaks with Celtic harps, guitar & voices. Traditional and original folk music join in a deeply mystical and joyful fusion of past and present. Check out the FoDLA Druid Order. You can find out more about the beautiful music of the Bards of FoDLA on their Contributor Page or find out more on their website.

Philip Shallcrass

Part 3 of our Interview

Greywolf with Ogham Cards

In this part of the Interview Philip talks about the Ogham Tree Oracle Cards that the BDO have designed. You can find more details out about the cards and where to buy them on the BDO Website.

Willow

by PerKelt

Dowry of a Troll Woman

The band PerKelt was founded in 2008 in the Czech Republic, consisting of friends from the local Conservatory. After they found the shapes of their musical expressions, they started gigging, built connections in the industry, a fanbase, recorded two albums (PerKelt 2008 and Musica Mardania 2011) ... and then found another challenge, to move to UK and do the same once again.

The beautiful and yet rousing track, Willow, comes from their album Dowry of a Troll Woman. You can find out more details about PerKelt on their website or on our Contributor Page on this website.

Philip Shallcrass

Part 4 of our Interview

The BDO Roundhouse with visiting Norwegian shamans, picture by Morten Wolf Storeide

The British Druid Order, rekindling the sacred fires of Druidry as a living, breathing, Earth-honouring, life-affirming spirituality for the 21st century, drawing inspiration from the threefold stream of Awen’s flow from its source, the Cauldron of the goddess Ceridwen. They offer Distance Learning Courses as well as many Retreats and Workshops at the Spiritual Centre of Wildways on the Borle.

You can find his books and music on the BDO Website. You can find out more details about Greywolf on his Contributor Page on this website.

Philip, Joe & Us, pic by Mike

My Sons for Evermore

by Philip Shallcrass

Lord of the Wildwood

My Sons for Evermore is a soulful tribute to the love a father carries for his sons, and the feelings that Philip experiences as he contemplates their venturing forth into manhood.

"Sitting at home one misty morning, gazing from my window at a grey, cloudy day, it struck me that soon my sons would be making their own ways in the world and I'd be rattling around at home alone much of the time.

"The words and tune of this song came into my head all in a rush and this draft version was recorded soon after via a Skype headset plugged into my computer. I'll re-record it 'properly' for my next CD (which will probably be called 'Lord of the Wildwood'), but I kinda like this rough and ready first take. It has a quality that the Welsh call hiraeth, a sort of melancholy yearning after times and things past."

Greywolf and his “Cubs”

Listener Feedback

David

We play some super Listener Feedback from David from California, who suggests The Secret of Kells as an additional to our Celtic/Fey films reference!

Under a Beltane Sun

by Damh the Bard

Antlered Crown & Standing Stone

This beautiful track, Under a Beltane Sun, comes from Damh's latest CD - Antlered Crown & Standing Stone; a superb album that captures the feel of the land in every chord. You can get hold of Damh's new album Antlered Crown & Standing Stone from iTunes, CD Baby or his website at Pagan Music. You can find out more details about Damh on his Contributor page on this website.

Big Thanks

Big, big thanks for listening to our first Druid Special and we hope you enjoyed the show and we look forward to more of these wonderfuil interviews in the future! We'd like to wish you many, many blessings!

(And an extra, extra special thanks to Amielia - our Grand-daughter - for saying Hi!)

 Extra Special Thanks for Unrestricted Access to Wonderful Music

(in Alphabetic order)

Anne Roos

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of her masterful music to Anne Roos. You can find out more about Anne on her website or on her Contributor page.

Caera

Extra Special thanks go for permission to any of her evocative harping and Gaelic singing to Caera. You can find out more about Caera on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Celia

Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of her wonderful music to Celia Farran. You can find out more about Celia on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Damh the Bard

Extra Special thanks go to Damh the Bard for his permission to use any of his music on the Show. You can find out more about Damh (Dave) on his website or on his Contributor page.

The Dolmen

Extra Special thanks also go to The Dolmen, for their permission to use any of their fantastic Celtic Folk/Rock music on the Show. You can find out more about The Dolmen on their website or on our Contributor page.

Keltoria

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of their inspired music to Keltoria. You can find out more about Keltoria on their website or on their Contributor page.

Kevin Skinner

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of his superb music to Kevin Skinner. You can find out more about Kevin on his website or on his Contributor page.

Phil Thornton

Extra Special Thanks go for permisssion to use any of his astounding ambient music to the Sonic Sorcerer himself, Phil Thornton. You can find out more about Phil on his website or on his Contributor Page.

S. J. Tucker

Extra Special thanks go to Sooj for her permission to use any of her superb music. You can find out more about Sooj on her website or on her Contributor page.

Spiral Dance

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use Adrienne and the band to use any of their music in the show. You can find out more about Spiral Dance on their website or on their Contributor page.

For Incidental Music

Gwilym Morus, for his specially composed pieces for our interviews. See his website at welshmythology.com for more details.

Diane Arkenstone The Secret Garden. See her Contributor page for details.

Kim Robertson The Hangman's Noose. See her Contributor page for details.

Jigger Time Ticks Away. See her Contributor page for details.

For our Theme Music

The Skylark and Haghole, the brilliant Culann's Hounds. See their Contributor page for details.

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News & Views

O.B.O.D. Logo

We encourage you to listen to the wonderful Prof. Roland Rotherham as he gives a very stimulating talk on "Sacred Wells and the Beheading Game" in Episode 84 of the super Druidcast. Shownotes and a download link for the Episode can be found at http://www.druidry.org/druid-way/resources/druidcast-obod-podcast).

The Fith-Fath Song

Damh the Bard

Herne's Apprentice

The Fith Fath Song, a traditional folk story tells of the traditional Shape-shifting archetype and is wonderfully, engaging and fast-paced tale set to music! It comes from Damh's debut album, Herne's Apprentice.

You can find his music on iTunes, or from his website, Pagan Music. He is also the voice behind Druidcast, the official podcast of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids (OBOD, for short) - modern day Druids. You can find Druidcast here and find out more about OBOD here. You can find out more details about Damh on his Contributor Page on this website.

Interview with Philip Shallcrass, aka Greywolf Head of the British Druid Order

Part 1 of our Interview

Greywolf, the Chief 'Wolfsbody' of the British Druid Order (the BDO) created the Order from his realisation he was a Druid in 1974 and his simultaneous realisation that Druids were the shamanic folk of ancient Britain and Europe. He has been chief of the BDO since 1979, sharing the role with Bobcat (aka Emma Restall Orr) between 1995 and 2002. He is a writer, musician, singer-songwriter, artist, roundhouse builder and thatcher. He currently lives in Wiltshire with two of his three sons, not far from his beloved Avebury. He writes regular blogs on Greywolf’s Lair.

The British Druid Order, rekindling the sacred fires of Druidry as a living, breathing, Earth-honouring, life-affirming spirituality for the 21st century, drawing inspiration from the threefold stream of Awen’s flow from its source, the Cauldron of the goddess Ceridwen. They offer Distance Learning Courses as well as many Retreats and Workshops at the Spiritual Centre of Wildways on the Borle. You can find his books and music on the BDO Website. You can find out more details about Greywolf on his Contributor Page on this website.

The Ancient Ones

Kellianna

The Ancient Ones

Kellianna is an accomplished musician and performer worldwide. Her CD's, Lady Moon, I Walk with the Goddess, Elemental, The Ancient Ones and Traditions are being recognized around the globe as a must have for any lover of Goddess inspired folk music. Her live shows are a combination of acoustic guitar songs and chants to the God and Goddess.

In this show you can hear the title track from her iconic album. The Ancient Ones. Learn more about Kellianna on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Philip Shallcrass

Part 2 of our Interview

Greywolf inside Roundhouse

In this part of the Interview Philip talks about the Celtic connections of Druidry, shamanism and sweat lodges and reveals how he got the name of 'Greywolf'

Philip, Joe & Us - pic by Mike Shallcrass

Song at Wodnesbeorg

Philip Shallcrass

The Sign of the Rose

The Sign of the Rose is an album of songs, spells and invocations from BDO chief, Greywolf, aka Philip Shallcrass.

"Beginning with an invocation to the old Saxon gods of Britain, it moves into ‘Song at Wodnesbeorg,’ a song inspired by Greywolf’s meeting with Woden on an ancient burial mound in North Wiltshire. Next is an invocation of Awen, the sacred, flowing spirit of inspiration in our tradition. This is followed by a hymn to the divine feminine, ‘Lady of the Greenwood.’ Track 5, ‘Lover’ and the title track, ‘The Sign of the Rose,’ are lyrical love songs. ‘Autumn Spell’ is a prayer for healing, followed by ‘Hel’s Embrace,’ reflecting on the dark side of relationships, while the next track, ‘A Perfect Mirror,’ deals with love’s ability to find itself reflected in another’s soul."

"‘Slide’ is an out-and-out rocker with some bitchin’ slide guitar work. ‘Sacrifice’ muses on what we may or may not be willing to give, or give up, for love. ‘Thanks’ is an expression of gratitude for the sheer strangeness of being alive. The final track, the 12-minute epic, ‘The Sweet Sorrow,’ is a tragic tale of love and loss, based on a traditional Scots ballad of the same name, here given a makeover with layered harp, bass, percussion and strings." [source]

Listener Feedback

Sean

We play some super Listener Feedback from our old friend, Sean MacDhai! We mention that we started chatting to Sean on our Forums, but forgot to also mention that the forums have long since been taken down.

The Four Seasons

Blanche Rowen & Mike Gulston

The Dance Goes On

Songs traditional and contemporary from England, Wales and France ... two voices in harmony, with guitar, octave mandola, laud and bowed psaltery. Blanche and Mike, formerly of Brocc (a much loved band on this show!), have a wide range of Celtic, Traditional, medieval, Welsh and French songs and tunes to their repertoire. Look out for more from this talented duo in future shows!

You can find out more about the superb Blanche Rowen & Mike Gulston on their website or on their Contributor Page on this website.

Big Thanks

Big, big thanks for listening to our first Druid Special and we hope you enjoyed the show and we look forward to more of these wonderful interviews in the future! We'd like to wish you many, many blessings!

 Extra Special Thanks for Unrestricted Access to Wonderful Music

(in Alphabetic order)

Anne Roos

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of her masterful music to Anne Roos. You can find out more about Anne on her website or on her Contributor page.

Caera

Extra Special thanks go for permission to any of her evocative harping and Gaelic singing to Caera. You can find out more about Caera on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Celia

Extra Special Thanks go for permission to use any of her wonderful music to Celia Farran. You can find out more about Celia on her website or on her Contributor Page.

Damh the Bard

Extra Special thanks go to Damh the Bard for his permission to use any of his music on the Show. You can find out more about Damh (Dave) on his website or on his Contributor page.

The Dolmen

Extra Special thanks also go to The Dolmen, for their permission to use any of their fantastic Celtic Folk/Rock music on the Show. You can find out more about The Dolmen on their website or on our Contributor page.

Keltoria

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of their inspired music to Keltoria. You can find out more about Keltoria on their website or on their Contributor page.

Kevin Skinner

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use any of his superb music to Kevin Skinner. You can find out more about Kevin on his website or on his Contributor page.

Phil Thornton

Extra Special Thanks go for permisssion to use any of his astounding ambient music to the Sonic Sorcerer himself, Phil Thornton. You can find out more about Phil on his website or on his Contributor Page.

S. J. Tucker

Extra Special thanks go to Sooj for her permission to use any of her superb music. You can find out more about Sooj on her website or on her Contributor page.

Spiral Dance

Extra Special thanks go for permission to use Adrienne and the band to use any of their music in the show. You can find out more about Spiral Dance on their website or on their Contributor page.

For Incidental Music

Gwilym Morus, for his specially composed pieces for our interviews. See his website at welshmythology.com for more details.

Diane Arkenstone The Secret Garden. See her Contributor page for details.

Kim Robertson The Hangman's Noose. See her Contributor page for details.

Jigger Time Ticks Away. See her Contributor page for details.

For our Theme Music

The Skylark and Haghole, the brilliant Culann's Hounds. See their Contributor page for details.

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