Four of us, Muriel, Conor, Bearach and I went to Lissadell on Sunday to see Leonard Cohen. He played in Kilmainham two years ago and I got a text from Muriel who was at it saying "wish you were here". At the time I was lying on a hammock in the middle of the Amazon and I sent the same text back. We were both experiencing something special.
Lissadell was a great location for the gig - especially as the light faded. Leonard Cohen hypnotises his audience and its impossible not to be swept along by the serene and calm vibe he gives off. The band are so tight if you close your eyes you feel you're listening to an album.
It was funny to see the really long queues for the toilets and coffee and virtually no queue for the beer!! Shows the age profile I guess and it wasn't quite a sea of grey heads but almost. Conor and Bearach at 16 enjoyed it too and must have been among the youngest voluntary attendees (there were a few younger kids being brought by parents).
I last saw Leonard Cohen about 30 years ago (it was one of our first gigs to attend - Muriel and I) and I must say seeing him this time around was far superior. Muriel had told me Kilmainham was for her a spiritual experience and for me Lissadell was too. The food situation at gigs sadly hasn't changed much in the 30 years - greasy chips, burgers and hot dogs - though I did manage to have a nice 99.
We left just before the end as we were driving back to Dublin and as we walked away it was really special to hear his voice fading out as we walked.
Here are a few shots.
Amazing
Leonard Cohen ©Kevin Thornton
©Kevin Thornton
©Kevin Thornton
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