Singer, and now songwriter, Kathleen Malone is based in Doolin in Co. Clare. Kathleen is part of the Lynch family that is so closely associated with The Kilfenora Céilí Band and has been immersed in music, song and dance since she was born.
As the years move on Kathleen has a greater grá for her musical heritage and is putting that to good work at present. The Burren Chernobyl Project is based in Ennistymon and Kathleen has been a part of that organisation for a long time. She says that there has been so much progress made, and the lives of the children of Chernobyl have been enhanced significantly because of the work of the many groups that are dotted across Ireland dedicated to the cause.
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought additional challenges to the many orphanages that care for those affected by the nuclear disaster in Chernobyl over 25 years ago. There is an urgent requirement for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for those in the orphanages. Kathleen completed a new album called “My Island Home” when the pandemic struck. The album is a mix of songs written by some of Ireland’s greatest songwriters like Charlie McGettigan, Denis Allen & Mick Hanley and a composition called “Fallout” that was co-written by Kathleen and Pat Dowling.
The album is now on release and all funds raised will be going directly to the Burren Chernobyl Project and can be delivered by post or as a download.
Recently, Kathleen spoke to Ger Sweeney about the album, the work of the Burren Chernobyl Project and her musical family. The interview in its entirety, as well as two of the tracks from the album can be heard below.
To buy Kathleen’s album or contribute to the Burren Chernobyl Project follow THIS LINK