Elephant on charity album

DUNDALK’S own Elephant, featuring the talents of Shane Clarke, has contributed to an album of Christmas songs released in aid of the suicide prevention charity Pieta House.

He joins an eclectic mix of Irish artists including Villagers, Ailbhe Reddy, Jack O’Rourke, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Columbia Mills, Session Motts and many more.

A Co-Present Christmas sees covers of classic tracks from The Pretenders, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Joni Mitchell as well as some old Christmas favourites and two original songs.

The album is the brainchild of Irish music radio show The Co-Present on Dublin Digital Radio with all proceeds being donated to Pieta House Suicide and Self Harm Crisis Centre.

Welcoming the initiative, Pieta House stated: ‘Christmas is a time of year when friends and family come together and enjoy each others company. Unfortunately, for some, it is a time of remembrance for those we have lost and for others a time of loneliness and sadness. We at Pieta House are trying every day to break the cycle of suicide and self-harm and to comfort those who have lost a loved one.’

‘ This album, from the first note to the last chorus, signifies a great hope. Pieta House strives for an Ireland where suicide, self-harm and stigma have been replaced by hope, self-care and acceptance. Finally to everyone involved with the album we extend our gratitude, that you have given your time and energy to help those who need our services and to know that you are changing lives.’

The vinyl release is available from Classified Records, priced €10 5

The Dance Kids are set to shine in their Christmas show,‘Sparkles’, at An Tain Arts Centre on December 29th and 30th, at 6.30pm. Tickets €15 / €56 for family of four at the box office or online www.antain.ie