After the surprise, albeit brief performance by Ryan's Fancy at the ECMA gala last Sunday night, most people were already delighted by the time they arrived at O'Reilly's Irish Newfoundland pub on George St. in downtown St. John's. The crowd included family of the lads, many visiting from away for the first time in a long time, as well as friends and associates collected over thirty-five years.
The evening's entertainment started with a grand set from local boys Shanneyganock with some marvelous renditions of Ryan's Fancy tunes along with their own standards. By the time they had finished their duties an aura of excitement had begun to spread due what may be happening next. The area in front of the stage was jammed as Chris Andrews made the simple introduction: "Ladies and Gentlemen ...Ryan's Fancy"
And up she went
The singing started from stage left as Dermot tore into "Bound Down For Newfoundland". The crowd was ecstatic. Up until this point the most talked about song of the evening was indeed "Tiree Love Song" which came next as the honors moved to Denis. The Rafters rang as the whole place, guests, employees, people on the street and all, helped the boys along.
Now it was Fergie's turn with the well Chosen "The Ryan's And The Pittman's". Talk about a hot crowd at this point - all with pints raised high aloft, all singing in their best voice "We'll rant and we'll roar like true Newfoundlanders". With out a break the song shifted to "I's The Bye" which in particular invoked the old Ryan's Fancy recordings as Denis played those distinctive lines on the fiddle just as he did on "Live at the Black Night Lounge" and " Times to Remember".
And with that the boys made their final thank you, shook hands and called it a night. Until the foot-stomping, hand clapping, and encore chants brought them back with "The Rocky Road to Dublin". When it was over the dance floor remained packed as all three lads received congratulations and thanks from the elated crowd.
The fun continued into the wee hours as many local musicians took their turn on stage as part of a fantastic jam session.
Truly a night to remember
Twenty one years is indeed a mighty long time.
Click Here to see some photos from the performance
If any one has a story from last Sunday night or would like to add their perspective send it along to ryansfancy@yahoo.com
Dermot O'Reilly
Denis Ryan
Fergus O'Byrne