Let Christy Take It

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Paul Cleary, vocalist, songwriter, and frontman of the legendary Dublin City band The Blades. Formed in the late 1970s, The Blades became one of the most beloved bands to emerge from Ireland’s post-punk and new wave era. Known for their sharp songwriting, Dublin storytelling, and undeniable energy, the band earned a devoted following with classic tracks such as “Ghost of a Chance,” “Hot for You,” and “Downmarket.” With Paul’s instantly recognisable voice and street-level poetry at the centre of it all, The Blades created songs that captured a time, a place, and a generation. Following the band’s original run, Paul has continued to write and perform, releasing solo material and revisiting The Blades’ catalogue through occasional reunions and live performances that remain as powerful and relevant as ever. His work stands as a vital chapter in the story of Irish music, influencing countless artists who followed. Join us as we talk to Paul about the early Dublin scene, the rise and legacy of The Blades, the stories behind those iconic songs, and his enduring love for music and songwriting. Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Paul ClearyIf you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Eddie Lundon, guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of the legendary Liverpool band China Crisis. Formed in the early 1980s, China Crisis quickly became known for their sophisticated blend of new wave, pop, and atmospheric soundscapes. With Eddie’s distinctive guitar work and melodic sensibility at the heart of the band, China Crisis achieved both critical and commercial success, delivering era-defining hits such as “Wishful Thinking,” “Black Man Ray,” and “King in a Catholic Style.” Their music remains a touchstone of the decade, celebrated for its emotional depth and elegant production. Beyond the band’s classic catalogue, Eddie has continued to perform, write, and tour internationally, keeping the spirit and legacy of China Crisis alive for new and longtime fans alike. His ongoing work showcases the same thoughtful craftsmanship and understated charm that have always defined his artistic approach. Join us as we talk to Eddie about the early days in Liverpool, the making of those iconic albums, the stories behind China Crisis’s biggest songs, and his creative journey from the band’s beginnings to the present day. Let Christy Take It is proud to bring you Eddie Lundon.If you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Paul Page, guitarist, songwriter, and founding member of one of Ireland’s most influential bands, Whipping Boy. Formed in Dublin in the late ’80s, Whipping Boy were known for their raw intensity, emotional honesty, and unforgettable live shows. Paul’s distinctive guitar sound helped define the band’s landmark 1995 album Heartworm, a record that’s become a cornerstone of Irish music. Heartworm was voted the seventh best Irish album of all time in a 2005 Hot Press poll, and in 2013 it even topped Phantom FM’s list of the Top 50 Irish Albums of All Time. Fast forward to today, and Paul’s embarked on an exciting new chapter with The Sentimental Tourists, his collaboration with Dave Long from Into Paradise. Their self-titled debut EP, released earlier this year, showcases a more reflective and melodic side to Paul’s songwriting, while still carrying that unmistakable emotional depth and edge that fans have always connected with. In this episode, we chat to Paul about the early days of Whipping Boy, the creative spark behind Heartworm, and how The Sentimental Tourists came to life after all these years. Let Christy Take It is proud to bring you Paul PageIf you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Hugh O’Conor. Hugh is an accomplished Irish actor, writer, photographer and director from Dublin. Hugh began his career at a young age, first capturing audiences’ attention in "Lamb" alongside the great Liam Neeson. He went on to deliver a remarkable performance as the young Christy Brown in "My Left Foot", starring Oscar winners Daniel Day-Lewis and Brenda Fricker, a role that remains one of the most memorable in Irish cinema history. As an adult, Hugh has built an impressive and varied career across film, television, and stage, with standout performances in productions such as "Showbands" and "The Stag". Beyond acting, he has also established himself as a talented writer and director. His latest project “Showkids”, which he both wrote and directed, is currently airing on RTÉ One every Sunday evening and has been receiving rave reviews for its warmth, humour, and family-friendly charm. Join us as we talk to Hugh about his early start in film, his journey from child star to accomplished filmmaker, and his creative process both in front of and behind the camera.Let Christy Take It is proud to bring you Hugh O’Conor. If you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode we are joined by Jeffrey Voorhees. Jeffrey Voorhees may not be a household name, but his role in one of the most iconic movies of all time has made him part of film history forever. As the young Alex Kintner in Jaws, Jeffrey became central to one of cinema’s most memorable moments the shocking beach scene that set the tone for the rest of the film and cemented JAWS as a classic. Join us as we talk with Jeffrey about what it was like to be part of Steven Spielberg’s legendary thriller at such a young age, his memories from the set, the cultural phenomenon that Jaws became, and how his life changed after the film’s release. We’ll also hear about the unexpected ways the movie has stayed with him over the years and the enduring legacy of that unforgettable scene. Let Christy Take It is proud to bring you Jeffrey Voorhees.If you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie