Hothouse Flowers Return to Tupelo

Dublin's Hothouse Flowers return to the Tupelo Music Hall this weekend for two shows on Saturday and Sunday. Since their excellent debut People, which contained the breakthrough hit "I'm Sorry", the Flowers have released six more albums, all of which display the band's unquestionable musicianship as well as a talent for crafty songwriting. Former school mates pianist Liam O' Maonlai and guitarist Fiachna O'Broainain formed the band in the late 80's and continue to be the driving force behind the group's latest resurrection both on stage and in the studio. With a bombastic sound that melds traditional Irish roots music with an American gospel twist, the Flowers have always been known for their passionate live shows. Their follow-up CD Home, which landed the band two hits with "Give it Up" and "Movies", remains one of the most underrated albums of the early 90's, the band never able to build the enthusiasm in the States like they were receiving throughout Europe. Seems the Hothouse Flowers have found a loyal fan base in Londonderry; they've been playing to sold out crowds at Tupelo twice a year now for the past several years. Saturday night's show sold out weeks ago. Tickets remain for Sunday's performance. Should be a rollicking night of music. Incidentally, Liam O'Maonlai is releasing a solo CD, To Be Touched, in the coming months featuring guest performances by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova from the movie Once.