Nathan Carter is enjoying a few days in the USA as he takes a well-deserved vacation from the circuit. He has been busy soaking up the atmosphere of New York and Las Vegas after a hectic 2014. Another major year lies ahead for the Liverpool born entertainer.

Roscommon singer Frank Nelson travelled all the way to Las Vegas in December to see the legendary Merle Haggard perform in concert. Frank has been a fan of Haggard for years and fulfilled a long-held ambition to see him on stage. He also got to meet one of the great icons of American country.

Andrew Kenny hails from Ballydangan in south Roscommon. A contestant in Glór Tire last year, he has just released his debut single, Little Bitty, a Tom T Hall composition. It was recorded in Athboy and produced by Dessie Hynes.

Dessie Hynes and Frankie Scorr are busy on the dancing circuit. They have released their latest single, A House A Home, from the pen of Kilkenny man Liam O’Neill, who has written many numbers for The Bachelors in Trouble, Mattie Weldon, Paddy O’Brien, John Hogan and others.

Pat Brosnan from Athea, Co Limerick, who died last week, composed a number of songs during his lifetime. The Lights of Carrickerry became a popular song for Limerick man George Langan. Pat won a number of awards at Fleadh Cheoil gatherings over the years. Condolences are tendered to his family at this time.

The Grouse In The Heather is a beautiful album of traditional Irish music featuring Marcus and PJ Hernon from Carna, Connemara. The music is composed by Marcus. The Hernon family received a wonderful reception when they performed as guests of Citizens Keane in Claregalway.