A unique⁢ musical voice from⁣ County Carlow, Ireland, is resonating with American audiences thanks ⁤to its inclusion in the soundtrack of “Irish Blood,” a⁣ new⁢ Acorn TV series starring Alicia Silverstone. Glen Austin,a musician and producer based in Rathoe,saw ‍his‍ work with the ‍band New Airs unexpectedly featured in the drama.

Austin specializes in reimagining Irish musical ‌traditions,‍ both classic and contemporary. New Airs,⁣ formed by Austin,⁣ gained attention with their 2021 self-titled debut album, ‍which ‌presented instrumental ‌interpretations of popular songs by Irish artists like U2, Kodaline, The Script, Snow Patrol, and Enya. This approach – breathing new life into familiar melodies – has clearly struck a ‌chord ⁤with those seeking to ⁤evoke a specific atmosphere.

The series, which ⁢launched on​ acorn TV in the United States, centers on Silverstone’s character,⁤ a lawyer​ reconnecting with her estranged father and uncovering a hidden family history in Ireland.Filmed extensively ‍in County Wicklow, ⁣the setting holds ‍a personal⁣ connection for Austin, whose father, Tom, ‍hails ⁢from Carnew within the same county. ⁤

It’s New Airs’ instrumental ⁣rendition of⁣ Thin Lizzy’s iconic “The Boys Are‌ Back in Town” that appears on ⁤the soundtrack. ⁢Austin explained that the possibility arose earlier this year, with ‌the series’ musical director reaching out⁣ in January. After ‌a period of contract negotiations and clearances, final approval came approximately two months ago. “It ⁣came out ⁤of the blue,⁤ really,” Austin said.

Austin’s ⁢musical ‍background⁤ is rich with collaboration. He has recorded and performed alongside ⁢prominent Irish musicians including Liam ​Ó Maonlaí (the Hot House flowers), Brian Kennedy, Mundy, and Wallis Bird, demonstrating​ a ⁤versatility that‌ clearly appeals to a broad range⁤ of artists.

This marks the first time New Airs’ music has been featured in a major television production, and there’s potential for wider distribution. While currently available in the US⁢ via Acorn TV, “Irish Blood”‌ may⁣ also be released on Sky television later in 2024. The inclusion of Austin’s work highlights the growing demand for authentic‍ Irish sounds in international media and underscores the talent flourishing within Ireland’s ⁢vibrant music scene.