Biblecode Sundays

Biblecode Sundays

Biblecode Sundays, also known as The BibleCode Sundays, are a UK folk and celtic group that begins under the name Slainte before changing its name because many other bands use the same name. The group develops on the London circuit for several years, playing with different friends and line-ups before settling on its later configuration.

History and style

The band builds its sound from a mix of traditional Irish music and modern forms, shaped by its members’ connection to Irish music culture and by growing up in multicultural London within a strong Irish community. Their songs combine themes of Irish history, landscape, heroes, and the realities of everyday London. The name BibleCode Sundays comes from regular Sunday gigs and drink-fuelled conversations about conspiracy theories, with those weekly sessions becoming known by that phrase.

The group says it does not want to remain only a local band playing other people’s music, and it begins writing its own material from lyrics and fragments collected over time, alongside new songs. Some of this material is written specifically for Mike O’Dea’s Boston-Irish film Townies. They record an album within a few weeks, and the result becomes the basis for their debut release.

Awards and recognition

Biblecode Sundays are voted Best Band on the London Circuit in the Irish World awards in 2006. After performing at the ceremony, they are described as “a breath of fresh air for Irish music.”

Line-up

The band’s listed line-up includes Patrick Franklin on fiddle, Carlton Hunt on drums, Ronan MacManus on vocals and guitar, Joe Moran on flute and vocals, Enda Mulloy on bass and vocals, and Andy Nolan on accordion.

Franklin is described as one of the best young fiddle players in London. Hunt is a former member of Bad Manners. MacManus is the son of Ross and the brother of Declan, also known as Elvis Costello. Moran is a former All-Ireland champion. Mulloy is the son of Tom from the Mulloy Brothers. Nolan has previously played with Shane MacGowan and the Popes.

Discography

The band’s discography includes Ghosts of Our Past and Boots or No Boots, released in 2006 and 2007 respectively.