Biography
The Welsh ensemble known as the Hennessys originated in 1966, led by Frank Hennessy, born 2 February 1947 in Cardiff, Wales, who supplied guitar and vocals. The remaining original members consisted of Dave Burns, born 4 November 1946 in Cardiff, Wales, handling mandolin, guitar, and vocals, and Paul Powell, born 1946 in Cardiff, Wales, on banjo and vocals. Their early work centred on folk clubs, after which they turned professional in 1968. The next year the trio spent living and performing in Eire. Back in Wales they launched a series of broadcasts on BBC Wales. Their initial recording, Down The Road, surfaced on the Cambrian label in 1969.
After devoting effort to researching traditional Welsh repertoire, the group issued singles and EPs that included Ar Lan Y Môr in 1970, Yr Hennessys in 1971, Great Little Trains Of Wales in 1971, Who Will Cast A Stone in 1972, and Rhyddid Yn Ein Can in 1973. They also received a regular slot on the BBC television folk programme The Singin Barn.
Powell, one of the founders, exited in 1972. Tom Edwards joined on double bass in 1979 and remained until 1991, when ill health compelled his retirement. Iolo Jones, born 12 February 1955 in Plymouth, Devon, England, strengthened the lineup with fiddle. The Hennessys persist in touring, concentrating on concerts and promotional engagements for the Welsh Tourist Board and British Tourist Authority. Burns additionally manages Wobbly Records, which issued his Last Pit In The Rhondda. Despite modest recorded output the group sustained considerable popularity. Edwards concluded his performing career in 1991. Jones also appears with the folk group Ar Log.
After devoting effort to researching traditional Welsh repertoire, the group issued singles and EPs that included Ar Lan Y Môr in 1970, Yr Hennessys in 1971, Great Little Trains Of Wales in 1971, Who Will Cast A Stone in 1972, and Rhyddid Yn Ein Can in 1973. They also received a regular slot on the BBC television folk programme The Singin Barn.
Powell, one of the founders, exited in 1972. Tom Edwards joined on double bass in 1979 and remained until 1991, when ill health compelled his retirement. Iolo Jones, born 12 February 1955 in Plymouth, Devon, England, strengthened the lineup with fiddle. The Hennessys persist in touring, concentrating on concerts and promotional engagements for the Welsh Tourist Board and British Tourist Authority. Burns additionally manages Wobbly Records, which issued his Last Pit In The Rhondda. Despite modest recorded output the group sustained considerable popularity. Edwards concluded his performing career in 1991. Jones also appears with the folk group Ar Log.
Albums
