Oh Celtic Angel, it’s time to fly
Axe Victim, crying to the sky
On the Sabbath, with Demon’s Eye
All strung up, but too young to die
Celtic Angel is a tribute to Bernie Tormé R.I.P. 1952-2019, band leader, guitarist and songwriter for Ian Gillan and Ozzy Osbourne. The song was written by Peter Cook who first met Bernie by accident in 2010 at his studio, whilst recording a song for a friend. A friendship evolved and Peter was privileged to perform with this gentle giant on a number of occasions. Bernie reflected this in his own words on cover of one of his albums after Peter spent some time with Bernie on his renaissance.
Celtic Angel reflects many of Bernie’s influences, with various nods and winks to Deep Purple, Hendrix, Ozzy, Bill Nelson and his infamous Big Muff effects pedal which Bernie used to push his Marshall amps over the cliff edge to ear splitting volumes. Featuring sitars, guitars turned up to 11 and some soaring sonics that give a wink and a nod to the great man from the emerald isle. Although Celtic Angel was conceived in a basement, it is a truly global production, featuring Gareth Dylan Smith from New York City, Tim Hands from the North of England, David Bourke and Rosie Horne from Kent and Mark Duffy from Hull on video production.
Celtic Angel is released worldwide on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify etc. on April 23rd with a contribution from sales to The Teenage Cancer Trust. We hope to bring Bernie’s music to the attention of the masses via his website which continues to breathe his spirit and passion for his raw unvarnished musicianship.
“What a sad day. We’ve lost another great musician. Bernie was a gentle soul with a heart of gold. He will be dearly missed. I send my sincere condolences to his family, friends and fans. Rest in Peace Bernie.”
Ozzy Osbourne
“I always enjoyed our time spent talking about music, business, philosophy and politics. Bernie was so much more than a guitar player. Thank you for your time and patience with an apprentice.”
Peter Cook
lyrics
Oh Celtic angel, it’s time to fly
Axe Victim, crying to the sky
On the Sabbath, with demon’s eye
All strung up, but too young to die
Celtic Angel, rise again
Rise like a fountain
Celtic Angel, rise again
Irish Rover, made in heaven
Dublin Cowboy, came here to play
Slave 2 Rawk’n’Roll, heard him say
Gentle giant, behind the stage
Forever young, transcending age
Celtic Angel, rise again
Rise like a fountain
Celtic Angel, rise again
Ireland’s finest, made in heaven
Fender bender, Brexit slayer
Loving that Big Muff compressor ! 😊
Up to 11, Midnight lightening
Bernie, you were so enlightening
Celtic Angel, rise again
Rise like a fountain
Celtic Angel, rise again
Irish spirit, made in heaven
credits
from Celtic Angel - Celebrating Bernie Tormé R.I.P,
track released December 18, 2021
Rosie Horne - Vocals
Gareth Dylan Smith - Drums and percussion
David Bourke - Bass
Peter Cook - Composition, guitars and other instruments
The sophomore album from former session musician Imraan Paleker highlights his modern soul, alt-rock, jazz, and electronic sensibilities. Bandcamp New & Notable Oct 16, 2020