ION, the brainchild of Duncan Patterson (also known for his involvement in ANTIMATTER and ANATHEMA), will release their debut album, "Madre, Protégenos", in February 2006 via Portugal's Equilibrium Music. The recording process for the CD is taking place at The Barn, Longford, Republic of Ireland. Guest musicians include Emily Bly (flute/clarinet/vocals), Keith Horan (percussion), Michael Cronin (drums), Aine Oneil (harp), Marcela Bovio (vocals), Johnny Cronin (vocals) and Shane Wearen (mandolin/viola). Many other guests from around the world have participated with spoken words, making it a global album to match the global concept behind it.

"Madre, Protégenos" track listing:

01. Madre Protegenos
02. Samhradh
03. III
04. Believe
05. Learpholl
06. Father, Forgive Me
07. Goodbye Johnny Dear
08. Fe, Esperanza, Amor
09. Beyond The Morning

Formed in 2005, ION is primarily a solo project, although a number of guest musicians are involved in this new venture by the Ireland-based musician, which explores a more acoustic and organic side to his composition.

"Ion" is the Gaelic word for 'pure," and the music and lyrics reflect that purity.With folk, classical, ambient and celtic influences, Patterson regresses deep into his roots including a version of Irish emigrant classic "Goodbye Johnny Dear", which was penned by his great-grandfather, Johnny Patterson, in the 1800s.