Possible Clues:

• How grave the matter is (8)
• Of the ritual of the dead
• Merrymaking before other things that are sad and dreary
• Very slow, but enjoyment finally became genuine
• Dismal entertainment with 'Last Of The Summer Wine' absolute bottom of barrel
• Play Spain team in Madrid -- woeful
• Mournful sombre character gets Fred initially to find foreign article that¿s genuine
• Slow and enjoyable breakfast dish (not cold)
• Woeful enjoyment before a library's opening
• Amusing queen brewed ale that's dark