Sunday 20th of June:
Declan Sinnott and Small Town Talk
Declan is well known throughout Ireland, and beyond, as a superb guitarist, musical arranger and record producer having worked with a stellar cast of Irish talent since the ’70s, including Christy Moore, Mary Black and Moving Hearts. Hank Wedel is best known for his work with Cork City rock bands “Princes Street” and “Open Kitchen”. Martin Leahy is held in high regard as a drummer in both trad/folk and rock circles, having played with Hank in “Open Kitchen,” but also the sensational trad. outfit “North Cregg.” Eleanor Healy spent the early part of the ’90s singing and playing bass with Cork’s “The Five Joyful Mysteries,” before a move to The USA to study Jazz performance. “Small Town Talk” are best described a band of seasoned and experienced musicians performing originals and choice covers in an acoustic rock band format
Monday 21st of June:
Stargazers
Johnny Fang and Chris Ahern released their debut album Apollonia in 2008. The album comprises ten original songs and is produced by Declan Sinnott. In the early 1980s Johnny and Chris formed the harmony trio, Stargazers, with John Spillane. The band became well-known throughout Ireland and toured Europe and as far as Africa and Bermuda. As Stargazers, they released two albums, Mercier Park and Chaser for the Blues.
Tuesday 22nd of June:
Niamh Parsons
Niamh Parsons has come to be known as one of the most distinctive voices in Irish music. It has been said that she may not be the most famous Irish Balladeer, but many feel she’s the best. Described in the Boston Herald as both emotionally haunting and tonally as clear as crystal, Niamh’s albums have been ‘must-have’ collector’s items for any lover of songs and singing. Niamh has recorded 6 studio albums and one live album to date. This is a body of work that has proven Niamh Parsons one of the premier vocalists of her time and a keeper of the flame in Irish traditional song.
For the last 10 years, Niamh has been playing in a duet with Ennis based Graham Dunne. There is a spiritual bond between Niamh and Graham when they perform, which draws out the essence of the songs. Graham is known for his sensitivity of touch as an accompanist, and his fiery ability as a soloist. Graham released his first solo CD – GIOTÁRAÍ – on his own label Gramsham Records.
Wednesday 23rd of June:
Hank, Elly and Edel
Hank Wedel is best known for his work with Cork City rock bands “Princes Street” and “Open Kitchen.” Elly’s talents have seen her garner a reputation here in Cork very quickly. Over the past few years she has played in venues such as The Everyman Palace Theatre, Crane Lane Theatre and the Triskel Arts Centre. Edel Curtin, who has callaborated with Elly in other projects in the past will complete the group for this midsummers evening!
