40+ FREEGIGS FESTIVAL PERFORMERS
FOR GIG GUIDE FRI
SCAN
2 AUG – SUN 4 AUG 2024
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
ALAN MCKELVEY
Soulful Blues with delicious grit , McKelvey’s unique aural hybrid of gritty blues vocals and thoughtful guitar provide a satisfying blues experience. Influenced by Greats like Warren Haynes , Robben Ford, Joe Cocker and BB King, Alan’s band deliver extensive sets of modern Blues Rock in their own interpretive style.
ALLISON McGRATH
Soulful/Blues/Reggae Allison’s International performances include Nashville’s: Blue Bird Café/BB Kings/ Bourbon St Blues, Barcelona’s Harlem Jazz Club. Featuring Joe Hearty on drums, Strawbs guitarist Brian Willoughby, Dermot McQuaid on guitar/mandolin, Colm Hearty on Bass, Aidan Dempsey on Saxophone, their third album ‘Redirect This Affect’ is due out in 2024! www.allisonmcgrathmusic.com
BACKBONE BLUES BAND
The Backbone Blues Band, a 6 piece ensemble from the Newry area, have treaded the musical boards for over 40 years as stalwarts of the blues. Adopting an eclectic approach to their soul and blues set, the Backbone Blues Band carries influences from Van Morrison to Jimmy Vaughan. A must for blues fans everywhere!
BEN PREVO
Expat New Yorker Ben is known for his quirky and dynamic guitar style and vocal delivery - bringing his unique approach to original songs and select covers. He has played in festivals and venues all over Ireland and beyond - solo and band - from the Ulster Hall to the Apollo in Harlem to Poland and more... He has been lucky enough to make music with artists such as Levon Helm, Jaco, Jorma, Pee wee Ellis, Flava Flav and more -- Bring your ears and hearts - benprevo.com.
BEN REEL BAND
Ben Reel released his 11th studio album ‘Come a Long Way’ in 2023. Since his debut in 1999, Ben has reinvented himself from album to album, influenced by different styles of music over the years. He has also been described as the Irish Springsteen and comparisons have been made about his voice with that of Roy Orbison but Ben Reel is very much his own man. Ben has received worldwide critical acclaim with numerous high profile TV/Radio appearances like BBC, RTE and Dutch NPO Radio. Supporting the likes of Jools Holland, & The Cranberries and he has collaborated musically with such names as Garry Tallant (E Street Band) Hal Ketchum & The Blockheads.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
BLUES CONFIDENTIAL
Blues Confidential is known for its high energy live performances which combines elements of blues classics from Muddy Waters, BB King, Howlin’ Wolf, and Peter Green with modern artists like Gary Clarke Jnr. Blues Confidential is led by Lee Meehan, who is best known for his collaborations with renowned Irish and International artists. Lee has the respect of his peers as jazz and blues guitarist ,singer and session musician. Widely known in jazz circles he leads The Lee Meehan Quintet.
CASINO DIXIELAND JAZZ BAND
A 5 piece band specialising in New Orleans style Dixieland Jazz. These guys have been playing music for a life time. The energy and feel good factor that they create to audiences young and old alike with their unique sound and style is breathtaking, making them one of the most sought after Dixieland Jazz Bands in the area.
COURTNAY GIFFIN
Courtnay is a Singer, Songwriter and Guitarist from Northern Ireland. She will be joined as always with her dad John who will be playing saxophone and keyboard! With influences spanning from Etta James to Amy Winehouse and other Soul powerhouses, her voice is deep, velvety and enchanting, and it sits perfectly within the R’n’B and Soul genre. Performing intimate solo appearances to full band shows, Courtnay makes regular appearances at Blues Festivals all over Northern Ireland.
DAVY K PROJECT
The Davy K Project are a “Live” and energetic, exciting Blues/ Rock band from Tyrone/ Donegal that are gaining rave reviews in every venue they perform. Formed in 2017, the band has been going from strength to strength with their unique delivery of songs both covers and originals. Led by Blues/ Rock guitarist and lead vocalist Davy Kerrigan, who has been in the industry for over 30 years, Mark McConnell on Bass and Martu Grieve on drums, the band released their nine track debut album “LOCKDOWN” in February 2019 to critical acclaim, followed soon after with the equally popular live album “Live from Ghostlight Sessions”.
DELTA FUSE
A Psych-Blues Rock band, their sound has been described as Brothel Blues soaked in Soul and 60’s Psychedelia. The band have released two studio albums “A Matter of Love and War” and “Natural Born World Shaker”, with a third album being released in 2024. Delta Fuse take influence from the sounds of John Lee Hookers’ hard groove and the far out hypnotic beat of Junior Kimbrough. They mix this with high energy fuzz riffs, reminiscent of the 60s. They were also nominated for UK blues Emerging Act Of The Year 2023 by the UK Blues Federation.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
FINNIAN & BAND
Finnian is a Singer Songwriter from Dundalk. With a soulful voice that demands attention and fills any venue effortlessly, he is a Songwriter in the classical sense of the word. His music and storytelling has been likened to Americana heavyweights such as Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor and John Prine. His work has garnered incredible since releasing his critically acclaimed debut album ‘Under the influence’ in 2020
FRANK CARBERRY BLUES BAND
The Frank Carbery Blues Band are a four piece band specialising in the style of music known as CHICAGO BLUES made famous by such artists as MUDDY WATERS, JIMMY REED, BUDDY GUY and many others, as well as a few original songs. A groove driven style that always leaves the audience wanting more.
FREEDOM 35’S
Freedom 35’s are a four-piece organ driven instrumental funk/soul outfit from Co. Armagh. They have played along with The Specials, Booker T Jones and Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings. Catch their explosive Live Show at 7 Hills Blues Festival
GARY PRICE & GP3
GP3 present superb versions of rock and blues classics. This is a blues trio who fill the room with great energy and festival buzz. Gary has provided vocal and lead guitar for many popular artists over the years, and his band are looking forward to return to 7 Hills Blues!
JACKIE McAULEY & ROD DEMICK WITH THE MCCOLLUM BROTHERS
Leaving Belfast in the 60’s, Jackie with Them, and Rod with The Wheels, they’ve worked with Lonnie Donegan, Screaming Lord Sutch, Gene Vincent, Taj Mahal, The Yardbirds, Joe Cocker, Dr John, Johnny Winter, The Real Thing and countless others. Jackie’s written for Status Quo and Lonnie Donegan. Rod’s provided songs for The Hollies and The Yardbirds. Jackie’s memoir “I Sideman” and Rod’s e-book “My Gap Life” are available now.
KEITH DORAN
Fronted by Newry guitarist Keith Doran this band deliver some stone cold blues from the likes of BB, Albert and Freddie King, Peter Green, Robben Ford, Gary Moore and more. Fergal Hughes on Drums, Jason Reilly on Keys and Steve Vernon on Bass ensure a tight outfit with taste, tone, feel and groove the order of the day. Not to be missed!
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
KING AND WHITTREDGE
King & Whittredge deliver top quality cuts in the “Blues guitar and harmonica” format evoking the sounds of the traditional delta blues while ramping up to a crescendo of swinging Chicago blues in the style of Sonny Terry and Brownie Magee. David King has been a popular artist on the Dublin blues scene since the release of his first album Ruirteach Blues (2015). He invited blues “harp” player David Whittredge to create an album of original material after performing numerous gigs together in Ireland. Whittredge, originally from Boston, Massachusetts, moved to Ireland in 2011 where he resumed his love of harmonica and the blues.
LONESOME PETE
A one man blues act who writes his own material and playing a mix of blues standards along with his guitar and drum driven original songs that promise to get those feet stomping. Lonesome Pete’s live studio 6 track album of original songs called The Devils Deal. The album continues to get good reviews and airtime. Semi finalist in the 2021 UK Songwriting contest and representing the UK in the 2022 International Songwriting Contest shows the songwriting ability of Lonesome Pete.
MANHATTAN SWING
Experience the unique sound of Manhattan Swing, as they take you on a musical journey, playing an eclectic mix of big band hits, swing classics, pop and more.
MARK BLACK BAND
Mark Black is an Irish blues musician with a distinctive style of rootsy blues. Live the band are a high energy blues rock trio with a powerful original set of songs. Celtic influences and rootsy styles throughout the set with unique instrumentation like slide didgeridoo and 12 string acoustic guitar.
MICHAEL WATTERS
Michael is one of the leading Classical/Jazz guitarists and wedding musicians in Northern Ireland. He is based in the Northwest of Ireland and plays throughout Ireland. He is a creative and inspirational guitarist with a wide repertoire, always in great demand. Michael’s repertoire includes Jazz, Classical, Spanish, and Pop standards.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
MIGHTY QUINN
Manchester based acoustic duo return to the festival for another year. A high energy brand of raucous folk/ soul blues never fails to get the audience hopping. Armagh’s Mark Quinn and Leicester’s John Mahon first met in the back of an Irish bar in Dijon and forged a musical friendship for the next decade and a half. A tight blend of vocal harmonies and rhythmic guitar is not to be missed.
MIKE BROOKFIELD
Mike Brookfield is one of the most energetic & dynamic performers on the scene. His internationally acclaimed album releases ‘Love Breaks The Fall”, ‘Brookfield’, ’Hey Kiddo!’ & ‘Built To Last’ have consistently proved his songwriting & guitar playing are at the highest level in modern blues rock.
“An outstanding guitarist with real virtuoso flair “ RTÉ Guide
MR CASTLE BLUES BAND
Mr. Castle Blues Band finds Blues guitar maestro Hector Castillo, also known as Mr Castle, joining forces with astonishing vocal talent Katie Ree. Come along to see Mr. Castle Blues Band as they take you on a journey through the history of the Blues, via all-time greats such as Koko Taylor, B.B. King, Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, and too many others to name, in a night of music that you won’t forget. Don’t miss it!
NITE HAWKS
Dermot, Paul. Peter, Ed, Killian and Tom, the orginal Nitehawks feature their glorious mixture of music. From Bob Dylan and Steely Dan to Booker T Jones and Freddie King, the Nitehawks will put a smile on your face. Armagh City Hotel, Sunday from 9.30; not to be missed.
PAT MCMANUS BAND
Former Mama’s Boys and Celtus guitarist and violin virtuoso, along with band members Paul Faloon and Plunkett McComb are currently on their 17th year of touring. 2024 has seen the band back on the road with a full European, UK and Irish Tour promoting their latest release ‘Live In France’
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
RILEY & THE MOONROCKERS
Riley & the Moonrockers are a three-piece rockabilly/rock n’ roll band (father and son) from Cavan. With an energetic live show that has been entertaining audiences all over Europe playing with legends such as, Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry, the bands enthusiasm for what they do shines through in every performance.
ROB STRONG BAND
The Legendary Rob Strong, Ireland’s Godfather of Soul, will kick off this year’s 7 Hills Blues Festival at the Bandstand Stand, Market Street, Armagh at 5pm. The Derry native, who was the lead singer of The Plattermen Showband in the 60/70s, has just celebrated an amazing 60 years on the road this year.
RONNIE GREER TRIO WITH KEN HADDOCK & JOHN MCCULLOUGH
Three of our finest musicians bring their combined talents back to the 7 Hills Blues Festival. Ronnie Greer, Ken Haddock and John McCullough are all highly acclaimed by music fans and critics alike. Expect the best of blues, roots, soul and a little jazz from these three masters of the genre.
ROY FULTON EXPERIENCE
Expect a rollercoaster of emotional blues guitar! Roy Fulton will be joined by Michael Conway (Drums) and John Dunne (Bass) for a blues fest of classics played in his own unique way. A style that has been described by ‘Guitar Player’ magazine as ‘played with fire and respect’.
RUSTY JACKS
Rusty Jacks have built up a reputation as one of the best live Blues bands in the country having played in the leading Blues Festivals in Ireland and Britain. They have released two albums which have been highly acclaimed by the industry. Steaming hot guitars, haunting slide guitar, thundering rhythm section, rasping vocals and a sprinkling of harmonica and saxophone licks plus keyboard backing.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
SAM DAVIDSONS TASTE
This rock band is a dynamic power trio featuring the inimitable styles of Sam Davidson lead guitarist and vocals, Lyn Mc Mullan on drums and Ali MacKenzie on bass. Together they bring an exciting edge to classic blues, early Taste numbers and Sam’s own originals. The guys have played in the UK and Europe having performed in Italy, France, England and throughout Ireland.
SOUNDBITES
The “Soundbites Blues Band” from way back in the Monaghan Delta, are a four piece “Electric Blues Band”. Their passion for this music is obvious every time they take to the stage, with their Lively Guitar & Biting Harmonica sound. Their ever expanding repertoire of songs, including standards by Muddy Waters, B.B. King & who knows maybe even a little Chuck Berry when things liven up.
STONECOLD HOBOS
Stonecold Hobos are a Louth based blues band consisting of drums, bass, harmonica slide guitar and vocals. Amongst their catalogue of original material, expect to hear the likes of Muddy, Elmore, Little Walter, Freddie King and more. Their live show is noted for its energy and authenticity.
THE BLUEZ KATZ BLUES BAND
The Bluez Katz lay down blues the way it should be in their energetic live shows. They have played headline gigs in Blues Festivals throughout Ireland and Europe. Supporting many of the greats including Van Morrison and Peter Green; don’t miss this amazing Saturday night Blues, Soul, Rock and Roll show!
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
THE BROWN NOTES
The Brown Notes are a 5-piece Blues/Rock band who formed in 2010. Their influences range from Dr John to Stevie Ray Vaughn, cold beer to whiskey! They are delighted to be playing the 7-Hills Blues Festival once again and look forward to seeing y’all there!
THE CRACKPOT PREACHERS
The Crackpot Preachers consist of various artists from two-piece up to a five piece Band. Mike Wilgar on vocals, harmonica and guitar and Dave McLean backing vocals and guitar. Mike and the band have had many very successful years touring, playing and recording. Slide guitar and harmonica is the outstanding signature sound from this Band. From soulful Blues to the more uplifting fast-paced blues rock. This band no matter what combination is sure to rock any venue.
THE DIRT
Deep in the depths of rural South Armagh, a smooth new groove comes in the form of some old school blues for you to shake your shoes. Playing covers of all time classics from Fleetwood to Lizzy with a bit of Sabbath for good measure, get ready to boogie.
THE GARAGE BLUES BAND
The Garage Band are a group of local Armagh musicians who formed as a community band during the 2020 Covid Pandemic. They are renowned for their excellent array of music from foot tapping Delta Blues to smokey sounds of Texas blues. You won’t want to miss the smooth and dulcet tones of The Garage Band!
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
THE RENEGADE BLUES BAND
The Renegade Blues Band features well know Irish guitarist Ian ‘Speedo’ Wilson a veteran of many projects including NWBHM band Sweet Savage and more recently as the lead in the annual Gary Moore Tribute. Teaming up with long time band mate and vocalist Brian Gilfedder (Joker/Bad Reputation) and seasoned bassist Ali McKensie and Drummer John Gillen. The band play at a number of Irish venues in between various other projects. Covering artists such as Zeppelin, Punk Floyd, Peter Green, Gary Moore, Rory Gallagher to name but a few. ‘We are looking forward to playing in Armagh, why not come down and start your Friday with some kicking tunes’
THE RUBBER PLANTS
“Bring it on home”, with The Rubber Plants, A Tribute to Led Zeppelin. Fronted by Gavin Corey on Guitar/Vocals, Gerry Wilkinson on Drums and Marc Forbes on Bass/Keys. Together, they bring this Iconic band to life with their high energy performances.
TWO TIME POLKA
Award winning Irish Group ‘Two Time Polka’ play a fiery mixture of Cajun, Bluegrass and rock ’n roll music. They are not unknown to spice up their live performances with flavours such as Argentinian tangos, Brazilian and Puerto Rican Dance tunes.
ZAC MAC BAND
Zac is a 16 year old singer/songwriter and guitar prodigy from Lurgan. He recently released his first album, he sings and plays guitar but also plays drums, keyboards and bass on his album plus all of the songs are written, performed and produced by himself. Rockstar in the making.