THE September line-up sets the bar high for Down Arts Centre’s season of music.
Having got off to an energetic start with Irish Rock Night, the tone will change with upcoming performances by two highly acclaimed, much loved musicians. Gráinne Duffy will play songs from her new album on Friday 21 September, and Bap Kennedy will follow suit with songs from his new album on Saturday 22 September.
Guitar player Gráinne Duffy, singer and songwriter, has an intense understanding of the blues, but she also brings a great deal of soul to her music. Her voice and her playing are inspired by the wellsprings of Memphis and Chicago, but Duffy also reflects the rich varieties of the Celtic experience. All of this was revealed in her remarkable first album, Out of the Dark, proof of a talent that was rising at an impressive rate.
Duffy’s new album, Test of Time, shows the singer increasing her use of rock and soul in her songs to enhance the blues sound. Described by Classic Rock Magazine as having “classic hooks, high cheekbones and a bad-girl voice box”, Gráinne Duffy is loyal to the blues and the blues have returned the love, big style!
Bap Kennedy’s new album, The Sailor’s Revenge, is the outcome of a creative collaboration with Mark Knopfler, best known as the lead guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter for the rock band Dire Straits, and a long-standing fan of Bap’s song writing. The two musicians worked together closely over a twelve month period to develop a very clear vision for the album. Not only has Knopfler produced the album, he also plays guitar on 6 of the 11 tracks and contributes some backing vocals.
Bap and the Trio (completed by Gordon McAllister on guitar and Brenda Kennedy on bass and backing vocals) will play tracks from the new album as well as some familiar favourites.
If you love live music why not put a date in your diary for our final September music event: Rath Celtair Folk Music Club present the legendary Tommy Sands on Friday 28 September.
To purchase tickets (Gráinne Duffy £10 / £8; Bap Kennedy £8 / £6; Tommy Sands £10 / £8) and for further information on any of Down Arts Centre events, please contact the box office on 028 4461 0747.
The complete Down Arts Centre Season Programme is available to download at www.downartscentre.com
