Headline Acts
ERIC BELL
Thin Lizzy Original GuitaristBlues on the Bay welcomes this true
home grown legend to the 2011 festival. As Thin Lizzy lead guitarist, Eric Bell
played on their fi rst three albums, as well as their hit single "Whiskey in the
Jar".
In 2005, he joined Gary Moore onstage to perform "Whiskey in the Jar" at the Phil
Lynott tribute concert "The Boy Is Back in Town" in the Point Theatre, Dublin.
Making a well overdue showcase appearance at our festival, we know you will be
enthralled and inspired by this outstanding Belfast Blues ambassador! Eric will
be accompanied on stage by one of Northern Ireland's fi nest blues band's, The
Bluez Katz. Come along and see one of the main architects who have shaped blues
and rock scene in Ireland today.(Whistledown Hotel 29th May 2011)
www.eric-bell.com
GRÁINNE DUFFY BAND
IrelandWith the release of a brand
new single ‘I Know We’re Gonna Be Just Fine’ and a new 2nd album coming out.
Performing at Glastonbury, recording at George Martin Studios, London and
broadcasted on BBC Televsion, She has a wonderful mix of blues-rock and soul in
her original material and her treatment of a few carefully selected standards
charged with true emotion and feeling can win over any audience and leave you
begging for more. (Tall Ship Blues Cruise: 2 shows on Saturday 28th May 2011)
www.grainneduffy.com
ROBIN BIBI BAND
EnglandExpect to hear some of the songs from this offering
played with high octane electric energy and intensity
along with some of the Bands tried and tested
favourites played 2011 style! Expect Excitement, Fun,
Spontaneity and above all Brilliant and Passionate
Musicianship.
www.robinbibiband.co.uk
RALPH McLEAN
TV presenter, Radio DJ, respected arts
commentator, producer, scriptwriter and
newspaper columnist... Ralph has done it all
in his impressive career. Join Ralph, Maggie
Doyle and the BBC Radio Ulster team as they
broadcast live from the Guinness Blues on the
Bay Festival on Thursday 26th May 2011. On the show will be a special
guest appearance by original Thin Lizzy Guitarist, Eric Bell.
www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/radioulster/ralphmclean/
THE BLUEZ KATZ
'The Katz' are looking forward to bringing onto
stage, Thin Lizzy guitar guru Eric Bell. The band
met up with Eric last year at the Woodstock
Blues Festival and the seed was planted; its
now time to bring this fully-grown blues harvest
to the Blues on the Bay main stage. They have supported greats including Van
Morrison & Peter Green.
www.myspace.com/bluezkatz
CHAZ DEPAOLO BAND
USA/Poland
NY area guitarist Chaz DePaolo is an
internationally acclaimed Blues/Rock artist.
He has performed on stage with Buddy
Miles, José Feliciano, Blue Lou Marini and
Brian Downey. Appearing with Chaz are Poland's finest musicians; Łukasz
Gorczyca - bass and Tomek Dominik - drums/percussion (also see festival
bass workshop event). Inspired by legendary heroes like Stevie Ray Vaughan,
and Jimi Hendrix, Chaz has also had the privilege of touring with blues icon
Buddy Guy.
www.chazdepaolo.com
Hat Fitz & Cara Robinson
Australia/N.IrelandTake one heaped teaspoon of Seasick Steve, a liberal helping of Catfish Keith, a pinch of Joni Mitchell and a smidgen of the Celt. Finish well with a dusting of Blind Willie McTell and put into a studio at gas mark 5. Bake for one week. What you get is an eclectic pie with so many flavours that perhaps shouldn't work together but just do!
The blending of pre war hill country and delta blues with early Australian folk and traditional Celtic styles has produced a truly unique sound and has enhanced their reputation as one of the world's most interesting and musically appealing combinations.
Al Hensley, Rhythms, Australia.
"Robinson has not tried to tame the savage beast. He still roars like a lion and is the perfect foil for her Bonnie Raitt like vocal tones"
The Music Critic, Scotland.
"This is high quality and immensely enjoyable"
Rootstime, Belgium.
"On this self produced record traditional and modern creativity embrace each other in a truly inventive way"
www.hatfitz.net
Watch Hat Fitz and Cara Robinson Video
New Arrivals
LYNDON ANDERSON BAND
When it comes to the blues, The Lyndon
Anderson Band have all the bases covered,
whether it's a 1950's Chess classic, a chunk
of New Orleans funk, rocking Texas shuffl es,
jazz infl uenced west coast swing or one of their
many originals, they play it all with style, authority and taste. From Lightning
Hopkins to the Meters and beyond, they mix up a red hot gumbo of groove with
tunes from the likes of Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Junior Wells, Freddie King
and many many more.
www.l-a-b.net
THE DRAKE MUSIC PROJECT
The Drake Music Project work with musicians and trainee
musicians with sensory, physical, cognitive and learning
disabilities, and in many cases combinations of these types
of disabilities. Come along to Warrenpoint Park on Sunday to experience the
creative and imaginative music that will help you relax in the perfect setting of
this wonderful seaside Edwardian park.
www.drakemusicprojectni.co.uk
BIG DADDY &
PROFESSOR JOËL C. JOHNSON
Big Daddy's four-octave voice is unmistakably
stunning and alongside his 'Red Hot Java'
sideman, this has all the hallmarks of an
incredible duo concert performance! Professor Joël C. Johnson (Lead Guitar,
Backup Vocals) has an alter ego; By night, he becomes an intense Blues, Jazz,
Rock and Funk guitarist. (Guitarists look-out!)
www.bigdaddyblues.com
THE NEWRY AND MOURNE
MULTICULTURAL BLUES AND
JAZZ INITIATIVE (NAMMBAJI)
Poland, Bulgaria,
Czech Republic & NIThis exciting new project aims to integrate local minority ethnic and indigenous
communities through the medium of blues and jazz music. The musicians who
perform with the collective have been enjoying the sharing of musicianship and
friendship as well as creating new blends of blues, jazz, folk and home country
inspirations.
www.racismiswrong.org www.southernpartnership.com
HAIR O' THE DAWG
The Hair O' The Dawg are a must see fi ve piece band
with a reputation for giving their audience an impeccable,
dynamic and fun loving musical experience. With an
extensive genre ranging from Blues, Soul, Funk, Blues Rock and Pop, you will
be able to hear it all just the way it should be.
www.facebook.com/HairOTheDawg
WILLIE BYRNE
Willie Byrne's performances range from an individual semi acoustic show,
through a two-piece easy blues line up too a full on three-piece electric blues /
rock band. The immaculate renditions of classic blues & rock from the legends
of this period; including Rory Gallagher, Eric Clapton.
www.williebyrne.co.uk
THE JAVA SHRINE ASSOCIATES
Friends of 'Java Shrine' have stepped in to pay tribute and perform on this
excellent event, along with original band member Donal Cox. This year's set is
sure to include some Java classics from power blues to slinky soul and funk as
well as some lesser-known greats!
www.javashrine.com
LEE HEDLEY
Making a welcome return to the festival with an up close and intimate Semi
acoustic session of rock and blues classics with harmonica and soulful vocals.
www.leehedleyband.com
MICKEY MURPHY
Mickey has just completed a new solo album that is a beautiful collection of
classic, jazz, blues and eclectic folk music. Go along to his gig in 'The First &
Last' for the grand blues fest launch of his new CD 'Turais'.
www.mickeymurphy.co.uk
Festival Favourites
MIRENDA ROSENBERG BAND
Mirenda Rosenberg, a powerhouse singer from
Washington DC. By the age of four years old, she was
singing gospel solos in her church, and by the age of
fourteen, she was singing in venues throughout the
United States with the Maranatha Touring Choir. She now
spends her nights performing in her trademark sexy and
vivacious style. Check out her new gospel show coming
up soon on BBC Radio Ulster.
www.mirendarosenberg.com
XANDER AND THE PEACE PIRATES
EnglandA rocking funky outfit who adopt a modern take on 60's
/ 70's blues-rock, with influences from Jimi Hendrix,
Lenny Kravitz and Prince. Playing guitar with only one
arm, Catch them every Sunday night at 'The Cavern'
in Liverpool, catch in Warrenpoint for their 5-day tour
too....breathtaking, ground-shakin stuff!
www.myspace.com/xanderandthepeacepirates
THE PAT McMANUS BAND
Pat McManus is no stranger to the blues music fraternity.
Fans of Pat's are already familiar with the host of classic
albums both with Mama's boys and with his many other
projects including his 'Hi-Voltage' Band. Pat will rock out
hits from his latest album 'In my own time' and will be
fi lling the big room with gutsy attitude and breath taking
guitar licks, the stuff that even 'Rory' would be proud of.
Excellent!
www.patmcmanus.co.uk
RONNIE GREER
A superb blues and jazz guitarist, his fi ngers have added passion and fi re
to some of the greatest blues bands in the country, including for a time the
legendary Jim Daly Blues Band and a host of others. Ronnie never fails to wring
the last drop of emotion out of a solo, while still keeping the toes tapping.
www.myspace.com/rgreerband
REV DOC & THE CONGREGATION
ScotlandThe band is fast becoming known as one of the best high
octane Blues acts around. People talk about their vitality,
uncompromising toughness and their complete lack of
reverence. If you've heard Rev before, you will know the
kind of excitement to expect. If you haven't - you are in
for an enjoyable and startling introduction!
www.rev-doc.com
TONY MCLOUGHLIN
Tony McLoughlin is a Northern Irish singer-songwriter;
but this is not the Nashville of the Grand Ole Opry but
a centre of song writing excellence that given a far
break should offer Tony rich reward. A top notch slice of
Americana that manages to avoid the pitfalls of clichéd
lyrics, a wooden production and contrived songs.
www.tonymcloughlin.com
MARK BLACK
Mark Black whose live appearances included
Glastonbury 2009, guested and performed
with Moya Brennan and Liam O Maonlai at the
Spirit Voices Show, and a string of festivals and
packed out gigs across Ireland. His distinctive
style of 'rootsy blues' often combines rock,
country and Celtic infl uences into the powerful mix.
www.markblackmusic.com
ANDY WHITTAKER SOUL BAND
It's that time again folks for the annual Andy anniversary gig! This 6-piece soul
band covers a wide range of material from Soul and Acid Jazz, to Seventies
Rock and Chicago Blues. This is the 'I feel good' sound that's sure gonna lay
down that boogie. Play that funky music!
THE SOUTH ULSTER YOUTH
BAND AND BIG BAND
Lead by Darren Canmore and Peter Benson,
this is the cream of Northern Ireland
musicianship. The 'Festival' wishes to pass
on their congratulations to Ethne Benson on
her retirement and her tremendous contribution to music within the Music
Board.1000's of musicians are indebted to her (Best wishes to you too Adrian
Benson - another musical genius!)
ALLISON & SOULANTICS
Warrenpoint vocalist, songwriter, producer and performer;
Allison McGrath has been involved in all aspects of the
music industry. With a career spanning 2 decades, Allison
has performed and appeared in many festivals including
the world famous Fiddler's Green festival in Rostrevor.
Join her for this anticipated memorable session.
THE NIGHTHAWKS
The Fabulous Nighthawks feature a fantastic brass section in an entertaining
set, which includes, r'n'b, soul, blues and rock. With the big blues band sound;
The Fabulous Nighthawks are slick, polished and ready to embrace the modern
day big brassy blues sound!
IDLE HANDS
Makin an indelible mark on the blues scene and
festival circuit, the festival is pleased to bring
back 'Idle Hands'. With a wide rockin repertoire
of popular and own songs, front woman Natalie's stunning looks and sounds captivate the crowd every time. Don't miss
this premier class performance at the Hideout on festival Sunday.
KEITH DORAN & STRANGE BREW
Fronted by strat wielding blues ace Keith Doran, this band deliver serious bang
for your buck. The rhythm section of Mickey Doran (Bass) Fergie Hughes (drums) make this trio tighter than a left turn at the crossroads! Expect Stevie's
Texas twang, Rory's Celtic fi re sprinkled with a little Hendrix voodoo dust and
enjoy! Get yourself a cold one cuz it's gonna get hot!!
CROWBAR BLUES BAND
Crowbar Blues strive to recreate the dirty blues sound of such acts like ZZ
Top, Rory Gallagher, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jonny Winters. Their latest EP
"Trouble set to music" it has been well received by hot press magazine with a
quote from Jackie Haden "they do exactly what you would expect only far more
subtlety than established Irish blues combo's".
www.myspace.com/crowbarblues
LUDWIG
At the tender age of 6, Davy O'Neill wasn't allowed to play with his older
brother's guitar, so he stole moments with it when he could, adding the craft
of guitar to his growing passion for the harmonica. In earlier times, they'd have
said this was a child 'kissed by the muses'.
www.myspace.com/ludwigsongs
THE JACKSON ROX 'MONDAY CLUB' SESSION
Although they are the new kids on the block as far as this program is
concerned, Paul and Martina have been hosting an annual acoustic blues
session. These guys represent the true sprit of the Blues on the Bay festival.
Join in the festival fun for this great session.
BACK BONE BLUES BAND
With infl uences from Mike Henderson, Roy Rogers, Van Morrison and Muddy
Waters, there will be an exciting blend of classic and traditional Blues. The band
includes Raymond McEvoy (L.voc. / Harp), Gareth Hughes (L.Guit.), Karl Hughes
(Drums), and Richie McEvoy (Bass). A true dedication to the spirit of Chicago.
Also look out for their acoustic set.
COLD PORTER
Cold Porter are no strangers to the festival
and will be delivering their take on standards
ranging from Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Halliday
to Al Green and Steely Dan. Featuring Elish
McCaffrey (Vocals), Peter Benson (Keys,
Trumpet & Voc.), Mickey Murphy (Guitar & Voc.), Kenny Graham (Bass), Jarly
Mulholland (Sax) and Sean Fegan (Drums & Voc.).
www.myspace.com/coldporter
WILLIE BYRNE
Willie Byrne's performances range from an individual semi acoustic show,
through a two-piece easy blues line up too a full on three-piece electric blues /
rock band. The immaculate renditions of classic blues & rock from the legends
of this period; including Rory Gallagher, Eric Clapton.
www.williebyrne.co.uk
THE RED HOT ROOSTERS
Rock n' roll is the name of the game for this raunchy high-octane trio. The
energy of this band thrives and feeds from an audience who are eventually left
wet and worn out! From Eddy Cochran, Gene Vincent and Carl Perkins through
to Elvis and Jerry Lee, do miss out on this leather lustre performance – C'mon
everybody!
www.redroosters.co.uk
MARK BRAIDNER
Cold Porter are no strangers to the festival
and will be delivering their take on standards
ranging from Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Halliday
to Al Green and Steely Dan. Featuring Elish
McCaffrey (Vocals), Peter Benson (Keys,
Trumpet & Voc.), Mickey Murphy (Guitar & Voc.), Kenny Graham (Bass), Jarly
Mulholland (Sax) and Sean Fegan (Drums & Voc.).
www.myspace.com/coldporter
COLD PORTER
Featuring the fi nest in Blues with a bit of the 'Brother where art thou' feel to
it, this is the rootsy blues outfi t who stopped at the 'crossroads' and had no
need to go any further. Another real-deal which features Doboro, guitar and
harmonica. Join 'Malted' Mark Braidner and friends for some honest blues
melodies.
www.myspace.com/maltedmark
THE JAVA SHRINE ASSOCIATES
Friends of 'Java Shrine' have stepped in to pay tribute and perform on this
excellent event, along with original band member Donal Cox. This year's set is
sure to include some Java classics from power blues to slinky soul and funk as
well as some lesser-known greats!
www.javashrine.com
DEVIL STONE BLUES BAND
With infl uences ranging from Joe Bonamassa, Rory Gallagher, BB King, Buddy
Guy and Gary Moore; Band members: Neil Cole (vocals), Keith Doran (guitar),
Adrian Curran (guitar), David McKevitt (bass) and Mark Dinsmore (drums) all
form together in a perfect mix to deliver a hot blues set.
www.myspace.com/devilstoneblues
MIKE WILGAR BAND
Making a welcome return, Mike Wilgar and his band will be sending out the
blues message at 'The First and Last' in Warrenpoint. With beltin blues harp,
Mike is joined by blues guitarist 'DT' (Davy Turley), Bassist Dave Thompson and
'Skip' Crawford on drums. Check out these bluesmen and see what they're
cookin!
www.myspace.com/mikewilgarblues
St.PETER'S BRASS BAND
They embrace our festival in a true creative spirit to make a showcase outdoor
brassy blues performance. They will be delivering a blues, jazz and soul set
which breaks new boundaries in the world of brass band music.
www.stpetersgaaband.com
SHERIDAN SCHOOL GOSPEL CHOIR
Adding a hugely popular and new dimension to
out festival this year, the Sheridan School Gospel
Choir will perform at Warrenpoint Park on
FestivalSunday. This ensemble pushes out the
boundaries of Soul, Gospel and interpretations
of current chart hits. Enjoy!
BERNIE LOUGHRAN BAND
Local guitar hero Bernie Loughran has been
hailed as one of the best players in the bluesrock
festival circuit. His fi rebrand guitar solos
amaze audiences and he guarantees an exciting
and spontaneous live experience. He will be
joined by Jonny Fox on vocals/bass and Newry's Tom McAllister on drums. This
trio play all the great classics and more.
BEN REEL
Over the last year, Ben has continued to grow his touring base and has shared
the stage with some great artists such as Nancy Griffi th, Hal Kethchum, David
Olney, winning over their admiration and recognition. On Ben's recent trip to
Nashville and Folk Alliance in Memphis in February 2011 , word on the street
was that he "Knocked em dead".
www.benreel.com
JIM UPRICHARD
Infl uenced by blues greats such as Peter Green, Gary Moore and Robert
Johnston; Jim's interpretations of the blues is authentic, honest and right on
the money.
GARY PRICE
Gary Price and friend's present unplugged versions of the rock and blues
classics which have wowed the festival in recent years, the set will include
tracks by Robert Johnston, Clapton, Gallagher and many more.
'YOUNG GUNS' STAGE
Blues and rock will be the recipe for these afternoon sessions; debuting for this
year are; Stringer Bell, Soul Train, The Ravens and Delta Stone. Check em' out
at 'The Hideout'!
