Ron Block & Damien O’Kane

‘BANJOPHONICS’ LAUNCH TOUR – NEW ALBUM OUT ON 1 JULY

What do you get when an American bluegrass banjo and an Irish tenor banjo join forces? In the case of Coleraine’s Damien O’Kane and California’s Ron Block… fireworks! A spectacular sound probably like nothing you could ever imagine, a union of transatlantic cultures melding two styles and two approaches creating a life affirming, uplifting, truly captivating effect.

With two bold, highly acclaimed recent albums to his name the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Best Album nominated Damien thought it was high time to join forces with a musician he had long admired, Alison Krauss & Union Station banjo star and multi award winner Ron Block (14 Grammy’s and 6 Bluegrass Music awards and that’s just for starters ).

Widely regarded as two of the greatest exponents of the banjo they have collaborated to create arguably their own genre, Banjophony, something never heard before…subtle, awe-inspiring, energetic and majestic. This is their launch tour for their hotly anticipated second album Banjophonics, another masterclass in innovation and moulding two traditions to ground-breaking effect. The banjo maestros are joined on stage by Duncan Lyall on bass and moog and Ali Hutton on guitars and stomp.

‘An inspirational album composed with sonic and cultural influences from both sides of the Atlantic, forging a new and innovative sound. The 4 & 5 string banjos of Damien and Ron, a unique and beautiful combination, are exquisitely played on this pristine recording. The energy,groove and technique on Banjophonics will inspire musicians of any genre and bring joy to all music lovers’ – Gerry ‘Banjo’ O’Connor.

‘I really like this project a lot. It’s incredibly well played and recorded, nice surprises with the guests!! Anyone that likes Irish and American roots music will love this record.’ – Ricky Skaggs

 You can watch them play ‘Happy Chappy / Marinie’s Melody’ from their new album ‘Banjophonics’ here: 

Doors open at 7.30pm.

Licensed bar.