40+
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 AND SOULANTICS
A Soulful blend of blues/folk/reggae. With 3 albums:’ Redirect This Affect’ ‘Overboard’ & ‘At Long last’ Allison’s song’s have featured on International Radio and locally on BBC Radio Ulster’s Ralph McLean and Gerry Kelly. Live performance highlights- Nashville’s: BB Kings, Bourbon St Blues Bar Blue Bird Café and Barcelona’s Harlem St Jazz Club 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!
BANSHEE
Banshee are a Belfast based rock band formed in 2022. Currently consisting of Rosie Lee, James Dawson and Nick Scott. Taking inspiration from their classic rock and blued roots but still adding their own modern twist to make their music unique.
BEN REEL BAND
Since his debut album back in 1999, Ben has reinvented himself from album to album, influenced by different styles of music over the years. As one critic said,” He’s not afraid to throw in some in folk, soul, reggae vibes, which in turn call to mind John Hiatt at his best”. Another describes him as “somewhere in the middle ground between rock and jazz or a sound that is sometimes reminiscent of Dylan and the Band”. “Spirit’s not Broken” is the title of his new and 12th studio album coming out in September.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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.
CHRIS TAPLIN BAND
Inspired by the music of Muddy Waters, SRV, Howlin’ Wolf, Albert King, Hendrix and more, Chris Taplin and his band are hugely popular within the Belfast blues community, hosting a weekly blues show at The Belfast Empire (maintaining Rab McCullough’s legacy in establishing the longest running blues residency in the city). Their 7 Hills Blues Fest debut shall transport us from Belfast to the Mississippi Delta and beyond - This is a great addition to festival program.
CLARA ROSE BAND
Powerhouse Vocalist Clara Rose is looking forward to returning to Seven Hills Blues Fest this August Bank Holiday Weekend with her band. The Clara Rose Band released their live third album, ‘Live, LIVE, Love’ to critical acclaim. In every show, raw, original roots and blues with a soulful, folky, twist is delivered frontwoman Clara Rose and her top class band. “When it comes to female musicians, sometimes people focus on their looks and vocal prowess more than their instrumental skills, but Clara Rose delivers on all fronts... Her vibe is one part whiskey, one part roses, and one part Gaelic grit.” (Blues Blast Magazine) Visit clararosemusic.com
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.
CREST OF A WAVE
Crest of a wave is Ireland’s definitive Rory Gallagher tribute on a mission to bring the energy and excitement of Ireland’s greatest guitar hero to the stage. Crest takes you on a journey through Rory’s back catalogue with some Taste classics, deep cuts from the Irish Tour 1974 and some of Rory’s stage-struck belters.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
CROW BLACK CHICKEN
This power trio combine elements of folk and hard rock with the blues rock of bands like Gov’t mule, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin. The band was formed in 2009 in Cork city when lead singer Christy O’Hanlon met the rhythm section of Stephen McGrath ( Bass ) and Gev Barrett (Drums). The band immediately jelled and went on to perform on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury 2011. The band released their first raw blues rock and roll album in 2012 which was produced by Philip Magee. In 2015 the band went on to release their first live album entitled Deep South which was voted top 5 live albums of 2015 by Classic Rock Blues. In 2016 Crow Black Chicken opened for ZZ Top at the Marquee in Cork which brought them face to face with the Texan compatriots whom they often drew so many comparisons to. Always determined to create a sound all of their own the band continues to tour all over Europe and will release their 4th studio album Ghost Dance in 2025 .
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, heir 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 2025. 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
Eric Bell Trio
Eric Bell, is one of Ireland’s most legendary guitarists and founding member of Thin Lizzy. He played on the band’s first three albums and co-wrote hits like ‘The Rocker’ & ‘Whiskey in the Jar’. In 2024, he received the NI Music Legend’s Award for his contributions to music. The Eric Bell Trio have toured extensively over the last few years and include Phil Smyth on bass and Matt Jamison on drums.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
FOURSUCKMEN
Local band 4 Shuck Men make a welcome return to the 7 Hills with a mix of blues standards and original material all with their own twist. The cocktail of flavours rendered is laced with harmonica, banjo and fiddle adding sweet fizz to the pumping percussion. With rasping vocals and sweet harmonies, get ready to enjoy.
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.
FRANK CARBERRY DUO
The Frank Carbery Blues Duo are a two piece act specialising in CHICAGO BLUES, a style made famous by such artists as MUDDY WATERS, JIMMY REED, BUDDY GUY and many others, as well as playing a few original songs which very much pay homage to those great musicians. An authentic Chicago Blues performance guaranteed leaving any audience always 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 Fest.
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! https://www.facebook.com/GP3live
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
KEITH DORAN BAND
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!
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.
LEE HEDLEY BLUES BAND
“Lee Hedley excels in a live context delivering impassioned Chicago blues with Harmonica and some Stones’ classics with style, swagger and tongue in cheek humour. Audiences are left mesmerised and clamouring for more. This is juke joint rock and roll par excellence delivered with power and panache – just what the doctor ordered – Dr Feelgood that is. Lee Hedley delivers the goods and a hot rocking session with a healthy dose of blues is guaranteed – enjoy and don’t forget to dance !!!” John O’Regan. 92FM, Limerick.
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
Manhattan Swing are a new musical ensemble based in Co. Tyrone playing an eclectic mix of music,
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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.
MIGHTY QUINN
A fixture from the beginning at 7 hills, Manchester based The Mighty Quinn bring their own distinctive brand of acoustic folk blues. Usually a duo, with the inimitable John Mahon, Armagh’s Mark Quinn will be taking the stage as a solo act along with a special guest to be confirmed. As always, expect a raucous affair blended with a more roots style blues.
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
NITE HAWKS
The fabulous Nite Hawks return to the 7 Hills Blues festival with an amazing mix of Blues ,Rock, R’n’B and Soul classics. For a night that will put a smile on your face, get down to the Armagh City Hotel on Saturday, kicking off at 9:30.
PAT MCMANUS BAND
Former Mama’s Boys, Celtus and singer/songwriter, guitarist and violinist Pat McManus along with his longtime band mates Paul Faloon and Plunkett McComb have now been touring 19 years as The Pat McManus Band...2025 brings another year of international touring which includes a return to the 7 Hills Blues Fest.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
Paul Sherry Trio
An award-winning guitar player since the age of sixteen, Paul Sherry is an esteemed presence in the Irish rock ‘n’ roll scene. Offering a unique combination of rich guitar technicality, rugged vocal delivery and thoughtful songwriting, Sherry brings years of industry experience and passion to his craft. The Lead guitarist of the award-winning Gráinne Duffy band, Sherry is an artist, songwriter and session musician with deep artistic and spiritual values. His work brings to the forefront his values of creativity, passion, storytelling and positivity, which permeate throughout his discography.
ROB STRONG BAND
The legendary singer Rob Strong, aka ‘The Godfather of Soul ’will headline this year’s Seven Hills Blues Festival with a special concert at The Armagh City Hotel on Sat 2nd August at 7.30 pm. The Derry native fronted The Plattermen, the iconic showband from Omagh and recently celebrated an amazing 60 years on the road. Rob is hugely respected by his peers in the Irish music business, as evident in these quotes taken from his biography ‘STILL GOING STRONG’. “Rob Strong is the best Blues or Soul singer to ever come out of Ireland. His innate gift is his voice and his timing is incredible” COLM WILKINSON. “Rob Strong is world class..He’s got that big soulful voice which you can see etched all over his face when he’s singing”. PAT SHORTT (RTE)
RONNIE GREER TRIO WITH KEN HADDOCK & JOHN MCCULLOUGH
Ronnie Greer, Ken Haddock, and John McCullough, three of the finest musicians in the country, combine to perform an eclectic mix of blues, roots and a little jazz based music, featuring material ranging from Robert Johnson to Charles Mingus, played with style and conviction by three of the best in the business.
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.
SAM DAVIDSON’S 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.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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 Friday night Blues, Soul, Rock and Roll show!
THE BOOGIE MONSTERS
The Boogie Monsters are a band of local musicians from Armagh. If you like to boogie on a Saturday night, then expect a setlist filled with foot-stomping and heart-pumping Blues and Americanna.
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 RENEGADE BLUES BAND
One of Belfast’s most respected blues bands. A six-piece outfit featuring a host of blues talent covering Jeff Beck, Gary Moore, Thin Lizzy, Peter Green, Eric Clapton, John Cougar and much more. We are really looking forward to returning to such great festival.
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.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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.
VILLIERS AND THE VILLANS
Rhythm and blues, country blues, folk blues; try putting a label on this band and you’ll fail. They cite The Band, Bob Dylan, Lou Reed and Willie Nelson as influences, they’ve played the Rory Gallagher Festival, Belfast City Blues Festival, Monaghan’s Harvest Time, Blues On The Bay, Ballyshannon’s Rhythm and Blues and we still can’t pin them down. Original. A must see.
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. Blues-Rock and beyond! Residing in Ireland for some years now Mr. Castle has become synonymous with the Irish music scene not only in the Blues/ Blues-rock category but across all borders of the musical spectrum, collaborating with many people and projects along the way and gaining recognition as one of Ireland’s best modern guitarists. Don’t miss one of Ireland’s most energetic performers and his latest incarnation of the Mr Castle Blues band this August 2nd!