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
ATOMIC BLUES SHOWCASE
Armagh Tutors Open Modular Intergenerational Collective are local music tutors based in Armagh and well-versed in blues & rock will collaborate and take to the stage. Bluesing out the 7 Hills of Armagh with guest spots for some of the city’s finest local talent and with some of the most promising upcoming performers. Guaranteed to be a fun & unique event loaded with edgy riffs and flattened fifths!!
BACKBONE BLUES BAND
A six 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 2023, the members bonded over their mutual love of classic rock, storytelling through song and the love of things odd and unusual, eventually forming a band and gigging around Ireland. Their gigs have been described as raw, real and unpredictable, taking you on a nostalgic trip to older times and then to future dreamscapes. With wailing guitars, raspy vocals, thumping bass and echoing rhythms, Banshee make an impact.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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 latest and 12th studio album released in January 2026.
BOB DYLAN’S OUTLAWS
Honouring the songs and music of Bob Dylan, playing the classics, rarities and deep cuts from his early years right through to the Rough and Rowdy Ways era, ‘Bob Dylan’s Outlaws’ are a must see and hear for all Dylan fans and lovers of acoustic blues.
CASINO DIXIELAND JAZZ BAND
A five-piece band specialising in New Orleans style Dixieland Jazz. These guys have been playing music for a lifetime. 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.
CATCH 22
A Richhill based band that formed in the mid 1980s playing 70s rock and blues. The band were very busy in pubs and clubs for around fifteen years playing rock covers. They got together again about seven years ago to do charity gig and enjoyed it so much that they decided to keep going. They have recently played local venues including the Richhill Apple Harvest Fayre and Armagh show. The current playlist includes Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Bad Company, Free, Thin Lizzy, Rory Gallagher and many others.
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.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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
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 former rhythm section of Clonmel Punk Rock outfit Aural Ammunition, Stephen McGrath (Bass) and Gev Barret (Drums). Always determined to create a sound all of their own the band continues to tour all over Europe and have since released a 4th studio album Pariah Brothers in 2017. After the release of their latest Live Record South Roman Street the Crow Black Chickens 5th studio album is already in the pipeline.
DAVY K PROJECT
A “Live” and energetic, exciting Blues/Rock band from Tyrone/Donegal that are gaining rave reviews in every venue they perform. Formed in 2017, this Irish band has been going from strength to strength and wowing audiences all over Ireland and Europe with their unique delivery of songs both covers and originals.
DELTA FUSE
An Irish blues-rock trio blending fuzz-drenched guitars, soul, and 60s psychedelia. Formed in 2018, they’ve earned critical acclaim, international festival slots, and praise from Joe Bonamassa. Their raw, electrifying sound bridges vintage blues and modern rock, with their fifth album due in 2026.
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
FRANK CARBERRY BLUES BAND
The Frank Carbery Blues Band are a three 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 Fest!
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 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.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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 six 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.
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.
MARK BRAIDNER TRIO
The Trio features Mark on Resonator/ slide guitar, Simon Templeton on piano/keyboard and Michael Conway on drums and percussion. They play an eclectic mix of mainly down home Delta Blues featuring elements of rock n roll as well as some Hokum and ragtime numbers to mix things up. Their main influences include Charley Patton, Blind Willie McTell, Tampa Red and Leroy Carr and Scrapper Blackwell to name a few and have played festivals all over Ireland.
McCOOL BLUES BAND
McCool Blues Band honours the late local blues legend Mick McCool. Led by his daughter Laura Rose, this talented ensemble performs classic blues and original songs penned by Mick himself. Join them to celebrate his enduring legacy with heartfelt renditions that captivate audiences and keep his vibrant music alive.
MIGHTY QUINN
Manchester based acoustic duo return to the festival for their fifth 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.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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
Venezuelan-born guitar virtuoso Hector Castillo aka Mr. Castle returns to Armagh this August with his high-octane Blues band and his signature style of electrifying Blues, 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. Don’t miss one of Ireland’s most energetic performers and his latest incarnation of the Mr Castle Blues band this August 1st!
NIAMH STRONG BAND
A seamless combination of folk, blues, jazz and gospel, now stand as beautiful, larger-than-life compositions. Think of a beautiful tapestry woven with vibrant colours—that’s the best way to describe the stunning voice of Niamh Strong. Blues, soul, jazz—these are the elements that best capture her extraordinary vocal style. Born into one of Ireland’s most musical families, The Strong Family, Niamh is the daughter of legendary blues singer Rob Strong and sister of Andrew Strong, who famously played Deco Cuffe in the film The Commitments. Niamh has toured extensively with her brother Andrew, performing backing vocals and stepping into the spotlight at festivals and arenas across Europe, the USA, Australia, and Canada. This wealth of experience gave her the confidence to return to her own dream— pursuing a solo career. In March 2018, she completed her album Niamh Strong Sings Eva Cassidy. A heartfelt tribute to one of the greatest singers in the world and one of her own biggest influences. Since then her original Singles; Brighter Days (2021); Yesterday (2022); Lost Soul (2025) and Workhard (2025). Niamh and her band have performed last year at Monaghan Blues Festival, Letterkenny Blues Festival, Howth Blues Festival and Dun Laoghaire Summer Festival.
NITE HAWKS
The fabulous Nite Hawks are delighted to be back at the Armagh City Hotel on Friday 31st July. Featuring an electric mix of great music, blues, soul, rock, Americana and everything in between. Ed, Dermot, Ian, Paul, Killan and Tom will see you there.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
ROB STRONG BAND
The legendary singer Rob Strong, aka ‘The Godfather of Soul ’will headline this year’s Seven Hills Blues Fest with a special concert at The Armagh City Hotel on Saturday 1st 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.
STONECOLD HOBOS
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
They 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!
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
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 Americana.
THE BROWN NOTES
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 Fest once again and look forward to seeing y’all there!
THE DIRT
A blues rock band playing the likes of Fleetwood Mac, Thin Lizzy and Ray Charles and many more to keep you going. They have plenty of years gigging under their belt including with the 7 Hills Blues festival with members having influences from previous bands which played hard edge blues and plenty of dirt to keep you on the dance floor.
THE JUKE JOINT BLUES BAND
Hailing from the rugged North Coast of Ireland, the Juke Joint Blues Band is a powerhouse four-piece dedicated to the raw energy and soulful depths of the blues.
The band crafts a sound that bridges the gap between heritage and high-octane rock, blending traditional blues rhythms with the twin-guitar harmonies made famous by their idols. Their diverse repertoire moves seamlessly from haunting, evocative love songs to blistering, floor-shaking anthems. Drawing deep inspiration from the masters, their music echoes the stinging lead work of Freddie King and the soulful phrasing of Peter Green. This foundation is fused with the grit of ZZ Top and the Celtic-infused rock energy of Thin Lizzy and Rory Gallagher. Whether they are exploring a classic 12-bar groove or unleashing a highenergy solo, they deliver a performance defined by passion, precision, and pure Irish soul.
THE SOUNDBITES
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.
FESTIVAL PERFORMERS PROFILES
THE QUAYS
The Quays hit the ground running when they played their inaugural gig at the Hills Blues Festival in 2025. A seven-piece funk/blues experience fused with a hint of jazz, they pulse with excitement and energy, mixing wailing saxophones with edgy guitar riffs. These elements complement the vocalist’s unique ability to take listeners on a rollercoaster of sound giving The Quays that unmistakable edge that sets them apart.
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.
WE ARE GHOSTS
This band are making a name for themselves across Ireland. Rachael Stewart showcases an outstanding vocal talent, with ballads to raise goose bumps and inspired anthems. D Downey, lead guitar, delivers soaring solos and sprinkles glitter over the rhythm section of James & Michael Cox (Bass & guitar / keys) with Dave Bolton on drums. Expect guitar and vocal driven sets drawn from the golden era of rock to present day numbers with a twist and the occasional original.
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!