Kilkenny Rhythm & Roots: bluegrass-related artists

Kilkenny Rhythm & Roots Festival sends word on the bluegrass/old-time/country-related acts on this year's lineup (2-5 May):

Chatham County Line are four men with an acoustic guitar, a fiddle, a mandolin, and a stand-up bass; but don't be fooled by the traditional instruments, because they're a mega-sonic force. On their appearance, Dave Wilson of the group says: 'You think we're gonna sound like the Kingston Trio, but listen up 'cause you're gonna get rocked.'

Of Eilen Jewell, the Philadelphia Enquirer had this to say: 'The young singer and songwriter brings a Billie Holiday sultriness and a Lucinda Williams plaintiveness to classic country, jazz and blues styles, forging a low-key but alluring brand of Americana that's all her own.'

Tim O'Brien is no stranger to the festival, having appeared here before with his band, The Crossing.

Baskery, the three sisters from Stockholm, Sweden - Greta, Stella and Sunniva - make a beautiful noise, described as somewhere between Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Johnny Cash and the Be Good Tanyas...

The haunting quality of Martha Scanlon's voice, her unique perspective, and the poetic imagery of her songs helped to gain national acclaim in the States for the innovative old-time string band, Reeltime Travellers.

As well as the visiting American acts, the Irish bluegrass scene is well represented with free gigs for bands such as Woodbine, the Desert Aces, and the Hussars. For more info see the Festival website, tel. 056-7794664, or e-mail.