Carmel Sheerin & the Ravens bring bluegrass to Tullamore town, 12 Sept. 2010

The Midlands will have a rare chance to catch the award-winning bluegrass band Carmel Sheerin & the Ravens at Hugh Lynch’s Lounge, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, on Sunday 12 September.

Creating a unique sound, Carmel & the Ravens appeal to both young and old with their versatility. Their music represents a variety of music genres including bluegrass, country, folk, and pop. This family band has a powerful acoustic sound, great song writing skills, inspiring a cappellas, tight family harmonies, and a great sense of humour! Not only are they talented and gifted musicians, they are awesome performers.

In May 2005 Carmel Sheerin and the Ravens were voted the #1 European Bluegrass Band (2005-6) at the prestigious European World of Bluegrass Festival (EWOB) in Holland, in only their first appearance on the Continent. The band was picked by the European Bluegrass Music Association (EBMA) to represent Europe (and Ireland) at the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee (2006). They also won # 1 Irish Bluegrass Band in 2009.

The band is backboned by a family that is steeped in music and has been at the forefront of the music scene in the heart of Ireland for the past few decades. Four of the multi-talented Sheerin family are represented: Carmel (lead vocals), Danny (acoustic guitar, vocals), Des (double bass, vocals), and Tom (mandolin, vocals), with another additional Sheerin family member appearing in Tullamore on the 12th - Simon (percussion, vocals). They are joined by virtuoso banjo player Jonathan Toman.

The band will be performing tracks from their latest album and will have copies on sale on the night. The latest album Here with you consists of twelve songs, eight of which are original tracks. Doors open 8.30 p.m., admission €10. Tickets can be purchased on the night.