Farewell, the Bluestack Mountain Boys

For its size of population, Ireland has a respectable number of bands playing bluegrass and old-time music - but not so many that the loss of one of our younger bands isn't a source of regret. Patrick Simpson of the Bluestack Mountain Boys sends this news:

The Bluestack Mountain Boys, formed in the early part of 2010, will no longer be performing together as a bluegrass band. Due to sound, lack of venues, material, technical, and personal issues, we are no longer available for any gigs or festivals. We are however, available as individuals for jams, session work, and bluegrass music parties.

We apologise to our fans, friends, and fellow bluegrass enthusiasts, and wish to thank you, and all those who encouraged us, that helped make 'Rock n' Soul Bluegrass' happen along the way. Happy pickin' to you and we hope to see you all again real soon!

The photo above, taken at the Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare, shows (l-r) Patrick (guitar), Will Comerford (bass), Aran Sheehan (mandolin), and Conor Daly (5-string banjo). We look forward to seeing all of them on the scene for many more years.

Update 28 Sept. - Patrick suggests: 'I think your headline should have read "A nice clean break for once!"'