Golden moments of Westport 2012

From the opening jam (l-r): BIB editor, John Denby, Hugh Taggart, Sean McKerr, Tim Rogers, Anto Griffin

Uri Kohen, producer of the Westport festival, writes:

It is now three weeks since one of the best Westport Folk & Bluegrass Festivals to date. Over the three days we had sessions, workshops, and many great gigs. From the first sound which was provided by Sean McKerr and his friends to the last note by Tim Rogers and his friends, folk and bluegrass echoed through Westport all weekend.

There were too many highlights to mention them all, but Viper Central left their stamp on our new venue and old fans; the Molly Hicks stole the show once again; and the fantastic sound of the Thunderbridge Bluegrass Boys will stay in our memories for many years to come.

Thunderbridge Bluegrass Boys warming up before a show

As the producer I was greeted with compliments from musicians, fans, and publicans in the town, which I am very proud of. From the foundation of the festival we always aimed to provide a good place for musicians and music fans to enjoy a weekend of music, and we believe that we achieved it once again. More pictures can be seen on our Facebook page, and we have started work on the 2013 festival.

On stage in the Clew Bay Hotel

Last weekend I made a rare appearance in Ardara Bluegrass Festival, and it was one of my own best bluegrass weekends. It is great to be part of our unique music family. I would like to thank everybody who took part in the Westport festival - and looking forward to seeing you in Westport in June 2013.

The Thunderbridge Bluegrass Boys describe their experience, with video footage, on their own blog; and Viper Central have photos of their Irish tour on this album (and the following page).