September 24th - 27th, 2009
www.johnnykeenan.com

The Johnny Keenan Banjo Festival is proud to announce the full lineup for this year’s event.
Scheduled for 24-27 September in Longford, the festival comprises a well rounded list of the best in Irish traditional, American bluegrass, and folk music.

As previously announced, the organisers are especially thrilled to have confirmed the great American singer/songwriter STEVE EARLE, who is one of the top concert draws throughout the country.
Additionally, the great American folk hero Ramblin’ Jack Elliott (the man who inspired Bob Dylan, and was friend and collaborater of Woody Guthrie) will make an exclusive Irish performance during the festival.

The rest of the lineup comprises a no-less impressive listing of cultural music:
LUNASA - one of Ireland’s busiest working bands.
GERRY O’CONNOR (banjo) - Undoubtedly the most revered Irish banjo player of this generation
BANJAXED! - which features four top banjo players Enda Scahill, Leon Hunt, Angelina Carberry, and Marcus Maloney for a truly unique, lively sound. As BANJAXED! these players, backed by guitar and bodhran, have rocked audiences at various top events in recent times, including a spectacular performance at Celtic Connections in February.

The return of LEROY TROY has been met with great anticipation. The ‘Tennessee Slicker’ has been a favourite in the past with his genuine southern personality, great old time songs, and his swinging banjo antics.
The Carter Brothers have become quite a favourite throughout Ireland during the festival as well as yearly touring. With their brotherly bond and superb harmonising, they are able to captivate any sized audience.
Eleanor Shanley does Leitrim proud with her beautiful Irish singing.
Ross Nickerson - top American 5-string player and teacher
Niall Toner - great singer/songwriter, broadcaster, musician
Rough Deal String Band - thoroughly enjoyable old time string band
Tom Cussen - maker of the superb Clareen Banjos will run his yearly banjo workshops and will ’set up shop’ right in the heart of the festival.
Lluis Gomez’ Barcelona Bluegrass Band - fantastic band from the Catalan region of Spain. Featuring Spain’ national harmonica champion. Virtually brought the house down during previous appearances at the Banjo Festival. Not to be missed!

Tickets and weekend passes are now onsale at all Ticketmaster outlets and online at www.ticketmaster.ie
Further information at www.johnnykeenan.com or 087-281-7825 (international: +353-87-281-7825)