Category: CQAF2021 Music

Karrie O’Sullivan Holmes is a singer/songwriter from Killarney, Co. Kerry. Jimmy Smyth is a Grammy Nominated Guitarist/Producer/Composer originally from Navan, Co. Meath

Karrie released her debut album of songs Jelly Legged – drawn from a rich well of personal experiences – in 2014. Following widespread acclaim for the album, Karrie was invited to tour with Declan O’Rourke, Mick Flannery and Mary Coughlan and including a live RTE spot with Declan O’Rourke and the RTE Concert Orchestra in the NCH, Dublin.

Her second album, Perpetual Motion brought further acclaim from musicians such as Sharon Shannon: ‘Karrie is the Irish Joni Mitchell’, Rumer and Mary Coughlan, who has recorded Karrie’s song Elbow Deep for her upcoming Album.

The current selection of tunes, about to be released on HyperTension Music, is the result of a collaboration between Karrie and Jimmy. The idea was to record and perform established tunes by their favourite artists: reflecting the Zeitgeist, and using only the ‘bare bones’ instrumentation, thus highlighting Karrie’s remarkable voice.

The CD version of the Home Thoughts album is released in Ireland and the UK on August 28th. It is released in the US on November 6th and the rest of the World on October 6th with the vinyl version to follow.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Scottish guitarist & songwriter Dave Arcari’s alt.blues sounds owe as much to trash country, punk and rockabilly as they do pre-war Delta blues and have been showcased via ten internationally-acclaimed solo album releases.

Arcari’s recent album, Live at Memorial Hall, was released on Buzz Records. As well as showcasing Arcari’s trademark National steel guitars, the release features performances on banjo, regular guitar and and cigar box which help capture the full breadth of Arcari’s song-writing and performance.

With a busy live schedule in the UK plus regular shows in USA, Finland, Estonia, France, Germany, Belgium, Poland and Ireland, Arcari is one of the hardest gigging live artists on the circuit.

A series of shows with folks including Steve Earle, Alabama 3, Seasick Steve and Jon Spencer along with his relentless UK and European tour schedule have established Arcari as a formidable international solo performer who is fast building a media reputation as a ‘hell-raising National guitar madman’.

‘Dave plays like he got his skin turned inside out and pretty soon my skin was inside out too listening and it was all good. That boy bleeds for you – he a real down deep player and a soul man…’ – SEASICK STEVE

The Bonnevilles

The Bonnevilles are a no-frills guitar-and-drums two-piece from Northern Ireland who play hard-hitting roots music they call “garage punk blues.”

Formed in Lurgan and Banbridge in 2009, the Bonnevilles feature guitarist and singer Andrew McGibbon, Jr. and drummer Chris McMullan. McGibbon was a blues fan whose take on the genre was turned upside down by R.L. Burnside’s raucous collaboration with the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Ass Pocket of Whiskey

Teaming up with McMullan, the group began playing out and in 2010 released their debut album, Good Suits and Fightin’ Boots. The band have toured the U.K. and Europe sharing stages with the likes of Bob Log III, the Black Diamond Heavies, T-Model Ford, and Kid Congo Powers. In 2014, the band documented its powerful live show with the album Tape Saturation Overdrive: Live in Belfast.

In 2018 The Bonnevilles released their acclaimed album Dirty Photographs adding more texture to their trademark sound and cementing their reputation as one of Northern Ireland’s most vital musical exports.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

 

Scottish guitarist & songwriter Dave Arcari’s alt.blues sounds owe as much to trash country, punk and rockabilly as they do pre-war Delta blues and have been showcased via ten internationally-acclaimed solo album releases.

Arcari’s recent album, Live at Memorial Hall, was released on Buzz Records. As well as showcasing Arcari’s trademark National steel guitars, the release features performances on banjo, regular guitar and and cigar box which help capture the full breadth of Arcari’s song-writing and performance.

With a busy live schedule in the UK plus regular shows in USA, Finland, Estonia, France, Germany, Belgium, Poland and Ireland, Arcari is one of the hardest gigging live artists on the circuit.

A series of shows with folks including Steve Earle, Alabama 3, Seasick Steve and Jon Spencer along with his relentless UK and European tour schedule have established Arcari as a formidable international solo performer who is fast building a media reputation as a ‘hell-raising National guitar madman’.

‘Dave plays like he got his skin turned inside out and pretty soon my skin was inside out too listening and it was all good. That boy bleeds for you – he a real down deep player and a soul man…’ – SEASICK STEVE

The Bonnevilles

The Bonnevilles are a no-frills guitar-and-drums two-piece from Northern Ireland who play hard-hitting roots music they call “garage punk blues.”

Formed in Lurgan and Banbridge in 2009, the Bonnevilles feature guitarist and singer Andrew McGibbon, Jr. and drummer Chris McMullan. McGibbon was a blues fan whose take on the genre was turned upside down by R.L. Burnside’s raucous collaboration with the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Ass Pocket of Whiskey

Teaming up with McMullan, the group began playing out and in 2010 released their debut album, Good Suits and Fightin’ Boots. The band have toured the U.K. and Europe sharing stages with the likes of Bob Log III, the Black Diamond Heavies, T-Model Ford, and Kid Congo Powers. In 2014, the band documented its powerful live show with the album Tape Saturation Overdrive: Live in Belfast.

In 2018 The Bonnevilles released their acclaimed album Dirty Photographs adding more texture to their trademark sound and cementing their reputation as one of Northern Ireland’s most vital musical exports.

We are delighted to host this rare live show by The Adventures under our star-clothed Marquee roof.

Featuring the brilliant song writing talents of Terry Sharpe and Pat Gribben, The Adventures were one of the most influential contemporary bands of the 1980s.

Starting of their musical career as a young new wave outfit called The Starjets, The Adventures specialised in grand, sweeping pop and went on to have several hits including Send My Heart, Feel The Raindrops, Your Greatest Shade of Blue and the anthemic Broken Land in 1988 which was the most played record on Radio One that year.

The Adventures recorded four albums, Theodore And Friends, Sea Of Love, Trading Secrets With The Moon and Lions Tigers And Bears – albums which received much critical acclaim at the time and which retain their timelessness today.

The band toured the world with artists such as Fleetwood Mac and Tears For Fears while building a huge loyal following in their own right, both at home and abroad. A memorable night is guaranteed.

Doors 7.30pm | Limited Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – Marquee

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount. 

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following; 

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event) 

 OR

 · Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event 

 OR 

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

 

Ulster Sports Club and CQAF have teamed up for the Launch of Leo Miyagee’s highly anticipated debut LP titled Act 3.

As part of a of a young but blossoming hip hop scene Belfast, Leo Miyagee has been setting the pace throughout the last few years.

The gig will be Leo’s first in 18 months and comes hot on the heels of his most successful year, with features on platforms such as RTE, BBC Ulster and Vice Magazine.

Plain Sailing B2B with Carlton Doom Ft MC Emby

Plain Sailing invite a selection of old and new friends, this time linking up with unofficial UKG resident Carlton Doom and MC Emby for an evening of garage, techno, breaks and everything in between. Nikki O is over from London on the warmup and the crew look forward to welcoming you back!

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Bronagh Gallagher is a singer, songwriter, and actress from Northern Ireland. She is delighted to bring her new show to this year’s Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival.

Bronagh and her band are currently in the studio recording new material, and planning the next album.

Since releasing their third album Gather Your Greatness in 2016, Bronagh and her band have toured extensively in Ireland, and also in the UK and Europe. Furthermore, Bronagh’s acting career continues to blossom, not least with a starring role in Girl From The North Country in 2018 – a new play written and directed by Conor McPherson with music and lyrics by Bob Dylan.

At the age of 17 Bronagh was cast as Bernie McGloughlin in Alan Parker’s The Commitments. Since then her music has alternated with film roles in Pulp Fiction, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, and Sherlock Holmes, plus theatre work in War Horse, The Street Of Crocodiles and TV dramas Pramface, The Street, and You Me And The Apocalypse.

Bronagh maintains a special place for singing, writing, producing and performing her music. Bronagh’s first album was the Meteor-nominated Precious Soul, followed by her second album Bronagh Gallagher.

‘One of the purest, clearest talents I know – a fabulous singer, bursting with raw Irish soul. Striking and original songs and an effortlessly brilliant band’– BRIAN ENO

‘Swaggering like Carole King in her golden years ‘ – **** Q

‘A deep Irish Soul record full of passion and tunes.’ – MAIL ON SUNDAY

 

– With Support from Reevah

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – Marquee

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount. 

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following; 

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event) 

 OR

 · Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event 

 OR 

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

Bronagh Gallagher is a singer, songwriter, and actress from Northern Ireland. She is delighted to bring her new show to this year’s Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival.

Bronagh and her band are currently in the studio recording new material, and planning the next album.

Since releasing their third album Gather Your Greatness in 2016, Bronagh and her band have toured extensively in Ireland, and also in the UK and Europe. Furthermore, Bronagh’s acting career continues to blossom, not least with a starring role in Girl From The North Country in 2018 – a new play written and directed by Conor McPherson with music and lyrics by Bob Dylan.

At the age of 17 Bronagh was cast as Bernie McGloughlin in Alan Parker’s The Commitments. Since then her music has alternated with film roles in Pulp Fiction, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, and Sherlock Holmes, plus theatre work in War Horse, The Street Of Crocodiles and TV dramas Pramface, The Street, and You Me And The Apocalypse.

Bronagh maintains a special place for singing, writing, producing and performing her music. Bronagh’s first album was the Meteor-nominated Precious Soul, followed by her second album Bronagh Gallagher.

‘One of the purest, clearest talents I know – a fabulous singer, bursting with raw Irish soul. Striking and original songs and an effortlessly brilliant band’– BRIAN ENO

‘Swaggering like Carole King in her golden years ‘ – **** Q

‘A deep Irish Soul record full of passion and tunes.’ – MAIL ON SUNDAY

– With Support from Reevah

This show has been rescheduled to Saturday January 29, 8.30pm. More info.

From London, Crowd Company are one of the UK’s top soul funk bands – a modern take on vintage 70s soul funk with unexpected twists and turns. Crowd Company were named  as a ‘Top Release of 2019′ on the Craig Charles BBC Radio 6 show. And also their latest album was featured by Craig as a ‘Top Pick for 2020’

The band is known for rich songwriting combined with catchy hooks and features three outstanding soulful vocalists often blending exquisite harmonies. Coupled with virtuoso musicianship – in-the-pocket heavy grooves , Hammond organ, horns, tasteful guitar playing.
With 2 studio albums under their belt to great acclaim their upcoming 3rd album ‘Lowdown’ takes things to a new level with rich song-writing combined with catchy hooks, inventive vocals and tight grooves. The new full-length was co-produced by Alan Evans (Soulive, Ae3) and features the renowned Ryan Zoidis and Eric Bloom from US Grammy-nominated funk band Lettuce on Sax and Trumpet on all tracks. Single releases from the album have met with rave reviews.

BBC Radio 6 Music’s Craig Charles has championed the band, playing songs from the album extensively on his BBC radio show. The single Express 76 was included in his “Best Releases of the year “ show. Craig also selected the new album as one of his picks of “hot  releases of 2020” special, previewing the single ‘A New Direction’.

“Crowd Company are knocking it out of the park. Excellent, top class!”  Craig Charles BBC Radio 6“A fantastic album” Robert Elms, BBC Radio London“ If you want exceptional funk Crowd Company has it!” The Huffington Post
“At the forefront of the British modern funk scene.” Music-news “An Instant Classic 9/10 (about new album Lowdown) Blues & Soul magazine

Crowd Company is just as much a powerhouse on stage as they are in the studio. As well as headlining sold out gigs of their own they have toured with/ shared stages with the likes of George Porter Jr. of The Meters, Soulive, The New Mastersounds, Daptone Records’ Saun & Starr.

Doors 8.30pm | Limited Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Pre-Corona, Shadows and Light had been captivating audiences with their intimate show on the iconic singer – songwriter Joni Mitchell.

Their stunning interpretations of her music are performed by vocalist Maura Vambeck, Dave Mulligan on guitar and Paul Enrighton keyboard.

The show features songs from the huge Joni repertoire, including classics from the landmark Blue album, along with some of the lesser-known numbers like Hejira, Secret Place and Hissing of Summer Lawns.

Shadows and Light’s hypnotic performance of the lyrics and life of Joni is truly special, bringing you Joan Anderson, the poet, artist and mother. If you like Joni, you will love this.

See less

Sharon Shannon, the button accordion player from Co Clare, has recorded and toured with a who’s who of the global music industry, including Bono, Sinead O’Connor, Jackson Browne, John Prine, Steve Earle, The Chieftains,  The Waterboys, Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss and Shane MacGowan.

Her 12 studio recorded albums to date have all been very different and ground-breaking mixing traditional Irish with reggae, country, Native American, bluegrass, rap, dance, and African genres.

Sharon grew up in a rural community and was part of a family that all play musical instruments and traditional Irish music. Her career took a massive upward trajectory when in the late 80s she was asked to join seminal band The Waterboys.

Her subsequent debut album was released worldwide and was to become the biggest selling record by a traditional artist in Ireland.

Among the many awards she has received including Hot Press and MeteorAwards.  She received an IBAM Award in Chicago in 2015 for her ‘unique contribution to Irish Music’. Her music has been featured in several Hollywood movies and she also played a cameo role in the Neil Jordan movie Ondine.

In 2017, Sharon released her 10th studio album Sacred Earth. A groundbreaking album once again from Sharon. Produced by Justin Adams, the album mixes Irish music with African and blues and features celebrated African Musicians Abass Dodoo and Seikou Keita as well as special guests including Finbar Furey and Alyra Rose.

A true musical adventurer and a master of her craft, CQAF is proud to welcome Sharon to our 21st Festival.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – Marquee

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount. 

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following; 

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event) 

 OR

 · Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event 

 OR 

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

 

CQAF is delighted to host to a rare showcase by Belfast DIY imprint Black Tragick Records. It doubles as the official launch of Survival Is Triumph Enough, the masterfully skeletal debut EP by Belfast musician Hornby, aka Hatchet Field.

The virtuoso former guitar player with WeAreKnives, The Continuous Battle Of Order and others, Hornby says the new project is fuelled by the desire to do something radically different to what came before, as well as “an unhealthy obsession” with Harry Crews and Ola Belle Reed.

The show will also feature a set by an artist that truly needs no introduction, but here’s one anyway: NI Music Prize-winning doom-folk master and Black Tragick main man Robyn G Shiels. Don’t ask him where the bodies are buried – you’d just be wasting your time.

The Thin Air DJs will also be floating about to make sure the deathly ether isn’t all-consuming.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Grainne Duffy is a contemporary blues artist hailing from Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan.

Described by The Sunday Times as ‘a blues singer of real integrity’, Grainne Duffy is a pioneer of her own style while also paying sincere homage to her roots, soul, blues and rock traditions.

She is a seasoned artist and has been spending the last number of years touring in Europe, Scandinavia, Canada and beyond. Some highlights thus far have included 3 performances at Glastonbury Festival, Phuket Festival in Thailand, Notodden Festival, Norway and Dark Season Festival in Svalbard, in the Arctic Circle.

Grainne recently released her third album Voodoo Blues to sensational reviews and it follows the success of her debut roots album and her second album which weaved together her contemporary influences with her blues and soul roots.

Her Live album recorded on tour in Germany, released earlier last year earned her a 9/10 review in The Blues Magazine, quoting ‘few possess her killer combination of vocal strength, range and intensity, guitar virtuosity and ability to engage audiences’ ‘this is one of the best live CDs of the year’.

With a voice that is as passionate as it is raw and honest, accompanied by simple, melodic and well phrased guitar lines, contemporary Blues has found a new hero.

‘She’s the real deal’ Classic Rock Magazine ‘A blues singer of real integrity’ The Sunday Times

‘Deliciously soulful voice & gutsy blues inflected guitar work in one compelling package’ Guitarist Magazine<

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Gwenifer Raymond began playing guitar at the age of eight shortly after having been first exposed to punk and grunge. After years of playing around the Welsh valleys in various punk outfits she began listening more to pre-war blues musicians as well as Appalachian folk players, eventually leading into the guitar players of the American Primitive genre.

In 2017 she released her first single Sometimes There’s Blood and released her debut album You Never Were Much of a Dancer in June of 2018 to worldwide acclaim.

What followed was much international touring. Gwenifer headlined shows across much of Europe, debuted at several summer festivals including Green Man, Black Deer, Supernormal, Shambala to name but a fraction. She also played a number of support slots for artists such as Michael Chapman, Michael Hurley, Xylouris White and Charlie Parr.

The release of Strange Lights Over Garth Mountain has been highly anticipated after Gwenifer’s debut album, You Were Never Much of a Dancer, received critical acclaim from numerous publications including The Guardian.

Listeners who enjoyed her unmistakable virtuosity on the guitar and banjo, as well as the adventurous musical journey her debut album travelled through, can expect nothing less from this new release.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Ciaran Lavery’s Plz Stay, bb was born out of a period of personal and professional turmoil. Ciaran was nearing the end of delivering his last album, 2018’s Sweet Decay, and it had been a difficult process. It was then that he started to write again, and the beguiling single October, with its dreamy electronica and soft vocals, was the song to kick start his new album.

The title itself, Plz Stay, bb, was a note that Ciaran had written to himself, as a message of self care. But this is not the maudlin album of a sensitive singer-songwriter. Among autobiographical themes, he bravely tackles the competitiveness of the music industry, laying bare his jealousy of other seemingly more successful artists with witty honesty in Oh Fuck, and in the desperation of the urgent Bella Union, on which the vocal groove and funky bassline add a trip-hop vibe to repeated lyrics “Now I’m hungry again, I’ve got to get it together”. It shimmers with subtle electronica, warm vocals and driving rhythms – and lyrics that tell it just how it is, with plenty of self-motivation thrown in.

Having grown up in Aghagallon in County Antrim, Ciaran wanted to break free from the preconceptions surrounding Irish singer-songwriters. With Plz Stay, bb he pushed himself, while retaining the distinctive warm vocals and finger-picked guitar of his previous releases that have been nominated for and won the Northern Ireland Music Prize (2016’s Let Bad In).

Ciaran listened to Thom Yorke’s The Eraser, Mitski’s Be The Cowboy, Bjork’s Debut, and that 90s-defining hip-hop album by the Beastie Boys, Ill Communication – and his music sees a heightened energy, as percussion is brought to the forefront.

Ciaran counts Zane Lowe as a fan, and in 2016 he was one of 30 artists hand-selected by Willie Nelson to play at his Luck ranch in Texas. With well over 120,000,000 plays on Spotify and 30,000 followers, the plaudits keep coming Ciaran’s way.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating<

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Lisa Hannigan’s last record was Live in Dublin made with experimental orchestral collectives t a r g a z e in Dublin’s National Concert Hall, and was released in May 2019.

This live record followed Hannigan’s critically acclaimed third full-length studio album, At Swim produced byAaron Dessner. Across it’s fourteen tracks –Live In Dublin includes songs from Lisa’s first three albums, with the likes of Ora, Lille, Fall, Little Bird, A Sail and Undertow.

Hannigan’s delicate vocals and soft-plucked guitars and mandolin are delivered against a hypnotic backdrop of sublime waltzing keys, affective string sections and minimalist percussion.

As well as featuring tracks in TV series’ Fargo and Legion, Lisa also sings on the Oscar winning soundtrack to Gravity.

In the past few years she found her acting voice, playing Blue Diamond in Cartoon Network’s Steven Universe and Bronagh in Cartoon Saloon’s Oscar-nominated film Song of the Sea. Outside of her own album and soundtrack releases, Lisa has contributed vocals toThe National albums I Am Easy to Find and Sleep Well Beast and also sang on Big Red Machine’s eponymous first album.

Over the course of her extensive career to date Lisa has appeared at festivals all over the world, and live TV appearances such as the Tonight show with Jay Leno,The Late Late Show with James Corden, and The Colbert Report with Stephen Colbert, the Mercury Music prize and Later with Jools Holland.

The special CQAF appearance comes at a time when Lisa is currently at work on her fourth studio album and promises to be a true festival highlight.

– With Support from Reevah

Doors 7.30PM | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – Marquee

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount. 

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following; 

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event) 

 OR

 · Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event 

 OR 

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

Improvisation and experimentation is at the core of Robocobra Quartet’s DNA, whether it be in the fluidity of their line-up (six musicians tagging in and out to make up the live touring quartet) or in their unique self-produced records which flirt with the likes of choral groups and string sections – almost intentionally at odds with their ostensible roots as a post-punk band.

These juxtapositions are just the beginning of the complex world of Robocobra Quartet– a band serious about their music but humorous in their approach; a band consisting of members with no musical training alongside members with backgrounds in music tuition and with European music conservatoire pedigree. The result is a group of musicians inspired by Stravinsky and Black Flag in equal measures.

The free nature of the band’s live shows led to them being embraced early on by jazz and prog fanatics just as much as rock fans – once finding themselves in Europe touring a jazz club one night, a house show the next and a pop festival the night after that.

These unmatched live performances often channel-hop from moments of joy and playfulness to periods of intense fury, earning the band invitations to Montreux Jazz Festival, Latitude Festival and as far as Inversia Festival in the polar north of Russia whilst receiving acclaim from the likes of The Quietus, Jazzwise and BBC Radio 6.

“Fugazi meets Mingus.” – Drowned in Sound

“A cunning marriage of jazz, spoken word and punk” – The Quietus

“Exploratory pioneers.” – BBC Radio 3 Late Junction

Doors 7.30pm | Limited Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Niamh Murray is a singer-songwriter from Lurgan, who has been writing songs since she was thirteen, but has only now begun to pursue her dream of performing her own music.

Classically trained, and having studied music, recently graduating with a 1^st in her BMus degree, her background of classical and choral music has taught her so much about using her voice and emotionally connecting with her songs.

This, in combination with impressive guitar skills, has helped her create a unique sound in her song production. She has made several videos of her own songs with the highly regarded ‘Houseband’ and is working closely with a team at Magysfarm Collective including Dana Masters, Jude Johnstone (Nashville) and producers Peter Doherty and Rocky O’Reilly.

Having recently performed at the virtual Women’s Work Festival 2021, Niamh is embarking on a series of post-lockdown live gigs with an exceptional new band. Her debut single, Miss Your Smile is about to be released and is creating a considerable buzz in the industry.

Band: Liam Bradley: drums, John Hodge: bass, Peter Doherty: guitar, John McCullough: keys, Cara Quinn: backing vocals, Lara ‘O’Donnell: backing vocals.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

If you have any issues with the live stream, click here to watch on Youtube.

Niamh Murray is a singer-songwriter from Lurgan, who has been writing songs since she was thirteen, but has only now begun to pursue her dream of performing her own music.

Classically trained, and having studied music, recently graduating with a 1^st in her BMus degree, her background of classical and choral music has taught her so much about using her voice and emotionally connecting with her songs.

This, in combination with impressive guitar skills, has helped her create a unique sound in her song production. She has made several videos of her own songs with the highly regarded ‘Houseband’ and is working closely with a team at Magysfarm Collective including Dana Masters, Jude Johnstone (Nashville) and producers Peter Doherty and Rocky O’Reilly.

Having recently performed at the virtual Women’s Work Festival 2021, Niamh is embarking on a series of post-lockdown live gigs with an exceptional new band. Her debut single, Miss Your Smile is about to be released and is creating a considerable buzz in the industry.

Band: Liam Bradley: drums, John Hodge: bass, Peter Doherty: guitar, John McCullough: keys, Cara Quinn: backing vocals, Lara ‘O’Donnell: backing vocals.

John Murry’s third album is starlit and wondrous, like being wrapped in the softest black velvet. It’s an album of startling imagery and insinuating melodies, unsparing intimacy and twisted beauty.

Murry’s previous two albums had been responses to specific traumas: the centrepiece of his debut,The Graceless Age– the astonishing Little Colored Balloons– told of his near death from a heroin overdose; its follow-up, A Short of History of Decay, was recorded in the wake of Murry’s marriage failing.The Stars Are God’s Bullet Holes, coming six years after Murry left the US for Ireland, is the result of a period of stability, though in Murry’s case it’s all relative.

The result is a record that shares its predecessors’ lyrical ingenuity, but this time the sadness is shot through with humour, albeit a spectacularly black humour. Recorded at Rockfield Studio near Monmouth in Wales with producerJohn Parish(PJ Harvey, Eels, Aldous Harding, This Is the Kit).

The Stars Are God’s Bullet Holes is an album to dive deep into and submerge yourself in, and to emerge from aware that this world is a remarkable place, and thatJohn Murry is a remarkable artist.The Stars Are God’s Bullet Holes was released June 26 on Submarine Cat Records.

Doors 7.30PM | Unreserved Limited Seating 

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Join the world-renowned Irish/French singer Camille O’Sullivan as she explores the dark and light of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds’ music. In her dangerous yet fragile theatrical style, Camille embarks on a personal discovery of a man of many guises; violent, beautiful, logical, crazy, devout, troubled and religious.

‘Queen of the Edinburgh Festival’ (BBC) and original star of Olivier Award winning La Soirée,Camille O’Sullivan enjoys a formidable international reputation for her stunning vocal performances, at venues including Sydney Opera House, Royal Festival Hall, and the Roundhouse, and was voted one of Later… with Jools Holland‘s top 25 performances of all time by The Telegraph.

Dark, sexy, fierce, amusing and mesmerizing, Camille transforms each song she performs into an intense, emotional and theatrical experience, inextricably drawing her audience into a world illuminated by the dark and the light. Expect joy and pure passion.

★★★★★ “An artist at the top of her game pushing herself to be better and trusting us to keep up. It’s thrilling to watch.” – The Scotsman

★★★★★ “Hypnotic.” – The Independent

Unreserved Seating | Doors 7.30pm

 

Covid protocol – Marquee

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount. 

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following; 

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event) 

 OR

 · Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event 

 OR 

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

They’re back! A decade on from their last album, Sin-Sational, the Sabrejets have just unleashed another high-octane long-player of timeless rock’n’roll. Featuring fifteen foot-stomping tracks, The Restless Kind is greaser heaven from start to finish.

The Restless Kind is in many ways an appropriate title for the band as well as the album. Core members Brian Young (ex Rudi) on guitar and lead vocals, Liam Killen on guitar and vocals, and “Wild” Bill Johnston on bass have been together for a quarter of a century and show no sign of picking up their pensions anytime soon. Joining the rock’n’roll veterans on this long-player is the newest Sabrejets member Lou Steele on drums and vocals.

Songwriting duties on the album are shared between Young and Killen. The subject matter is classic old-school greaser rock.  Faster Than The Eye Can See is a driving epic featuring guns, booze, and fast cars while Zorita pays tribute to the famous burlesque dancer.

The music throughout is tight and perfectly executed with energetic abandon as guitars twang and riff out blazing solos alongside pounding drums and buoyant bass. The Killen-penned instrumental Lightnin, the Western-inspired Train To Hell, and the deceptively upbeat Don’t Turn Your Back On Love could sit easily on the soundtrack of a Tarantino movie.

With subject material that harkens back to the silver age of cinema and black and white movies about fast cars, alcohol, women, and motorcycles, The Restless Kind delivers entertainment in glorious technicolor with rip-roaring music and style.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

John Blek is much loved for his enthralling live shows full of humour, pathos and his impassioned musical delivery. A master storyteller and a stunning fingerstyle guitar player,

Although only 34 he has a catalogue of music that would represent a life’s work for many musicians. He began his solo career in 2014, and over the last seven years has created a reputation as a singer songwriter who is sure to leave a legacy of timeless music that will speak to generations.

At his heart he is a storyteller, influenced by experience and the natural world around him, with tones of compassion and sometimes sorrow, with a voice that sounds purposefully introspective and intimate – a voice that compels you to listen. With often haunting layers of music and lyrics he creates an incredibly atmospheric and inspirational arrangement that lingers with you long after you hear it.

While Blek is a solo artist he regularly collaborates, and indeed will write new music with collaborators in mind. As a result, it never feels like another artist is merely gate crashing his music instead it works as a beautiful harmonious meeting of artists who understand each other.

Recent collaborations include Kris Drever and Kit Downes who both join John on his album On Ether & Air, Joan Shelley who embodies Laura, one of the characters in Blek’s duet The Body, and  fellow Corkonian Mick Flannery who duets with him on Revived a single from the 2020 album The Embers.

“A lovely sounding thing” – Roddy Hart, BBC

“A force of nature” – The Irish Times

“A master of subtlety in realms of folk-informed pop.” – The Thin Air

‘His talent is shining brighter with every album.’ – John Creedon, RTÉ

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Brigid Mae Power paints expansive songs that are effortless, hypnotic and folk-oriented like Judee Sill, Bill Callahan and Sharon Van Etten.

The third album from the celebrated singer/songwriter, Head Above The Water is a coming of age opus featuring a ground-breaking amalgamation of traditional folk and country – an engaging blend of strings, bouzouki, piano and Power’s distinctive vocal make this an achingly beautiful body of work.

Recorded in analogue studio The Green Door in Glasgow with Alasdair Roberts co-producing alongside Brigid and Peter Broderick. It’s a continuing tale of everyday survival; more diverse, different, a bigger canvas, with broader brushstrokes.

Country and traditional folk rub shoulders, making for a juxtaposition of threads, with added instrumentation from five musicians lured into the studio to provide larger dynamics. After two lauded albums for Tompkins Square, Brigid Mae Power released her new album on 5th June via Fire Records.

“Power meditates on the dichotomy that’s always existed in her work, melding atmospheric bliss and stark desperation.” Pitchfork

“Power invokes the elements, either in contrast to internal weather or in sympathy with it.” The Guardian.

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

The story so far: King Kong Company are a band from Waterford – five blokes and a Boxhead.

In 2011 they started putting out one video a month, put on their first gig in 2012 and played Indiependence on the back of a truck at 2am to 20 people.

Soon after Body & Soul heard a track and booked them for an early Sunday evening at Electric Picnic where they got lucky and played to, maybe, thousands.

Thinking they had now made it, they tried to get a Dublin gig and, a well known, but won’t be named, Dublin venue turned them down saying they’d be lucky to get 100 people to it. But the Sugar Club offered them a gig, and it sold out. Then the Button Factory sold out (5 times so far), The Academy (4 times) and they sold out The Olympia, but only the one time (they’re not The Script).

They’ve also stuck 13,000 people in a tent at Electric Picnic for Sunday Mass, had thousands of hedonists lay siege to the Body & Soul arena for their stuffed to the gills lock in that closed the legendary stage.

And in between there’s been tracks, an album produced by The Prodigy’s producer Neil McLellan, a Buckfast beer, Glastonbury, a robot, All Together Now, late nights, parties, early mornings, ferries, Prague, London, Newcastle, the Cork Opera House, the proposal, broken down vans, Spraoi, a Best Band in Ireland award and stuff that should never end up in print. Now you’re all caught up.

But are you ready for the next bit? Catch KKC in our Festival Marquee in CQAF 2021 for an unforgettable experience.

Doors 7.45pm | Limited Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – Marquee

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount. 

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following; 

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event) 

 OR

 · Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event 

 OR 

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

Support by DJ Sarge

After years of parties in Belfast, Superfly Funk and Soul Club are joining forces with Deptford Northern Soul Club with support from DJ Sarge.

Deptford Northern Soul Club are childhood friends, Will Foot and Lewis Henderson, whose early love of soul developed after discovering Lewis’ Dad’s record collection. After finally bringing their musical heritage to the forefront with their debut DJ set at Deptfords Bunker Club 4 years ago, they have since taken their unique club night around the UK, performing at the likes of Glastonbury festival and Green Man, alongside a residency at Manchester’s YES, their beloved Bunker Club and London’s Moth Club.

Whether behind a turntable, dancing out front or in discussion, their sheer love and passion for soul is infectious, as is the spark of friendship and mutual musical appreciation between the two of them. 27-years-old but with old heads on their young shoulders, they have emerged as the new face of Northern Soul, bringing the movement back into the conversation of modern dance music.

Superfly Funk and Soul began as just another regular soul night in the city but has fast become an established brand, combining a popular online radio show with a website packed with interesting content, a range of merchandise and a high energy club night!

Pete Brady’s Radio Show is committed to showcasing all that is great about today’s scene, as well as recognizing some of the amazing artists from the past. Expect to hear sounds from Curtis Mayfield and Donny Hathaway as well as some current day acts such as The Getup and Stone Foundation.

The club nights have proven to be one of the best nights out in Belfast and have continued to grow in both stature and in popularity, especially with the quality of acts who have been over to play, such as The Allergies, Smoove and Turrell and Crowd Company. Local bands such as The Organauts, Freedom 35s and Supertonic Sound Club have all played, helping to play their part in some brilliant nights.

Doors 10.00pm | Limited Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Sisters Karen, Lorna and Joleen McLaughlin, collectively known as The Henry Girls, make music that will give you goosebumps. The harmonising, lilting, melting voices imbue their music with overwhelming romanticism, although the very classic and traditional folk sound is given an edge with Americana, bluegrass and blues sounds.

Recent album Far Beyond the Stars has won massive praise, not least for the sister’s knack of creating authentic original material rich in traditional values. Their tight three-part harmonies are matched by soulful musicianship across a range of instruments including harp, fiddle, accordion, ukulele, piano and a few more in-between.

In our view there are few better ways to spend a Saturday afternoon

– With Support from Reevah

Doors 1.30PM | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

It’s over 12 years since John Martyn departed this life leaving us a massive legacy in the form of his catalogue of songs and recordings. Some of this material is very well known beyond his fan base; other songs are more loved by Martyn aficionados.

To mark the big man’s birthday on 11th September Old Flat Top agency have invited some Belfast singers/ musicians/fans to perform his music in The American Bar for a one-off celebration as part of the CQAF ’21.

Leading the proceedings will be Cliffy McKernan, a devoted John Martyn fan forever. Cliffy uses electric guitar and loop effects to recreate some of the sounds that John incorporated with his use of the Echoplex effects unit that featured on many of his recordings and live performances.

Cliffy’s involvement with his hero went beyond his love of John’s music. In 2003 his skills as a prosthetics technician were called upon to create a prosthetic leg for John after his amputation.

Expect to hear classic John Martyn songs like One World, Big Muff, May You Never, Couldn’t Love You More, Sweet Little Mystery and more from Cliffy with a supporting line-up that will include Tim Cobain.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

“There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in.” Graham Greene

No glamour. No gimmicks. No pretence. Nothing but a voice, singing of life’s triumphs and tragedies. Piaf is both a personal narrative and a powerful musical homage to one of France’s most endearing icons.

Christine Bovill threads her remarkable journey through the world of French Song with the life and works of Edith Piaf.

An award-winning songwriter in her own right, Bovill has toured throughout Europe with her self-penned homage to the Little Sparrow, appearing on BBC News, ITV and on BBC Radio 4’s series Soul Music.

During her sold out run at the famous Spiegeltent at the 2012 Edinburgh Festival, Bovill realised a lifelong dream when she shared the stage with Charles Dumont, great friend of Piaf and, most famously, composer of Non, Je ne Regrette Rien.

They performed several songs together to close the show. The publicity around the event drew articles from the national press, culminating in Christine’s live appearance on BBC’s Newsnight.

Piaf has been awarded the Fringe Laurels for Total Sell Out Show and received five star reviews from some of the most respected publications.

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

“There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in.” Graham Greene

No glamour. No gimmicks. No pretence. Nothing but a voice, singing of life’s triumphs and tragedies. Piaf is both a personal narrative and a powerful musical homage to one of France’s most endearing icons.

Christine Bovill threads her remarkable journey through the world of French Song with the life and works of Edith Piaf.

An award-winning songwriter in her own right, Bovill has toured throughout Europe with her self-penned homage to the Little Sparrow, appearing on BBC News, ITV and on BBC Radio 4’s series Soul Music.

During her sold out run at the famous Spiegeltent at the 2012 Edinburgh Festival, Bovill realised a lifelong dream when she shared the stage with Charles Dumont, great friend of Piaf and, most famously, composer of Non, Je ne Regrette Rien.

They performed several songs together to close the show. The publicity around the event drew articles from the national press, culminating in Christine’s live appearance on BBC’s Newsnight.

Piaf has been awarded the Fringe Laurels for Total Sell Out Show and received five star reviews from some of the most respected publications.

CQAF is proud to announce Reevah as this year’s Artist in Residence. Reevah will be supporting a number of artists across the festival; including Bronagh Gallagher, Lisa Hannigan & The Henry Girls. Aswell as her own headline show.

Derry based Indie-pop artist Reevah grew up surrounded by music and art her mother is an artist and her father is a musician. Her latest single, You Said, Tell Me was released in April 2020 along with her highly anticipated E.P A Different Light.

Both releases garnered substantial backing from key influencers at BBC Introducing, RTE Radio 1, RTE 2FM, BBC Radio Ulster and more. You Said, Tell Me also received significant support from Spotify tastemakers featuring in New Music Friday and several other Spotify editorial playlists.

In May 2020 it was announced that Reevah was longlisted for the Glastonbury Emerging Talent competition out of 1000’s of entries across the UK. Reevah’s striking vocal and unique presence as a performer also earned her a slot at Ireland Music Week 2020which celebrates Ireland’s most exciting new talents.

Reevah’s music is supported by Help Musicians UK, Arts Council Northern Ireland and the PRS Women Make Music Fund marking her assuredly as not only an artist to watch but as an act in high demand.

Reevah’s music is immersive and reflective allowing the listener a chance to escape the speed of life. But it’s her voice, pure, understated and fearless, that stays in the heart and the mind long after the music is over.

‘One of the best talents emerging up North’–Hot Press Magazine

“A great band from Derry/Londonderry that’s emerged in the last few years called Reevah, primarily the work of Aoife Boyle. They have an EP out this year called ‘A Different Light’ and it’s fantastic.”-Gary Lightbody Snow Patrol

‘New Light on Reevah as Derry star releases new E.P’ –Northern Ireland – Sunday World

‘Rising Star Reevah first to the punch with a musical one-two’–Sunday Life

‘Reevah E.P trips Light fantastic’–Daily Mirror Northern Ireland

‘Reevah manages to stand out from the scene of talented young songwriters.’–The Daily Mirror

– Also supporting Bronagh Gallagher, Lisa Hannigan & The Henry Girls.

Doors 08.30pm | Limited Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

+ Support: The Skallions

Neville Staple is credited with changing the face of pop music not only once but twice.
His 40-year career in the music business is well documented. From the early days with his Jah Baddis Sound System, The Coventry Automatics, The Specials, and Fun Boy Three in the ‘70s and 80’s, to The Special Beat and various other collaborations during his solo career from the 90’s up to the present day.

Following on from the 2009 Specials reunion and his departure from the band in late 2012, he continues to be a forerunner of the Ska movement, and continues to thrill audiences with his own excellent band at venues and festival appearances worldwide.

His highly celebrated album Return of Judge Roughneck was released in 2017 to outstanding reviews.

Doors 7.30pm | Mostly Standing

 

Covid protocol – Marquee

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount. 

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following; 

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event) 

 OR

 · Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event 

 OR 

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

Bringing down the curtain on the Festival Marquee in some style are one of Ireland’s truly great live bands. Formed at school in Dublin’s late 1980’s, Kíla are legendary for their innovative and euphoric shows. Their unique sound has been ever evolving, rooted in tradition, yet inspired by a myriad of influences and ideas from all around the world.

Often defined as contemporary Irish World music, Kíla fuse the effects of their own melodies and Irish (Gaeilge) lyrics, Irish folk instruments such as whistles, fiddles, Uilleann pipes, bones and bodhrán with djembe, congas, drums, mandolins, brass and acoustic/electric/ bass guitars.

Kíla’s eight members come from the differing musical backgrounds of traditional, classical and rock. The result is a fresh blend of freewheeling instrumentals, furious jigs, and primal rhythms that transcend the traditional boundaries of Irish music.
​
Kíla are widely renowned for their live energetic performances and have played in over 30 countries in North America, Asia, Australia, Africa and Europe, notable festivals include The Montreux Jazz festival, WOMAD, the Sziget festival and closer to home Glastonbury and the Electric Picnic. Kíla have also had the privilege of playing the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics, Dublin and Possibilities, the event that welcomed the Dalai Lama to Ireland. Kíla have worked extensively in TV and film. Their music has been placed in many documentaries on RTÉ, TG4 and most recently in several BBC2 Timewatch documentaries. Their most notable involvement in film is their collaboration with French composer Bruno Coulais on the soundtracks for Cartoon Saloon’s Oscar nominated and Annie winning animations The Secret of Kells and The Song of the Sea.
​
‘One of the most beautifully euphoric live experiences’
– BBC World Review

‘All the wonderful, shamanistic energy of the amazing Kíla’
– The Guardian

 

Doors 2.30pm | Unreserved Seating

Covid Protocol – Marquee events

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. However the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff remains paramount.

As a condition of entry, ticket holders are being asked to demonstrate their Covid status on entry by providing ONE of the following;

·Proof of full vaccination: both doses received (with the second at least 14 days prior to the event)

OR

· Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test taken no more than 48 hours prior to your arrival at the event

OR

· Proof of natural covid antibodies based upon a positive PCR test within 180 days of the event (including 10 days self-isolation following the result)

The Remedy Club, an Americana/Roots duo based in Wexford, Ireland comprising KJ McEvoy and singer Aileen Mythen have been described as ‘Ireland’s best kept musical secret’by HOTPRESS journalist Jackie Hayden who also described their music as “a marriage of folk and country with a hint of the blues with delicious harmonies and nimble guitar playing’’.

Their critically acclaimed album True Hand True Heart has been gaining them a lot of new fans around the globe.

The album was recorded in Room and Board studios, Nashville and produced by 5 – time Grammy award winner Ray Kennedy (Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams).It hosts an array of Nashville based stalwarts including Lex Price on bass (Neko Case, KD Lang), Lynn Williams on drums (The Wallflowers, Delbert McClinton) and multi-instrumentalist and Rodney Crowell’s go to musician, Rory Hoffman.The album has been receiving wonderful reviews across the board including being chosen as album of the week on RTE Radio One  and HOTPRESS magazine including the album in their top 10 folk albums of the year while their single, ‘Sweet Symphony, was included as hottest track of the week in The Sunday Times Culture

The Remedy Club will be performing as a duo on the night and playing a selection of songs from their first and second albums with a few country /roots surprises thrown in.Fans of Americana /Roots music do not want to miss this!

‘Ireland’s best kept musical secret’ 
(HOTPRESS)

‘My new favourite duo of all time’
(ROCKING MAGPIE, UK)

****‘A rocking firecracker of an album’ / ‘Spectacular’    
(MAVERICK MAGAZINE, UK)

‘Among today’s top roots artists’
(YOUR LIFE IN A SONG)

‘One of the most exciting European acts around right now’
(SLLIM CHANCE, NETHERLANDS)

‘A solid gold winner’
(FATEA, UK)

Doors 7.30pm | Unreserved Seating

 

Covid protocol – CQAF small venues*

CQAF is committed to facilitating the return of live entertainment and the gradual reopening of events. We are making every effort to provide a safe environment for our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff.

Current conditions of entry are:

·Temperature check on arrival at the venue.

·Please wear a mask while queuing for indoor events and if you have to leave your seat to move around the venue. No masks necessary when seated.

·Visitors to the venues will be allocated seats as per their booking. (Please email us if there’s someone you’d like to sit with.

·1m physical distancing in line with government guideline.

·Please do not come to the event if you’re displaying any of the symptoms of Covid 19. Email us at info@cqaf.com and we’ll happily refund your tickets.

We hope you enjoy the festival. We will review these conditions of entry if COVID-19 guidelines are updated prior to the event.

* This applies to The Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, The Sunflower, Deer’s Head Music Hall, The American Bar, Ulster Sports Club, 1st Presbyterian Church, The Dark Horse

Foy Vance has today announced details of his forthcoming fourth studio album Signs Of Life and released new single “Time Stand Still.” Vance’s second studio album on Ed Sheeran’s Gingerbread Man Records and the follow-up to 2016’s The Wild Swan, Signs Of Life will be released on September 10 on CD, LP and digital formats and is available to pre-order. Additionally, Vance has announced details of an An Evening With Foy Vance, an intimate UK & US tour to celebrate the album’s release.

Hailing from Bangor in Northern Ireland, Vance independently released his debut album Hope in 2007, quickly garnering acclaim from fans and fellow musicians alike. His second full-length album, Joy of Nothing, released in 2013 on Glassnote Records, won the inaugural Northern Ireland Music Prize and saw Vance tour the globe with Ed Sheeran, Bonnie Raitt, Marcus Foster, Snow Patrol and Sir Elton John, as well as his own solo headline tours.


In 2015 Vance was became the second signing to Gingerbread Man Records, Ed Sheeran’s label division within Atlantic Records. His debut recording for the label, The Wild Swan – Executive Produced by Sir Elton John – contained the BBC Radio 2 playlisted singles “Coco”, “Upbeat Feelgood”, and “Noam Chomsky Is A Soft Revolution”, and saw Vance perform on NBC’s Today and CBS’s The Late Late Show with James Corden.

As a songwriter, Vance’s collaborations include co-writing four cuts including “Galway Girl” on Ed Sheeran’s 2017 album Divide. He has also worked with Alicia Keys, Rag N Bone Man, Keith Urban, Kacey Musgraves, Miranda Lambert, Plan B and Rudimental among many others, effortlessly switching between genres.

Last year, Vance launched the podcast series The Vinyl Supper in which he talks music, food and life stories with special guests and friends from the world of music, poetry and film. Recorded remotely during the global pandemic, series one featured Anderson East, Atticus, Benny Blanco, Blake Mills, Bruce Cockburn, Chrissy Metz, Courteney Cox, Devin Dawson, Josh Groban, Keith Urban and Passenger.

Foy Vance has headlined globally to sell-out crowds and splits his time between London and the Scottish Highlands with his family.