Sligo Live Festival confirm another headline show as Canadian Americana and folk artist Frazey Ford confirmed
Sligo Live urge fans to book early to select the best seats and avoid disappointment.
Frazey Ford is one of Canada's most distinctive voices, a singer-songwriter whose music defies easy categorization.
Emerging as a founding member of the folk trio The Be Good Tanyas, Ford helped pioneer a roots revival in the early 2000s that blending Americana, folk, and alt-country.
Her solo career has taken her into new territory. Ford's 2010 debut 'Obadiah' introduced listeners to a more soulful, introspective side of her artistry, fusing folk with slow-burning Southern soul.
She followed it with Indian Ocean in 2014, recorded in Memphis with members of Al Green legendary Hi Rhythm section. Frazey Ford's third album, 'U kin B the Sun', is a luminous, defiant work that deals with themes of transformation, healing, and inner strength.
Her lyrics speak to both personal and political awakenings, delivered with a voice that's both intimate and soaring. Whether she's channelling soul, folk, or R&B, she delivers songs that feel lived-in, real, and rooted in the complexity of human experience.
At turns ecstatic and heavy-hearted, gloriously shambolic and deeply purifying, 'U kin B the Sun' is the outcome of a certain personal transformation that Ford has experienced in recent years.
'I used to speak more in metaphors, but this album came out in a much more raw and direct way,' she says.
'I'd say that's a result of being more in my body and more in touch with the wholeness of anger, with taking up space and having boundaries. On this record I freed myself from the folk-writing format, and it's been a whole different exploration for me.'
ADVERTISEMENT
Learn more
Frazey Ford Tickets are €34.00 plus fees and are available on-line at Sligolive.ie and in person or by phone (071) 916 1518 from the Hawk's Well box office.
Frazey Ford joins a Sligo Live Festival line-up which includes, Sharon Shannon Big Band with guests, Steve Earle, Mundy, Camile O'Sullivan and Liam O Maonlaí in the Knocknarea Arena Oct 25th at 8.30pm.
Steve N Seagulls with guests, Jaywalkers, in the Hawk's Well Oct 24th at 8.00pm. Joel Dommett – 'Happy Idiot', in the Hawk's Well on Oct 25th. Mary Gauthier with guest, Jaimee Harris, in the Hawk's Well Oct 26th at 8.00pm and Daniel Herskedal from Norway play a very special afternoon Hawk's Well show at 3pm on Oct 26th. Ye Vagabonds with guest, Niamh Bury, in the Hawk's Well Nov 1st at 8.00pm.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Irish Independent
3 days ago
- Irish Independent
New Ross Guitar Festival hits a high note across Wexford
With a balanced programme embracing not just classical guitar but also rock, blues, country, and Americana, it was a vibrant celebration of music, community, and connection. The festivities began on Thursday night with US bluesman Eric Bibb playing to a full house at St. Michael's Theatre. His heartfelt, soul-stirring blues – accompanied by Gunnar Lindstrom on guitar, Greger Andersson on harmonica, and Ulrika Bibb's stunning vocals – set a high bar and a deeply emotional tone for the days ahead. Friday evening offered something completely different in the form of a transcendent classical performance in the serene surrounds of St. Mary's Church. The ever-gracious Irish guitarist, Pat Coldrick, stepped in for Vera Danilina, who was unfortunately unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances. Pat's performance held the room in rapt attention, a gentle masterclass in musical storytelling. That theme of mastery continued into Saturday morning, when classical virtuoso John Feeley led an inspiring and intimate masterclass, guiding young musicians through the works of Bach and Brouwer with quiet authority and encouragement. But the magic wasn't confined to the concert halls and this year's festival saw New Ross come alive in various outdoor settings. Saturday afternoon saw local Wexford band, Kiss My Grass, fill Brennan's Lane with joyful country, bluegrass, and Americana. Their toe-tapping tunes and playful spirit had locals and visitors alike dancing, laughing, and soaking up the sunshine between sets. By Saturday night, the town was buzzing and the energy centred the sold-out show from Hothouse Flowers. Liam Ó Maonlaí's magnetic presence and lyrical piano playing wove beautifully through a rich tapestry of Irish trad, rock, and soul. Joined by Fiachna Ó Braonáin on guitar, Peter O'Toole on bouzouki and bass, Dave Clarke on drums, and Martin Brunsden on double bass, the band delivered a performance that left the crowd spellbound, as an audience member described the experience as "an emotional and unforgettable evening". "Fiachna and the lads are just an incredibly gifted group of musicians... an absolute privilege,' they added. Fiachna, in turn, reflected on his deep connection to the instrument that started it all, describing his love of the guitar as something that 'set my world on fire". On Sunday, the weekend's formal events came to a graceful close with a solo concert by John Feeley. Performing original compositions and beloved classical works, he offered a tender, nuanced set that left listeners moved and uplifted. But the festival had one more surprise in store and for the first time ever, the New Ross Guitar Festival partnered with Duncannon Village to host Busking on the Beach where the event comprised of local and international musicians performing right on the sand. With the sea as their backdrop, and the weather kindly cooperating, Duncannon came alive with song, spirit, and seaside celebration. As the weekend wrapped up, it became clear that this was no ordinary festival. It was a heartfelt celebration of what music makes possible, not just world-class artistry, but also grassroots joy, spontaneous moments, and deep connection. Artistic director of the festival, David Creevy, said: 'The artists gave memorable performances, with a wide range of talent from international stars to local musicians busking for the first time. We look forward to doing it all again next year.' Niall Ó Muílleoir of the Duncannon Village Renewal Group echoed that sentiment: 'This was a perfect partnership because of the quality of the musicians. The event raised the spirit of the community - locals and visitors alike. It was a great success, and we even managed to duck the rain!' It's been confirmed that preparations are already under way to include more magic, music, and meaningful connection when the festival returns next summer.
Irish Independent
24-06-2025
- Irish Independent
The top ten things to do in Sligo this week, June 25-July 1: Onóir, Coney Island Adventure Run, Big Band Dancing and more
See our top pick of this week's events below. Onóir Contemporary Irish folk group Onóir will perform at the Hawk's Well Theatre on Saturday, June 28. This is a night not to be missed. As they put their unique stamp on the timeless ballads and folk songs that we all love. This gig is sold out, but keep an eye on online forums in case ticketholders can't make it. Irish Rock Legends By Candlelight This brand new show specially written by Frank McNamara featuring the music of the greatest legends of the Irish music scene comes to the Sligo Park Hotel this Thursday, June 26. The show features the music of Phil Lynott, Sinead O'Connor, Van the man, The Cranberries, Aslan, Picture This, The Script, Enya, and of course via eventbrite. Coney Island Adventure Run The Coney Island Adventure Run takes place this Saturday, June 28. The 10 mile walk and 10 mile run both start at Sligo Rugby Club, with the walk starting at 11am and the run getting underway at 12. The run is for over 18s only, while the walk is open to all age groups. Register at Lunchtime at The Well Lunchtime at the Well continues at Hawk's Well Theatre on Wednesday, June 25 at 1.10 pm, welcoming a special addition to this beloved mid-week series: a captivating pairing of Dee Armstrong and Stephen O'Dowd. This performance showcases a unique collaboration between two esteemed musicians, offering a delightful blend of folk and traditional music. Dave McLoughlin and Anna Houston Dave McLoughlin and Anna Houston will play Lillie's Live Lounge this Wednesday, June 25. In the Lillies Live Lounge gig Dave will be showcasing work from the 3 recorded albums along with new material. Dave will be playing with his long-time collaborator Anna Houston who will be playing some original pieces of her own. Tickets via eventbrite. Big Band Dance Barry Kirwan is next up for this month's Big Band Dancing at the Sligo Park Hotel on Sunday, June 29. These monthly events are proving to be hugely popular. Doors open at 8pm, with dancing from 9pm-11pm. Admission is €15. EP launch GreenBirdFlying will launch their brand new EP this Saturday, June 28 at the Yeats Society, Sligo. Get ready for a night filled with amazing music, good vibes, and unforgettable memories. Tickets via eventbrite Cloonacool Players Cloonacool Players perform J.M Synge's hilarious satire 'The Tinker's Wedding' on Sunday June 29 at 7.15pm in the gloriously green field at the T-junction in Cloonacool Village. Your last chance to see this outdoor production from the ever popular actors Olive Giblin, Peadar Conway, Marian Tarpey and Dennis Ross leading the action and directed by Eileen Davey. An evening of surprises and laughter. Stroll4sean This Sunday at midday at Cleveragh Park, the Stroll 4 Sean event takes place. The event is part of an online fundraising campaign to support Sean Brown and his family as they live with the difficulties of his MND Diagnosis last year. It is a free, one hour event and all are welcome to take part in the short stroll around the walking track on the day. ADVERTISEMENT Easkey Gymkhana A day of Showjumping not to be missed this Sunday, June 29 at Easkey Gymkhana. Enjoy a full schedule of showjumping for ponies and horses. The event starts at 9.30am. Eircode is F26N793.
Irish Independent
17-06-2025
- Irish Independent
Festivals running the risk of closing as call goes out for more funding from Fáilte Ireland
And, Cllr Thomas Walsh claimed that Fáilte Ireland were 'asleep at the wheel' as it has only given Sligo County Council a 'paltry €26,000' to run local festivals in the past five years. Cllr Walsh, who is involved with the Ballygawley Music Festival and Sligo Live, said festivals were hanging by a thread. He was speaking amid fears for the independent festival scene, after Sea Sessions in Bundoran announced it isn't going ahead this year, while a liquidator was appointed to the company behind the Wild Roots Festival in Sligo last year and is no more. Meanwhile, Barry O'Neill organiser of the hugely popular Rory Gallagher Festival in Ballyshanon has expressed fears for its future. Cllr Walsh said: 'There was a small bit of support for events over Covid but then inflation kicked in post Covid, and nothing was put in place for live festival events. 'So, costs have skyrocketed, and it is something I have been highlighting for years and the whole events thing is hanging on by a thread. 'This is because of huge increased costs, and I know from Ballygawley Music Festival in July and Sligo Summer Festival who were hoping to run a second weekend on the August Bank Holiday Weekend, but it was not possible because it would cost them an extra €70,000 to run a second weekend. 'Sligo Live and Cairde and our own festival are very successful, but our costs in Ballygawley are up on €120,000 which includes insurance, operational costs, site set up costs, energy costs and the cost of the acts have gone up because of the knock- on effects of the increase in the price of fuel for travel and their insurance has gone up too. 'All of that is passed on to the festivals and the organisers are forced to pass that on to the price of the ticket which is regrettable but necessary,' he said. Cllr Walsh added that nine smaller festivals collapsed in 2024, and the UK has the same problem where 60 folded last year. ADVERTISEMENT He added that another factor impacting was the huge crowds attending headline acts in Croke Park, the Aviva or other major venues. 'These massive artists sell out venues, but they are portraying a false economy because people are saving their money for the big festivals and not supporting the smaller ones.' Cllr Walsh was critical of Fáilte Ireland. 'Its budget from the State last year was €140m and all they give Sligo County Council for events in the county is a mere €26,000. That would not pay for a marquee, insurance etc 'Ballygawley gets €4,000 from Fáilte Ireland for an event that costs €120,000, so it would not cover even the toilet facilities.' 'But they do good work in terms of capital spending and Queen Maeve Square would not be there only for Failte Ireland and Strandhill Surf Centre of Excellence, so they are doing well on the capital side. 'But they are not supporting live is a three night festival and 5,000 people were there last year. Cllr Walsh added that Irish Public Bodies IPB who supply insurance and public liability for all Council offices and State facilities, could open it up to live events and it would take the cost away from the operator. 'I believe the State should take over the insurance via IPB which is their own insurance policy.' 'Fáilte Ireland should be made increase the funding to local authorities and I am talking about events of 500 and over and less than 5,000. '€26,000 is a kick in the teeth for Sligo festivals and €100,000 per local authority would not be out of the way and that is the reality of it. 'It would just get their heads above water and festivals are in survival mode all over the country. Cllr Walsh added that culture and arts were the backbone of our economy. 'There is a huge knock- on benefit for Sligo from all these festivals so they should be supported. 'Fáilte Ireland is the vehicle for tourism, and they talk about supporting visitor attractions and festivals but really they are not supporting festivals. 'Unless there is an injection of cash into these festivals more of them are going to collapse.'
