Hi All, just got home from the 9th Annual Johnny Keenan Banjo Festival in Longford, which, once again, was an artistic triumph. Mounta1n Heart were just first rate, Iris De Ment was inspirational, Rodney Crowell and his Guitarist, Will Kimborough were magnificent, We Banjo Three were extremely melodic, Gerry O'Connor was mind-blowing, and as always, the hospitality was top rate and during our own NTB set, I managed to debut a couple of new songs, which were well-received by a great listening audience ! Too Many Guitars and William Smith Monroe are strong contenders for our next CD. What more can I say ? Well, probably lots ! I had a personal ball, meeting great people like Rodney and Iris, and also getting to play my songs with Mountain Heart. I also got to perform Walk On Water with them on Sunday Morning at Johnny Keenan's graveside. A very touching and emotional occasion ............ I also had to pleasure of presenting the winner of a Clareen Banjo, Pamela Williams, with her prize, which she won on my recent Roots Freeway radio show on RTE Radio One. I should also pay homage to the backing singers in Chris Meehan's Redneck Friends Band, who looked stunning, and sang beautifully. Tommy Cussen was his usual cheerful self, and his Band, Shaskeen, had them dancing on the seats ........ Chris and Kathy, I take my hat off to you and your team, and rollon 2011. Niall.
