The Unholy Gospel Band Brings Soul and Good Vibes to the Congregation of Downpatrick

Making their Downpatrick debut on Friday 29 September, The Unholy Gospel Band will deliver authentic American gospel music live and straight from the soul at Down Arts Centre.

Featuring songs by Mahalia Jackson, The Staple Singers, James Brown and much more, The Unholy Gospel Band, as the name suggests ‘ain't holy but the music is gospel’ and is guaranteed to get your feet tapping and your hands clapping.

The band is comprised of five local musicians of the highest pedigree. Cormac Neeson from Newcastle, County Down, has spent the last ten years touring the world with his world famous band, The Answer, selling over a quarter of a million records in the process and squeezing an AC/DC world tour into the equation for good measure.

Michael Mormecha, who drums for the band, also fronts the high flying Mojo Fury, as well as being an established producer and songwriter. Claire McCartney, on keyboards and vocals, fronts her own all girl band, Voksen, which recently sold out its EP launch gig in Belfast. Andy Toman on vocals and lead guitar, is one of Northern Ireland's most accomplished players, blending country, folk and gypsy jazz styles together in order to form his own unique vibe. Downpatrick’s very own Eamon Hanlon completes the line-up and just happens to be one of the greatest session Bass players this side of the Himalayas.

The idea for The Unholy Gospel Band was first conceived by singer and founder of the band, Cormac Neeson whilst touring America with The Answer. Numerous visits to great music cities such as Chicago, Memphis and Nashville, where on any given Sunday he would find a Gospel brunch serving up good food and great music, convinced him that this was an experience that his homeland of Northern Ireland was clearly missing out on.

On starting up the band Cormac said, "Given the fact that Northern Ireland has such a proud and rich musical tradition across the genres of folk, blues, soul and country music, it makes perfect sense to bring some authentic gospel, which draws on all these musical influences, to the people".

The concert starts 8pm with bar facilities from 7pm. Tickets are available at the Box Office priced £12 per person and £10 for concessions.

For further information or to book tickets, contact the Box Office on 028 4461 0747.

For a full programme of events at Down Arts Centre go to www.downartscentre.com.