Paul Brady Set For County Down’s SOMA Festival

Singer-songwriter Paul Brady is to take to the stage in Castlewellan, Co Down later this month as part of the annual SOMA Festival.

The Irish star who is one of Ireland’s most prolific artists started his career as a member of ballad group The Johnstons back in the late ‘60s, before he shot to fame in the legendary folk supergroup Planxty in 1974.

Best known for his songs Arthur McBride, The Island, The Lakes of Pontchartrain, The Long Goodbye and many more, Brady’s musical career spans over five decades.

Brady will take to the stage at St. Malachy’s Church, 91 Main St, Castlewellan on Wednesday July 18.

He said: “Last time I was in Castlewellan back in 2002, it was a hugely enjoyable night for me. I’m really looking forward to coming back.

“My set will be made up of songs from right across my whole career from my current album Unfinished Business back to my earliest songs from my first album of my own songs, Hard Station and beyond into my folk days in the 70s. There’ll be something for everyone.”

Brady cut his teeth in traditional Irish music but has since created his own compellingly and unique folk/pop style.

The star honed his songwriting skills over the years and marked a change in musical direction with the release of his now-classic 1981 Irish rock album Hard Station.

He also enjoys a string of impressive songwriting credits to his name with Tina Turner and Cher being just two of the many famed singers to have benefited from his talents.

Running from July 18-22 across Castlewellan in Co Down The SOMA Festival is an annual festival full of concerts, workshops, art exhibitions, storytelling, poetry, health & wellbeing fair and various family events across the week.

SOMA Festival Director Tiona McSherry said: “Once again this year we have an impressive lineup of local and national acts set to take to the stages across the town.

“We’re delighted to be welcoming the amazing Paul Brady to the festival along with a variety of other free events across the town.”

For more information and details of the full festival line-up go to www.somafestival.com or follow #SOMAFest18 on social media.