The Jameson Bow St Sessions kicked off last night – and an extraordinary night of music was topped off by a brilliant performance by quickly-rising Irish star Gavin James.
The Bow St Sessions have at their heart the idea of collaboration, giving musicians and bands the opportunity to try something new – which means that fans who get their hands on the highly sought-after tickets can expect the unexpected. And so it proved with the surprise appearance of Gavin James, who went on to wow the audience with a brilliant performance.
Interviewed before his set by Hot Press editor Niall Stokes, Gavin almost let slip the date for the release of his upcoming official debut album. But – with security about the release of what is a certain Irish No.1 record at a fearsome high – he caught himself just in time!
Among the highlights of a superb show was James’ version of the Michael Jackson classic ‘Billy Jean’ – a new cover that he has added to his impressive armoury, and a huge treat for the fans in attendance, who relished every nuanced note, in what was a magical reading of the song. He also collaborated with Trinity Ensemble, adding a deliciously poignant touch to familiar James’ compositions.
The night also featured a hugely impressive set from Hermitage Green, who are shaping up increasingly effectively as international contenders. The band have well and truly moved on from their original folk and trad base, delivering a fine collection of richly contemporary music that is grounded in elements of folk, blues, country, soul and world music. They also treated the audience to some musical surprises, collaborating with Trinity Ensemble and harpist Lisa Canny to thrilling effect.
Hermitage Green also delivered a sparkling cover of The Fugees ‘Ready Or Not’ – a track which, appropriately, in its original form nodded to Irish music by borrowing a crucial sample from Enya: the iconic Donegal-born artist is now credited as co-songwriter on what was one of the biggest selling singles of recent times. With just an EP and a live album released to date, Hermitage Green plan to unveil their full debut album with Sony, in the Spring of 2016.
“It was a fantastic night, which said a lot about the extraordinary current health of Irish music,” Niall Stokes said. “Fans were treated to a series of unique and inspiring performances, delivered by artists who are at the top of their game. Gavin's is one of the greatest voices this country has ever produced and he is destined to be a major star, all over the world – and everyone who was there could see precisely why last night.
“Hermitage Green also showed that they have something really special to offer – and that their music has genuine global potential. They are hugely accomplished as musicians, and they are gelling those individual skills into a thoroughly captivating and innovative sound, which is built on a powerful percussive foundation.
"Watching from the side of the stage, I couldn’t take my eyes off Daragh Graham and Dermot Sheedy, as they went about the very intense business of banging, battering, stroking, muting, whacking, smashing and coaxing what were fantastically musical – as well as rhythmic! – noises out of the bodhrán, djembe, drums, cymbals, shakers and various other percussive objects. They create such a powerful springboard for the rest of the band to work off. It was also intriguing to see them working with Trinity Ensemble and Lisa Canny – who is herself a very impressive individual talent. Watching their progress over the coming months is going to fascinating.”
Last night’s Bow St Sessions gig, presented by Jameson in association with Hot Press, was the first in a series. Watch this space for upcoming announcements.

Have a look at our photo gallery from the night HERE.