Imro Showcase

The second in a monthly series of showcase nights designed to highlight singer-songwriter talent, tonight’s line-up in the comfortable surrounds of the Pearse Street Holiday Inn featured an impressive trio of performers.

First up was Tim Ambler, already well-established on the national circuit thanks to constant gigging and wide airplay for his self-titled debut. With a voice at times recalling the late Harry Chapin and even Chris De Burgh Ambler’s songs are exquisitely crafted and well executed.

Next up was Celine Carroll who once formed half of the highly-touted early 1990’s duo, Mississippi Mermaids. An exceptional performer by any standards, her rhythmic guitar style and emotive voice ensured the rapt attention of all present.

Donegal’s Mickey Joe Hart upped the energy levels a notch or two with a set that included a pair of songs from his album, Sometimes Right, Sometimes Wrong. With his winning personality, supreme confidence onstage and soulful voice, he easily won over the crowd.

The night was rounded off by special guest Philip Donnelly, (aka the “Clontarf Cowboy”) whose hilarious tales of life with the stars in Nashville and his adopted home of Tipperary, were almost as enjoyable as his deft guitar-playing and pretty impressive singing.