Another great session at the Black Mills

Huge thanks to Eddie Simmons and Dayna Quinlan, who both gave a fantastic performance on Friday last for July’s sold-out Black Mills Session!

Dayna opened the first half of the night with a fabulous selection of songs such as Don’t Cry for me Argentina and I Dreamed a Dream. You could have literally heard a pin drop throughout her performances as her voice literally captivated the audience from start to finish. Dayna was then accompanied during her set by her brother Jay and Colin Williams with brilliant covers of California Bloodlines and Nothing Else Matters.

After a short interval, Eddie Simmons took to the floor and enthralled the audience with a selection of ballads, banter and a whole lot of laughs! Eddie sang some well-known favourites such as Caledonia and the Contender. During his set, Eddie called on his father Jason to join him where they gave a stirring rendition of the Cowboy Rides Away.

Eddie was then accompanied by his fiancée Miriam Crampton and both gave a haunting rendition of a medley which included the Lonesome Boatman. Dayna then joined Eddie for the last song of the night where they gave a fabulous performance of Shallow; the night was brought to a close with a standing ovation and rapturous applause. The society would like to thank the OPW for the use of the stunning venue and to Eileen for all her help on the night. Thanks also to PJ Wright for capturing some great shots! Last but not least, huge thanks to all who attended; your support is greatly appreciated. Nights like these would not be possible without the support of you all!

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, August 16: Join the society for a Black Mills Heritage Week Special, a tribute to the late Anthony Bourke. For those who may not be aware, during National Heritage Week in 2022, after performing at the Rambling House, Anthony had a conversation with Pamela Aitken (Chair of Roscrea Heritage Society) where he mentioned how he would love to play in the Black Mills.

Fast forward to October 2022 Anthony, Dinny and Bill performed a session in the mill and from that night, the Black Mills Sessions was born. Because of that, it seems fitting to hold a tribute night to Anthony during National Heritage Week this year to remember his love for music while also supporting a local charity that was extremely close to his heart and so, proceeds from all ticket sales on the night will be donated to Roscrea Hospice in Anthony’s name.

We hope you can join Dinny Quirke, Charly Forde and Mick Creagh on the night for a memorable evening. As seating is limited, tickets (€10) must be purchased in advance.

Tickets will go on sale on Monday, July 28, at 8pm via Eventbrite. Please note: Following the session on August 16, the next Black Mills Session will continue on the last Friday of the month (August 29) where the society are looking forward to hosting Martin Delaney Snr.

Further details to follow.