The North Coast’s Atlantic Sessions return for an incredible 11th year this month, with a busy schedule of events. A full programme of shows will run all weekend from Thursday 14th to Sunday 17th November.
As always with Atlantic Sessions, it’s the sheer range of venues and the music trail ethos that really helps it shine in the beautiful surrounds of the North Coast. Bringing an array of largely Northern Irish talent to the North Coast, from rising star Ryan McMullan to the intimate performances from local artists.
Here’s a quick rundown of the weekend.
Thursday 14th
Amanda St John is the musical headliner on Thursday night, bringing her soulful sounds to the Flowerfield Arts Centre to launch her latest album with support from Tony Villiers.
Friday 15th
First up on Friday is Matt McGinn in Portrush Town Hall, with special guests Ria Maguire and Wilfie Gilbert, then it’s over to the legendary Atlantic Bar for a quickening of the pulse as alt rockers New Pagans and punks Problem Patterns will surely put on an energetic performance. Terri Hooley is on DJ duties. The free music trail events really kick off on the Friday with performances scattered around Portrush and Portstewart from DANI, Lonesome George, Wilfie, Runabay and Gemma Bradley.
Saturday 16th
Saturday plays host to two varying but equally enticing shows, as first the Darkling Air perform alongside the Arco String Quartet as they gear up to the release of their second album. Then Ryan McMullan, who’s profile seems to grow every day, hits up Lush, Portrush with support from the eventual NI Music Prize winner. Again there’s a whole host of free events beginning with Joel Harkin, ending with Reevah with the likes of Tour Alaska, Many a Son, The Sabrejets (£7 admission) and Ciara O’Neill filling up the rest of a busy day.
Sunday 17th
There’s no rest on a Sunday with an in the round show featuring Gareth Dunlop, Eilidh Patterson and Brigid O’Neill. The pick of the free events meanwhile may be M. Cambridge performing from his sea songs project, with Rory Nellis and Conor Mason amongst the picks of the rest.
While Music Trail events are free, the headline shows are ticketed. Tickets are available now through the website at atlanticsessions.com.
