Noriana Kennedy with Mad Uncle Harry: The Reunion and Album Launch & The Galway Ukers

Kick off Galway Uke Fest in style with a night that celebrates community, collaboration, and the rich musical roots of Galway. Doors open from 7pm.

The Galway Ukers and…Noriana Kennedy & Mad Uncle Harry: The Reunion & Album Launch

Join The Galway Ukers as they welcome a very special act to the stage for an unforgettable opening night. After a 14-year hiatus, the beloved folk collective Mad Uncle Harry is stepping back into the spotlight for a highly anticipated reunion at Galway Uke Fest. 

The group, comprising Noriana Kennedy, Christof van der Ven, Liz Coleman, Paul O’Driscoll, Eimhin Cradock, and now featuring the multi-talented Matthew Berrill, originally forged their sound in the vibrant "folk melting pot" of Galway.

Noriana Kennedy

Half Irish and half Filipino, Noriana possesses a captivating voice lauded by the Irish Times as “a knockout: translucent and tenacious in equal measure. Embracing a wide range of old-time songs, folk ballads, and originals, she imbues each song with her unique taste, crafting a sound that is distinctly her own. Through her unmistakable renditions of old-time songs, folk ballads, and standout original compositions, she has carved a well worn and confident seat in Ireland's vibrant folk music scene.

Adding to the excitement of this special show, Noriana is releasing a brand-new Mad Uncle Harry collection of songs called 'Swing n Turn'. This record is a heartfelt tribute to the Galway folk scene, featuring recordings with a host of wonderful musicians who have performed with Noriana over the years, including Noelie McDonnell (guitar), Kelvin Busher (double bass), Nicola Joyce (vocals), Fergal Scahill (fiddle), Tom Portman (dobro), and Niall Teague (piano).

While the band has been quiet, its members have continued to forge a meaningful path in music. Noriana Kennedy (Banjo Uke/Vocals), following her solo debut, became a founding member of the acclaimed trio The Whileaways, who are currently working on their fifth album. Christof van der Ven (Guitar/Vocals), now based in London, has built a formidable reputation as a solo artist, sharing stages with Bon Iver and The Staves, and touring the world as a member of indie-folk giants Bear's Den.

The reunion lineup is bolstered by the exceptional Matthew Berrill, a versatile musician renowned for his work across jazz, folk, and classical genres. They are joined by the incredible Liz Coleman (Fiddle), a stalwart of the Irish scene; Paul O’Driscoll (Double Bass), whose rhythmic expertise is legendary; and Eimhin Cradock (Drums), the intuitive heartbeat of the group.

Reimmersing themselves in the country roots songs that defined their early years, the band is delighted to bring their signature blend of lively harmonies and joyful energy back to the stage. For Mad Uncle Harry, this isn't just a gig, it’s a celebration of the camaraderie that started it all. Expect a high-energy, nostalgic, and harmony-drenched set to kick off the festival in style.

Check them out: 

https://norianakennedy.com/about

https://soundcloud.com/mad-uncle-harry

*Subject to license