Preview by Brad Balfour, Arts Editor
What: Craic Session
When: May 1st – 8pm (rain date April 30)
Where: The Wolfhound
38-14 30th Ave.
Astoria, NY 11103
The long running CraicFest, a festival of Irish music and film, establishing its presence further into the year with back with its annual Craic Session being held on May 1st at The Wolfhound in Astoria. The night centers on music guests Andrea Magee (singing songs from her new album) and Ava McKechnie. There will also be a surprise guest from Dublin at the Session.
The CraicFest is a nonprofit organization based in NYC since 1999. It has hosted many celebrities and attendees over past few years, drawing such stars as Jim Sheridan, Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn Ed Burns, Denis Leary, Colin Farrell, Jim Sheridan, Cillian Murphy and Brendan Gleeson. CraicFest Music Fest has built a reputation on legendary shows each March featuring acts like Damien Dempsey, Rubberbandits and Kneecap.
Though she hails from Eire, singer-songwriter Andrea Magee now calls Austin, Texas, her home. Her love for music is all-encompassing, with her contributions to the local music scene inspired by her homeland. Besides Magee’s passion for creating she has accomplished much, from making music with her own bands and albums to international tours and more. In addition, another passion of Magee is committed to empowering women in the music industry through She Rises Fest. And now Magee has introduced her latest endeavor, Music Helps. Her music program at the Helping Hand Home for Children has had a life-changing impact on the kids using music as a facilitator to heal trauma. Magee has a passion for giving back and believes whole heartily in the community in Austin which is why she wants to give back in such a meaningful way.
Ava McKechnie
Up and coming Wicklow songwriter Ava McKechnie kicked off this year with the announcements of a hometown headline show and the release of “Daydreaming,” the title track from her most recent EP. Having recently returned to Ireland following three years in Brighton, the 22 year old had sold out headline shows in Dublin and Brighton, performances on national TV and support slots with The Feeling and legendary Irish rockers Aslan under her belt. McKechnie sold out her show at The Whale Theatre in Greystones.
Currently working with acclaimed producer John Reynolds, McKechnie has been steadily garnering attention for her evocative songwriting and soulful delivery. Her unique blend of pop, country, indie, and folk sound has been lauded as she transforms her personal experiences into universally relatable anthems. As one of the most promising new voices to emerge from Ireland’s vibrant music scene, McKechnie is a voice on the rise. Her unique blend of pop, country, indie, and folk sound has been lauded as she transforms her personal experiences into universally relatable anthems.
In past few years, The Session has showcased legendary Irish musicians such as Loah Aoife Scott, Ailbhe Reddy and Mark Geary to name a few. This showcase of Irish emerging talent is held in conjunction with the City Council of New York. Sponsored by Council members Shekar Krishnan and Julie Won, this event is funded by the Cultural Immigrant Initiative and is free for the public.
As Festival Director/founder Terence Mulligan has commented: “The Craic Session is an annual showcase for emerging Irish talent. We are delighted to have Andrea and Ava at this year’s Session. This event
provides a cultural opportunity for the artist and all New Yorkers.”
But to attend one must RSVP at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/craic-session-music-fest-tickets-1986151940921