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The new Roscommon based Traditional group,Gatehouse will be doing an Autumn tour to celebrate the release of their debut CD, Tús Nua. Gatehouse will perform at Matt Molloy’s on Wednesday September 21st.   

Gatehouse are a newly formed band with a line up of experienced and up and coming artistes, who are launching their sound on to the scene in 2016 with the release of their debut CD, Tús Nua. Internationally renowned fiddler Martin Hayes says of the album that “it is beautifully arranged and recorded.  Everything happening here is authentic.  This recording proves that Traditional music can be continually fresh and alive without being flashy or over produced.” The band formed in late 2014 and throughout 2015 they have performed at a number of venues and festivals as well as on live TV. John Wynne and John McEvoy along with Jacinta McEvoy have been performing regularly since the release of McEvoy’s and Wynne’s duet album,Pride Of The West,in 2007. This trio were delighted when talented young Roscommon singer,Rachel Garvey agreed to join them to form Gatehouse.The songs and tunes from Gatehouse are based in the North Connaught traditions,the Sean Nos singing tradition of Connamara,the rich Ulster song tradition along with sprinklings of other influences.  The band’s arrangements are appropriate and musically thoughtful. The band also draws on some newly composed music,including two of John McEvoy’s compositions which are included in Tús Nua.

Members of Gatehouse are John McEvoy(fiddle/viola/piano) Jacinta McEvoy(guitar/concertina/backing vocals) Rachel Garvey(vocals) and John Wynne(flutes/whistles) 

John McEvoy is a renowned fiddler and noteworthy composer. John was particularly drawn to the fiddle playing of the Sligo masters.  John has played with many groups including Flynn’s men Bakerswell and kelp.  He released his long awaited second solo CD entitled Traditional Fiddle Music in 2012. 

Jacinta McEvoy is equally adept on guitar concertina and piano.  Jacinta is a sought after accompanist and arranger, and she has recorded on recent albums by Chris Droney John Wynne and John McEvoy. 

Rachel Garvey is a young singer of great promise and star quality. An All Ireland winner in Irish and English singing,  Rachel sweet singing can be heard on a CD, Alone by the wildwood, featuring songs from Roscommon. 

John Wynne has become established as one of the leading players and tutors of the North Connaught flute style.  John recorded and toured with Providence as well as releasing two acclaimed solo CD’s.  In 2007 John released the celebrated Pride of the West duet flute/fiddle CD with John McEvoy which was voted one of the best releases of that year by esteemed U.S. critic, Earle Hitchner.