Special John Prine tribute concert in Westport

ILLEGAL Smile are a five-piece band from Northern Ireland and are considered as being the foremost aficionados of John Prine's music in Ireland. They will play a special tribute concert to John Prine at Westport Town Hall Theatre on Saturday, May 28, at 8 p.m.

When John Prine passed away in 2020 due to Covid-19 the world was bereft at the passing of a multi Grammy winning artist widely revered as one of the most gifted American singer songwriters of our time with the ability to channel humour and heartbreak into his observations on the human condition in all its characteristics from the cradle to the grave.

John Prine was no stranger to Ireland. His wife Fiona is from Donegal and they lived on and off in Kinvara, Co. Galway.

Speaking about his tribute band, lead singer Barry Johnson says: “We do not set out to look or even sound like John Prine, rather we skllfully reproduce his songs with integrity, sincerity and with the musical distinction that listeners associate with John's songs.”

Barry Johnston on acoustic guitar and main vocal covers several songs in the set. Sam Davidson is one of Ireland's finest lead guitarists producing subtle and effective support and magnificent lead breaks. Davy Neill on bass brings a superb American Country backline. Michael Conway on drums and percussion adds a special magic to the show. Ali Mooney has the voice of an angel and not only adds to the band's wonderful harmonies but she covers several songs in the set.

Enjoy two hours of the very best of John Prine's songs in the company of Illegal Smile including the classics Sam Stone, Hello in There, Angel From Montgomery and Lake Marie.

Tickets are available at the box office on (098) 28459 or online at www.westporttheatre.com.