One of the most popular concert acts ever presented by Clear Lake Performing Arts will return to Lake County on Sunday April 15, when the Black Irish Band returns with a single performance at Kelseyville High School”s multi-purpose room. On two prior engagements ? the most recent featuring two performances ? the band completely sold out the small Lower Lake Schoolhouse auditorium. It is hoped the larger Kelseyville venue will provide sufficient seating capacity for local lovers of ethnic and folk music and those who may have missed the band”s earlier engagements.
Hailing from California”s Mother Lode country, the five members of the band gained national attention when they first appeared on CBS television, then followed up by drawing huge crowds in such diverse locations as San Francisco, Vail, Reno, Monterey and Sacramento. They”ve also entertained in Alaska and the Yukon Territory, and overseas at an international music festival in Singapore.
Playing a mix of archaic and modern instruments, the group features the music of not only Ireland, but also Italy, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, France and Canada, as well as American folk songs, many carrying nautical, gold rush and railroad themes. Some western history lessons are also a part of the band”s repertoire, many illustrated by original songs written by leader Patrick Michael Karnahan. Along with their instrumental talents all five are also accomplished vocalists, delivering songs ranging from the bawdy to the beautiful.
The band was formed in 1989 when the group determined to create acoustic music with a “no-holds-barred” flavor, which they achieved by assembling multi-talented musicians, each of whom plays a number of different instruments. A meeting was held to choose a name, with votes going to “Black Irish Band.” The next day the Loma Prieta earthquake struck, which was commemorated with release of the band”s 10th anniversary CD entitled “The Day the Earth Shook.”
Along with Karnahan, the other band members are Rick Restivo, Dave Rainwater, Jim Nelson and Steve McArthur. In its 17-year history, the band has become a virtual recording machine, having produced a new album nearly every year.
The Black Irish Band”s 16th CD is due for release in the next few weeks, and will feature country-western vocal star Michael Martin Murphy, on an album entitled “Into the Fire.” The CD”s 16 songs pay tribute to America”s wildfire firefighters The band”s most popular discs will be available for purchase at the concert.
The concert is scheduled for 3 p.m., and admission is $15 for the general public, $10 for CLPA members, with youths younger than 18 admitted free. Additional information or reservations may be obtained by calling 279-0877.
