Damien Mullane is straight from Ireland and full of pure talent, skill, and musical expertise.
In a short space of time, Damien has a musical cv that any veteran musician would be proud of. Still only 32, he has been described as a virtuoso with an avant-garde style of playing. Damien won numerous All-Ireland titles on both accordion and melodeon and began his professional career as the accordionist in the legendary Frankie Gavin’s band De Dannan.
Damien has toured extensively, performining as far afield as China, Australia, New Zealand, India and the U.S in some of the worlds most prestigious venues including Carnige Hall, Slane Castle, The Electric Picnic and Glastonbury. He has performed for numerous high profile figures including US President Barack Obama and President Bill Clinton, Prince Albert of Monaco, former Irish president Mary Robinson and current Irish President, Michael D Higgins. Damien has also collaborated musically with the likes of Ronnie Wood (Rolling Stones), James Taylor and Sting (Police) to mention a few.
“Playing Irish traditional music is what I love to do and the real joy comes from the spontaneous musical energy created between a group of performers – particularly when there is a musical respect between all”. This is especially true when Damien plays with his fellow members of Project West ; an Irish group of seven sensational performers who have Irish traditional music, song and dance running through their veins. They are considered to be some of the most talented rising performers in both Ireland and the world. It has been said of them that “the future of Ireland’ s culture is undoubtedly in safe hands with Project West”.
Damien released his debut album ‘13’, on which his collaboration with some of Ireland’s leading exponents such as Donogh Hennessy, Zoe Conway, John Joe Kelly, Trevor Hutchinson, Dessie Kelliher, Pauline Scanlon and Éamonn de Barra creates an exciting, original and progressive sound. We are thrilled that Damien will be right here in Lakefield this coming July and can’t wait to share in his amazing sound! We can’t wait!