DKOS Artists 27th Jan 2024 :- Auskerry – Cathleen Garland. – The Leinster Comhaltas – Ireland. – Gary Quinn – Gemma Gates

Auskerry – Orkney

Auskerry formed in summer of 2023 to go busking the streets of Kirkwall and play at local fundraising events.The band ;
Lily Montgomery (17) – fiddle/ cello
Ingrid Tait (15) – fiddle
Magnus Montgomery (14) – guitar
Tom Montgomery (11) – double bass
Jamie Sutherland (16)- percussion
They all play with Kirkwall Grammar school fiddle band Hadhirgaan under the direction of Douglas Montgomery (Saltfishforty and The Chair) and have performed alongside Fara, Capercaillie, The Chair and Saltfishforty. They play a mix of Orkney, Shetland, Scottish and original tunes. They love playing together and enjoy the fun of making music.

Cathleen Garland

 Fleadh Fest, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and Molloy Award winner Cathleen Garland is a young singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Northern Ireland. 
Early tutelage in fiddle, harp and singing at Caisleán Nua CCÉ and subsequently honed at the Armagh Piper’s Club, Cathleen’s musical journey is firmly rooted in the Irish tradition. 
A naturally gifted singer with a passion for Sean-Nós singing, Cathleen’s captivating vocals and song writing has been enthralling audiences across the Irish traditional music scene.  Her talent has been recognized in both competition and by renowned musicians and singers like Niall Hanna and Ríoghnach Connolly. She can be found regularly performing around the country and over the past year alone has supported acts such as Niall Hanna, Clare Sands, Mary Coughlan, Daoirí Farrell and Niamh Dunne thus enhancing her reputation as an artist to watch out for

Ceoltoiri Oga Laighean – The Leinster Comhaltas Youth Group (30)

Formed in 2022, A the Leinster comhaltas youth group for 15 to 18 year olds
Under the magical direction of Dr Robert Harvey and the management of Aaron Mackessy and Molly Tobin, the group has 56 members from all over the province of Leinster
With a purely Leinster related repertoire, the group offers insights into historical collections with respect for tradition whilst arranging for the modern day.The group have been busy recording their first album which they aim to release at the Leinster Fleadh in 2024

Gemma Gates

Gemma Gates is an Irish-born singer-songwriter currently based in Leeds, UK. With influences from artists like Laura Marling and the Staves, Gemma’s songwriting also explores alternative perspectives on the folk traditions of her birthplace with a focus on rich harmonies and personal lyricism.
She started off her journey into music playing with various folk bands at venues and festivals across Northumberland, and has now branched out on her own with her own solo project. Gemma has played many venues across Leeds and Yorkshire, including a Sofar Sounds Session in early 2023.
She has also recorded a live solo session of her song ‘September Days’ with Sodium Films. Stream here. She has worked with various musicians, including recording on Michael B Thomas’s upcoming EP. In 2023, she will be releasing her debut EP featuring tracks such as ‘September Days’ and ‘Let You Down Easy’, which she is working on alongside her band

Gary Quinn

Originally from the enchanting town of Omagh in Ireland, Gary Quinn has evolved into a dynamic force in country music, weaving a musical journey influenced by his father’s Kris Kristofferson tapes and the lively family gatherings in his mother’s home. Now residing in Manchester, England, Gary’s artistry is marked not only by his traditional country roots but also by an ever-adapting contemporary sound that resonates globally.
With a neo-traditional country sound, reminiscent of Chris Young, Mo Pitney, and Cody Johnson, Gary Quinn has secured numerous UK number ones on the country charts, showcasing his undeniable impact on the country music scene. His music, infused with authenticity and a modern flair, has earned him a coveted spot on Spotify’s Wild Country playlist and Apple Music’s Today’s Country playlist, reaching diverse and expansive audiences.
Ty Bentli and Country Line Radio have emerged as staunch supporters, championing Gary Quinn’s music and contributing to his rising prominence. With plays on influential playlists and the backing of key figures in the industry, Gary’s trajectory in the contemporary country scene is indicative of his musical prowess.
Beyond his solo success, Gary Quinn has shared the stage with country music luminaries, touring alongside the likes of Phil Vassar, William Michael Morgan, and Sunny Sweeny. These experiences have not only enriched his musical journey but also underscored his versatility and ability to connect with audiences across the spectrum of country music.
Gary’s international ventures have seen him make waves at major events, including the Nashville CMA Fest, Tamworth Country Music Festival, and C2C London and Berlin. Tours in Denmark, coupled with an increased presence in Northern Ireland, have reinforced his standing as a global ambassador for UK country music.
In addition to his achievements as an artist, Gary Quinn is actively involved in nurturing talent in the UK. Drawing on his experiences writing in Nashville with acclaimed songwriters like Brett James, Russell Sutton, and Steve Wariner, Gary channels this wealth of knowledge to support up-and-coming artists in the UK. His dedication to mentoring and collaboration has become a driving force in the growth of the country music community.
Furthermore, Gary is the co-founder of two prominent country festivals – Buckle & Boots in Manchester and Country on the Clyde in Glasgow. These festivals stand as testament to his commitment to fostering the country music scene in the UK, providing platforms for artists to showcase their talents and bringing the community together.
As Gary Quinn continues to break barriers and redefine the contours of UK country music, his story is one of unwavering dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted love for the genre. From Omagh to Manchester, his journey echoes the resilience and adaptability that characterize his contemporary country sound, securing his place as a leading figure in the ever-evolving landscape of country music.