Finbar Hoban presents .... Castlebars first Charity Rock Ball was a resounding success in Mulroys Bar Ritz on Saturday October 11. In asociation with Karen Conway’s current fundraising for CARI (Children at Risk in Ireland ) Finbar Hoban expertly organised a night of musical brilliance with local bands Hot Rock, Mother Black Cap (a little venture away for Kneel Before Zod ) and Curlisduane.
As soon as the doors opened there was a constant stream of music enthusiasts. The Charity Rock Ball got under way with the brilliant Hot Rock who held everyone’s attention with cover versions from The Racontours to Pearl Jam while adventurously running The Sultans of Ping FC "Where's me Jumper" straight into The White Stripe’s "Hotel Yorba". Next up was Mother Black Cap who effortlessly covered among others, Pink Floyd, Neil Young and Black Sabbath. No matter what they call themselves, one of the lad’s most recognisable songs is Nirvana's "Lake of Fire" which was enthusiastically received by the large crowd.
In between bands Finbar Hoban provided his usual extensive range of tracks with his long standing originality - not many people would even think of playing Nina Simone's "Baby Just Loves Me" straight after Mother Black Cap’s version of AC/DC's "Thunderstruck", never mind get away with it! The final band of the night was the pride of Ballyglass, Curlisduane, who wove a wide selection of cover versions from Amy Winehouse to The Police through their own songs including "Headstone", "Sunrise" and "Halflight". Thanks to the talents of the three bands and DJ the enthusiastic crowd on the night not only helped a good cause, but thoroughly enjoyed a night of the best of local music.
On behalf of CARI, Karen Conway would like to thank Finbar Hoban for all his wonderful work ensuring the success of the night; the three excellent bands who gave freely of their time Hot Rock, Mother Black Cap and Curlisduane, for putting on such fine performances; Finbarr Riordan for being drafted in at the last minute; John Neary, Chris Ripingale, John Duffy, John Mulroy and Bar Ritz staff for all their much appreciated help and to everyone who attended on the night.
I f you did not make it to the Charity Rock Ball you can still forward a much appreciated donation by going to www.mycharity.ie, clicking on Sponsor a Friend, typing Karen Conway and donating through her charity page. Also don't forget Finbar Hoban Presents “We Should be Dead on October 18 in Mulroys Bar Ritz!
