Damien OKane & Ron Block Band

Damien OKane & Ron Block Band
Thur 8th Oct
Black Box
Hill Street
Belfast
Doors 7.30pm / Starts 8pm
Advance Tickets 22.50+bf OTD 25Banjo Besties UK & Ireland Tour | October 2026
Ground-breaking. Innovative. Unmissable.This October, two of the most influential banjo players in modern acoustic music unite for a landmark tour across the UK and Ireland. The Banjo Besties Tour brings together Damien OKane and Ron Block with their band artists whose work has redefined the possibilities of the banjo within their respective traditions.Melding bluegrass and Irish traditions, and Americana, this is a collaboration that pushes boundaries while honouring deep musical heritage. Expect exhilarating musicianship, intricate interplay, and a live performance that is as emotionally powerful as it is technically stunning.
Both Damien and Ron are not only masters of their instruments, but also exceptional vocalists each bringing a distinctive voice shaped by their own rich traditions. From soaring harmonies to intimate, heartfelt delivery, their singing adds a powerful new dimension to an already compelling musical partnership.Damien OKanes ground-breaking approach to Irish folk and traditional music and of course his leading role with Kate Rusby and her band meets Ron Blocks unmistakable sound honed through decades at the forefront of American bluegrass, including his work with Alison Krauss & Union Station. Together, they create something truly innovative: a seamless blend of styles that feels both timeless and strikingly new. NOT duelling banjos, much more co-operating banjos!Having already captivated audiences at many venues and some of the UKs most prestigious festivals including Celtic Connections, HebCelt and Cambridge Folk Festival the band brings a proven track record of unforgettable live performances to this highly anticipated tour.
Supported by a stellar band of world-class musicians, the Banjo Brothers Tour is more than a concert its a bold and inspiring celebration of creativity, collaboration, musical excellence and craic.Whether youre a devoted fan of roots music or discovering it for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to witness two pioneers sharing one stage.Two of the greatest exponents of the banjo, blending traditions with a truly distinctive voice. The Irish World
Exquisite musicianship Ralph McTell
Excellent, deeply musical, and refreshingly original a meeting of traditions that feels truly new. - The Irish EchoSeating Unreserved