New live music night kicks off in Alexanders

Hook infested classic rockers Swanee River first paralyzed the Irish Music Scene back in 2004 when the fresh faced foursome fronted by 'Stevie Blues' Horner threw caution to the wind got in their van and tackled the live gig circuit and in two years played no less than 200 gigs the length and breath of Ireland, going on to win the Northern Ireland Battle of the Bands in 2006.

In the same year a now established Swanee River took some time out to write and record their first EP and this also included some changes in line up in the form of guitarist Graham 'Ragin Bap' Baldrick and drummer Conor 'Coco' McAuley.

2009 cemented Swanee River as one of the hottest and most sought after bands in Ireland. They have consistently been going from strength to strength, learning the business and becoming well seasoned 'old hands'. 2010 will see Swanee River move onwards and upwards, there are rumours of an album, music video, a clothing sponsorship, a UK tour and much, much more.

They will be joined on the night by Irish troubadour Junior Johnson, who said of his music: "I write songs that I believe in. I hope that the lyrics reflect some sort of honesty from my own experience in life. I'm not trying to fool anyone. Except myself; maybe."

Local singer/songwriter Johnny Vans will also be taking to the stage for the opening night. To date Johnny has released one four track E.P. which has received airplay on a number of radio stations. He has steadily gigged around Northern Ireland in all the local haunts before taking a much needed hiatus to concentrate on his song writing.

Completing the bill will be another Lisburn singer songwriter - Andrew 'Cass' Cassidy, who pulls his inspiration from others such as Paul Brady, Rufus wainright and recently, Arcade Fire.

The music kicks off at 8pm and door tax is 5. For more information log onto www.myspace.com/oldcastlepr