Uncovering A Book Of Leaves
It's a week since our full programme has been announced and there's been some terrific reaction to date. With so many acts to preview before we get to the festival proper, here's a taster of what to expect on the opening Saturday night of this year's festival (the festival does start on Friday, but it runs weekend to weekend don't you know!) as we're thrilled to be able to welcome Rachel Grimes (ex-Rachel's) to the stage at St. Canice's Cathedral. In Rachel we have a pianist who, as part of Rachel's - one of indie's best chamber music ensembles - inspired an entire generaton of musicians and alt-rock bands with a unique minimalist styling. That band formed in 1991 and up to 2005 had eight commercial releases. Flash forward to 2009 and Rachel Grimes releases her widely acclaimed Book Of Leaves solo album and it is her solo show that brings her to Kilkenny and to St. Canice's Cathedral.
If you like the sounds of that album, or indeed her Marion County 1938 EP released last year, then imagine those piano sounds transported to the cathedral on August 11th. Take a listen below for more. While it might be her first time at the festival, she's no stranger to Irish shores, having toured here in 2010 and previous as well as having recorded with The Frames - did you know she plays the piano parts on In The Deep Shade for The Frames? Tickets are available to book online now priced €20 and the show starts at 8pm.
Listen To Rachel Grimes
Joining Rachel Grimes on the bill will be Katie Kim, who last took to the St. Canice's Cathedral stage in 2009 when Matthew Nolan (Wired strand curated) introduced Amiina to the festival and the people of Kilkenny. We've got some video highlights of her performance below as well but with two highly regarded female performers sharing the stage in one of the country's most special venues, it will be a hard night to beat for music lovers.
Listen To Katie Kim
Katie Kim at 2009 Kilkenny Arts Festival
