Fund-raiser for the Athlone School of Music

band playing at the athlone school of music benefit in the palace loft, athloneAs anyone who was in the Palace Friday night can tell you – there is a whole lot of music to be had here in Athlone town.

With very few places to play, the GLUT of folks in attendance at the Athlone School of Music fundraiser event practically screams for a proper venue here in town. The Palace Bar is one of the few places full rock outfits can play, but the sound and capacity of the venue still leaves a lot to be desired. For the night there were two stages – one on each floor – and you could hardly move through the crowd.

At least a dozen bands played (I’m quite sure it was more) and it was all a rock-fest. I was thrilled to hear Alice in Chains, Thin Lizzy and Pearl Jam covers being played alongside a few originals as well. Basically it was a load of young lads (and ladies!) giving it socks.

crowd of people in the Palace Loft, athlone at the benefit for the Athlone School of MusicJust look at the crowd of folks in that room. It’s such a shame that there’s all this talent and no place for it to be showcased.

The Athlone School of Music is a fantastic asset to the town, creating a place for rehearsals and recordings not to mention the teaching that goes on, of course. It’s great to see so many people getting together to support it on a night like this – fair play to Tadgh and everyone involved.

Here’s an mp3 of tonight there’s gonna be a jail break by Thin Lizzy – that’s Spider Baby giving it socks there – fair play, lads!