JD & The Straight Shot + Ranagri

The continued evolution of JD & The Straight Shot now sees singer-songwriter Jim Dolan fronting a four-person group as the band explores a stripped-down version of its sound, which is steeped in the quiet fire of Americana, with distinctive elements of the blues and mystical, rustic New Orleans-flavored roots music.

In addition to Dolan, the acoustic vocal group also includes guitarist Marc Copely (Rosanne Cash, McCrary Sisters, Billy Squier), guitarist Aidan Dolan; Kentucky-born bassist Byron House (Robert Plant, Emmylou Harris) and violinist Erin Slaver (Rod Stewart, Trace Adkins, Martina McBride), all of whom also contribute to songwriting.

Ranagri

Ranagri is a new venture from four musicians who have recently come together to create some exciting new sounds. Consisting of flutes; ethnic flutes; electric harp; bodhran; guitar; bouzouki and vocals, Ranagri fuse worldwide folk music with quality contemporary songwriting, enhanced by virtuosic instrumentals, vibrant rhythms and haunting melodies, all interlaced with vivid storytelling.

Nestled between the Wicklow Mountains and Co Carlow lies a stunning area of lush farmland. Cattle graze, small outbuildings lie crumbling, and a pot of tea still heats over the turf fire; a place of untouched natural beauty, of peace and contemplation away from the speed of the city. This idyll is called Ranagri (pronounced Ran-ag-rye!).

Four London musicians; one traditional Irish player, two classically trained, and one rock singer and guitarist, all with a passion for folk music. A meeting in a pub in Richmond and the story of ‘Ranagri the band' begins.