The List

The American Bar

What's On @ The American Bar

Ronnie Greer Trio

Ronnie Greer Trio

11 Jul 2026 - 8 Aug 2026

Prepare for an electrifying musical extravaganza featuring the legendaryRonnie Greer, an undisputed icon in the Northern Ireland music scene. With his masterful blues and jazz guitar skills, Ronnie has set the stage ablaze, lending his fiery touch to some of the country's greatest blues bands, including the iconic Jim Daly Blues Band. Every note he plays is infused with passion, evoking deep emotions while ensuring a rhythm that keeps toes tapping in delight. As a seasoned sideman and frontman, Ronnie Greer has graced the stage alongside giants in the music industry, sharing the limelight with luminaries such as Dr. John, Lowell Fulson, Phil Guy, Johnny Mars, and many more. His performances are not just concerts; they are immersive journeys into the soul of blues and jazz, leaving audiences spellbound. Doors open at 2:00 PM, promising an afternoon filled with soul-stirring melodies and virtuoso performances. Immerse yourself in a musical journey that transcends boundaries. This is a ticket-only event, ensuring an exclusive and intimate experience for all attendees. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable musical celebration! Music bar for music listening Doors @ 2 / Music @ 2.30 / Finish @ 5
The Kenny McDowell Project Live

The Kenny McDowell Project Live

21 Jun 2026 - 19 Jul 2026

Kenny McDowell, vocals/harmonica/acoustic guitar Chris McDowell, vocals/acoustic guitar Gordie McAllister, guitar Blues, Americana Belfast-born Kenny McDowell is a seasoned vocalist and musician renowned for his powerful voice and emotive delivery. A pivotal figure in Northern Ireland's music scene, Kenny's career began in the 1960s with the influential band Them, where he succeeded Van Morrison as lead singer. Following his tenure with Them, he contributed to various projects, including Sk'boo and Truth, alongside guitaristJim Armstrong. His collaborations have left an indelible mark on the region's musical landscape. In recent years, Kenny has embraced a more intimate musical expression, performing regularly at The American Bar in Belfast. His repertoire blends blues, Americana, and country, showcasing his versatility and deep connection to these genres. Joining Kenny on stage are Chris McDowell, his son, adding rich vocals and acoustic guitar, andGordie McAllister, a skilled guitarist whose playing complements the trio's dynamic sound. Together, they deliver a captivating live experience that resonates with audiences, offering a blend of classic influences and contemporary flair. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the soulful sounds of Kenny McDowell and his band at The American Bar.
Anthony Toner Plays James Taylor

Anthony Toner Plays James Taylor

5 Jul 2026 - 5 Jul 2026

Anthony Toner plays James Taylor - solo performance Hearing James Taylor for the first time was the catalyst that really made me take the acoustic guitar seriously, says Anthony Toner. My playing and singing were never quite the same after that. The acclaimed singer-songwriter is abandoning his own material for a handful of mellow Sunday afternoon shows this year hes calling it a Month of Sundays series, and hes hoping it can be an annual spring and summer season of afternoon shows, celebrating the work of artists who have been a major influence. For this first season its the turn of the great James Taylor - and Anthony, performing solo, will offer a personal selection, with some deep dives from the extensive JT back catalogue, in addition to favourites like Sweet Baby James, Handyman, Fire and Rain and of course many more. For this performance, please note these specific timings : Doors Open: 2.30pm / Music Start: 3:00pm / Finish: 4.15pm Book early and arrive early to secure your spot, as seating is tight when sold out.
The Sabrejets

The Sabrejets

4 Jul 2026 - 4 Jul 2026

SABREJETS ARE GO..Soap up that quiff, ladies and gentlemen, and get the pomade out as rockabilly group The Sabrejets return to the live stage. The Sabrejets are leading lights at home and abroad in the rockabilly revival. If youre into The Cramps, Link Wray and pre-army Elvis then be there when The Sabrejets pick up their guitars.
The Steve Payne Roots & Blues Allstars
SP3 (Steve Payne 3)https://spthree.co.uk/ SP3 consists of guitarists Steve Payne& Lyndon Webb, together with Yardbirds and Nine Below Zero harpmanBillyboy Miskimmin. Video - YouTube:SP3 - Dead Man's Shoes, 21st Century Blues [https://youtu.be/EmTeXwX1n08?si=R4BFdMrsd5dy6BWT] SP3 on Spotify:SP3 [https://open.spotify.com/artist/3iU68g8IlkeURKWaLLeXtg?si=8o7Y19uGT7SSC1k-BGiEqw] // SP3 onBandcamp: SP3 [https://stevepaynepaulhobday.bandcamp.com/album/sp3-steve-payne-paul-hobday-billyboy-miskimmin] This band brings that extra special something to their music, which will be evident quickly when you hear their sound and their delivery, and really feel their music, in this intimate gig here in The American Bar (Sailortown), Belfast. Steve Payne Contemporary Folk / Blues & Roots at its finest Steve has been described by many as one of the most unique guitarists, multi-instrumentalists and singer/songwriter/performers of the modern day Contemporary Folk / Blues & Roots genres. He has joined the ranks of the almost legendary in the Roots/Blues community, and has shared the stage and bill with many of the greats of the Blues and Folk world. Starting off in the UK Blues and Folk clubs in the mid 70s Steve has swerved, never bypassed, contributing musically through decades of musical trends. Throughout he has managed to retain his fresh and unique style as a player performer and composer. Lyndon Webb The Welsh Wizard Guitarist, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Lyndon hails from Monmouth in Wales. Sometimes referred to as the Maestro of Monmouth or The Welsh Wizard he is recognised as the master of his instrument and has performed extensively in the UK and Europe. His ability to switch from one musical style to another with ease has had him in great demand as a side-man / session musician for many years. Working presently with Steve Payne and Billyboy Miskimmin as the third member of the SP3 trio he has slotted into the role perfectly and has added another dimension to the SP3s unique sound. A truly world class player he fits in beautifully. Billyboy Miskimmin One of Irelands finest harmonica players. As a full-time player Miskimmins Little Walter-influenced musicianship blossomed and his playing live and on albums like Give Me No Lip Child alerted the blues world to a major new talent. Bruce Willis, himself a harmonica player, became a fan, hiring Nine Below Zero to play at the Hollywood premiere of his Twelve Monkeys film and even sitting in with the band. Miskimmins reputation quickly spread beyond the blues world and he played sessions for Stiff Little Fingers, Marc Almond and others. An acclaimed solo album Billy Boy Comes Clean featured his song writing and singing as well as showcasing some of the most thrilling harmonica playing of his career. In 2003 The Yardbirds recruited Billy Boy, his soloing becoming one of the bands most distinctive features, as the soloing of Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page had been in earlier times. Live At BB King Blues Club provided irresistible proof of how integral Miskimmins playing had become to the bands sound. With The Yardbirds Miskimmin became part of rock and blues aristocracy, playing with legends like BB King and The Doors and earning accolades not only from Alice Cooper but from Jimmy Page, Scotty Moore and others. Ronnie Greer - Legendary NI blues/jazz guitarist Ronnie Greer brings four decades of worldclass playing, from Chicagostyle blues to jazzinfused improvisation. Hes performed with Dr. John, Lowell Fulson & Phil Guy, and leads some of the most exciting big blues band lineups on the island featuring some of the regions top vocalists and instrumentalists.
Brigid O'Neill

Brigid O'Neill

28 Jun 2026 - 28 Jun 2026

Brigid ONeill No stranger to sold-out audiences at the Saturday Afternoon Club in the American Bar,Brigid ONeill is back! Brigid will be accompanied by Cian McGrory on guitar andNiall Lynch on fiddle. Reviews of her critically acclaimed latest album releases ( The Truth & Other Stories & Intangible Heritage ) and recent tour date performances both with her own band and as special guest of Paul Brady on his Irish tour, have reaffirmed that the gifted artist is one of the most versatile, unique and fearless storytellers on the island. Described by Ralph McLean of BBC Radio Ulster as a great songwriter with a voice that can break your heart at 30 paces and Fiachna OBraonin RT/Hothouse Flowers, as a beautiful songwriter with great empathy and sensitivity Brigids music effortlessly weaves elements of folk, country and jazz into relatable tales of happiness, heartbreak and the human condition. Whilst echoes of artists such as Emmylou Harris, Alison Krauss and Mary Black come to mind, ONeills voice and sound is very much her own. Back after a short break, Brigid is currently revisiting her folk and traditional roots, so expect some new reimagining of classics, as well as the very best of her own original songs. An immensely gifted story-teller whose songs soar to new heights in the live environment. Hot Press Brigid ONeill is supremely confident both musically and lyrically. Glastonbury Festival Links to Brigid O'Neill's music : Website: Brigid O'Neill [https://www.brigidoneill.com/] ~ Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/artist/6afMvRoDfYHrxzoFzcXeJx?si=gMYQediLTcSwH2Z56hbKog] ~ YouTube [https://youtube.com/@brigidoneill4467?si=QEG3HyIf4OfRC-gM]
Fawn Ewes

Fawn Ewes

27 Jun 2026 - 27 Jun 2026

Fawn Ewesis a lively, five-piece band from Belfast. Originally bartenders at The American Bar in Sailortown, they formed the group to play folk, country, Americana & blues classics, in addition to original music developed by the band members. They blend cello, pedal steel, guitar, and vocal harmonies with a tongue-in-cheek stage presence, serious when needed, but with the element of fun underlying their playing and singing. A great show. Band Members: The band features a rotating lineup of multi-instrumentalists who swap vocal and instrument duties. Paddy Godfrey guitar/vocals Joel Harkin pedal steel guitar/vocals Neil g Martin cello Turlough McDonald guitar/vocals and harmonica Niall Carson acoustic bass, guitar/vocals Where to Listen: Follow the band's latest shows, releases, and upcoming gig updates across their digital platforms: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/fawn.ewes/]~ Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/fawn.ewes/]
Backbone Blues Band

Backbone Blues Band

15 Aug 2026 - 15 Aug 2026

Doors: 2 / Music: 2.30 / Finish: 5 The Backbone Blues Band are a 6-piece live blues band performing on festival stages throughout Ireland for over 40 years!
Andrew Ryan: Honest Capacity

Andrew Ryan: Honest Capacity

29 Jun 2026 - 9 Apr 2027

Everyone’s favourite Cork in the North returns in good faith and in an honest capacity with what promises to be his biggest and most hilarious show to date. On the face of it Andrew is utterly delighted with himself these days; he’s happy, confident, can drive a golf ball 300 yards and is excited for the future as a newlywed. Barely touch that surface and the reality is he cannot get out of his own way and continues to make utterly bewildering decisions with hilarious consequences. Join him for his new show with tales of pet ownership, constant inability to read a room, and his unrelenting frustration and annoyance with the world around him. Everything is fine, until it’s not! Host of the Q Radio Breakfast Show and Star of The Two Jonnies Late Night Lock In (RTE), The Blame Game (BBC), Comedy Central Live, along with hit appearances on some of the biggest comedy podcasts in the UK and Ireland. He is a frequent viral hit with over 50 million views amassed across social media.
The Twisted Sisters

The Twisted Sisters

24 Oct 2026 - 24 Oct 2026

Zany festival favourites The Twisted Sisters are an original, high energy, eclectic band whose aim is to have major fun elevating the vibe into another dimension with Sunshine Punk Folk'n'Roll. Having the craic is the cornerstone of their culture & music!
The High Lonesome

The High Lonesome

1 Aug 2026 - 1 Aug 2026

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Afternoon of Honky Tonk! The High Lonesome are swinging back into town, and you won't want to miss this intimate gig at a venue where every seat feels like front row! Known for their captivating sound, this talented 7-piece band from Belfast has made waves with their chart-topping hits—like the smash debut single 'Woman in a Hurry', which reigned at No.1 on the Downtown Country chart for a staggering 5 weeks, and their beloved ‘Country Fever’, which took the title of Christmas No.1 on Ireland's Hot 7 Country chart! Why You Shouldn’t Wait: Limited Tickets Available! With an intimate setting, this is your chance to get up close and personal with the band. Exclusive Experience: Feel the energy of live country vibes, Honky-Tonk rhythms, and rockabilly beats in a cozy atmosphere. This is more than just a concert; it’s a journey into the heart of American Country music, complete with original songs and classic favorites that will have you dancing all afternoon. Act Fast! Ticket numbers are limited and going quickly. Don’t let this opportunity slip away—secure your spot for a Honky Tonkin' good time with The High Lonesome! Get your tickets now and be part of an unforgettable night! Eamonn Lynch - Electric guitar, Vox Paul Reid - Vox, Acoustic Guitar Fi Keane - Vox, Ukelele Ivan McLernon - Pedal Steel
The Stray Gaiters

The Stray Gaiters

3 Oct 2026 - 3 Oct 2026

It is now more than fifty years since Neil Young appeared on the scene, astounding everyone with his remarkable song writing and soulful singing. Stray Gaiters - who take their name from the pick-up band of session players put together for the recording of 'Harvest' - will guide you through Mr Young's extensive and varied catalogue of wonderful songs with respect and passion. Dance beneath a harvest moon; be blown away by a hurricane!
Kyron Bourke & Friends'Trad Roots

Kyron Bourke & Friends'Trad Roots

26 Jul 2026 - 26 Jul 2026

This special Sunday Afternoon Session sees longtime Belfast residentKyron Bourke reconnect with his roots in traditional song, reimagining classics such as Carrickfergus, Down By The Sally Gardens, and Raglan Road with his distinctive interpretive style breathing fresh life into beloved traditional material while honouring its emotional depth and cultural weight. Additionally, Kyron's original songs will come to life in this setting, accompanied by friends from the traditional music genre. For this special performance, Kyron joins forces with two of Belfasts finest master flute player Gary Duffy and piper & guitarist David Armstrong, a key figure in the successfully established Hearth Bar traditional sessions. Together, withPaddy Craig (Co.Armagh) on percussion they promise an unforgettable afternoon where Kyrons dynamic musicality and theatrical flair meet the deep-rooted pulse of tradition bridging past and present with soul, style, and singular artistry. One gig not to be missed!
Ken Haddock & Clive Wills

Ken Haddock & Clive Wills

25 Jul 2026 - 25 Jul 2026

An amazing performer both with his band and solo,Ken Haddock has a special singing voice that fills both the soul and the spirit with awe and contentment. His compositions are remarkable, and this can be easily verified with every track on his live Willowfield album. Appearing at his now traditional slot at the Saturday Afternoon Club, we chose Ken especially to help everyone take time-out to relax and savour his beautiful songs. An added bonus for this afternoon performance will include Clive Wills accompanying Ken. Clive is a highly sought-after musician in both the Jazz and Blues festival circuits.
Chris Chalmers & Joel Harkin

Chris Chalmers & Joel Harkin

2 Aug 2026 - 2 Aug 2026

Fresh from the release of his critically acclaimed debut album with The Souvenirs, Way Back Home which stormed into the IBBA Album Chart at No. 8 and is earning rave reviews and worldwide airplay Chris Chalmers returns to the Saturday Afternoon Club onSunday 2nd August. Following a run of sold-out solo shows, Chris will be joined by acclaimed pedal steel guitarist and songwriter,Joel Harkin, whose album Never Happy was shortlisted for the NI Music Prize, for a special afternoon performance full of heart, soul, and unforgettable songs. Alan Harrison - Rocking Magpie blog: "These deeply personal songs all sound as if Chalmers has been hoarding them forever" "Sounds like a co-write between Leonard Cohen and Randy Newman" Liam Maonla- Hothouse Flowers: "Lovely, well done, beautiful." Nigel Foster - Blues in Britain & Blues Matters magazine. "Way Back Home is an album of light, dark and shade and that makes it an engaging listen both musically and lyrically. A terrific album." Richard L'Hommidieu, Making a Scene magazine. "If The 2:19 built the foundation, The Souvenirs is the sound of Chalmers widening the framekeeping the grit and heart, while letting the songs travel further."
The John Andrews Band

The John Andrews Band

29 Aug 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

John Andrews has been plying his trade as a singer-songwriter for 5 years and is now firmly established as one of the finest talents on the Belfast scene. He has combined the harmonic complexity of jazz with the hard-won gutbucket authenticity of blues; and lined it with his own brand of streetwise lyricism to produce a highly rhythmic blend of music that is attracting new fans and followers every day. He raps, he rasps; he croons and he howls, soaring from a raw bottom-end to a piercingly high tenor. Following the release of his stellar EP Johnny Was (August 2018), John has emerged with the backing of a hard-rocking, bone-grinding three-piece band called ''The John Andrews Band" or The JAB. Consistently producing new material they have breathed new life into the songs whilst sacrificing none of the nuance. Thrilling live, and boasting a 15 song set of original material inside a year, this is one act that is not to be missed. The JAB released their first 2 singles in 2020. Their debut ''OMG'' (13/03/2020) which has a dark and dramatic video filmed in a Cemetery and Chapel...and ''Lucid'' (01/05/2020) which also has an official video , this time it's animated. Dont miss out on seeing John and his band, it's a joy to see them coming back to rock the room in the American Bar again.
Peter Benson & Stevie Clarke

Peter Benson & Stevie Clarke

5 Sept 2026 - 5 Sept 2026

Peter Benson and Stevie Clarke have been playing together in various guises for almost 30 years! Most notably they have held a residency in their home town, Warrenpoint, every Sunday for the last 15 years and have built up a loyal following, playing to packed crowds every week. Featuring Peter on piano and vocals (and occasionally trumpet!) and Steve on sax (and occasionally piano!), they have built up a huge and varied repertoire of music over the course of their countless gigs. From their unique and stylish takes on songs from the likes of John Martyn, Tom Waits, Billy Joel, Stephen Sondheim to Nick Cave, their chilled out vibe will have something for everyone! This is their debut gig for The Saturday Afternoon Club - come along and enjoy the music ...

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