Carrickmacross Singer/Songwriter Barry Jay Hughes Picture: COPYRIGHT © Pat Byrne

Barry Jay Hughes to launch new EP in April with Íontas Performance 

Fresh from his appearance on TG4 and some well-earned praise from one of the judges Síle Seoige, singer/songwriter Barry Jay Hughes from Carrickmacross is bringing his acoustic show to the Íontas Theatre in Castleblayney next month. He will be launching his new EP “This Way Up” at the venue on April 10^th.

The new release was recorded and mixed in Westland Studios Dublin in the last few months with the help of engineer Alwyn Walker. Westland Studios has seen its fair share of famous faces down through the years. Def Lepard, Bryan Adams, Hozier, Sinead O Connor and Thin Lizzy are among the names on their client list.

For those who have not yet heard this young County Monaghan artiste, next month’s event is a perfect opportunity to witness his great potential. Barry has been a keen musician from a very young age and in recent years decided to concentrate full-time on his music career, after spending over thirteen years working in the hospitality industry.

Barry is currently preparing for the launch night at the Íontas Theatre and promises us a great show, with support by Sinead Mc Nally, a well established songwriter and performer from Knockbridge, Co. Louth, who has many musical achievements under her belt. Barry will also be joined by percussionist extraordinaire Nick Bailey who has worked with shows such as Celtic Woman, Riverdance and collaborated with Kelly Clarkson.

Barry told The Northern Standard that the show will be a pleasant mix of high energy performance with heart and soul as well as some laid back and “chilled” moments and above all he guarantees a great night’s entertainment. The show will cover many genres and will appeal to all musical tastes showcasing Barry’s new material as well as some much loved covers. He added that he is very much looking forward to meeting all his fans and friends on the night.

“This Way Up” is a collection of songs penned by Barry himself along with a cover of Georgie Boy, a song that was written and released by Jack L back in 1999. Another track which found its roots back in 1999 is “Judgement Day” which features on the new EP. Barry says it’s a song he is delighted to have recorded after writing it almost sixteen years ago. The EP is predominantly Pop–Rock in sound, with subtle elements of traditional and folk music.

Tickets for The Íontas Theatre Show are available at www.iontascastleblayney.ie or by calling +353 (0)42-9753400. For further information on Barry Jay Hughes and  details of his upcoming gigs, log on to: www.facebook.com/barryhughesmusic.