In their own words….
Mark Black and The Roots Orchestra is a 13-piece band, whose live appearances included Glastonbury 2009, guested and performed with Moya Brennan and Liam O Maonlai at the Spirit Voices Show, and a string of festivals and packed out gigs across Ireland. Their distinctive style of “rootsy blues” often combines rock, country and Celtic influences into the powerful mix that defines Mark Black and The Roots Orchestra.
The band was formed in 2009 by Donegal singer/songwriter Mark Black, whose musical credentials include 2 self produced studio albums and now a double live album and concert dvd as well as touring supports with Alabama 3, Paddy Casey, Mundy, Hot House Flowers, Jerry Fish, Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford from Squeeze. In addition, he has collaborated with artists such as Bronagh Gallagher, Foy Fance, Duke Special, Joe Echo, and Ken Haddock, for the BBC’s Urban Hymns series.
The latest album ‘Live at The RCC’ was recorded and filmed in March 2009 and was released in December 2009.
In setting up The Roots Orchestra, Mark Black brought the songs from his studio albums to life with big band arrangements. A myriad of influences and instruments combine to create a unique musical experience. The band is made up of some of the finest and most experienced musicians in the country and includes Ted Ponsonby (who has recorded and played with the likes of Mary Black, EmmyLou Harris and Van Morrison), on guitar, dobro and Hammond organ; internationally renowned pedal steel maestro Percy Robinson; Michael McGinty on bass and Seamus Devenny on drums and percussion; The Henry Girls; Kathryn O Callaghan, Sean McCarron (Henry McCullough Band) plays saxes and Mark Bradley (Oasis, Ben E King) is on trumpet with Donal McGuinness (Mirenda Rosenberg Band, Rare Groove Funk Orchestra) on trombone.
Great song Mark- Good Luck