DECLAN KELLY

It would not be Peats Ridge without an appearance by Declan Kelly and we are proud to have this wonderfully creative and inspirational musician back at the festival along with his fabulous band The Rising Sun.

Declan Kelly is a intuitive music maker who sings, plays drums and composes delicate songs that show influence from Polynesian melodies, the traditions of reggae and the bitter sweet strains of African American soul.

Though he harks from Bondi but Declan has also spent time living in Europe, studying west African rhythms, under the tuition of Epizo Bangoura, and busking in Paris, the south of France, and Dublin. Declan’s time in Paris continues to influence his sound demonstrating his deep love and respect for indigenous music and culture.

Declan Kelly's latest studio album Adrift - a pure offering in the roots reggae genre. Showing subtle tinges of the influence of Afro beat, Kelly’s 11-track album spotlights Declan Kelly’s earthed and urbane approach to song writing as he speaks about love, peace, relationships and death.

Date performing: 30 December 2009
Stage: The Bellbird

www.myspace.com/declankelly