Unique "Conncert" to hit shores of famed Mayo lake

Two musicians are set to launch a new music festival on the shores of Lough Conn, bringing a fresh wave of sound to Mayo.

The idea took root when Ballina Punx legend Conor Hickey discovered that his friends, John Breslin and Patrick Hallinan, were both independently planning the same event.

Breslin and Hallinan aim to introduce fringe sounds to their home county with a day of alternative music, celebrating DIY values, and good craic.

The trio, deeply rooted in Ballina's underground and punk scene, brings diverse influences from ventures such as Community of Independents in Dublin and Cushty Gamut in London.

In line with their ethos of support and independence, all ticket proceeds will go to the artists and sound engineer, with Patrick Cullen of The Altered Hours managing the sound.

“We have a rich vein of interesting music in Mayo and beyond,” said Hallinan. Breslin, excited to bring unique acts close to home, added, “The plan is to show the players and attendees a fantastic time.”

The festival lineup includes Sligo's Poor Creature, Ballina's Yop, John of the Apocalypse, Cork's Dan Walsh (aka Fixity), Belfast's Junk Drawer, Hands Up Who Wants to Die, Dublin's Cobra Truth, and Rún.

The "Conncert" takes place at The Lodge, Cloghans, starting at 3 p.m. Tickets are €20, with camping available beside the pub.