Pat McManus is ready to rock Lisburn

Pat grew up in a family steeped in traditional Irish music. With his brothers, John and Tommy, he was catapulted onto the world stage playing guitar with the rock band Mama's Boys.

The band gained a huge international fan base, attaining remarkable critical success and toured the world with acts such as bon Jovi, Thin Lizzy, Rush and Sting.

In 1994. the brothers returned to their roots and formed a new outfit, Celtus, blending Irish trad, rock and dance beats.

Signed to Sony Records, they released four critically acclaimed albums and once again toured the globe extensively.

In 2001 Celtus released their final album 'What Goes Around' and in 2005 Pat formed a new band 'Pat McManus and Hi-Voltage' and is still touring with them today.

Pat has released his first solo album in 2007 and spent the rest of the year touring.

Entitled 'In My Own Time', the album is a blend of blistering blues, rich soulful vocals and a hint of Irish trad, showcasing his unique, unadulterated talent.

2008 started pretty much as 2007 had ended, constant touring with the highlight in the early part of the year being the band being asked to headline the annual Rory Gallagher Tribute Festival in Ballyshannon, where Rory was born. Around this time, Pat was signed to Bad Reputation Records from France and 'In My Own Time' was released, complete with new cover through out Europe.

With the release if his second solo studio album, 2PM, Pat is currently touring the length and breadth of Europe and is making a highly anticipated return to the Island Arts Centre with fellow musicians Gordon Sheridan, bass, and Paul Falloon, drums.

Having recently picked up a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' from the Ards Guitar Festival, Pat continues to amaze audiences with his unadulterated talent for delivering performances ful l of power and passion.

For further information or to book tickets, priced 8.50,

contact the Island Arts Centre Box Office on 9250 9254.