The Backroom Sessions return after a short hiatus, hosted by Niall Thomas and Baker Jnr, guests this month are Rufus Coates and the Blackened Trees and Jem Mitchell.
Rufus Coates and the Blackened Trees are a unique Folk/Blues band from Ireland. On April 16th ’16 they released their much anticipated debut album. Armed with beautifully crafted, vocal driven songs that are highlighted by the vocal harmonies of singers Rufus Coates and Jess Smith and the dark atmospheric sound of the Blackened Trees. The band have risen quickly through the rich and eclectic folk scene in Ireland and have honed their live performance skills at some of Ireland’s most popular venues and festivals including Whelan’s, The Roisin Dubh, The Academy, Communion Dublin, Electric Picnic, Life Festival, KnockanStockan and many more. Their live show is one not to be missed and always promises to be an atmospheric and heartfelt affair.
Jem Mitchell is a singer/songwriter from North East Dublin. Signed to A&M records America at 19 with Fire Water Creed Jem moved to Los Angeles to hone his songcraft. Having fronted a number of indie rock bands in the late 80’s/early 90’s and following a 14 year hiatus Jem has re-emerged onto the live music circuit and has been steadily gigging. His debut 5 track EP Sweet Amphetamine was released in mid 2015 and has established him as an accomplished singer songwriter, with rave reviews and awarded best male vocal from Pure M magazine. Jem continues to collaborate with long time friend and guitarist Ken Browne [Christy Dignam (Aslan) King Christian Sound (Ex Missing Link) Razorlove]. Jem Mitchell is currently working on his next release. His music has been described as alt country, drawing on a rich seam of Americana and roots music.