"It's a slow burning collection, preferring to insulate itself beneath the skin than trumpet it's arrival from the rooftops. Connolly's button accordian skills are refined by a canny ear and a keen eye that reveals in the tunes, which tilt at an angel instead of plowing the middle ground." Siobhan Long, The Irish Times

Foremost among the young guns of traditional Irish music, Johnny B. Connolly's first recording, Bridgetown, has established him as a force to be reckoned with. At age 17, his dexterity on button accordion earned him a slot with established ensemble Anam, and alter two years touring Ireland and Europe, he crossed the ocean for a stint with fiddler Patrick Ourceau. His undeniable talents have allowed him to play with the Chieftains and a host of extraordinary Irish musicians. Born and raised in Dublin, Johnny now makes his home in Portland, Oregon where a friendship with legendary fiddler Kevin Burke led to his signing with Green linnet records. Johnny's first album, named for his adopted home, has brought this highly accomplished player to worldwide attention.

A consummate button accordionist, Johnny plays with grace, maturity, and a sure knowledge of the tradition. No techno Celtic cellophane here, just the pure drop filtered through generations to the capable hands of this young standard bearer. "This is the most exciting solo debut recording from an Irish artist in years, a must-have for lovers of Irish box playing... Bridgetown is captivating from the very first listening." TOM CLANCY, The Irish Herald, JAN 2002 "He's the best box player I've ever heard this side ofjackie Daly. His playing is tremendously articulate and evocative."

KATE POWER, Artichoke Music, Portland, OR TO BOOK CASEY NEILL AND JOHNNY B. CONNOLLY Contact GREG ST. MARTIN / MARTIN STREET MUSIC 503-293-0378 or gregs2@aol.com