The Legends of American Country – Floral Pavilion

JMG music group present ‘The Legends of American Country show’ which is currently touring around Ireland and the UK and tonight, the delightful Floral Pavilion had the pleasure of finally hosting this celebration of country music after it was postponed one year ago.

The show is opened by our host Anthony McBrien who comes from a village named Derrylin in County Fermanagh. Anthony is joined on stage by his co-star Tracy McCauley from Banbridge in County Down. It is no surprise that the stars of the show come from Ireland given the huge Irish-American connections when it comes to country music although it was a delight to see a full, enthusiastic, country-loving audience ready to greet them tonight in New Brighton.

This show prides itself on “taking you to Nashville and back” in one night and luckily, the audience were not disappointed as the show is jam-packed with country classics. Songs such as ‘Forever and Ever, Amen’, ‘Blanket on the ground’ ‘Islands in the stream’ and ‘Achy Breaky Heart’ had everyone toe tapping and swaying from the get-go.

The performers were joined on stage by the talented ‘Celtic Strom’ band, who supported the singers throughout the copious big numbers performed all evening. The band appeared very happy to fade into the backdrop and although they did not feature largely on a personal level, the show would be nothing without their harmonious accompanying twangs which were executed with ease all night.

The two singers performed some charming duets as well as having their own solo ‘sets’ which focused on different era’s of country music. Tracy treated the audience to some very early material from country music origins, as well, of course as a much-loved ‘Dolly’ section which blew the audience away. Anthony’s ‘Johnny Cash’ and ‘Kenny Rodger’s’ sections went down a storm and his personal favourite song ‘Don’t close your eyes’ was remarkably heartfelt and enjoyable to watch.

There is no doubt that Anthony and Tracy are true entertainers who look very at home on the stage, complimenting one another both in their presence and vocal harmonies. Dressed in authentic cowboy boots and hats with dashes of sparkle and glamour- it truly was country style in every way.

By the end of the night, some of the audience were on their feet and it was clear that the majority shared passion for country music. Luckily for us all, country songs are the kind that you can sing along to, get emotionally involved with and definitely enjoy.

If you enjoy American country music, there is no doubt that you’re going to leave with a smile on your face. It is fantastic to see live music and shows such as ‘The Legend’s of American Country’ back on our local stages and thank you to all of the performers, crew and management teams for their incredible effort and drive to get these shows back on the road! Good Luck for the rest of your tour and for further information and tickets, please visit JMG website https://jmgmusicgroup.com/ for all upcoming dates and ticket information.

Reviewer: Bláthíne Maguire

Reviewed: 28thApril 2022

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★