Sam GreenwoodFor the first time in a year, Bangor’s Openhouse Festival is opening its doors for a series of events – albeit not live ones just yet.
The doors in question are of the old Court House on the Northern Irish towns seafront which the charity took possession of last December in the first ever community transfer, following a five-year development and fundraising campaign. The performances – which will be filmed in various rooms inside the building following strict Covid guidelines, are all by artists who are based in the Bangor area.
Bangor is a town rich in sonic history. It’s contemporaries are channelling the inspiration from local stars such as Foy Vance and Two Door Cinema club, but with an electronic edge. Openhouse blends the words of electronic music, indie and funk for a truly rounded, multi-faceted experience.
Born Sleep label head and R&S Record affiliate Optmst will be performing a live set alongside Soft Boy Records crew member Brien, in addition to performance from fellow electronic music artist Gilmore, funk band Aeons and many more.
Funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the Court House Sessions will feature eleven recorded performances which will be released in a staggered schedule from February 26th to mid-March and will be available to view via the Openhouse Festival YouTube channel and website.
Words: Andrew Moore.