The Screaming Orphans
The Nightfall Concert Series concludes its 25th year of summer musical programming Friday featuring a headline performance by Screaming Orphans at 8 p.m. The local opening act is Rigoletto at 7 p.m. Nightfall is held free to the public at Miller Plaza.
Review for The Screaming Orphans:
The Screaming Orphans are the four Diver sisters from Bundoran, Co. Donegal, Ireland. Throughout all of Europe and America they have developed the reputation of being a captivating and entertaining live band, combining their own original pop/rock music with the Céilí musical traditions inherited from their family roots. From an early age, the Diver sisters performed with their mother Kathleen Fitzgerald (a well-known céilí singer in Ireland) and when they hit their teenage years, they formed their own pop/rock band, the Screaming Orphans, which led to a signing by Warner Music UK.
As the Screaming Orphans, the band first came to prominence when Sinéad O’Connor asked them to tour with her as her back up vocalists and opening act. Their musical reputation has since led to collaborations on recordings with Baaba Maal, Afro Celt Sound System, Peter Gabriel and Joni Mitchell.
While the sisters can never forget their roots, the Screaming Orphans’ rich repertoire of original pop/rock songs with catchy melodies has absorbed many influences over the years. Their varied sound has been compared to such artists as ABBA, the Cranberries and The Chieftains. The band is also renowned for their trademark spine-tingling four part harmony.
As of 2013, the band has released 10 albums of both original pop/rock and traditional Irish music. The Screaming Orphans split their time between New York City and Donegal.
Review for Rigoletto:
Nightfall’s opening act, Rigoletto, is a powerful alternative rock group from Chattanooga. The band was recently signed to South Division records and are currently in the throes of their Fall tour in support of their first release on the label, “Delusions of Grandeur.” Nightfall will be the only hometown show on their tour, so make sure and arrive in time to catch their 7 p.m. set.
Presented and produced by Chattanooga Presents, Nightfall continues to bring an eclectic mix of music to downtown Chattanooga. Nightfall showcases the local arts community by featuring Chattanooga musicians for each opening act, beginning at 7 p.m., followed by performances by national and international talent beginning at 8 p.m. Beer, wine, food and non-alcoholic drink concessions are available on site. No outside food or beverages are allowed.
For more information on this free community concert series, call 265-0771 or visit NightfallChattanooga.com for a complete, interactive website that includes music samples by each headliner and other information for first-time attendees.