Nelson Centre of Musical Arts, Nelson
Keith & Drew – Folk Sessions
Some of the best musical moments happen when two musicians step out from the familiar and give themselves permission to just play. That’s exactly what Keith & Drew – Folk Sessions is all about.
Keith and Drew are known to Nelson audiences as members of Irish band – Paddy’s Knob, where they’ve built a reputation for energetic, crowd-pleasing sessions rooted in Celtic folk and Irish pub scene. But for this Live Lounge appearance at the NCMA, they’re stripping things right back and letting the music breathe.
Expect acoustic guitar and mandolin woven together in close harmony – two instruments that were made for each other. Keith’s warm rhythm guitar provides the foundation, while Drew’s mandolin brings colour, texture, and that distinctive bluegrass sparkle that turns a simple song into something that gets right under your skin. Both musicians share vocal duties, their voices blending naturally across a set that draws from the rich well of folk and bluegrass tradition.
The repertoire spans American bluegrass classics, traditional folk songs, and carefully chosen covers that showcase the duo’s musicianship and their genuine love of the craft. This is a more considered, more intimate side of two musicians who are very comfortable on stage together. Keith & Drew – Folk Sessions is the kind of set that reminds you why acoustic music endures: because at its best, it’s just two people, a couple of instruments, and a room full of good listening.
Brief Artist Biography
Keith Nolan is a Dublin-born singer and guitarist whose Irish roots are front and centre in everything he plays. Lead vocalist of Nelson Irish band Paddy’s Knob and a well-loved solo performer across the top of the South Island, Keith brings warmth, grit, and genuine heart to every stage he steps on.
Drew is a Nelson-based multi-instrumentalist and former member of the Mean Fiddler house band. Equally at home on drums, guitar, mandolin, or behind a microphone, he’s most recently been lending his talent to Paddy’s Knob – and for this show, his mandolin takes centre stage.
Two seasoned musicians. One great night of folk.
Sponsored by NBS.
$5 door charge for non-ncma members (members are free). Membership can also be purchased at the door.
