Rock for Experience

Trench at Rock For Experience 2009

When Sympathy for the Devil first played way back in 1968 it caused a media furore with concerned citizens worried that The Rolling Stones were a corrupt influence on youth!

Nowadays with The Stones music being used to sell insurance on TV, Led Zepplin's music used as the score to a Car commercial and even the iconic image of Jimi Hendrix being used to sell a new health drink called 'Liquid Experience', it's becoming increasingly difficult to find an unsullied rock gig.

Step forward Samhlaiocht's 'Rock for Experience' which will bring a host of unsigned amateur and semi-professional Rock artists from all areas of Kerry together for one night over Easter, for a rock experience as pure as driven snow.

"We're really looking forward to this year's gig," said Mike Foley, organizer of Rock for Experience. "We're anticipating a fantastic buzz and an atmosphere that's even more electric than ever before."

Rock for Experience provides an opportunity for budding musicians to perform in front of an audience using a professional PA system which is provided free of charge by Samhlaiocht. The organizers will also supply a drum kit but bands are encouraged to bring their own instruments and snare drum. It's an alcohol-free event for all ages and will be taking place in The Big Tent, located next to The Carlton Hotel on Dan Spring Road, on Monday, April 5th.

"This is the first year the gig is taking place in the Big Tent," said Mike. "It's an amazing venue, and a fantastic opportunity for young musicians. It's a huge plus for young bands and a fantastic experience for younger musicians to play in a venue like this. We'll have a fantastic turnout this year with 10 bands and more than 500 screaming fans in the audience. We have CO2, one of the hottest up and coming acts in Ireland, headlining the gig so it's bound to be a wonderful night!"