Prepare for a Banjo Revolution! And this one is easier to pronounce!
Award-winning banjo maestros Damien O’Kane and Ron Block are thrilled to announce the release of their eagerly awaited new album, Banjovial, coming 3rd October 2025.
Following the critical acclaim of their first two innovative albums, Banjophony and Banjophonics, this third collaborative masterpiece takes their genre-defying fusion of Irish tenor and bluegrass 5-string banjo to dazzling new heights.
They have already released the first single from the album ‘Anton’s Slide / I Asked For A Hamster’ which highlights why these two are considered the best banjo pickers in the Wild West!
A Celebration of Innovation and Joy
As the title suggests, Banjovial is a celebration—an explosion of joy, creativity, and musical mastery. The album blends traditional Irish and Bluegrass roots with modern arrangements, intricate rhythms, and exhilarating melodies, all written by the virtuosos themselves. It showcases the unparalleled synergy between O’Kane and Block, both renowned as trailblazers in their respective styles.
“This album is a labour of love, pushing the boundaries of what the banjo can do,” says O’Kane. “It’s joyful, heartfelt, and continues our ever-evolving approach to creating banjo music together which highlights our individual styles but which works together as something perhaps not heard before.”
Ron Block adds, “We wanted Banjovial to be a testament to the versatility of the banjo. It’s a record full of surprises, yet it remains true to the soul of our instruments.”
The album also features a song each from O’Kane and Block, again showcasing their vocal skills having both released several song albums over the years. There are contributions from their world-class band, including Scotland’s leading bassist and Moog player Duncan Lyall and Ireland’s multi-talented guitarist and percussionist Steven Byrnes as well as some incredible guests including Irish button accordion legend Sharon Shannon and bluegrass heroes Aubrey Haynie and Tim Crouch on fiddles and mandolin. Together, they create a dynamic, electrifying sound that is as innovative as it is timeless. This really is a special record.
Here’s a taste from their previous offering Banjaphonics:
……and a SoundCloud link to listen to the first single:
The October Tour
To celebrate the release, Damien O’Kane and Ron Block will embark on a major tour in October 2025 with their band, bringing Banjovial to life on stages across the UK, Ireland, and beyond. Fans can expect a vibrant, high-energy performance that highlights the duo’s musical camaraderie and the joyous spirit of the album and their previous work.
Pre-Order and More
Banjovial is now available for pre-order through all major digital platforms and physical retailers or you can click on the pre order link here, https://purerecords.lnk.to/Banjovial
which will take you straight to it!
Exclusive signed copies and limited-edition merchandise will be offered via their official website.
For further information please visit https://damienokane.co.uk/band/
Featured Image Credit Kevin Johnson
