Gerry McAvoy's Band of Friends Upcoming Blues Concerts, Festivals & Events in Ireland

Band of Friends was formed in 2012 by Gerry McAvoy, Rory Gallagher's longtime bassist and bandmate of 20 years. Gerry played on every Rory Gallagher album from 1971 to 1991 and later shared his story in the biography Riding Shotgun (2005).

The current lineup includes guitarists Brian Tambling (from Cork, inspired by the Blues greats of the '60s and '70s like Clapton, Beck, and Gallagher) and Andy Taylor (from Orkney, whose roots trace back to Muddy Waters and the classic Blues era).

Drummer Brendan O'Neill, also from Belfast, played with Rory from 1981 to 1991, recording on Jinx, Defender, and Fresh Evidence, and appearing on Live at Montreux.

Over the years, Band of Friends has toured worldwide, honouring Rory's music and spirit. Until his passing in 2019, the band also featured Ted McKenna on drums, who played with Rory between 1978 and 1981.

Today, Band of Friends continues to celebrate Rory Gallagher's legacy, performing a mix of their own songs and Rory's timeless classics.