‘These sisters have a sensational talent. The quality of their harmony singing goes beyond mere technique. They possess an unerring ability to blend tone and resonance in a seamless fashion’ (The Evening Herald)
The Henry Girls are sisters Karen, Lorna and Joleen McLaughlin from the most northerly part of Co. Donegal. The trio formed as a professional music group in 2001 after Lorna and Karen returned from living in Australia where they started to perform and write songs. Joleen, the youngest of the three, was finishing her leaving certificate and was becoming a very promising harp and piano player so it was a natural progression to join together. They wrote and recorded their first album later that year, produced by Maire Breathnach. They have since gone on to record five more original studio albums, a couple of EPs and a live album of music by The Boswell Sisters of New Orleans (released February 2020).
Infused with the rich cultural heritage of their native Donegal, but with a transatlantic flavour, their music has been described as ʻfull bodied and powerfully dynamicʼ by fRroots magazine. They have successfully learned to interweave their traditional roots with contemporary elements, earning them both commercial success and spectacular critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic.
As well as writing and recording albums The Henry Girls have written and performed music for theatre productions, dance pieces, childrens shows and film and television , including the Canadian/Irish co-production “A Shine of Rainbows” (2008) for which they received an IFTA nomination for their contribution to the musical score.
What sets The Henry Girls apart is their distinctive sound, a captivating fusion of harp, fiddle, accordion, and tight, impressive three-part harmonies. The harmonious interplay between these instruments and their hauntingly beautiful vocals creates a sonic experience that transcends boundaries, capturing the essence of both their Irish roots and a global musical spirit.
The Henry Girls have graced stages at festivals and venues around the world, leaving audiences in awe of their exceptional musicianship and heartfelt performances. From the intimate settings of Irish pubs to large international festivals, their music has resonated with people from diverse backgrounds, connecting them through the universal language of melody and harmony.
“The confidence and control of musicianship comes at you straight away, through a blending of instrumentation, harmonies, striking lyrics and wonderful vocals”
IRISH MUSIC MAGAZINE
“The Henry Girls are one of those musical acts that you just want to tell people about-as many as you can. The writing is first rate, as is the instrumentation, and those harmonies! I can’t say or write enough. Go seek them out yourself. You will be glad you did.”
MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE
“The Henry Girls are a force in folk and Americana music”
THE ALTERNATE ROOT-USA
“Ireland might have to finally share it’s pride and joy with the rest of us, It’s time for America to discover The Henry Girls”
THE HUFFINGTON POST- USA
