Longford's Fran lights up the 3Arena

A Longford musician took centre stage last weekend as he rocked the 3Arena on Saturday night.

Fran Deffew is the vocalist and plays bouzouki with the hugely popular Rake The Ashes.

The band were part of the line up as the 2 Johnnies brought their Christmas Party to the 3Arena.

Originally formed in 2013, Rake The Ashes have presented their unique folk sound across the globe from the UK to Germany, and Greece to Italy.

Having made their name playing legendary sets on Sunday night sessions in Cassidys of Camden Street, Dublin the band have garnered a devoted following.

Fran is joined in the collective by Chris O’Donnell on vocals and guitar; Al Ryan also on vocals and guitar; and Paddy Kiernan on banjo.

Fran is not the only Longford connection in the four piece. Banjo player Paddy boasts that both his grandparents on his father's side come from the O'Farrell county.

The group’s repertoire ranges from popular ballads to jigs and reels, with audience engagement a large part of what makes their shows a magical experience.

Rake The Ashes add to the pantheon of traditional Irish ballad groups, drawing influences from The Dubliners, The Fureys, The Wolfe Tones and The Clancy Brothers.

Speaking about Saturday's experience Fran said: “The whole experience was surreal. It was absolutely amazing to perform in front of a full house in the 3Arena.”