Snow Patrol getting behind Irish Music Center

Snow Patrol is getting behind the development of a new music center in the band's homeland of Northern Ireland, according to Billboard.com. The project, called Oh Yeah, is being described as a "nucleus" for musicians in the Irish capital of Belfast and will be located in a three-story former whiskey warehouse in the city's Cathedral Quarter. The completed facility is expected to include rehearsal space, a recording studio, a cafe and office units for new music-related companies.

Snow Patrol singer Gary Lightbody said, "What is needed is a nexus to focus musical energy into and to unite the Belfast music scene in a way that has been elusive until now. It is staggering how simple music is when you boil it down: people, together." Lightbody added that the proposed site was "perfect."

The project's name comes from a 1996 single by Irish act Ash, who are also throwing their support behind the venture. Talks are underway now with potential sponsors, media partners and investors.

Snow Patrol won four awards at the 2007 Meteor Ireland Music Awards last Thursday (February 1st) in Dublin, including Best Irish Band, Best Irish Album, Best Live Performance and Most Downloaded Song.

Snow Patrol will begin a North American trek on February 26th in Portland, Oregon, in support of its gold-selling Eyes Open album. The album's hit single, "Chasing Cars," is nominated for a Grammy this year for Best Rock Song.
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