About:
Celtic mythology is the genesis for this band’s name and its attitude. Nessa’s leader and principal vocalist, Kelly McDermott, embodies attributes of Nessa, the Celtic goddess. Transformed from a sweet, unassuming lass to a firebrand, Nessa went about turning bad situations to good. This is a goddess that any women’s empowerment group would love to have as its leader.
Kelly has done some transforming, as well. After extensive training as a classical flutist Kelly reached the top of her profession as a performer and teacher. She longed for something more adventurous and whimsical. This would be the genesis for what was to become “Nessa”, a place where Kelly would combine her serious musicianship with a deep, newfound love of singing.
“Kelly’s vocals are rich, deep, passionate, funky and soothing at the same time.”
Sunny Wilkinson, World renowned Jazz vocalist, Grammy nominee.
Fresh out of the studio recording Nessa’s third full album “Otherworld” due March 13th,2020, Kelly McDermott continues to shine. This is her finest work yet. Book ended by a successful crowd funding campaign at the beginning of recording and a near fatal car accident at the end, “Otherworld” guides listeners into a safe harbor of sound.
“Nessa’s latest recordings are a superb blending of genres— folk, world, celtic, pop— with a through-line being Kelly McDermott’s masterful flute playing.” David Mansfield, Grammy Award winning musician/composer