TRIBUTES have been paid to Irish musician Cat Dowling, who passed away on Friday at the age of 54.
Dowling, who came to prominence as the lead singer of Dublin band Alphastates, had been diagnosed with cancer in 2017.
The Co. Kilkenny native, who released two solo albums after Alphastates split up in 2010, is survived by her three children.
Dowling's music was featured on screen in films including My Name is Emily and The Watched and in TV shows such as Witches of East End and Banshee.
'A true original'
Leading the tributes, Alphastates guitarist Gerry Horan said he would cherish his memories of Dowling.
"It means a lot to see the music community pay their respects to a truly gifted singer and songwriter," he said.
"She meant the world to me and I'm grateful for the times we had.
"I don't know where Cat is now but if there is a great gig in the sky I can guarantee she's at least 90 minutes late and they'll just have to get used to that from now on.
"It will always, always be worth the wait."
Co. Galway band The Stunning expressed their sadness at the news of Dowling's death coming just days after singer/songwriter Glen Hansard was laid to rest.
"We are so saddened to hear of the death of Catherine 'Cat' Dowling," read a statement from the band.
"She was a true original. Deepest sympathies to her family and friends. She is another huge loss to Irish music.
"If you don't know her music check it out on all the streaming platforms.
"She opened for us in Kilkenny a few years back. Her last album, Animals, is superb.
"Rest in peace Catherine, you can play some tunes with Glen."
Dublin outfit The Pale added: "We are heartbroken to hear the sad news that the exquisitely talented Cat Dowling has passed away.
"Our deepest condolences to her family and friends."
'A force of nature'
Dublin live music venue The Grand Social described Dowling as 'one of our most talented, unique musicians'.
"Cat was a force of nature, a welcome presence in every situation and her quiet charisma and wonderful sense of humour was adored by many," it added.
"Musically, she leaves a gorgeous legacy, from the pioneering electro pop of Alphastates to the dense, indie craft she honed on her superb solo album, Animals.
"Cat was all about art as an instrument of change and progress and was genuinely supportive of other musicians and creatives in Ireland.
"She graced our stage on a few occasions and always left the audience in thrall of her talents."
Meanwhile, Green Party senator Malcolm Noonan commented: "Catherine was a unique talent, a real innovator, creating a sound all of her own and drew huge respect across the music scene.
"She was also a proud Kilkenny native and I was fortunate to have served briefly on Kilkenny County Council with her dad, Dick Dowling (RIP).
"Cat was always brimful of ideas about her songs and live shows and I enjoyed our conversations about music."
Dowling is due to be laid to rest in her native Ferrybank, Co. Kilkenny next Wednesday, August 12.
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