Favorite Musicians
 |
Seven Nations is my absolute favorite Celtic rock band. I have been a fan since I first saw them in 1996, have enjoyed watching them grow musically, and seeing their appeal grow exponentially. I love to hear from fellow "focused" fans, so please email me. |
Photo courtesy of Lori Cooper. Thanks Lori!! |
Neil Anderson left 7N a few years ago and has since formed a couple of different ensembles. Doesn't matter whom he's with though, he continues to grow and amaze. His first sans 7N album, "Full Circle," came out in early 1999, "Irish Music in America Vol II" came out in early 2000, plus two others, and his latest is "Revenge of The Antipypr." He is as awesome as ever every time I see him, continuing to have mastery over the instruments he graces with his touch. You can't go wrong if you choose to spend an evening with friends at whatever venue you find Neil. Right now, he's helping his Uncle Sam rid the world of bad guys, but he is making some appearances. |
|
Brother is an Australian band that I've heard about for years, but just recently saw them at the Iron Horse. Wow! Bagpipes and didgeridoo! High energy, professional, and just ooze talent and promise. I'm glad I saw them and I most definitely cannot wait to see them again. Do not miss an opportunity to see them if they come to your town.
Tannahill Weavers sings traditional tunes, with a generous spattering of Broad Scots, the language of Robert Burns. Fortunately enough, a glossary is usually included with the lyrics sheet. I've never gotten a chance to catch them on tour, but they do tour quite often in North America. One of these days.....
| Alasdair Fraser is Scotland's premier fiddler. He tours North America frequently, usually with his band, Skyedance. It's a high privilege to get to see him each year at the New Hampshire Highland Games at Loon Mountain. |
|
Charlie Zahm is a favorite on the Highland
Games circuit, and I don't miss any opportunities to catch him. Charlie sings ballads
and sea chanties in a rich, baritone voice. Besides that, he's a really nice guy! |
Natalie MacMaster I have just recently been introduced to her music, and what a treat! Natalie hails from Cape Breton Island and has had a fiddle in her hands since age 9. Not only does she make that fiddle bow smoke, she pauses on occasion to stepdance...if you could call that pausing. Some friends and I went to a concert at the Calvin Theater in Northampton a while back. I hope she returns again soon!
Capercaillie also sings much more traditional music, much of it in Gaelic. They are very pleasing to listen to, especially the beautiful voice of Karen Matheson. I had the distinct pleasure of catching them at the Iron Horse in Northampton a few years ago. I'll be sure to be there if they return!
Black 47 OK, they're Irish and not Scottish, but they ROCK! Besides, a Celt is a Celt is a Celt. Also, you can learn a great deal about modern Irish history by listening to their lyrics. I never miss a chance to see Larry and his crew whenever they're around.
