Arran Folk Festival by Nickey Summer
The sun shone down on a friendly bunch of musicians on Arran last weekend, as the annual Folk festival once again played out in Brodick. Open music sessions at the Douglas were packed with both musicians and listeners alike. Our very own ‘Uncle’ Keith Robertson was the MC adding his own injection of humor and fun to the afternoons and making sure that everyone got a shot.
The lovely Tim Pomeroy played melodic songs, singing beautifully as always with harmonies provided by local carer ‘Lou’. Lou also sang a wee set of songs with potter Simon Thorburn producing a great sound together. There were guitarists, banjo players, flutists and whistles and of course fiddlers as well as singers, including Al Paul and his son Mungo as well as the super talented Bethany Walsh who brought two of her musical friends from Edinburgh with her.
Stoneage Jenga played songs with a difference, full of passion and enthusiasm and injecting a bit of humor with the lighthouse keeper song, into the mix! Jamie, the drummer from the band gave us a fantastic version of Phycho Killer by Talking Heads, adding a rock edge to the Friday afternoon.
The Friday evening concert got off to a start with Davy Lees, singing ballads, including one about dead puppies, which was supposed to be humorous. The Ella Munro Trio provided melodic songs and The Poozies were fantastic with the usual mix of tuneful tunes and songs, from the all-female band, each brilliant musicians in their own right. Always a fantastic band to hear live.
On Saturday we had more folk and some jazz with Shindig being joined by Spike on Sax and Heather on Harp and a very talented female flutist visiting for the first time and loving every minute! It made for another great afternoon of music where everyone enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Sunday’s survivor’s session was equally excellent bringing the festival to its very successful end.
Saturday night’s concert was a brilliant celebration of folk music, with the jenny sturgeon trio, Jenny’s stunning vocals being complimented byThe old blind Dog’s guitarist and Capercaillie’s fiddler. This led wonderfully into The old blind dog’s foot stomping double set as they finished the concert to much applause and dancing. Both Concerts were sold out as Arran Folk festival puts it’s self firmly on the map in the Music world.
Bring on next June for more fantastic mayhem!