Skerryvore. Photo by Kris Kesiak.
Blending together folk, trad (traditional), rock, and Americana has created a beautiful and powerful sound for Skerryvore from Scotland. This group is engaging and combines bagpipes, whistles, and fiddles with the electric guitar, bass, and drum set. This band has had a lasting impact in Scotland and hopefully they will do more shows in the US.
They are all dynamic performers and it is engaging to watch them.
The band consists of Alec Dalglish on vocals and guitar, Craig Espie on fiddle, Fraser West on drums, Daniel Gillespie on accordion, Alan Scobie on keyboard, Scott Wood on bagpipes and whistles, and Jodie Brenameson on bass. These men have created a fluid ensemble that relies heavily on each other. They are all dynamic performers and it is engaging to watch them.
They easily switch between instrumental numbers, jigs, and pieces guided by vocals. Each comes from a different region of Scotland and brings a unique musical flair to the group. “Simple Life” has a very American Country music feel, whereas “Angry Fiddler” feels like a rock perspective of a traditional form. Espie truly is able to show off his mastery on the fiddle in this piece and it was fascinating to watch him play.
It was easy to get up and dance with these guys. Their music was expansive and rooted in something deep and personal. Their song “Happy to be Home” was a joyous piece and “Rocket to the Moon” was an anthem dedicated to all those from Scotland.
Brian Dunne opened for Skerryvore. He is an American from New York with a beautiful acoustic sound. The whole set was just him, his guitar, and occasionally a harmonica. He didn’t need anything else. His music is simple and sweet. His lyrics are well written, smart, and focus on love and growing up. His song “Taxi” is the reflection of most millennials today looking over their lives. His guitar playing is extremely well articulated and his voice is strong. Dunne’s quirky and lovable sense of humor makes him a charming performer that the audience can connect with.
Skerryvore played at AMP Powered by Strathmore. For more information click here.
