Renowned Anglo-Irish folk ensemble The Haar are set to take to the stage in Scotland for the very first this November with a series of captivating performances in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen.
The band include the formidable talent of All-Ireland Scór na nÓg winner Molly Donnery alongside three of the most exciting instrumentalists on the folk and traditional music circuit: Cormac Byrne (Show of Hands, Seth Lakeman), Adam Summerhayes (Zum, Red Priest, Dodo Street Band, The Ciderhouse Rebellion) and Murray Grainger (Piers Adams, Miranda Sykes, Martin Allcock, The Ciderhouse Rebellion).
Their music is fast becoming known as unafraid to transcend borders – whilst recognisably born of the traditional music that all members have grown up with.
Unapologetic in pushing boundaries, the band embody a unique ‘live reactive composition’ approach – embracing both spontaneous improvisation and trad structures. Their self-titled debut, released in June 2020, is a collection of traditional Irish songs tackling love, poverty and oppression.
The band’s latest album, “Where Old Ghosts Meet,” continues to earn rave reviews, solidifying their reputation as a must-see live act on prestigious stages.
Clearly excited at the prospect of playing their maiden tour of the country, accordionist Murray said: “I’m really looking forward to playing in Scotland, the land of my ancestors and somewhere with a deep appreciation of us box squeezers”.
Cormac added: “We can’t wait. Scotland is home to so many amazing folk musicians and it’s a uniquely rich, vibrant culture so we can’t wait to tour there this November.”
Vocalist Molly summarised their anticipation, she said :”I’m hoping to hear about other versions of our songs. I know that there’s a lot of crossover between Irish and Scottish pieces from people I’ve met before so hoping to have some great chats on that at these gigs. Also, I can’t wait for a deep fried Mars bar”.
The four-piece is set to play:
Glasgow on Friday 8 November
Edinburgh’s Sneaky Pete’s on Saturday 9 November
The Blue Lamp, Aberdeen on Sunday 10 November.
For more information about The Haar please visit: thehaar.ie / Instagram @TheHaarBand / Facebook @TheHaarBand / X @TheHaarBand
Featured Image Andrew Wegg
