CARA
Who are these guys?
Cara are a truly international band. International in the sense that they regularly play all over the world and international in the sense that they compromise 4 Germans and a Scot. They play music rooted in the Irish and Scots traditions yet their innovative arrangements, even of well- known material, sets them apart and makes them instantly recognizable. Their own exciting compositions have received wide critical acclaim.
They’ve been to Colonsay before, but since then the line-up has changed slightly. Now fronted by two female lead singers (Kim Edgar and the irrepressible Gudrun Walther), Cara combine their mastery of vocals, piano, fiddle, flute, guitar, bodhrán, uilleann pipes and accordion with a dry-witted and entertaining stage presence.
Why bring them (back) to Ceòl?
When we set out to plan the line-up for 2018 running we thought we’d start a new chapter for the festival by having bands that have never been here before. But then there’s Cara. Back in 2013 we ran a survey, part of which was to name your 3 favourite acts of the festival. And the clear winner? Why, Cara of course (they even managed to beat the Keir Johnston Band – no mean feat!) They went from being relative unknowns to festival favourites in 3 short days.
Not only were their 2 sets utterly spell binding, but every member of the band was to be found post concert at the festival club, playing fervently into the wee small hours. And that’s what Ceòl is all about. We really cherish the acts who throw themselves into the weekend, into the Ceòl Cholasa experience and Cara are certainly one of those. We simply had to have them back!
When are they playing?
Well, we don’t know for sure yet – the schedule is a long way from being finalised, but Cara will be performing 2 concerts – most likely one on Friday evening and another on Sunday afternoon. And we’ll be amazed if they’re not to be found deep into the sessions at the festival club!
How do I get to see them?
By purchasing a ticket of course! Festival passes for Ceòl Cholasa 2018 are £80 and can be bought online (just follow the link). The pass gains you entry to all the concerts in the hall, the stomping late night Ceòl Ceilidh and the workshops. It might also get you preferential treatment at another venue…. but more of that later.
Remember, Ceòl Cholasa is a limited, bijou event. It’s best to purchase your ticket as soon as possible as then you can rest assured that you will be one of a maximum of only 250 people attending the best wee music festival in the west!