As finalists in last years Danny Kyle Open Stage, Four Winds took advantage of one of the prizes which is a supporting role in this years Celtic Connections Festival. They did so with gusto and a vibrancy more akin to seasoned performers and not a fledgling band.

Led by renowned singer songwriter Daoiri  Farrell this four piece Irish band entertained this packed audience from the outset. Blending their typical Irish craic with their own style of music it didn’t take long for the seated public to be tapping their feet and swaying along with the tunes including  “Farewell To The Gold” a jigs and marches set “Sweet Marie“, the evergreen “Ludlow Massacre” and the Black Valley Reel. This quartet are refreshing in their music playing traditional music in a modern and creative manner.

Band members are Daoiri Farrell on bouzouki and vocals, Caroline Keane on concertina, Tom Delaney on uilleann pipes and whistles, and Robbie Walsh on bodhran. On speaking to Caroline after the concert I said she reminded me of Sharon Shannon with her infectious smile and mannerisms whilst playing. This was no mean compliment and speaks volumes on how highly I rate this band. I’ve no doubt they will return to Celtic Connections in the future as a headline act.

 

Danny Matheson

Presenter

Celtic Music Radio