Battlefield Band in Concert

The Battlefield Band has been around for over twenty-five years. Back when it first formed, it was made up of four lads from suburban Glasgow who thought up the idea of blending traditional Celtic music with modern arrangements and instrumentation. They fused bagpipes, fiddle, and vocals with synthesizer, and played with a wild energy and enthusiasm that a rock band couldn't match.

Since they burst upon the scene, many groups have sprung up to imitate or further explore the Battlefield Band's experiment, but none have equaled them in versatility or virtuosity. Scottish, not Irish, the Battlefield Band remains the premier exponent of the modern Celtic music.

After a quarter century, the lineup has changed a few times. They are no longer lads, although at one member was not yet born when the band began. Alan Reid, on keyboards and vocals, is the sole remaining original member. Guitarist and vocalist, Karine Polwart, never was a lad. What reviewer after reviewer has commented about the changes in the band's make-up is how smooth and organic changes have taken place, helping continue the band's creativity and freshness.

With a new line-up and fresh new album, the Battlefield Band is in the middle of a coast-hopping US tour. Ithaca is pleased and proud to be part of it.

For information, call Ginny Gartlein at 272-3471, or Email Bill Steele.

(John Henderson)

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