Rallion is a four-piece folk band combining exceptional musical talents to create an exciting contemporary sound playing traditional music – and they kick off 2017 at Irvine Folk Club on Wednesday 4th January.
Rallion is a much respected band even although according to The Dictionary of Scots Language, Rallion means a loud, sharp noise! This is a group of four very talented and experienced musicians. Fiona Cuthill and Andrew Lyons provide the double fiddle powerhouse and are complemented by the superb vocals of Marieke McBean and the virtuoso guitar and bouzouki playing of the ubiquitous Stevie Lawrence.
The band is drawn from Glasgow and Perth. Classically trained singer Marieke is from the Netherlands and moved to Scotland in 2001 because of her love for traditional Scottish music. Think of Scottish folk music with a soulful edge and you have Marieke’s voice.
Fiona Cuthill and Andrew Lyons are impressive and distinctive fiddle players and Fiona is also an acclaimed composer. Stevie Lawrence is a much sought after session player. His playing of the guitar and bouzouki covers the whole range from driving rhythms to sensitive phrasing. Stevie also plays with the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
What comes through any performance of Rallion is the evident joy in their music and the fact that they love playing together. Their repertoire includes fast-paced modern compositions played in traditional style, some slower more thoughtful pieces and old songs given a fresh treatment.
For entertainment and skilful playing, go along to Irvine Folk Club on 4th January to hear Rallion. It would most definitely be a good start to 2017. The Irvine Club meets in Vineburgh Community Centre in Quarry Road, starts at 8pm and it’s BYOB. Folk Club Flyers giving Club guests from now until end April are now available in local Libraries or at www.irvinefolkclub.org.uk