Assassenachs - New Traditions

The Assassenachs are a dynamic, energetic and diverse Celtic folk band. Since 1998 they have been playing throughout Europe with their exciting take on Celtic folk music and self-written repertoire. Traditional folk songs are given a new lease of life but retain their authenticity and integrity. That, mixed with their own unique songs and tunes, makes for a powerful and diverse expierience both live and on your stereo. Although the band plays music from both sides of the Irish sea, the emphasis lies on the music from Scotland seeing as both Steve Dewar (guitar and vocals) and Greig Coutts (bodhrán and vocals) are both Scottish and proud of their traditions and culture. The other half of the band consists of Dutch-born Erik de Jong (accordion and whistles) and Aruba-born Annemarie de Bie (whistle, flute, bodhrán, fiddle and vocals), adding a many-layered melody to the rhythmic and energetic base from the two Scots. Passion, diversity and authenticity are the key words in this band. An Assassenachs show will transport you to many places and times in the Celtic world. Traditionals, contemporary songs and their own work flow effortlessly through each other. Ballads, love songs, songs of hard labour, hard times, drinking, fighting, Gaelic songs, historical songs, silly songs and not to forget  life in general. Lest we forget those tunes from both sides of the water- from slow airs to foot-stomping reels to get your feet from the floor.