Karan Casey Band

One of the most influential – and most imitated – voices in folk music, Karan Casey is a natural innovator. It's hard to find anyone who follows Irish or American folk who has not fallen in love with Casey's distinctive voice, as fragile as it is fierce (the Washington Post calls her "the Irish equivalent of Emmylou Harris"). "Setting her clear voice in arrangements that mix traditional and modern instruments, she maintains the taut, quivering ornamentation of old ballad style, singing tales of love, war and murder with a gentle gravity." — New York Times

More than a decade ago American audiences were introduced to Casey fronting the Irish "supergroup" Solas. Following their ground breaking early releases Casey struck out on her own. That decision was based on an independent spirit determined to control her touring schedule and committed to maintaining a family life. That family has now grown (her second child, Áine, was born in May 2006) as has her solo discography. Her most recent release is 2005's Chasing the Sun.

Casey's repertoire, once largely confined to Irish traditional music, has expanded over the years to include the most modern material, as well as her own compositions. In all her musical choices, however, listeners will inevitably find the common themes of independence, resilience and concern for social justice.

Karan returns with a new lineup that features avant-garde classical musician Kate Ellis on cello and Caoimhín Vallely on piano, joining longtime accompanist Robbie Overson on guitar.

Website: www.karancasey.com