Eabhal have made a significant impact on the Scottish music scene with their vibrant and energetic folk music. The band’s distinctive West Coast sound and dedication to their craft have earned them a prestigious Folk Band of the Year nomination in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2022 amongst multiple other awards and nominations over the past 10 years. Eabhal have released two albums to date, the debut This is How The Ladies Dance in 2018 and the second Aisling, which was released in 2022 and showcased an array of new arrangements and both Gaelic and English songs. The band’s focus on kinship and connection to people and land, elevation, journies and language are all reflected in their music and identity. Although they all come from different backgrounds and places, each member was immersed in traditional music, and their collective passion for their craft is evident in every song and performance. Current members are Kaitlin Ross (Vocals), Megan MacDonald (Accordion), Nicky Kirk (Guitar), Robbie Greig (Fiddle), and Ewan Duncan (Pipes & Whistle). The band bid farewell to their former members Jamie MacDonald and Hamish Hepburn in 2021/22, with Hamish emigrating to Canada and Jamie off to explore new opportunities. However, they are thrilled to embark on a fresh chapter with Robbie and Ewan. Eabhal’s achievements in their career include the successful release and tour of their second album, Aisling, which took them to stunning locations like Glenelg, Ardgour, and Tobermory. Additionally, the band has been fortunate enough to showcase their talents at World Music Asia in Shanghai and perform at various shows in the US in 2018, prior to the pandemic. Eabhal are eagerly anticipating what lies ahead as they gear up for their next chapter. With their third album currently in progress and a fresh lineup, the band is ready to continue its journey and elevate traditional music to new heights.

Reviews:

“One of the most talked about young bands to emerge over the last year.” 

The National 

“The sound created by Eabhal…is one of homage and excitement, a relish in between each breath, a savour of the Scottish spirit and independent feel.”

Liverpool Sound & Vision

“These five lads and lasses deliver them all flawlessly. No wonder Eabhal have been winning awards!”

FolkWorld

“Ribhann Donn, in which they layer the Gaelic song over The Kilbrandon jig, from their album This Is How The Ladies Dance was the set closer. The track reeks of anthem with its powerful energy” 

Hands Up For Trad 

“This is supposed to be a debut album? The five young people from Eabhal (pronounced “Ihwel”) show so much skill and clarity on their first CD that one can only predict a great future for them.”

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