TERRY WILLIAMS says a fond farewell to the trio on their final tour, and looks forward to their future directions

AS DUNCAN MacInnes announced the official opening of Feis an Eilein 2009, three young women waited quietly on stage behind him. Introductions over, the Anna Massie Band launched into an effortless torrent of amazing music, played with a maturity that belies their youth – surely none of them have celebrated their 30th birthday yet?
Anna on fiddle and guitar, Jenn Butterworth (guitar and vocals) and Mairearad Green (accordian) are all award-winning musicians in their own right. Together they’ve carved themselves an enviable niche in the world of traditional music.

Quite apart from their brilliant musicianship, they have a refreshing down-to-earth attitude that makes them one of the most appealing bands currently around. So it came as a shock to hear that this was their last UK tour together. “We’re all just too busy with other things,” said Anna – a reminder that they have years of musical exploration ahead of them.

The first half of the evening was a whirlwind of reels, jigs and songs. The fingerwork dazzled, the smiles widened and the music seemed to have a life of its own. Anna crouched over fiddle or guitar, as if deep in instrumental conversation; Mairearad calmly conjured astonishing music from her accordian; and Jenn alternated between percussive backing guitar and her fine country and folk singing voice.

There were traditional tunes, and original compositions with names like The Missing Gift (for the fiddle Mairearad’s sister didn’t get), The Lone Arranger (a tribute to Anna’s mother for her CD promotion), Tatties ’n’ Ham (food on tour in Scandinavia) and The Farting Badger (don’t ask).

After the interval came a surprise, as this versatile trio turned into a ceilidh band, fitting the pace to the dancers, calling the steps and providing an exhilarating second half as locals and visitors alike took to the floor for St Bernard’s Waltzes and Dashing White Sergeants. To three outrageously talented friends, three extremely professional musicians, three very nice people – good luck for your futures, and thanks for a brilliant evening’s entertainment!

Feis an Eilein’s weekly events continue right through to September – see their website.

© Terry Williams, 2009

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