Tarras Rising Genres:Folk, International Music Tarras is a "Borders" band, from the hill area in England near the Scots frontier, with deep Celtic roots and far-ranging influences, from classical to R&B. Founded by guitarist Rob Armstrong, who set out to invent a "... more »truly innovative band with traditional roots," Tarras has been the talk of the Celtic folk world since getting together in early '98, but their most celebrated asset is 16-year-old fiddler Emma Hancock, a virtuoso who played with the London Philharmonic when she was only 14. Completing the band (the average age of its members is just 21!), are bassist Joss Clapp, accordionist Ben Murray and drummer John Redfern.« less
Tarras is a "Borders" band, from the hill area in England near the Scots frontier, with deep Celtic roots and far-ranging influences, from classical to R&B. Founded by guitarist Rob Armstrong, who set out to invent a "truly innovative band with traditional roots," Tarras has been the talk of the Celtic folk world since getting together in early '98, but their most celebrated asset is 16-year-old fiddler Emma Hancock, a virtuoso who played with the London Philharmonic when she was only 14. Completing the band (the average age of its members is just 21!), are bassist Joss Clapp, accordionist Ben Murray and drummer John Redfern.
A rousing blend of celtic and rock from a fresh young band!
11/10/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I saw Tarras in concert last night at a small club in Lancaster, Pa., and was overwhelmed by their musicianship, their songwriting ability, and their overall chops. Bought their CD and played it on the way home, and it wasn't a disappointment. The album is full of great songs and tunes, with a sophistication that belies their average age of 21 years. Their onstage personalities come through beautifully in the CD. If this band plays near you, go see them -- and be sure to get this CD. Tarras is a young band with the talent to go places fast."
A very enjoyable CD
12/30/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Buy this CD if you never thought you'd like "Celtic" type music. I bought this on a whim and still know nothing about the group other than what is on the CD and the other comments posted here, but it is a wonderful mix of melodic, hummable, danceable and kind of folksy music. Note that most songs are instrumentals which I like since I find most lyrics insipid, but even those with lyrics like "whiskey town" are very enjoyable."
Awesome debut
PMMartin | 10/27/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Tarras is a young band, hailing from the Border country between England and Scotland. But don't be fooled--their treatment of traditional and modern Celtic music is as mature and tasteful as it is energetic and danceable. Tracks such as Whisky Town will stay in your head for hours, and the music as a whole will put you in a good mood for days. Strong recommendation for music fans of all types."
Sweeet
PMMartin | London | 04/18/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Got this album during Tarras' second US tour last year. Was a little dissapointed that some of the stuff they played on stage wasn't on it, but was assured after the show (they're also real nice to meet too) that their second album will be out later this year. Hurrah ! Anyways, glorious celtic sounds fused with blues, dancey groove, and a splash of ethinic (african ?) sounds. Wickid live, Tarras in the studio do not lose their high-energy folk-driven sound. A must for all serious music fans. Buy it now !"