Prepare to be dazzled by Poozies

THE ever-adventurous Poozies have toured worldwide in their 26 years, attracting recognition and appreciation for their eclectic choice of material, unusual and exciting arrangements, and heart-tugging vocal harmonies.

Founding member Mary Macmaster from Glasgow is at the core of the group, playing a gloriously fat, bassy electro-harp, while long-term member Eilidh Shaw from Taynuilt is a beautifully hypnotic and emotive West Coast fiddler. A recent line-up change has seen the addition of Sarah McFadyen from Orkney, who has a laidback fiddle and five-string banjo style akin to the North American old-timers, and Tia Files from Oban, who is a phenomenal guitar player and percussionist, and can be powerful and driving or empathetic and soulful as needed.

They play a dazzling, joyfully eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional tunes with beefy, powerful accompaniment, while their perfectly executed songs vary dramatically from Gaelic waulking songs to old-time American, country and pop.

On Wednesday May 17, The Poozies will play their first concert in Oban, in the Studio Suite of the Corran Halls. The evening will kick off with a small group of students from Oban High School Traditional Music School, led by Sileas Sinclair.

Tia said: ‘From first hearing the Poozies at Colonsay Festival and being blown away, to then being asked to join such a well- established, respected band was extremely exciting. I used to play in Oban regularly as a child and to come back so many years later as part of the Poozies is a night I look forward to immensely.’

Eilidh added: ‘It’s a long time since my Oban High School days but I’m hoping to see a few familiar faces. Hoping to get a wee pint in the Oban Inn too – the scene of many fine sessions back in the day.’

The Poozies are also playing in Tobermory, Muck and Inverie in May, along with other festivals and tour dates throughout the summer. For more info and to buy tickets visit www. poozies.co.uk.