Folk and trad music on the menu for duo in Hawk’s Well visit
SINGING songs from each of their traditions with a rare, raw passion and tangible energy, Eliza Carthy and Tim Eriksen are two of the most respected voices in traditional folksong. Together they form a powerhouse duo that is, in turns, hilarious and heart-breaking, intense and joyful and this Thursday, October 5 th, they visit the Hawk’s Well Theatre.
Living on opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean can prove difficult for the duo who have been friends for some time, but, it matters little when they meet up to perform. They may not be able to rehearse their music together for weeks on end, but that is part of what makes it so special.
“We have a whole day to rehearse together in Enniskillen,” joked Eliza.
Tim is based in the United States, while Eliza is based in the UK. Both have families, so spending weeks on end abroad is not always ideal. Eliza has not yet played in Sligo, but has played across venues in Ireland such as the Roisin Dubh, Whelan’s and more with her parents.
“We’ve known each other a long time. Mum and Dad would tour in the States and Tim has been a follower of my Dad’s for a long time. The first time we met I was probably 13 and I didn’t really talk much back then! He’s been around in my life a long time,” she explained.
She continued: “We became friends as an adult and I guess there was a sort of 15 year gap where we didn’t see each other. Then four years ago we started playing together.”
More than most, Eliza Carthy has revitalised folk music and captured the most hardened of dissenters with intelligent, charismatic and boundary-crossing performance. This year Eliza was honoured with a MBE for her amazing services to folk music. Tim Eriksen is acclaimed for transforming American tradition with his startling interpretations of old ballads, love songs, shape-note gospel and dance tunes from New England and Southern Appalachia. The time difference means that communication can be tough, but the pair speak through Skype and Messenger. Tim has family in Eastern Europe so visits the continent from time to time.
A great show is promised: “It’s a great show, it’s quite raw in places. There are lots of nice harmonies, and it’s mainly trad stuff really. I sing in places. It’s sort of mutual confusion! Our album ‘Bottle’ was half live and half studio. We recorded eight tracks in Dorset and we mixed that with the live show.”
Tickets are €18 with a special Go See rate of €9 for under 18s.