Five Tracks For Modern Folk Fans

Separately, Kris Drever (from Orkney) and Eamonn Coyne (from Dublin) are members of some of the most popular folk groups around today: Lau, Treacherous Orchestra, and Salsa Celtica. Together, they’re an example of just how good the old ‘folk duo’ can be.

Putting traditional songs into new arrangements is a common and vital part of what folk acts do. I love this song by Tarras, which came out in 2012. It manages somehow to be satisfyingly epic and pleasingly jaunty, if that’s possible. Bonus points for its seafaring theme.

Among the British artists not singing in English, surely one of most important in recent times is my fantastic Folk Awards co-host, Julie Fowlis. Another great Gaelic singer is Kathleen MacInnes from South Uist, who has a wonderful smoky tone.

New folk fans might not be aware of the many bands making exciting, modern, instrumental music on acoustic instruments. KAN features three of the best players from Ireland, Scotland and England.

Like Bellowhead? Try Faustus - the trio includes two of the big band’s regular members, Benji Kirkpatrick and Paul Sartin. Saul Rose plays melodeon. Punchy power-folk with no frills.