Wildcat Traditional Music Association Newsletter 35

5th August 2005

Tich Fier - Pentland Hotel, Thurso 8.00pm, 12 August 2005
"Small Guy, Big Voice, Sharp Wit" - Wild

These are the words often used to sum up Tich. Tich has been around the folk scene for more than thirty years and I first heard him with one of Scotland's finest groups, "Bitter Withy". He has performed solo now for many years and is a much sought after artist. A huge voice, driving guitar and a wicked sense of fun he has the ability to win over any audience.

An inspired and energetic performer he has performed all over the world from Thurso to Bangkok. A fine singer of traditional song, Tich is not averse to puncturing the bubble of pomposity with some wicked parodies and hilarious introductions. Book your ticket now!!

"The Midden"
July's Wildcat night gave us the much-heralded "The Midden". A trio of sisters on whistle, guitar and fiddle they were a lively entertaining group. I thought Kate's singing was just beautiful and their rendition of "Annie Laurie" was one of the finest I've heard. It's a much-abused song of course so to hear it done so well was very special. A fine lively trio they were warmly applauded by an appreciative audience.
If an old man can be allowed one minor concern however, I can't remember any of their own self penned songs. Song writing is a skill, which is beyond me so, I feel I'm not really in a position to comment with any great credence about the song writing of others. Their own compositions were a wee bit disappointing for me though but musically they are a very talented group of young ladies who will go far.

Ranald Smith and Iain MacGillivray
The Autumn Gig
The Beaufort Hotel, Inverness
Saturday 17th September 2005
Admission £7
Ranald and Iain are two of the old stalwarts of the Inverness Folk scene and have "regrouped" over the past couple of years. Ranald is currently recovering from a heart attack but I'm assured he will be up and ready to perform again in September.

Iain has long been regarded as one of Scotland's finest singers and some of his self-penned songs are worth listening to. They are a talented duo well worth making the journey to Inverness to hear.