The Peru Gazette

“Their music comes from wild landscapes and wild places of the spirit.” — The Orcadian

The name Cantrip is an Old Scots word meaning a charm, magic spell or piece of mischief, and it aptly describes the unexpected twists and turns in the band’s musical arrangements, likewise the compelling potency of their musicianship. Swirling border pipes, raging fiddle, thunderous guitar, and three rich voices blend to create a sound energetic enough to raise the roof. Dan Houghton, Jon Bews, and Eric McDonald stir the elements in a witches’ cauldron, slowly coalescing them into chaotic order.

Monday, September 6 — LABOR DAY — at 4:00 pm at Weatherwatch Farm, Saranac. Lawn concert under a large canopy. Suggested donation $20 per person includes refreshments. Reservations requested, directions provided, and for more info please contact: ambrown.hillholl@gmail.com or 518-293-7613 or visit www.hillandhollowmusic.org.

Originally formed in Edinburgh nearly twenty years ago, their driving music immediately caught the attention of the masses, and they were quickly signed to the Foot Stompin’ label. During years of significant touring on both sides of the Atlantic, producing numerous albums, marriages and raising families, new inspirations crept into the music, complementing the band’s traditional foundation. Cantrip continually evolves, redefining its sound, tightening its arrangements, all while expanding its influence. The strong foundation of trad music still undergirds, but the years

have slowly infested their music with the sounds of funk, metal, bluegrass, swing, even Klezmer.