PRESS RELEASE
FOR RELEASE ON 30 August 2024
“Hunger Road”, the second album from Celtic music trio Skyrie, breaks new ground
Cupar, Scotland 26 August 2024 - Having performed and recorded over many years with
multi award-winning artists as diverse as Dougie Maclean, Shirley Manson of Garbage, Big Country and Kathy Mattea,
Skyrie
have collaborated since 2015, honing their unique style through hundreds of performances and sessions, releasing their debut album of instrumentals in August 2023. "Skyrie’s album 'Ceilidh–Celi' showcases their signature sound, capturing the essence of their live performances. The album is a testament to their skill and creativity." –
Blabber 'n' Smoke
With “Hunger Road”, released in August 2024, Skyrie break new ground
adding poignant original songs, tunes and soundscapes, prompting Scottish traditional music legend
Sheena Wellington to comment
"I would queue up in the rain to hear Lesley play fiddle, and she also has a lovely clear voice with that hint of sweetness that makes it ideal for a ballad like Jock o' Hazeldean."
Skyrie consists of
- Lesley Thompson Smith: Vocals, Fiddle, Pipes, Whistle and Looper
- Christopher Martin Smith: Vocals, Lyrics, Drums, Whistle and Percussion
- James “Jimmy” Anderson: Guitar, Mandolin, Background Vocals and Pedal-Bass
Each member brings a unique influence to their sound, blending traditional Celtic elements with rock, folk, and funk. This cross-genre fusion is evident throughout "Hunger Road" making it an intriguing listen for fans of both contemporary and traditional Celtic music.
"Skyrie’s music is a vibrant fusion of genres, making every performance an energetic and dynamic experience. Their passion for music shines through in every note they play." – Celtic Music Radio
“We are incredibly proud of this album. It represents both our respect for tradition and our desire to innovate within the genre,” said Lesley. “We believe ‘Hunger Road’ resonates with deep emotional themes that are highly relatable, particularly among folks with Scottish and Irish heritage, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.”
Track List for "Hunger Road"
- The Lambs (Original)
- Take Me Home with You (Original Song)
- Beauly Sleep Song (Original)
- Doocey's (Contemporary Irish Tunes)
- Exiled (Original Song – a personal tale of the Highland clearances)
- The Fish (Original)
- Hunger Road (Original Song - a poignant story set in the Irish famine)
- Alasdair Gammack's (Original)
- Jock O' Hazeldean (Traditional Ballad Arrangement)
- Solid Ground (Dougie Maclean cover)
- McAra's Manuscript (Original)
- Raggle Taggle Gypsy (Traditional Song Arrangement)
- Thirteen (Original)
Availability
"Hunger Road" will be available for streaming and purchase on all major music platforms from late August 2024. Physical copies can be purchased through the band's official website and at live performances from 31 August 2024 including Skyrie’s first US shows in September 2024.
About Skyrie
Skyrie is an electrifying contemporary Celtic music trio renowned for their dynamic performances and innovative sound. Their music blends traditional Scottish and Irish tunes, poignant original songs, tunes and soundscapes with modern influences from rock to funk.
Having performed and recorded over many years with multi award-winning artists as diverse as Dougie Maclean, Shirley Manson of Garbage, Big Country and Kathy Mattea, Skyrie have honed their unique style through hundreds of live gigs and sessions.
Performance highlights in 2024 include appearances at the world-renowned Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow, and they are excited to be making their US debut with nine shows in Colorado.
Based in Fife, Scotland the band comprises versatile composers and multi-instrumentalists Lesley Thompson Smith (Vocals, Fiddle, Pipes, Whistle and Looper), James "Jimmy" Anderson (Guitars, Pedal-Bass and Background Vocals), and Christopher Martin Smith (Vocals, Lyrics, Drums, Whistle and Percussion).
Skyrie’s music transcends borders, capturing hearts and minds from Scotland to the world stage.
Digital Press Kit
skyrie.co.uk/media
For more information, visit www.skyrie.co.uk
or connect with Skyrie on Facebook.
Contact Details
For press inquiries, interview requests, or additional information, please contact:
Lesley Thompson Smith
Email:
shorty.les@gmail.com
Phone: +44 7913 219105
