Something that absolutely sets Celtic Connections apart from other festivals is the way in which it not just highlights but actively encourages acts, and even genres, to find common ground and collaborate.
Yeah, sure, there’s some sharing at T in the Park and the likes, the odd on stage cover or backstage lover (uh-oh) but Celtic Connections is called so in good reason.
In the spirit of sharing Rave Child has been asking acts from this year’s line-up to help spread the good news and recommend which tickets you spend your precious January pennies on.
Who: Rachel Sermanni
A singer songwriter who has played Celtic Connections a surprising amount of times considering she is still in her early twenties.
While many people in their early twenties are wondering why it took them five years of university to land a job they hate (heyllooo desk), Rachel is continually gigging and recording in locations that are rustic, exotic or both (heyllooo world).
Dedicated and artful, she has produced not just some beautiful acoustic music but EPs and LPs worth.
Where: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
When: January 31
“My gig will be shared with Jen Austin on Piano and Colin (Macleod) playing guitar – can’t wait!
“There will be songs from the new EP’s Boatshed Sessions and Everything Changes, and, surely, many from the album.”
The evening is guaranteed to sound wonderful.
Anyone going to the gig can be secure in the knowledge that the songs and the singing will be sweet… the excitement and the intrigue of the night lies in the venue.
It will be interesting to see how iconic Glasgow building, so rich in art and history, works as a space for music.
Rachel recommends Miss Irenie Rose, playing in St. Andrews in the Square as support for Colin Macleod on the 23rd (tonight!).
“Miss Irenie Rose is from The Isle of Lewis which is also where Colin is from.
“She is incredible, I made friends with her a few years ago while she still lived on the island – she now lives in Glasgow.
“She plays the guitar and sings, but also plays around with loops, her songs are really classic and timeless.
“Her voice is pure and so is her spirit; she is very pure, it is very clear as soon as you hear her.”
Who: Call to Mind
Where: Oran Mor
When: January 26
“We’re really looking forward to our show at Oran Mor as part of the Olive Grove Records Showcase.
“We’re delighted to have become members of the O.G family in the past
couple of months and it’ll be lovely to have all the acts in the one place for a night!
“There is a ton of great stuff on at Celtic Connections this year – Bill Callahan will be amazing and Norman Blake (Teenage Fanclub) who – as far as I’m concerned – can do no wrong is playing with The New Mendicants.
“Also, I’ve been meaning to go and see the Paddy Callaghan Trio and they’re supporting Michael McGoldrick at The Piping Centre on February 1.
“Paddy is an accordionist and the reigning Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year and the incredible flautist, Danny Boyle plays in the trio too.”
Words: Leonie Colmar
Rave Child 
Reblogged this on houdidontblog and commented:
Rachel and Call to Mind reccomend to Rave Child……………..
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