Eabhal aren’t just back with a revised line up, they release a new tune to unapologetically win over Trad fans with their fresh take on ‘Faca Sibh Màiri.’
This Scot’s Gaelic verse, first recorded in a 50-second clip by Calum Johnston in 1953, has been reimagined by Eabhal. The band have been working hard in the studio, locking in their signature sound after some changes to the band’s line up. This release is a bold statement of their labour of love for music.
Bringing a new zest of life to the track, the band opt for a jig feel that is sure to get those toes tapping, you may also have no idea what the lyrics are (or the translation) but if you are anything like me you will be singing along, or trying to anyway.
As Eabhal celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2025, they show no signs of slowing down. They have been hard at work channelling their creativity with their new formation, as they gear up for a busy globe-trotting year as they showcase their true Scottish roots. Within the band you can find Robbie Greig on fiddle, the only ever winner of the Niel Gow Fiddle Award and sought-after session musician. Alongside Robbie putting the ‘trad’ in traditional, the band features Ewan Duncan on bagpipes and whistle and, Megan McDonald on accordion. We hear the stunning vocal of Kaitlin Ross, who puts her own contemporary style into this track.
The track’s sweeping energy and timeless vibe would fit perfectly in the soundtrack of a movie like Disney Pixar’s Brave II, should it ever be made! Eabhal set out to breathe life into this ancient, short, archived verse. This has been delivered in abundance and it’s great to see the future of Trad is in safe hands.
Like what you hear? Want to experience this track live? You can see the band at the incredible 2025 Celtic Connections festival performing on Thursday 23rd of January at Mackintosh Church, supported by The Canny Band. You can check out more about the show and get your tickets here
