Gleadhraich: Meet the Celtic music sensation

By Chris Brown

Brace yourselves, Ontario and Quebec! The dynamic Celtic Rock/Pop sensation Gleadhraich is about to set your stages ablaze. Kicking off two exhilarating weeks of high-octane shows, they will bring their power-packed performances to the Glengarry Highland Games and other regional venues.

Formed in 2010 by a group of friends from Carnoustie, just outside of Dundee, Scotland, Gleadhraich blends the rich traditions of Celtic music with the untamed spirit of rock-pop and have taken their unique sound from the scenic coastline of Angus to the international stage. With five remarkable EPs under their belts—Pipe Dreams, Where We’re From, Definition, Rewritten, and their latest 2023 release, Sunlight—Gleadhraich continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.

Throughout their celebrated journey, Gleadhraich has performed on the stages of iconic music festivals and events around the world. From headlining at New York City’s Tartan Week to setting the Barbados Celtic Festival ablaze, their electrifying performances have left an indelible mark on music lovers across continents. Not merely a band, Gleadhraich stands as a beacon of Scottish pride, honored as Cultural Ambassadors for Angus in 2013. Their dedication and unparalleled artistry also earned them the title of Best Celtic Music Act at the 2018 Infinitime Music Awards.

Gleadhraich’s reputation for delivering unforgettable live experiences has seen them featured on prestigious festival line-ups across the UK and Europe, where they seamlessly blend tradition with modernity, captivating audiences and solidifying their status as an art-form bridge. And now, at last they will be bringing their blend of raw-energy rock-pop and traditional Celtic sounds to Canada. With performances at both the Glengarry and Montreal Highland Games, followed by three days of gigs at the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, there are several opportunities to enjoy their amazing music.

Join the revolution and experience the heart-pounding fusion of bagpipes and rock that’s taking the world by storm. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a first-time listener, Gleadhraich promises a musical journey unlike any other.

Ready to be part of history? Follow Gleadhraich and be prepared to be swept off your feet by their captivating symphony of old and new.

Here are the dates to keep in mind!

August 2nd ** Glengarry Highland Games, Maxville, Ontario

Gleadhraich will ignite the night in the Tattoo at 7pm, and the party continues at the Beer Tent from 10pm until midnight.

August 3rd ** Missed last night’s show? Don’t worry! Catch them again at the Beer Tent for a thrill-filled set at 3:20pm.

Learn more:

https://www.glengarryhighlandgames.com/

August 4th ** Montreal Highland Games, Verdun, Quebec

Head over to the Ceilidh Tent at 3pm for more foot-stomping, bagpipe-rock magic at the Highland Games in Montreal, Quebec. Later, join the festive vibes at Hurley’s Irish Bar in downtown Montreal for an unforgettable 7pm gig.

Learn more:

https://www.montrealhighlandgames.com/attending.html

http://www.hurleysirishpub.com/

August 7th -9th ** Fergus Scottish Festival’s Highland Games, Fergus, Ontario

After a quick breather, Gleadhraich roars back into action in Fergus, Ontario, with three electrifying days at the Fergus Scottish Festival’s Highland Games from August 7th - 9th. Don’t miss your chance to witness this groundbreaking band before they head back home to Scotland. Gleadhraich is ready to deliver thunderous tunes and heart-pounding energy. Be there, feel the magic, and let the Celtic-Rock festivities begin!

https://fergusscottishfestival.com/

David Johnston