Connla are an exciting new band with strong traditional roots as well as influences from across the globe. Their sensitive and innovative arrangements of traditional and modern folk songs and tunes have earned them praise across the folk community. This group is a full mix of musical knowledge, training and performance experience unheard of in a group this young.
Hailing from the cities of Armagh and Derry and are made up of Ciara McCafferty (vocals), Ciaran Carlin (Flute/Whistles) and Paul Starrett (Guitar) Emer Mallon (Harp) and Conor Mallon (Uilleann Pipes/Whistles). Labelled as the Hottest New Group out of Northern Ireland, (Chicago Irish American News) Connla have been quickly making an impact on the folk/traditional scene. Since the release of their EP in April 2015, and album “River Waiting” in July 2016 they have received fantastic reviews at home and internationally. They have already gathered a big following in the UK, Ireland, Europe and the USA. Songlines magazine made Connla their “must see act” for the tour of the UK and stated “A band this young shouldn’t be this good”. Their sensitive and innovative arrangements of traditional and modern folk songs and tunes, have helped them create a sound which is very identifiable as Connla. They have toured around Ireland, most of mainland Europe and the UK with more tours across Europe and USA organised in 2017/2018. Irish Music Magazine stated; “Consider this your early warning system, there is something serious on the horizon and that creative storm is Connla” (Irish Music Magazine)
Awards:
Concert of the Year – Livvies Awards – Live Ireland 2018
Vocal/Instrumental album of the year – Top TIR Irish American News
#1 River Waiting – Songlines Magazine – Songlines Top Ten Essential Irish Albums 2017
Vocal/Instrumental album of the year – Live Ireland Music Awards 2017
Best New Sound – Best of the Year Awards Chicago Irish American News 2016 – Jack Baker
Best New Group – Live Ireland Music Awards 2016
New Group of the Year – Chicago Irish American News 2016
