The JSD Band emerged in the late 1960s as innovative pioneers who helped reshape Scottish traditional music. Initially forming as a trio in 1969, they quickly expanded their lineup and their musical horizons, bringing together diverse influences from Scottish tradition to contemporary folk-rock.
The band’s members were introduced to traditional music through various channels – from school and house parties to radio and television. A pivotal moment came when they discovered Hamish Imlach’s 1966 Xtra LP, which demonstrated a fresh approach to interpreting Scottish traditional music and song. This looser, more modern style contrasted sharply with the formal approach that dominated the airwaves at the time.
Their breakthrough came in 1970 when they won the Scottish Folk Group Championship, earning £500 and a recording contract with Regal Zonophone. Their debut album, “Country of the Blind”, opened numerous doors for the band and established their distinctive sound, which drew inspiration from an eclectic range of sources including The Dubliners, Pentangle, Fairport Convention, and The Chieftains.
Perhaps their most significant contribution to Scottish music was their groundbreaking recording of “Johnny O’Braidislee”, marking one of the first times a Scottish ballad had been interpreted using electronic instruments and folk-rock arrangements. This innovative approach received endorsement from folk music legend Hamish Henderson himself, who encouraged the band to interpret more traditional material in their unique style.
The band’s core lineup featured Jim Divers, Seàn O’Rourke, Des Coffield, and Colin Finn, with Chuck Fleming and Lindsay Scott taking turns as the band’s fiddler at different points. Each member brought their own musical influences and expertise, creating a rich blend of traditional and contemporary sounds. Their music demonstrated that Scottish traditional songs could be successfully married with modern instruments and arrangements while maintaining their essential character.
Throughout their active years, the JSD Band performed extensively, helping to popularise Scottish traditional music among younger audiences who might not have otherwise encountered it. Their final album, “Pastures of Plenty”, recorded in 1998 with the addition of Rob Mairs, showed their enduring commitment to musical innovation.
The band’s legacy lives on in their recordings and in the paths they helped forge for future generations of Scottish musicians. Sadly, the band has recently lost two members – Des Coffield in 2023 and Lindsay Scott (grandson of traditional Border singer Willie Scott) in early 2024.
Their induction into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame recognises their significant contribution to Scottish music’s evolution. The band’s advice to young musicians reflects their own journey: listen, practise, play in your own way while respecting tradition, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. As they say, tradition isn’t about standing still – it’s about helping it develop and grow while maintaining respect for its roots and essential character.