MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2016: Elephant Sessions

Congratulations to Elephant Sessions who have been nominated in Live Act of the Year sponsored by Greentrax Recordings in the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2016. Vote now!

We asked Mark Bruce of Elephant Sessions the following questions.

Tell us about yourself
Elephant Sessions are a neo-trad quintet from the Highlands of Scotland. They create a progressive blend of intricate self-penned tunes, engulfing guitars, monsterous bass and pounding drums. Already renowned for their breathtaking live shows, 2016 saw the band climb to new heights with their biggest performances to date at festivals such as Glastonbury, Tønder in Denmark and the main stage at Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival.

Why are you involved in Scottish music?
The band members have been immersed in Scottish music from a young age progressing through the Fèisean movement in the Highlands and have been steeped in the melodies and music of Scotland. With that in mind the band's music has heavy influences from their upbringings but also focuses on other musical genres from which they find influence such as funk, rock and dance music. To be part of something as special as the Scottish music scene at the moment is very special – there are so many amazing people and brilliant acts for the band to be inspired by.

Any particular career highlights?
Playing Glastonbury was a huge highlight for us. To be asked to play at such a prestigious festival on such a big stage was a total dream come true. Shetland Folk Festival was also another highlight – it is such an amazing experience and the hospitality was second to none. We will close the year at home in Inverness playing to 10,000 people at the Hogmanay street party – after having spent long periods away from home, closing the year with a home gig is going to be a perfect way to end the year – at home with our friends and at massive party in the street!

What are your plans for the future?
Spring 2017 will see a new album released, some new countries visited and we will be going back to many old haunts too. We are delighted have also been given our first headline show at Celtic Connections – we have some big surprises and plans for that show so we will hopefully see some of you there. We can't wait!

If you would like to come along to the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards in Dundee’s Caird Hall call the Caird Hall box office on (01382) 434940 or buy online.