biographical info
nicky tams ['nIki t-a-ms] n. strings or
leather straps with buckles once used by Scottish farmers to keep their
trousers out of the mud, so their pants were clean for night-time
dancing to The Nicky Tams ['nIki t-a-ms] n. A four piece Celtic band
of young, lively Edmonton musicians. Blending the sounds of cello,
fiddle, guitar, flute and Bagpipes, as well distinct vocal styles from
all four members, The Nicky Tams sound is striking and instantly
recognizable.
This group uses their unique mix of Celtic, jazz and classical training
to create music that is firmly grounded in the Scottish tradition and
also explores modern musical forms, allowing for harmonic and rhythmic
freedom. Each of the group members contributes artistically, writing
original compositions, original songs, and new arrangements of
traditional music. All of the Nicky Tams are fluent improvisers, taking
improvised solos at live performances and recording sessions.
The Nicky Tams are a band whose youthful passion inevitably spills over
to audiences of all kinds. Whether they’re on the Main stage at North
Country Fair or they’re starting a toddler dance party at Edmonton's
Old Strathcona Farmers Market they are not a band to miss.
lineup
Spencer Murray Pipes and Flutes
Sarah Frank Fiddle, Vocals
Jeff Ramsey Guitar, Vocals
Kathleen De Caen Cello, Vocals
Sophie Heppell Fiddle, Vocals
influences
The McDades
Back of the Moon
The Tannahill Weavers
The Session A9
The Peatbog Fairies
Fraser Fifeld
Dougie Maclean
Solas
Lunasa
Danu
Shooglenifty
Natalie MacMaster