This exciting ensemble of female musicians, singers and lilters brings a contemporary edge to traditional Irish music in a collaboration designed to challenge and expand perceptions of traditional music.
The supergroup is led by seven-time All-Ireland champion on harp and banjo, Lisa Canny, who is also an accomplished songwriter and producer.
Other members include Laura Jo, Miadhachlughain O’Donnell and Niamh Hinchy on vocals, Zoran Donohoe on harp, Sal Heneghan on violin, harp and piano, Aisling Sage on violin and fiddle, Aoife Kelly on violin, Ciara Ní Mhurchú on fiddle, Hannah Hiemstra on drums, Claire Loughran on uilleann pipes, flute and harp.
The vision for BIIRD was first conceived over thirteen years ago. With a background steeped in Irish music, Canny grew up surrounded by the sounds of Mary Black, Frances Black, and Dolores Keane, while also drawing inspiration from pop icons like The Spice Girls and Destiny’s Child.
These influences inform the unique sound of BIIRD, which combines the roots of trad with a fresh, modern style.
Last year, the band played to an audience of 10,000 at London’s Trafalgar Square on St Patrick’s Day, delivering a set praised for its passion and dedication to Irish design and culture.
Since then, they have grown their following through viral online videos, capturing the spontaneity of trad sessions, with festival appearances including All Together Now, and sold-out, headline shows.
In March this year, BIIRD performed at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin before embarking on a tour across Ireland, to be followed by a summer festival run.
The band is preparing to record its first studio album, with collaborations from notable artists such as Sharon Shannon - described as the OG BIIRD - and Kate Nash, whose distinctive punk energy brings a new dynamic to the project.
Tickets €30 from www.monroes.ie
