Celtic music madness

Ashley bails but the show goes on, say organizers

by MATTHEW HAYS

Organizers of the St. Patrick's Celtic Festival were a tad pissed off this week when Ashley MacIsaac pulled out of their event at the last minute.

"Naturally we're disappointed," said festival co-producer Allan Patrick. "But we have a lot of other great acts and frankly, the show will still be a sellout hit."

Patrick says MacIsaac was not thrilled about the idea of a jam session with other performers on the roster. "Apparently, MacIsaac wants to distance himself from more traditional acts, since he's trying to project a more alternative image." This is a move that may puzzle some MacIsaac fans--his latest album is a collection of traditional fiddle tunes, all played in a conventional style.

Patrick adds that MacIsaac's withdrawal has not disrupted plans by PBS to tape the event for a two-part TV special. Celtic Fest co-producer Sonya Biddle added that there were concerns about some of MacIsaac's onstage antics--two weeks ago, during an appearance on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, MacIsaac performed in a kilt with nothing underneath, flashing the audience at one point during his performance.

The Mahones Born on St. Patrick's Day in Kingston seven years ago, this band delivers a knockout mix of punk and traditional Irish sounds. The band's name, incidentally, comes from the Irish saying "Pogue Mahone," or "Kiss me arse." Latest CD: Rise Again.

Leahy The greatest family phenom since the Osmonds, these five sisters and four brothers have been wowing audiences with a clever combo of Celtic and Canadian folk music with a dollop of French Canadian step-dancing. Latest CD: Leahy.

Natalie MacMaster Even if Ashley doesn't show, he's not the only Cape Breton fiddler in town. MacMaster's been playing since the wee age of nine, after being given a fiddle by her great uncle. The Toronto Star declared MacMaster "a fiddle prodigy."

Liam Callaghan & The Water of Life Montreal's own seven-person group is getting raves all over--in particular for their exuberant live performances. An audience fave has already emerged: "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" with a Celtic twist.

The St. Patrick's Celtic Festival takes off this Sunday, March 16, at the Spectrum. Doors open at 5 p.m. Show begins at 5:30 p.m. and should run 'til round midnight. Pub food and beer will be on sale