Punching through the walls of tradition, the McDades’ Celtic-rooted music fuses the spontaneity of jazz improvisation with infectious global rhythms to create a one-of-a-kind sound and an irresistible groove.
Their cutting-edge sound is the perfect complement to the fiery performances for which they’re renowned. At the heart of the group are siblings Shannon, Solon, and Jeremiah, who grew up playing Canadian folk music alongside their parents and among artists from around the world. Combining original tunes and unique interpretations of traditional songs, The McDades’ performances feature both energetic instrumentals and potent vocals performed in English and French.
Finding their groove somewhere between “a down-home kitchen party, a jazzy after-hours club, and a folk festival.” (London Free Press), it’s no surprise they’ve won a JUNO (Best Roots Album (group)) and two Canadian Folk Music Awards (World Group of the Year and Instrumental Album of the Year).
Band members are: Jeremiah McDade (vocals, tin whistle, sax, violin), Shannon Johnson (vocals, violin), Solon McDade (vocals, bass), Eric Breton (percussion), and Andy Hillhouse (acoustic guitar).