The name CANTRIP is an old Scots word meaning a charm, magic spell or piece of mischief and it aptly describes the unexpected twists and turns in their musical arrangements, likewise the compelling potency of their musicianship. Swirling border pipes, raging fiddle, thunderous guitar and three rich voices blend to create a sound energetic enough to tear the roof off. After more than 20 years of touring CANTRIP has found a character like no other. With members from both sides of the Atlantic CANTRIP stirs the elements in a witches' cauldron, slowly coalescing into chaotic order.
The bands members are Dan Houghton (Scottish border pipes, flutes, whistles, bouzouki, vocals), Jon Bews (fiddle, vocals), Alasdair White (fiddle) and Eric McDonald (guitar, mandolin, vocals). As veterans of the Celtic scene the band’s members have played with or been a part of many groups - The Battlefield Band, Malinky, The McDades, Salsa Celtica, Doolin’, Shooglenifty, Dàimh, Kalos, and The Outside Track.
"Cantrip must have one of the strongest group personalities on the folk circuit. Their presentation is all energy as they channel modern swoops & slides of sound into the traditional repertoire. Their music comes from wild landscapes & wild places of the spirit." — The Orcadian
“Cantrip pulls together Breton, Scandic, a touch of the Balkans, and several strands of Scottish music to produce a rich and savoury feast from what is basically four lads having fun” — Alex Monaghan, Irish Music Magazine.
