The McDades

"Crafting a new Canadian sound"

Winners of the 2006 Canadian Folk Music Awards for Best World Group & Best Instrumental Group.
Winners of the 2007 Independent Music Award for Best World Album Traditional.
Winner of the 2007 Juno Award for best Roots/Traditional Album Group

Punching through the walls of tradition, The McDades' celtic rooted music fuses the spontaneity of jazz improvisation with infectious global rhythms. Their cutting edge sound is the perfect complement to their fiery performances. "It's hot stuff and very entertaining." (Tom Knapp, Dirty Linen) At the heart of the group are siblings Shannon, Solon & Jeremiah who grew up playing Canadian folk music along side their parents and among artists from around the world, a unique upbringing that led to a love and respect for all music. Their groundbreaking compositions and innovative arrangements are characterized by stunning virtuosity and a near-telepathic interaction on stage. Shannon's lyrical fiddle, Jeremiah's searing winds and Solon's smooth bass create the rich foundation for this adventurous band. The siblings are joined by Andy Hillhouse, a multi-faceted guitarist whose influences range from mariachi to funk to choral music, and Francois Taillefer, a magnetic hand-drumming nomad who has traveled the world studying ethnic rhythms on percussion. The musical diversity of this tight-five piece celebrates the very idea of what it means to be a Canadian musician. With vocal harmonies that can only come from a family, and an obvious love for each other and their music, The McDades' sound is immersed in the spirit of improvisation. Featuring both energetic instrumentals and sensitive vocals performed in English and French, this compelling and dynamic group "find their groove somewhere between a down-home kitchen party, a jazzy after hours club, and a folk festival." (London Free Press) With the release of their second CD "Bloom", The McDades continue to stretch the boundaries of modern tradition