Irish Folk fueled with fun
In order for creativity to flow freely, you shouldn't take yourself too seriously. That, in a nutshell, is the secret recipe for the exuberant sound of the Craic Addicts. "Everyting is possible" says band leader Peter Crann. In good German, the band is called "the fun addicts" and the IFF poses the question to its fans with a wink: "Do they understand fun?" For those in a good mood ( alternative: those who are in a good mood ), the Craic Addicts heralded a direction in the Irish scene in 2012 that has now produced its first cult band, the Mary Wallopers. Incidentally, the Craic Addicts also cite these as inspiration.
These, in turn, are inspired by the atmosphere of wonder, humor, even irreverence and excitement of good old vaudeville theater and flashy road shows. The songs of this era, as well as Irish folk songs, are reinterpreted with an eclectic mix of contemporary musical styles and stage airs. This approach to a historical repertoire makes it appealing to an audience that may not necessarily be interested in pure tradition. The Craic Addicts love to play dynamically, with a quirky, modern, funky folk feel. "Irish folk fueled with fun.
This can be a thankless mission from time to time, and not only in Ireland. Why? The Irish traditional scene is sometimes stuck in a rigid corset of norms. They certainly have their purpose in preserving tradition. On the other hand, they can also nip creative approaches in the bud. Many Irish musicians therefore engage in a kind of self-censorship or inquisition whenever they try something new. You worry: will this please those whose opinion and approval I depend on in my local scene?
However, the "fun addicts" have thrown this overboard and play free of this mental baggage. The tremendous lightness of being that their music exudes is infectious.
The Craic Addicts are:
Fionnuala Kennedy - Banjo, Mandolin & Vocals
Sarah Jane Barry - Flute, Mandolin & Vocals
Peter Crann - Percussion & Vocals
Ray Coen - Electric Guitar & Vocals
Jaimie Carswell - Electric Bass & Vocals