Twenty Years On, Solas Shines Fresh Light On Irish Traditional Music

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2016 marked the 20th anniversary of the quintessential Irish-American band, Solas. That year was also marked by the release of the recording, “All These Years,” which features combinations of all the musicians who have been a part of the group over the last two decades. Formed in 1996, in a manner befitting their name (Irish Gaelic for "light”), Solas burst onto the Irish music scene and quickly became a beacon – an incandescent ensemble that found contemporary relevance in timeless traditions.
 

In March 2016, John Floridis, host of Musicians' Spotlight, traveled with and recorded the group during their tour stops in Helena, Bozeman and Missoula. John interviewed founding members Seamus Egan and Winifred Horan, as well as original lead singer Karan Casey and current singer, Moira Smiley.
 
This program captures a snapshot of an iconic group of musicians at a pivotal point in their history.

(Broadcast: Monday, March 13, 2017, as the Monday Music Special.)

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John Floridis, the host and producer of Musician's Spotlight, has been with Montana Public Radio since 1997. He has interviewed over 200 musicians during that time. He is also an independent recording and performing artist in his own right and a former registered music therapist.