Dublin’s seven-piece band Kila has been a leading force in the trad-fusion scene since their inception in 1987. Their music, which blends traditional Irish sounds with a variety of other genres, has been praised by critics and audiences alike. In just a few weeks time, the lively crew of musicians will be rocking it out in Dunloe, Killarney.
The band’s music is rooted in traditional Irish tunes, but also incorporates influences from Latin, reggae, rock, classical, funk, jazz, and world music in general. This unique blend of styles has helped Kila to develop a sound that is both accessible and innovative.
The band has released 20 CDs, co-composed music for three Oscar-nominated animated films, and written Emmy-nominated scores. They have performed at jazz, rock, Irish and world music festivals in 35 countries on 5 continents.
Their early work included the EPs Groovin’ (1991) and Handel’s Fantasy (1993), which showcased their unique blend of traditional Irish melodies and contemporary musical styles. Their 1995 album Mind the Gap was the first self-composed album from the Irish traditional genre.
The band’s success continued with their follow-up album Tág É Go Bog E (1997), which brought them to the attention of a wider audience. They have since released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including Lemondade and Buns (2000), Luna Park (2002), Kíla & Oki (2006), Gambler’s Ballet (2007), Soisin (2010), and Suas Sios (2014).
In addition to their studio recordings, Kila has also released three live albums. The band has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including U2, Sinéad O’Connor, The Dubliners, Shane McGowan, Glen Hansard, Donal Lunny, Mary Black, Zakir Hussain (India), Kaya (Poland), Oki (Japan), and Ronnie Wood (The Rolling Stones).
Speaking ahead of their appearance at this year’s Eats + Beats Festival, band manager, mandolin and whistle player - Rossa Ó Snodaigh say that the band is looking forward to a busy few weeks.
“We recently opened up for Arcade Fire in Malahide Castle, that was a beautiful night. We are heading to Belgium in a couple of weeks to play the Dranouter Folk Festival, and then we'll be rushing back to Ireland for Eats + Beats. We are really looking forward to getting back down to Kerry and sharing the stage with some great musicians. It will be our only Kerry gig this year so we hope lots of people will come out and support the festival.”
For those who haven’t seen Kíla play before, what can people expect?
“We write all of our own songs and music, its lively and can also be a bit wild at times, You'll not be able to stay still so bring your dancing shoes” Rossa states.
Don’t take Rossa’s word for it either. Hot Press Magazine say, “Kíla have torn up the rulebook with their wantonly eclectic mix of styles, Brilliant”. U2 front man Bono commenting on the band said “Somehow you get the feeling they lit the fuse for the big bang”
Catch Kíla at Eats + Beats Festival on August 4th. For news and updates and tickets head over to www.eatsandbeatskerry.com
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