Hot electric band have busy schedule lined up

May 13 2009 by Graham Miller, Wishaw Press

WISHAW ceilidh band Gallus are gearing up for a very busy summer.

The popular foursome are set to take up an eight-week residency at Sloan’s in Glasgow every Thursday night from May 21.

Then, in August, the band will perform alongside the Red Hot Chilli Pipers at the Bagrock in the Valley gig at Lanark.

The group, who played a rousing set at Motherwell Miners recently, have built a loyal following with their unique sound and energetic live performances at venues across Lanarkshire and further afield.

The quartet is made up of drummer Graham Watson, violinist Aidan Broadbridge, bass player Mark McCullagh, and Johnnie Walker on the guitar.

The dynamic foursome always get the crowd going with their fusion of electronic, rock, folk and jazz music. The band, who all live in or around Wishaw, are an eclectic bunch just like their music. Self-styled guitar god by night, Johnnie Walker, makes his living during the day as a tax collector.

Aidan is a full-time musician and combines his duties for Gallus with teaching music.

As well as the violin he also performs on the keyboards and mandolin when the need arises.

Despite their strange mix of day jobs the guys have known each other and been aware of their respective musical talents for a number of years. But it wasn’t until last year that they decided to take the plunge and form Gallus to showcase their work.

Drummer Graham said: “We believe we have a unique approach to folk-rock music because we take traditional folk melodies and give them an electric twist.

“This has allowed us to transform some classic tunes and give them a modern lease of life.

“Each of us brings a wealth of musical experience to the group and we have over 100 years in the business between us.

“All of us have been immersed in music all our lives and have performed at all sorts of major events.

“Among us we have enjoyed pop success with Pop Idol winners, played at the Edinburgh Playhouse and worked on BBC soundtracks.”

The original plan behind the formation of Gallus was that the group would principally perform at weddings and functions.

But their growing reputation means that Gallus have quickly outstripped that original aim.

To find out more about Gallus check them out on www.reverbnation.com