The gypsies behind the whisky

Kenny Mac

Kenny has played all at all of the major folk festivals in Australia, including Woodford, Port Fairy and the Canberra National Festival. Originally from Scotland, Kenny’s main musical influence draws from all over the Celtic diaspora, however, he has explored a range of world music influences along the journey. His performances typically include musical instrumentals as well as the occasional song in Scottish Gaelic, French, Spanish, Russian and of course English. He utilises instruments including the fiddle, the mandolin and the octave mandola as he aspires to create a ‘folksy’ world music ambience with his musical explorations.

His repertoire gains inspiration from local acoustic artists such as Paul Kelly, Hunters and Collectors, The Waifs and Crowded House, as well acts with more of an international profile; including U2, Johnny Cash, Drop Kick Murphys, Mumford and Sons, Van Morrison, Oasis and The Pogues. Although the essence of his music is traditional and folk inspired, there are contemporary influences in his interpretation of the music.

Whether it’s the gentle sound of the mandolin as it creates the atmosphere of an Neopolitan cafe, or the melody of an Irish reel, played deftly on the fiddle and evoking the early origins of colonial Australia – Kenny is sure to entertain as well as enhance the atmosphere at any occasion.

Dan Gray

Dan grew up amidst the green rolling hills of Poowong in the heart of South Gippsland. Surrounded by dairy farms and grass, he practiced his skills at milking cows and playing music. Dan started playing the drums and percussion in a variety of styles including funk, jazz, rock and Celtic – and later picked up the guitar and travelled through South America, learning Latin grooves and honing his playing and singing.

Since then he’s played with multiple bands including rock, reggae and Latin/Mexican bands in various venues around the world. However Dan has finally found his home with folk and Celtic music. It had always been a passion of Dan’s and to play this stirring music with great musicians to engaging crowds is a dream come true.

Dan’s influences include Mumford and Sons, Ben Harper, Dave Matthews Band, Tallest Man on Earth, Bob Marley, Van Morrison and Gaelic Storm.

Dan loves holding hands whilst taking long walks on short piers. His goals in life are to rock your socks off – or play beautiful ballads that make your heart soar whilst keeping your socks on.