International Stars at Celtic Connections 2013

A number of big names will help celebrate the 20th Celtic Connections festival in style. Americana string band Old Crow Medicine Show will be lighting up The Barrowland Ballroom with their unlimited energy and spirit. Old Crow’s classic single Wagon Wheel received the Recording Industry Association of America’ ‘s Gold certification for selling over 500,000 copies in late 2011.

After their reunion earlier this year The Mavericks will be showing off their famous no-borders fusion of country, garage, Latin, soul and torch-song sounds with fresh passion and deep-dyed maturity.

Celtic Connections shares its 20th anniversary with folk legend Kate Rusby who is celebrating two decades in the music business this year with her 11th album titled 20. Kate’s new album comprises newly-recorded favorites from throughout her much-garlanded career.

Known as “the golden voice of Africa” Salif Keita will present his cross-fertilization of his native griot traditions and other West African sounds with pop, jazz, Latin and Islamic influences. Keita’s music has evolved from largely electric, synth-based fusions to the soulfully rootsy, organic approach of his latest acclaimed album, 2010’s La Différence.

Amy Helm will be leading a tribute to her late father Levon Helm who passed away earlier this year. Levon achieved fame as the drummer and frequent lead and backing vocalist for The Band.

Ireland’s Cara Dillon will give a delightful performance with the consistently world class BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. This special concert will feature gorgeous new arrangements of songs from across her gem-studded back catalog.

Celtic Connections will welcome Latin Grammy-winning flamenco guitar maestro Vicente Amigo for the world premiere performance of his new flamenco/Celtic project Tierra. Performing alongside the Spanish guitar wizard will be Mike McGoldrick, John McCusker, Guy Fletcher, Danny Cummings and Ewen Vernal.

Little Feat rank among rock’s great survivors. They will perform their signature Southern-fried gumbo of blues, funk R&B, country and multi-guitar fireworks.

Celtic Connections 2013 takes place in Glasgow between January 17th and February 3rd.

Tickets for Celtic Connections are available at www.celticconnections.com, by phone at 0141 353 8000, or in person at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, City Halls and Old Fruitmarket.