Celtic Connections: Curlew (full band) + Aurora Engine
Entry Requirements: Over 18s only
Curlew, the solo project of Celtic alt-folk musician Gill Higgins, is known for her unique blend of looped vocals, harmonium, synth drones, and field recordings. Her work explores the intersection of nature and technology, creating ethereal, layered soundscapes that mesmerize audiences. Performing live, she uses loop pedals to build immersive textures, seamlessly transitioning between harmonium and keyboard. With her band CLR Theory, she has appeared on BBC Radio Scotland and Nan Gàidheal, selling out shows at Celtic Connections. As Curlew, she has supported acts like The Twilight Sad and Honeyblood, and her soundscapes have been exhibited at Glasgow Science Festival. Recently, she performed at Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024, captivating audiences with her fusion of ancient and modern sounds.
Curlew will be accompanied by her band for this special night of music and togetherness, the lineup will include incredible folk fiddle player Ray Aggs (Sacred Paws), Drummer and Percussionist Liam Chapman (C. Duncan, Andrew Wasylyk) and exquisite Step Dancer Kae Sakurai (Kelvingrove Dancers).
Aurora Engine creates a unique fusion of harp, piano, voice, and progressive electronica, crafting music with themes of magic realism and contemporary relevance. Her lyrics explore topics like societal expectations and single motherhood with candor, often blending dark themes with humor. Known for her soundscapes that incorporate found sounds and unusual techniques like playing "inside the piano," her sets range from minimal harp and vocals to immersive electronic textures. Her 2024 album Secret Knock received critical acclaim, with airplay on BBC 6 Music and BBC Introducing. Hailed as “magical and delicate” by Tom Robinson of BBC 6 Music, Aurora Engine has been praised for her trailblazing artistry, drawing comparisons to innovators like Björk and Kate Bush.