Forged together in early 2005 PLAID is the joining of two distinct musical backgrounds. Piper Robert Aitken, born and bred in Brora, east Sutherland and a former world champion with the Grampian Police Pipe band, was keen to marry the strong melodic style of pipe music to a new dynamic. Alan Walker and Duncan Macpherson have been a rock guitar duo for over the past 20 years playing in numerous bands.

All three share a vision for a brand of music that would evolve the traditions of Scotland’s rich musical heritage with wider styles. The tightness of the Bagpipe scale means you are forced to work within a tight musical limits and Pipe Bands are great exponents at layering dynamics to compensate for this. It is this layered dynamic effect that we were really keen to use with PLAID.

Listen to sound samples

PLAID can offer:
• Instrumental sets
• Songs in English and Gaelic
• A selection of Ceilidh dance music
• Workshops on instrument/band set-up

PLAID have appeared at Tartan Day, Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen's own Celtic Cabaret and Fyvie Castle

Robert found the rustic tones of the Shuttle Pipes perfect for giving a softer edge than the highland pipes and the blend of guitars, along with the mandolin, inject into spaces and often take over the main line while the percussion creates an urban, tribal feel behind it all.

PLAID have also spent time on developing a distinct sound and Influences have been taken from folk, rock, blues and classical music. All contemporary music can be traced back to a folk tradition and with PLAID you’ll often hear the energy of the guitars overlap a traditional Pipe tune recycling musical elements from various themes throughout centuries of musical genres

Above all PLAID are about a journey in contrast. Contrast in melody, style and technique taking the listener on an emotional meander from the past to present. Music has always evolved to stay alive and with PLAID you definitely hear the freshness of their own music played with pride stemming from an amazing musical legacy we are all lucky enough to share.

For more information and bookings contact:
01224 321210 or email info@tradarr.com