Soundhouse: Sian – Traverse Theatre

With tales of criminals, swan hunters, and torrid affairs, folk-group Sian had the audience of the Traverse in awe. Presented by Soundhouse, we were blessed with yet another live folk performance at the Traverse Theatre. Sian is a three-piece group of folk singers, performing exclusively in Gaelic and accompanied by Innes White on electric and acoustic guitar. Composed of Ceitlin Lilidh, Eilidh Cormack, and Ellen MacDonald, this is a group that celebrates its Hebridean roots—featuring songs that tell the traditional stories which have stood the test of time, having been passed down through the ages in areas around Skye and Lewis.

The vocal agility and control of Sian is astounding, as they sail through the lilting nature of the pieces with ease. They uphold the rich history of the songs but have arranged and composed them in such a way that they don’t feel out of place in the modern music sphere. Even the century-old waulking songs have a revitalised sound, allowing Scottish heritage and tradition to be passed down with renewed energy. Simultaneously, Sian brings a new layer to the music through their more pop-oriented take on harmonic and instrumental arrangements, enhancing their appeal to a modern audience and creating a wider spectrum of listeners through which this history can be shared.

Sian’s contribution to the maintenance of Scottish history is both powerful and necessary—especially on the Mainland, where the number of Gaelic speakers continues to dwindle. Considering that Scots were once persecuted for speaking Gaelic, Sian is reclaiming the language in the most joyous way possible. The group works together beautifully, connecting and blending effortlessly. At times, it was nearly impossible to pinpoint which member was singing which part, so seamlessly were their voices intertwined.

Even the presentation of each song was a pleasure to witness. Each member brought humour and a down-to-earth presence to the set, offering informed and entertaining explanations of each song’s content. There is something undeniably likeable about this band. A highlight of the set was their Gaelic translation of Fleetwood Mac’s Songbird—performed with such delicacy and heart that hearing it in Gaelic was nothing short of transcendental.

Although Sian’s tour may be over, they have a new single out, with an album to follow. The album is to be titled Araon, which translates roughly to “in harmony”—a perfectly fitting title for a group that is undoubtedly a unified force of song.

Reviewer: Jessie Martin

Reviewed: 12th June 2025

North West End UK Rating: