There can't be many quartets this young in the Freight's performance history, but for sheer talent and engaging stage presence the Cottars stand mighty tall. Described as "Both a miracle and a pure jubilation" by the Boston Herald, this youthful Canadian foursome (their ages range from 15 to 19) present an electrifying evening spotlighting the ancient, unique folk traditions of the tiny Celtic musical mecca of Cape Breton. Fiddle prodigy Roseanne MacKenzie, her brother Jimmy on guitar, Ciaran MacGillivray on keyboards and his sister Fiona, an amazingly soulful vocalist, perform driving instrumentals, beautiful airs, and haunting Gaelic songs with all the fire and flourish associated with Cape Breton's exciting style. They also tell a fine story and are liable to break out some of the fanciest stepdancing moves around. Since they last appeared at the Freight two years ago, the Cottars have grown in musical stature, touring the world, releasing a second CD, On Fire! and winning yet another Canadian East Coast Music Award (this time for Best Roots/Traditional Group). Don't miss them!

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