The wonderful Heather MacLeod comes to Ross-shire on Saturday 1 October to play the Old Brewery in Cromarty.

Heather comes originally from Lewis, where she grew up surrounded by both the Gaelic heritage, and the sounds of country and R&B. Her family home was a home from home for local and visiting musicians. She remembers memorising Queen and Beatles songs as a child, before she began competing in the Gaelic Mod when she was just nine.

Today, her material benefits from these experiences. Her powerful, emotive voice owes as much to Beth Gibbons and Annie Lennox as her celtic roots.

She has become a well known feature on the Scottish gig circuit. Many will have seen playing with Eliza Carthy and La Boum. Others will have seen her more recently, brightening up a rainy day at the Belladrum Festival.

Her set ranges from classic jazz and blues to traditional. While centred on her own material, it takes in covers as contrasting as Richard Thompson and K.D. Lang.

Her own songs draw strength from her many influences, while announcing a creative identity that is entirely her own. Her debut solo album 'Crossing Tides' was released earlier this year. The Sunday Herald has called it “a big, bountiful box of musical colours".

In Cromarty, Heather will be playing with her established trio. More information about the gig is available by calling 01381 600383. As usual at the Old Brewery, food will be on sale and B&B can also be provided