SWÅP, featuring Karen Tweed, Ian Carr, Ola Bäckström and Carina Normansson will be touring the Highlands and Islands during May 2006.

Swåp present chilling, thrilling musical adventures in Anglo-Scandinavian roots '’n’' reel and song, where Swedish polskas & schottis shake hands with jigs & waltzes from all over the British Isles & Ireland. Rave energy and string quartet subtlety by turn! Bring the kids! www.swapmusic.info

Following international festival appearances at Celtic Connections, Tokyo, Minneapolis Nordic Roots, Tonder, The Purcell Room and broadcast spots on BBC R3 Late Junction & BBC4, Swåp tour the UK this spring, kicking off at York’s renowned Jorvik Viking Festival and visiting the Highland & Islands in May 2006.

Featuring all-Ireland champion and internationally acclaimed piano accordionist, Karen Tweed, long-time member of The Poozies with Mary McMaster, Patsy Seddon & Eilidh Shaw.

Guitarist Ian Carr, wizard of rhythm & wit, currently a regular with Eddi Reader, Kate Rusby Band and John McCusker. He’s recently learned Swedish and now has a baby daughter called Matilda.

Ola Bäckström, viola d'amore & fiddle, is one of the most respected fiddlers & composers in Scandinavia today. His playing on Den Fule’s Skalv, Hedningarna’s Hippjokk, Triptyk, Boot and solo album have influenced a generation of musicians.

Carina Normansson, fiddle & voice, has roots in Vastmanland and is devoted to researching music and song of the region. She is a member of Traton with Ola. Carina leads new "big-bunch" orchestra West Manna Folk with her dog Frida. She sings of naked men in the snow.

New cd Du Da NorthSide NSD 6085 www.cuberoots.com


Tour Schedule

9 May 2006 - SKYE Sabhal Mòr Ostaig 01471 844207 tix £9/£7, doors 7.30pm

10 May 2006 - STRATHPEFFER Pavilion / Eden Court Theatre promotion 01463 234234 tix £10/£8, doors 7.30pm

11 May 2006 - KIRKWALL King Street Hall 01856 871000 tix £8/£5, doors 7.30pm

12 May 2006 - SANDAY Community Hall workshop & concert 01857 600296 tix £7.50/£4.50 (joint ticket £10/£5) doors 7.00pm

13 May 2006 - LYTH Arts Centre 01955 641270, tix £8, doors 7.30pm

14 May 2006 - DRUMNADROCHIT Glen Urquhart Public Hall 01456 450155 tix £10/£3, doors 7.00pm