Mackenzie,
a Gaelic vocal group of sisters Eilidh, Gillian and Fiona from the village of
Gress on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, is the result of many years
of involvement in the world of music and song - Gaelic music and song in particular.
Although they have been singing together since childhood they did not get together
to formally perform as a trio until 1996 when they were invited to perform on a
Gaelic music television programme. Soon after they recorded their first album,
Camhanach, and recently followed this successful debut with their second album,
Fama Clamosa, which was released in October 2002. Both albums include traditional
songs alongside their own compositions, with some tracks a cappella and some enjoying
accompaniment from an impressive line-up of guest musicians. The have also been
fortunate in that Sutherland born artist, David
Hutchison , has produced amazing artwork for both albums, and has allowed the
use of his three figure image as the Mackenzie logo.
In
addition to their recorded works Mackenzie have also appeared at various musical
festivals and concerts in Scotland, France and Northern Spain including Celtic
Connections, Glasgow, in 1999, 2000 and 2002, and the Hebridean Celtic Festival,
Stornoway, in 1999 and 2006
Over
the years they have juggled careers, motherhood and music and have been exposed
to a wide range of musical and cultural influences. As a result, their own preferences
and tastes have developed and matured to reflect these - but the main influence
is still the Gaelic music and culture of their island home.
