CARA
CSPS debut | Anam Cara is Irish for "soulmates." Cara means "friend." On St. Patrick's Day this year, you'll want to gather up your soulmates and make friends with this extraordinary new band. 
Based in Germany (!), Cara is deeply rooted in Irish and Scottish traditional music, while creating a sound that's new and unique. Each of the four musicians had already made a name for themselves at home and abroad. In fact the list of bands in which Cara's members have played reads like a who's who of the European folk scene — More Maids, Adaro, DeReelium, Steampacket, La Marmotte — and that's not including countless guest studio and stage appearances. Coming together in this new line-up to create the music of their dreams, Cara has got everything it takes for a folk band to succeed.
Sandra Gunkel (vocals, piano, flute) and Gudrun Walther (vocals, fiddle, viola) are in perfect command of their instruments; Gudrun was  recently described by music magazine Folker as the "best fiddler on the scene." On top of that the two women are possessed of voices that enthrall the audience. They bring new life to traditional ballads, while their original songs are guaranteed to raise goose bumps.
It would be difficult to find a better exponent of the Irish flute than Claus Steinort. His brilliant technique, faultless style and unique tone have earned him a growing reputation in Ireland. Jürgen Treyz (guitar) has his own concept of "backing." His sound is characterized by dynamic rhythms, exciting harmonic accompaniment and beautiful solos. Finally, in occasional guest performer Rolf Wagels, the band adds Germany's best (and probably biggest) bodhrán player.
But it's not just their close playing, their spontaneity, their ability to infuse rousing jigs and reels with innovative world music touches, that has made Cara so successful. Throw in the wittily charming performance of the two front women, with their tales of jealous lovers, daring maids and water-spirits, and you being to see why Cara is truly unique, and on the verge of becoming an international phenomenon.
Sun Mar 16 | 7 pm | SOLD OUT
Mon Mar 17 | 7 pm | Tickets available
Mar 17 show broadcast live on KUNI's Live from Studio One
CSPS | 1103 Third St SE | Cedar Rapids
$16 advance | $19 day of show

Ticket info
Go to artist's Web site
Click here for a downloadable flyer (PDF)
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