Irish American news - best new irish band 2016

Reviews

“The Theory of Chaos is right in that new stream of tectonic trad combining great tunes with head-banging accompaniment, but also subtle arrangements which draw the best from both folk instruments and modern music. Give it a try - it will certainly be a fresh experience.” - Alex Monaghan, Folkworld

"With a fiery reputation for humdinger live performances, Cúig do a fine trade in taking no prisoners and redefining the contours of the tradition. Every genre needs its young turks, and Cúig look like they may be ready to take up that mantle." - The Irish Times

“With so many fine players these days, sometimes it is the seemingly-small dynamics that allows one band to shine through.  As the reference to chaos theory in the title suggests, Cúig shows that the band’s refinements in rhythm and arrangement can have grand consequences.  The members played together for many years before hitting the stages, and that connection shows in the maturity of their material.  This is a quite exciting sophomore release from a band to watch – and to listen to often.” - Ivan Emke, The Living Tradition

"As all-instrumental albums go, this is a tasty addition to the catalogue, a genial powerhouse of a disc whose well-upholstered music-making is never in danger of becoming sterile or an easy-won slave to virtuosity." - David Kidman, Living Tradition

“Newry based teenage quintet playing traditional music with unexpected melodic twists. Such a powerful grasp of group dynamics and musical finesse defies their youth, and borders on the prodigious. Good instrumental interplay and an imaginative touch in their arrangements allows for plenty of creativity.” – John O’Regan, fRoots

“Cuig just keeps on presenting terrific music. Winners. Our listeners love them, as well!” - Bill Margeson, LiveIreland

"The melody instruments are floating over grooving guitar, bass and drums. At times the road branches, and the one taken is the one least expected" - FolkWorld

"A Stunning first effort (the EP)... a unique sound" - Jack Baker, Irish American News

TESTIMONIALS

"Irish music is in safe hands with this new & exciting band. Young musicians that are at the cutting edge of the music. Great arrangements, great playing , and great lads" - Gino Lupari (Four Men and a Dog)

"Cuig are a great new traditional Irish music band, made up of five phenomenal young musicians. Their playing has a maturity that goes way beyond their years. A classic mix of banjo, box, pipes/fiddle, guitar and drum kit these musicians have already created a distinctive and exciting sound together. With fantastic stage presence, arrangements and musicality this band has a great and bright future ahead which I, for one, am looking forward immensely to following." - John Joe Kelly (Flook)

"New trad band Cúig, will, quite frankly, knock your socks off! They have a fresh, unique and vibrant sound that most bands take years      to establish, and their individual and collective musicianship belies their years. Talent hanging out of them! A truly brilliant trad band."        - Niamh Dunne (Beoga)