Clann An Drumma, Scottish Tribal Music

Clann An Drumma - Culloden

My mother arrived today from Edinburgh with tales of the vibrant and busy city. In honour of my Scots blood (of the clan Gordon) I give you Clann An Drumma. Scottish Tribal Music!

Clann An Drumma, Scots Gaelic for "Children of the Drum" is a tribal band from Glasgow, Scotland. Clann An Drumma was formed by Joe Kilna MacKenzie, Jacquie Holland and Tu-Bardh Stormcrow Wilson among others. Like many other bands, their line-up has changed over the years.

Their music involves heavy use of percussion (namely traditional Scottish drums) and Highland bagpipes with an emphasis on the more traditional "tribal" sounds of ancient Scotland. The band's motto is "Keep it Tribal".

One of their more well-known pieces is "Sgt. MacKenzie". It was composed by Joe MacKenzie in memory of his great grandfather, Charles Stuart MacKenzie, who died in battle during World War I. "Sgt. MacKenzie" is perhaps a departure from their normal style, as its drumming and piping are subdued and it is primarily a vocal piece. It was featured in the soundtrack to the 2002 film, We Were Soldiers. To date the band has released a total of seven albums.

Joe Kilna MacKenzie died after a long illness, on 28 April 2009. RIP Joe.

More from Clann An Drumma here.