Robirohi in Markethill Courthouse, Armagh, 20-21 Jan. 2011

Very good news for lovers of traditional bluegrass, and especially bluegrass gospel - the splendid Estonian band Robirohi (above) will be playing on two consecutive nights at Markethill Courthouse, Main St., Markethill, Co. Armagh: 20 and 21 January, starting at 7.45 p.m. Admission is only £5.00 (a real bargain for a band of this calibre), payable at the door.

Robirohi, who have played four times at successive European World of Bluegrass Festivals in the Netherlands, made a sensation at the Omagh Festival in 2007 with their tight, driving ensemble and especially their moving and powerful harmony singing. As a result, they were at once booked to return for other dates in Ulster - which they played despite the tragic death of their fiddler, Tarmo Vardja, in a road accident shortly before they were due to make the trip (see the BIB for 11 Dec. 2007). Tarmo's name (with his birth and death dates) still appears on the band's website as a member.

The band includes Robert Kreutzwald (guitar, banjo, vocals), Aivar Nurmik (mandolin, vocals), Indrek Vainu (dobro, autoharp, guitar, vocals), and Jurgis Kazjava (upright bass). Thanks to Tommy Vance of Anchor Promotions, who is organising their Markethill shows. Tommy writes:

We hope to bring them over maybe three times in 2011 and have pencilled in 10-11 March also. Maybe we can take them to southern Ireland gigs later on in 2011.

Great idea! Southern promoters who are interested can contact Tommy by 'phone (+44 7834243009) or e-mail.