EDINBURGH 2013 - BWW Reviews: THE SORRIES, Quaker Meeting House, August 10 2013

For all that they take their name and claim inspiration from Scotland's most famous folk duo The Corries, this is no mere tribute act. What Douglas Kay and Martin Philip do take from the band that gave Scotland its national anthem is a spirit of easy banter, from jokes about their own souvenir merchandise to a memorable mid-song duelling guitar section, and a great engagement with the audience, who are very much encouraged to join in, an opportunity they find irresistible.

The Sorries' repertoire features songs from across the Scots folk canon, as well as some contributions of their own composition and a Scottish twist on some popular classics, all skilfully played on guitar and bodhran, with neat vocal harmonies featuring in certain numbers. Good folk bands are as much about the atmosphere they create as the musicianship and the duo get their audience onside immediately. By three songs in, the audience who packed out the Quaker Meeting House were happily trilling their way through Mhairi's Wedding (and I do mean packed out- if you are tall, aisle seats are recommended as the leg room is rather wanting).

Just off the Royal Mile, with all of its associated tourist traps, The Sorries' show is a rather more fun experience of Scottish culture. Particular highlights include their version of Johnny Lad, with up to the minute jokes about babies both royal and panda, while anyone who ever enjoyed the Sunday Post cartoons will revel in their ode to the comic book bombshell Maggie Broon.

If, like me, you were raised on a steady diet of Corries tapes to accompany every car journey, you will love this. If you weren't, the singalong fun, great songs played well and warm atmosphere will make sure you have a great time anyway. Buy a ticket, and you won't be Sorry.

The Sorries play every day except Sundays until August 24th with performances at 1630 at the Quaker Meeting House.

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