The first day of the ECMAs also saw Islander Patricia Murray
on deck.
Murray, who helped christen the Roots Room last year in Saint John, was chosen to help launch the opening day of the Roots Room here with a powerful line-up that included Dave Gunning, J.P. Cormier and one of Newfoundland's most promising new root/traditional acts, The Navigators.
Murray charmed her audience with a well-balanced mix of traditional Gaelic songs and original material that showcased her talent as an emerging songwriter.
The Summerside native received sterling support during her set from cellist Rick Tersteeg, piper Glen Coolen from MacCrimmon's Revenge and multi-instrumentalist Troy MacGillivray, who sat in on piano and fiddle, but the shining light was still Murray's crystal clear soprano, which soared above everything.
That was particularly true on Hector the 'Hero', one of Murray's originals, and a Gaelic piece she introduced in English as 'A Thousand Curses on Love'.
There was a lovely chemistry on stage between Murray and her ensemble, especially when they turned up the heat.
Hopefully the opportunity will present itself to see this configuration again.
