Karan Casey & John Doyle, with the Vallely Brothers

Irish vocalist Karan Casey and Irish guitar virtuoso (and vocalist) John Doyle were founding members of Celtic traditional supergroup Solas, a band known for rousing, furious tunes and striking renditions of traditional songs. Since Solas, each has carved out a place in contemporary Irish and folk music, and occasionally – when we are very, very lucky – they still perform and record together. “John in his guitar playing really does catch me, almost like he knows what I’m thinking,” says Karan. John says, “Karan’s soul is in the music. We fit together, like hand in glove.” (Check out Karan and John on NPR’s Mountain Stage.) For their showcase sets, Karan and John are backed by the formidable Vallely Brothers, Cillian (Uillean pipes) and Niall (concertina), from Armagh, in the North of Ireland. Sponsored by Dr. David E. Lawler & The Center for Sound Sleep; Women of Lotus; Friends of Old-Time & Celtic Music