Tarras

Tarras is a folk group from the United Kingdom, associated with the English-Scottish Borders. The band draws on the Gaelic and British folk tradition and also incorporates other influences, including blues and classical music in its early period and a later progressive feel.

Albums and development

The group has two widely noted albums, Rising and Walking down Mainstreet. After these releases, Tarras reforms with a renewed line-up and continues as a live act built around its original material and arranged performances. The later album Warn the Waters appears after a limited release and is available at gigs.

Members

Ben Murray leads the group on vocals, piano, accordion and guitar. He brings together original members Rob Armstrong, who plays cittern, gittern, 12-string acoustic guitar and sings, and Lou Peacock, who plays violin and viola. The line-up also includes Liam Hiattt on drums, Michael Woodward on bass, guitar and mandolin, and Rory Connor on guitar and vocals.

Style

The band’s music combines folk traditions with a broader range of sounds and is known for finely crafted arrangements and a tightly integrated rhythm section. Its later work is described through a stronger, more energetic live presentation than in the early years.