Celtae

“Ferocious!” “Energetic!” “Fantastic!” These are some of the words that have been used to describe Celtae, one of Canada's premiere Celtic bands. True to their East Coast roots, Celtae is out to prove that Canada's Celtic culture is alive and thriving 365 days a year. Their sound is simultaneously nostalgic and fresh, innovative and traditional. The souls of their ancestors live on in this music, mixed with a contemporary edge that crosses all boundaries to define the sound of this vibrant generation of Canadian Celts.

Driven by the creative song writing force of the group's founding member, Cape Bretoner Nathan MacDonald, Celtae has made the traditional/roots music world sit up and take note. Their debut CD, “No Regrets”, garnered critical acclaim and continues to be a hit with their ever-growing audience. Celtae's original music has received considerable radio attention and has been licensed for use in radio, film and Celtic compilations. Celtae songs have been covered and recorded by other artists and “Merchant Marine”, an original cut off the album, was chosen to be the theme song for the Paul Ciufo's CBC Drama, "On Convoy".

At Celtae shows, audiences find themselves singing, clapping and dancing to traditional jigs, reels and strathspeys – the bands’ infectious rhythms and interactive performances are irresistible. What sets Celtae apart has been their ability to explore the boundaries of the Celtic genre while maintaining the essential spirit of the ancient tradition and breathing raw energy and stirring emotion into every piece.

Celtae performs original songs and their own interpretations of select traditional songs and tunes from the Cape Breton, Newfoundland, Irish and Scottish traditions. They have performed for ambassadors and Prime Ministers and have shared the stage with many other talented artists. Celtae shows no sign of slowing down - for MacDonald and his band, there are definitely "No Regrets".