Túcan

Tucan are a blistering instrumental guitar Duo from Sligo they are making a huge name for themselves in the Irish music scene. Donal Gunne and Pearse Feeney form the band Tucan, an instrumental, acoustic guitar duo that incorporates a wide and varied range of styles into their playing; from classical and 60’s rock to heavy metal and jazz.
They have been playing together since 1999 though they only started to perform live five years ago as the first four years were spent building the solid musical foundation they felt they required. Their sound is definitely colored by the fact that neither has any formal musical training and prefers to develop their skills through keen ears, an insatiable love for music and long hours spent honing their melodies and arrangements.
They played on occasion with two classically trained violinists from Dublin. This eventually led them to gaining a support slot for Rodrigo y Gabriela in UCD in front of a packed house of approximately 800. The Mexican duo have been a constant source of inspiration for the two, showing how instrumental music on two guitars could be brought to life on-stage in front of mainstream audiences.
Tucan are now one of Irelands most sought after festival acts. They have stolen the show at such festivals as the Donegal Music Festival and sliabh an iarainn, in Drumshambo Co. Leitrim. This seen them play to a crowd of over 1000 roaring fans. Most recently the band was spotted by the brilliant Regina Spektor who asked them to support her at her sold out concert in Tripod. They were delighted to accept the offer, and they hugely impress 1400 people. Tucan then played Irelands most prestige’s festival, Electric Picnic. They were originally booked to play the POD acoustic stage at 5pm on the Saturday; this went so well the organizers asked the band to play the closing gig of the body and soul area (and the whole festival) at 2.30am Monday morning. Túcan wowed a 3000 strong crowd and have ensured a major slot at the festival this year. Tucan most recently headlined the sold out Sligo Live festival in October, sharing the stage with such acts as Alabama 3 who they continue to work with on occassion.


Tucan were the proud recipients of the 'Best Musical Group' award at the 14th annual AOIFE (association of Irish festival events) conference which was held at the end of 2007. The award was recognition of a great debut year for the pair which saw them grabbing the limelight at venues and festivals across the country. Tucan were on hand to receive the accolade and wrapped up a great night with a stomping set which was very well received by the gathered delegates. Their music is currently being used in a nationwide radio ad campaign for the Mexican beer ‘Sol’.

Tucan: "So impressed was she (Regina Spektor) by their guitar-playing prowess that she invited them to support her at her recent sell-out show in Dublin’s tripod." Irish Mail on Sunday