Folk roots fusion band, Across the Great Divide, is bringing their world of music to Arrowtown this week as part of Creative NZ’s Arts on Tour initiative.
Celtic harpist, guitarist, keys and singer Karen Jones says the band – other members of which are Tony Burt and Hanna Wiskari-Griffiths – is elated to be performing in the resort as the last two attempts were scuppered by Covid.
She says the audience can expect a marrying of different sounds from around the world – bringing together Celtic sounds, with Americana and some traditional Scandinavian music.
“It’s a whole emotional ride -= from the [slower] ones plus fast-paced tunes, as well as some Scottish songs and one or two Scandi songs as well.”
Jones says the band name – Across the Great Divide – was not one they chose, rather earned due to their diverse mix of cultural tunes and focus on community and unity.
“It was fate, really … we did a show and called it ‘Across the Great Divide’ because we were bringing together Celtic and Americana music, which isn’t really done in New Zealand or anywhere, really … very rarely do you have that transatlantic thing going on.”
She says as well as performing the show, the band’s looking forward to meeting and interacting with Queenstowners.
“We’re delighted to have such and amazing opportunity.”
Across the Great Divide, Friday, Arrowtown Community Centre, 7.30pm. Tickets, $20, via Eventbrite
