Artist description Talisman has delighted audiences since 1994 with their unique sound and their dynamic variety of Celtic, folk, and original music. The band weaves exquisite musical textures from even the simplest of traditional tunes and songs. Victory Review, writing of Talisman's 1996 CD release, "Phoenix," said the band's "strength is in its imaginative arrangements." Talisman can be soothing, even hypnotic. But they can also get a room full of dancers moving when they tackle a set of reels or jigs (as they do more often than not).

Music Style Celtic folk

Musical Influences Robert Almblade & Carolyn Cruso, Slainte, Scartaglen, Malcolm Dalglish, John McCutcheon, Ceoltoiri, Clannad, Altan, Solas, Touchstone, Steve Goodman, Bill Staines, the list goes on and on...

Similar Artists John Willmott of CelticWays.com says: 'The Talisman sound is unique and hard to compare with major name artists. If you enjoy Clannad's most harmonious moments you'll definitely enjoy Talisman.'

Artist History Since relocating in 1998, Talisman has performed at several Northwest locations, including the Northwest Folklife Festival, summer park concerts in both Portland and Vancouver, the Portland Folklore Society, and the Vancouver Farmers' Market. In earlier times, Talisman performed at the Kansas State Fiddling & Picking Championships, the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, the Kansas City Scottish Highland Games, and a variety of venues in eastern Kansas.

Group Members Talisman combines the rich hammered dulcimer of Carl Thor, the sweet fiddle of Laura Bissonnette, the melodious flutes and lively penny whistles of Sara Martin, and the sometimes driving, sometimes tender guitar of Jeff Kerssen-Griep. Vocal harmonies round out Talisman's unique sound.

Instruments hammered dulcimer, fiddle, flutes, guitar

Albums 'Phoenix', recorded in 1996, features present band members Carl and Sara, with the inimitable Russ Kapp on guitar.

Press Reviews "The album's strength, I think, is in its imaginative arrangements and backups of vocals...quite solid, with a nice balance between strings and flutes." Victory Review

Location Vancouver, WA - USA

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