Celestial Fire were formed in 2015 after the release of Dave Bainbridge’s critically acclaimed album of the same name, with the aim to play material from that album, Dave’s previous solo albums, music from Dave and Frank van Esson’s much loved band Iona, and to explore new avenues.

Their music isn’t easy to pigeonhole. Try… Ethereal Symphonic Progressive Folk Rock or maybe Celtic Rock!

Dave Bainbridge is an extraordinary music maker, leading the way on guitars, keyboards and bouzouki. John Kellogg – producer of Chicago, Foreigner and Deep Purple etc says ‘Dave’s fluid, emotional guitar playing, epic keyboard work and expansive compositions combine into one of this generation’s most powerful and original musical voices” Dave, best known as a founder member of popular Celtic prog rock band Iona has also played with Moya Brennan and Robert Fripp, and since Iona’s much lamented hiatus has been a full time member of The Strawbs and Lifesigns along side his solo work and duo with Sally Minnear.

Adding crystalline lead vocals as well as looping, acoustic guitar, percussion and whistles is Lord of the Dance featured singer Sally Minnear, daughter of Gentle Giant’s Kerry Minnear.

The line-up also features Dave Brons on guitars, mandolin, keyboard and vocals, Simon Fitzpatrick on Bass guitar, Chapman stick and Moog bass and Iona’s multi-talented drummer/fiddler - Frank can Essen on drums, percussion, violin and vocals.

Fans of Iona will love Celestial Fire. Be prepared for spectacular musicianship, mind blowing arrangements, flawless singing and epic sounds.

Quotes

“Dave Bainbridge is a musical genius. He is a rarity in that he is world class on two instruments: Guitar and Keyboards.

I have followed him and his Celtic Prog band, IONA over the last 25 years. I'm pleased to say that his recent show with Sally Minnear was breath taking. Sally sang some songs of Daves recent solo album "Celestial Fire" and some well known IONA hits.

As some one who has grown up listening to Joanne Hogg's powerful vocals, it was a joy to hear Sally sing songs like "Beyond these Shores" beautifully. I was almost moved to tears on a few songs. Sally's pure voice was fantastic.”

Dave Brons

- Date Added 09/06/2018