The Latchikos (Ireland)
Credited as the originators of “Gyp-Hop” (Gaelic gypsy hip-hop), the Latchikos blend together a raw mix of virtuoso violin, spoken word and raw, driving Gaelic beats. Behind this innovation is Aindrias de Staic, a traditional Irish fiddler whose musical path got waylaid by hard-living. But while busking in Australia, he was introduced to new genres and approaches to music, and that, in combination with healthy living and an acting career – including Shakespeare plays in Gaelic – worked to change things around. This captivating yarn-spinner now shares his life story, slightly unhinged sense of humour and musical adventures with a wild trad trio. Together they create a rare fusion of spoken word and Gaelic beats, gypsy violin, blues harmonica and assorted theatrics. Joining de Staic in The Latchikos are Ireland’s greatest multi-instrumental busker, Tim Scalan, and rapper-drummer-trombonist Eimhim Craddock.