World music in a true folk roots' fusion

Come along for some toe-tapping music by Across the Great Divide.

The band are on tour from the end of the month, playing 21 venues in 28 days, and will be in Whakatāne next Saturday night.

Featuring Karen Jones, Tony Burt and Hanna Wiskari Griffiths, their music is a mix of traditional, contemporary and original songs and tunes from Celtic and Americana roots.

Americana dobro player, guitar master and composer Burt, Scots traditionalist on harp, vocals and guitar Jones, and Scandinavian soprano sax player Wiskari Griffiths bring together instruments and genres which seldom grace the same stage, weaving Celtic airs and Americana traditions into high-energy dance tunes, complete with social comment and heritage.

And their message through it all is their love and respect for the shared traditions, friendship, community, unity and whakapapa.

An Across The Great Divide concert isn’t a quiet affair. Strap yourself in for a wild, toe-tapping and emotionally laden journey, perfectly held together by their passion for their traditions.

This is Across the Great Divide’s second tour with Arts on Tour New Zealand.

What: Across the Great Divide

Where: St George & St John Church

When: 7pm, Saturday, August 31

Tickets: $30, Kids $20, eventfinda.co.nz & The Good life shop