. Though they are steeped in Irish musical tradition – Seamus himself was brought up in the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking area) of Dingle, in Co. Kerry – they are keenly aware of the strong cultural affinities between Scotland and Ireland.  "It's great to be asked to take part in the Blas Festival. It looks as if Blas has the potential to become a really big international event and we're pleased to be performing during its inaugural year. Of course there's the added attraction of performing in the Highlands given the longstanding cultural connections between Ireland and Scotland. It should be great fun."

Seumas, the son of local accordionist Bhreandáin Bheaglaoich, played music from an early age, and at 14 started playing accordion at local dances. In 1972 he recorded his first album, An Ciarraíoch Mallaithe with his sister Máire. Jim Murray is the hottest young guitarist to emerge from Ireland in recent years. Jim's playing has firmly established him on the Irish scene and he has performed with the likes of Sharon Shannon, Steve Earl, Liam O'Flionn and Capercaillie.

The recently recorded Ragairne, whose title roughly translates as ‘revelling at night’, captures the two musicians at their creative peak. Ragairne also was accorded the honour of being named Album Of The Year in Hotpress and Folk/Traditional Album Of The Year in the Irish Times.

“We’re looking forward to Seamus and Jim’s performances later this week”, said Brian Ó hEadhra, Blas’s Artistic Co-ordinator. “They are tremendous musicians and will certainly impress audiences here. The Blas Festival has got off to a great start with packed houses here and there throughout the Highlands being entertained by superb performers. With big draws such as Seumas and Jim  still to appear, we are pretty confident that the momentum Blas has built can be maintained if not increased further.”  

At one of their all too rare appearances in Scotland a reviewer was moved to say about them. “The two are so in tune with each other's playing that it's like watching synchronised acrobatics, they just fly!” 

So lookout Raasay, Poolewe and Ballachulish a night of revelry is in store and you’re in danger of being serious entertained.

Seamus Begley and Jim Murray are appearing during the Blas Festival at Raasay House on the 7^th September, Ballachulish Village Hall on the 8^th and Poolewe Village Hall on the 9^th September.