Newfoundland and Labrador’s own, Tarahan, is making quite the name for itself in the music scene.
Based out of St. John’s and playing regular performances in some of downtown’s prime spots with their folk and traditional music, Tarahan is currently working on a second album and has an ever-busy schedule.
The band also has local ties to Little Bay Islands.
Lorne Rowsell, one of five guys who complete the band, is a Little Bay Islands native. He will be making lots of noise this summer as he returns home with his fellow band-mates to headline the second annual Traditional Songwriters’ Festival running August 13-15.
“It’s especially exciting for me since I don’t get a chance to get back home as often as I’d like,” said Mr. Rowsell. “The rest of the band and their families are looking forward to it as well, after all, I’ve told them about the great LBI. I’m not even sure they believe it exists.”
Mr. Rowsell is no stranger to music and brings knowledge and experience of a wide range of musical instruments to the band.
“Dad first showed me some guitar chords when I was four years old. It kind of hurt so I threw it down again. At the ripe age of five, I asked him for a refresher course and I’ve been at it ever since,” he said. “While growing up though, I found that nearly everyone played guitar – and guitar only. I think the monotony of that pushed me to explore new instruments.”
He noted that he also plays the tenor banjo, which he picked up around Grade 9 and has since added to his repertoire the tenor mandolin, tin whistle, five-string banjo, concertina, bouzouki, bodhran, drums, harmonica, fiddle, strum stick and didgeridoo.
In 2006, upon the suggestion of the bass player who happened to be an old college roommate that he had jammed with, Mr. Rowsell was given the opportunity to join the band.
“He mentioned an opening within the band and that I should sit in on a session or two. So, I auditioned and I guess the rest is history.”
The Little Bay Islands’ native said he was “fortunate” to find a niche with Tarahan.
“Despite the fact that behind closed doors we sometimes fight like brothers, we’re a pretty tight-knit bunch with a great passion for playing,” he said.
All five band members are from four different communities and each have a different personality to add to the mix, he added.
When asked how he contributed to the band most strongly he replied, “I’ve heard mention about this quiet leadership bit, but who knows? There may be a little more foolishness from my corner but we all contribute equally on a professional level.”
Tarahan is gaining in exposure throughout the province and is welcomed by fans and spectators.
“All feedback received so far has been the absolute best,” he said. “People are so kind and it’s really amazing to see how many people enjoy the style of music.
“Aside from the wide variety of live performances, we are receiving great exposure on all local radio stations and were featured on a local television show with an invitation to return.”
Mr. Rowsell proudly speaks of Little Bay Islands and demonstrates his anticipation for the festival.
“Such a congregation of performers and patrons adds so much life to the island; it truly exposes what this unique place has to offer,” he said. “Like many other outport communities, Little Bay Islands has produced more than its share of musical talent.”
With the Traditional Songwriters’ Festival right around the corner, patrons and attendees are gearing up for what is bound to be another successful event for Little Bay Islands.
“There’s certainly a strong personal note attached to this one…I hope they’re not disappointed,” he said. “It’s been a long time since I played a few tunes with the boys so don’t be surprised to hear a song or two wailing from the government wharf come daylight.”
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