I have never been a great fan of the ‘pipes’ as they are usually associated with the Scottish Bagpipe Bands playing versions of Amazing Grace. However I have recently come across the music of the so called ‘Goddesses of Bagpipes’ who have made me re-evaluate my opinion. So let’s begin with them playing together their version of the Dropkick Murphy’s ‘Shipping Up To Boston’ and see if we can get your toes tapping.
Archy Jay, better known online as TheSnakeCharmer and Archy J, is an Indian musician and YouTuber She is best known for her bagpipe covers of various songs. Often, when covering something from a video game or film, she may do a themed music video, dressing up as something from the film or game. Her music has a few different genre influences, including metal, Celtic, EDM and Folk, often blending several at once.
Our next Goddess is Jane Espie, otherwise known as the Phantom Piper. She started playing bagpipes at the age of 8 and by 18 I was experimenting with different sounds. She wanted to change peoples perception of the bagpipes and at the age at 21 I she broke away from the “traditional bagpiper” ways. She knew that the bagpipes can do much more. There is a powerful force within the bagpipes. That is how The Phantom Piper was born.
She has played with big bands such as the famous Saor Patrol and Celtica – Pipes Rock. With an explosive show not to be missed and with a unique sound of blazing bagpipes, mighty drums and the power of a rock band, Celtica takes by storm all audiences from all across the globe. In addition to their high energy music and flamethrowers on their instruments, guarantees a very exciting show for everyone!
I must mention the third piper here, although there are no videos of her except ‘Shipping Up To Boston’. Formerly known as Chelsea the Piper, the Dame of Drones adds a modern twist to an ancient tradition. This fiery female bagpiper makes music more magical with a mix of fresh frequencies and a passion for piping. She has performed with Celtica Pipes Rock, Celtica Nova, 1916, Potcheen, The Angry Brians, and as we know, the Goddesses of Bagpipes; collaboration with the Snake Charmer and The Phantom Piper.
