Cara Dillon

Biography

Born in 1975 and raised in her home town of Dungiven, Co. Derry, Cara Dillon comes from a family steeped in the musical tradition of Ireland. She sings with a clarity, beauty and style that will set people wondering why on earth they might not have noticed her already. Certain phrases are often used to describe new young talent but rarely are they so richly deserved; Cara has an exceptional gift and is, undoubtedly, a rising star.

'...without exaggeration, amongst the very finest to be heard today'

Folk Roots Magazine.

At 14 years old Cara won the acclaimed All Ireland Traditional Singing Trophy and from there went on to earn her reputation as an outstanding vocalist with the young Irish band, Oiga. She toured extensively with them through-out the UK, Germany and Israel.

In 1995 Cara replaced singer Kate Rusby, in the new 'folk-super group', Equation, whilst Kate went onto pursue a solo career. Cara's arrival in the band helped them to secure a major recording contract with Warner Music UK. Despite this, she left Equation a year later together with one of the band's founding members, Sam Lakeman.

Sam, also born in 1975, grew up in a small village in Devon and like Cara, comes from a rich musical background. He toured regularly with his brothers Sean and Seth, releasing his first solo album 'Three Piece Suite' in 1994 and subsequently forming Equation.

Over the past few years since then Cara's musical partnership with Sam Lakemen has gone from strength to strength developing an imaginative style with considerable flare. It belies the fact that they are both barely 25. Perhaps this unusual level of musical prowess has been enhanced by the years of touring to rapturous audiences, as well as gaining valuable experience working with producers from both sides of the Atlantic.

Or maybe these artistes are simply proof that a certain kind of magic is there in the blood.

Cara was recently invited to work on the Ghostland project, with Sinead O'Connor and a dazzling new album is due for release on Rough Trade Records in 2001.