Ossian emerged on the folk scene in Scotland in the 1970's and fast became a popular focus for a whole generation of up and coming traditional musicians.
Mae McKenna (sister of Hugh McKenna of The Sensational Alex Harvey Band) was introduced to a band formed by Billy Jackson, George Jackson and John Martin who at that time called themselves Contraband
The band recorded one album on the Transatlantic label in 1974 but when shortly after Mae left to start a solo career Contraband disbanded in the Spring of 1975.
Within a couple of years, Billy, George and John had joined forces with guitarist/singer Billy Ross to become Ossian. They recorded two famous CDs Ossian (1977) and St Kilda Wedding (1978). More changes when Billy Ross left for a solo career but singer/guitarst Tony Cuffe stepped and the band took on their most distinctive sound to date.
Ossian went on to record some very fine albums and achieve wide international acclaim. To celebrate 20 years since the group was formed, a memorable Ossian reunion took place at Celtic Connections in 1996 and featured the line-up Billy Jackson, George Jackson, Billy Ross, John Martin, Tony Cuffe and Iain MacDonald.
Tony Cuffe died in 2001 and George Jackson in July 1998.
Billy Jackson continues a hugely sucessful solo career both as a composer and performer. John Martin went on to join Easy Club and latterly is enjoying international acclaim with the Tannahill Weavers.
Discography:
- Ossian - Springthyme Records SPR 1004, 1977
- St Kilda Wedding - Iona Records IR001, 1978
- Seal Song - Iona Records IR002, 1981
- Dove Across the Water - Iona Records IR004, 1982
- Borders - Iona Records IR007, 1984
- Light On a Distant Shore - Iona Records IR009, 1986
- The Carrying Stream - Greentrax CDTRAX 127, 1997
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