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Original Celtic Rock influenced by Irish Folk, Led Zeppelin, U2 and Muse.  

Skellig was originally formed in South Africa, after Chris and Lisa moved to Cape Town in 1990. Returning to the UK in 1994, Skellig UK continued for several years, producing two CDs, "In Another Time" and "Fragile". In 2005 they decided to move to Canada. Fellow Ladysmither Mike joined in 2007, followed by his son Will, and the accomplished Shelley Brown was added to the mix in 2011, with Dylan Wickham filling in on guitar.  In Canada, Skellig has produced the 2008 EP "Skellig" and the 2011 Album "Kingdom Come".

Apart from being competent musicians,... Skellig is a true family band and therein lies our great strength. Our audience loves the fact that we are family. This brings a sense of connection with people, young and old. Our fans and fellow musicians are now our extended family here on the island. We support original music, enjoy playing some covers and organizing events for charity, but most of all we have fun! 

Chris Burness

Chris Burness

Lead Vocals. Having been the front man in many bands previously, Chris dominates the stage as the lead singer for Skellig. His extremely powerful rock vocals are impressive live as is his performance! He is commonly known as "Billy the Viking". Anyone who has seen him knows why! Influences: U2, Runrig, REM & Led Zeppelin.

Caleb Burness

Caleb Burness

Drummer / Percussion. After becoming frustrated with drummer turnover, Chris and Lisa came to the logical conclusion that they would have to grow one. There is no doubt that the experiment is an overwhelming succes! Caleb brings a creative and steady back beat well beyond his years - thanks to 3 good rock helpings per day.

Mike O'Shaughnessy

Mike Oshaughnessy

Bass Guitar. Mike is a home-grown Vancouver Island product and joined Skellig early in 2008. He enjoys virtually every style of music and is developing a serious tea problem. Influences: Rush, David Crowder, Peter Gabriel, Red Hot Chili Peppers.

 

 

Lisa Burness

Lisa Burness

Electric Violin / Acoustic Guitar / Backing Vocals. Having laid her violin to rest at the age of 14 after completely messing up a solo in front of the whole school, Lisa was persuaded to pick it up again several years later and, after experimenting with effects, has come up with her own unique sound. She started song-writing in South Africa. She also provides acoustic guitar and backing vocals on stage. Influences: Fleetwood Mac, U2, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Rachmaninov & Cranberries.

Will O'Shaughnessy

Will O'Shaughnessy

Keyboards / Percussion / Mandolin / Guitar. Will rounds out the band perfectly with his skills in keyboards, percussion and anything else Lisa can think to throw at him. LIke his Dad, Will is developing a dangerous fondness for Orange Pekoe with sugar at or beyond the legal limit. Influences include Relient K, Switchfoot, Mute Math, Muse, "Weird Al" Yankovic.

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