Grada

Gráda is a traditional Irish music band, founded in 2001, whose members are a mix of Irish and New Zealand musicians. Gráda is based in Dublin and Galway, Ireland, but spend much of their time touring internationally. In 2006, Gráda played in 16 different countries. In 2011, Gráda disbanded to work on individual projects. The group draws from a wide range of influences, which has seen them working with Dave Hingerty (The Frames, The Swell Season); Vyviene Long (cellist with Damien Rice); and, as a producer, Trevor Hutchinson (Lúnasa, Sharon Shannon, The Waterboys). Further additions have included Dublin based trumpeter Bill Blackmore and percussionist Rasmus Skovmand. In 2008, it was announced Colin Farrell had decided to leave the band. Multi-instrumentalist David Doocey is currently touring with the band. In April 2009, Alan Doherty left the band and was replaced by Stephen Doherty (no relation). Alan returned to the group in 2011.