Lighthouse is excited to welcome contemporary world music pioneers Afro Celt Sound System to Poole on Friday 25 October as part of their first tour since 2019.

Their ground-breaking fusion of African, Gaelic and Bhangra influenced sounds has won the hearts and minds of audiences since the group’s beginnings over 25 years ago. With album sales now topping more than one and a half million, two Grammy nominations to date and tours all around the world, they are the legendary afro-celtic band bringing spirits and music from different cultures together for a breath-taking show.

And despite the untimely passing after prolonged illness of their Dorset-based founder Simon Emmerson a year ago, the group are proud to showcase a new album OVA – short for Ovate, the Afro Celt symbol – to be released in his memory in October. Simon brought the groundbreaking group together and was the driving force in its innovative, genre defying recordings and live shows. His loss will be felt for many years by both the band and their fans alike.

However, Simon was steadfast in his belief that the band should continue after his passing, and had been working on the new album for some time.

Afro Celt Sound System are: N’Faly Kouyate (vocals, kora, balafon), Johnny Kalsi (dhol), Eric Renwart (sound system, electronic bass), Lottie Cullen (pipes, whistles), Miadhach-Lughain O’Donnell (vocals, flute), Robbie Harris (bodhran), Kalifa Koné (djembé, talking drum), Fanta Yayo (vocals).

Tickets on sale now at https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/whats-on/ or on 01202 280000.