All eight members of Rack & Ruin hail from Cullivoe in Yell, where they grew up immersed in the grand tradition of the "clubroom tune" at the local hall. The band was formed by Barry Nisbet, David Spence, Kevin Tulloch and Martin Henderson in 1994, with much of their material featuring the traditional Cullivoe style of fiddle-playing, which can be traced back over 100 years.
The sound of the band evolved over time as each member developed their own individual style and musical preferences.
In recent years the line-up has expanded to include Michael Nisbet, Brian Spence and Leslie Tulloch - all younger brothers of founder members. The fuller sound of the "big band" is completed by percussionist Jack Jamieson. Inspired by traditional Shetland tunes, outlaw country and Americana, Rack & Ruin are proud purveyors of "Yellbilly" country rock.
Unfortunately the band are separated by distance at the moment, with members based in Liverpool and Dundee, but Rack & Ruin provide a memorable spree for audiences at their intermittent gigs. If you get the chance, it's worth coming along to see North Yell's premiere tractor-riding, sheep-thieving, peat-raising, smooriken-stealing party band.
Find them on Facebook and SoundCloud.
