Members
Select a Runrig band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Runrig is a Scottish band that has masterfully blended elements of rock, folk rock, Celtic rock, and traditional Scottish folk music since its formation in 1973. Originating from Skye, Scotland, the band was initially formed by Rory MacDonald (bass, vocals), Calum MacDonald (percussion, lyrics), and Blair Douglas (accordion, keyboards). Over the years, the lineup evolved to include Donnie Munro (vocals), Peter Wishart (keyboards), Iain Bayne (drums), and Malcolm Jones (guitar), with Bruce Guthro taking over lead vocals from Munro in 1999. Known for their anthemic sound and pride in Scottish heritage, Runrig has released numerous albums, establishing a dedicated following, especially in the UK and Celtic music circles.
How to Sound Like Runrig
Runrig's sound is characterized by its anthemic and melodic qualities, enriched with traditional Celtic influences. The music often features layered guitars that are both powerful and emotive, a dynamic achieved through the use of amplifiers like the Mesa/Boogie Recto-Verb 25 and the Mesa/Boogie Triple Rectifier 150W Solo Head. These amps contribute to the band's robust and expansive sound, while the use of a Gibson ES-335 adds a rich, warm tone to their guitar work. The integration of traditional instruments such as the accordion and bagpipes with modern rock elements results in a soundscape that is both culturally resonant and universally appealing. The rhythmic foundation, often bolstered by Rory MacDonald's use of a Fender Precision Bass, provides a steady and melodic underpinning that enhances the band's spirited energy and emotional depth.
Discography
The Highland Connection
1979
Recovery
1981
Heartland
1985
The Cutter and the Clan
1987
Once in a Lifetime (Live)
1988
Searchlight
1989
Play Gaelic
1990
The Big Wheel
1991
Amazing Things
1993
Transmitting Live
1994
Mara
1995
Live at Rockpalast (Live, Düsseldorf, 1996)
1996
Beat the Drum
1998
In Search of Angels
1999
BBC Sessions & Live At The Royal Concert Hall
1999
Scotland's Glory: Runrig's Ballads
2000
![Live at Rockpalast (Christmas Special) [Live, Cologne, 2001] album cover](https://images.equipboard.com/uploads/album/image/105888/live-at-rockpalast-christmas-special-live-cologne-2001.jpg)
Live at Rockpalast (Christmas Special) [Live, Cologne, 2001]
2001
The Stamping Ground
2001
Proterra
2003
Everything You See
2007
Beat the Drum, Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness: Year of the Flood (Highland Year of Culture 2007)
2008
Party on the Moor (40: The Black Isle Showground Muir of Ord, Scottish Highlands, Saturday 10 August 2013)
2014
50 Great Songs
2016
The Ones That Got Away
2018
The Last Dance - Farewell Concert (Live at Stirling)
2019
The Cutter & The Clan (Expanded Edition)
2024
Get the Runrig Sound
Want to sound like Runrig? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
