-- with an up-to-date flavour.

For the Island's folk music afficianados have brought in top Canadian/Celtic band Mad Pudding for a concert tomorrow, followed by a no-holds-barred Scots-style ceilidh on Saturday night.

The Oxford English Dictionary defines a ceilidh as an "informal gathering for music, dancing, etc.'' But Folk Club spokesman Paul Maccoy stressed that people do not have to have Celtic roots to join in the fun.

He said: "It doesn't matter if are Scottish -- it's a good night out. And you don't even have to know the steps.

"There will be people there who do and they'll be demonstrating them for novices.'' Mad Pudding -- based in Vancouver -- appeared in Bermuda last year and have also featured at the internationally-renowned Shetland Folk Festival in Scotland and done a full-European tour.

They offer a unique mix of the traditional with a contemporary twist on Celtic culture -- and a sense of humour.

Mr. Maccoy said: "They have been described variously as Canadian Celtic or Celtic funk -- they're not strictly traditional, although they do play in the traditional manner as well.'' Mad Pudding use fiddles, bass, drums, acoustic guitar and penny whistle, as well as mandolin and bozouki, to create their eclectic brand of folk.

The Folk Club -- which last year threw a hugely successful spring festival -- has changed its game plan this year, opting to spread acts out over a longer period.

And Mr. Maccoy said it is hoped to bring folk veteran Rod McKenzie to Bermuda in June.

He added: "The Folk Club wants to build on its success -- and we've definitely got off to a very active start.'' The Mad Pudding concert is at the Old Colony Club, Trott Road, Hamilton tomorrow night. The concert starts at 8.30 p.m., with tickets $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Some tickets may be available at the door.

The ceilidh is at Hamilton's Mariners' Club, starting at 8 p.m. on Saturday.

Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for non-members.

Tickets for both events are available at Music Box, Reid Street, Hamilton.