Saltairelive scoops yet another coup for its World Heritage stage tonight, with legendary Irish band Altan.

They are in the UK for just five dates on their autumn tour with their new album Gleann Nimhe and Saltaire’s Victoria Hall is hosting one of those gigs.

There are few bigger names in Irish music than Altan, who take their name from a loch in their native Donegal, and with a seven-year gap since their last album, the new material has been eagerly awaited by fans anxious to hear the band’s latest offering. Altan’s trademark combination of beautifully measured songs – some in English, some in Gaelic – from the haunting voice of Mairead ni Mhaonaigh and explosive sets of traditional tunes, jigs and reels will be well worth the wait.

Tonight’s audience can look forward to a classic line-up of bouzouki, guitar, fiddles, whistle and accordion, stirring up all the irresistible energy of Irish music at its best.

The first time Altan came to Bradford it was in their early days in the 1990s when they took the stage at The Wool Exchange during Bradford Festival. Now it is Saltaire’s turn. SaltaireLive promoter Simon Heginbotham said: “They haven’t done much in the UK over the last few years and are back over for just five dates this October, so we’re really excited that one of the dates is in Saltaire.”

The gig starts at 7.30pm. For tickets go to saltairelive.co.uk for details or call (01274) 588614.