One of Scotland’s oldest museums was rocked back to the Iron Age, as an up-and-coming heavy metal band made its live debut among its treasures and exhibits.
Musician Iain Scott performed with his group Cruithin in the usually tranquil setting of the Perth Museum and Art Gallery.
The unusual gig helped Culture Perth and Kinross, which runs the visitor attraction, celebrate its first birthday.
But it also chalked up points towards Iain’s degree, because his original songs carry themes of Picts and ancient Scottish times.
Iain, a long term lover of both metal music and history, had been writing songs with Celtic Iron Age themes as part of his music degree final project.
After learning that a live performance in an appropriate venue could contribute to his dissertation, the Perth College student approached museum bosses with the idea for a gig-with-a-difference.
Culture Perth and Kinross agreed and Cruithin was formed, made up of Iain backed up by three friends on guitar and drums.
They played in the museum’s history gallery, aptly enough among the heavy metal exhibits.
Iain said: “I’ve been interested in ancient history since I was little, particularly weapons and military history. Next to music, history has been a passion of mine.
“As part of our final project we have to perform original music. I saw that Perth Museum had been putting on some interesting performances, including a rap artist, so I took a chance and approached them and it worked.
“My dissertation looks at the impact of national identity on folk metal, so it was a perfect fit.”
Innovative live performances are part of Culture Perth and Kinross’s mission.
The charity trust’s chief executive Helen Smout said: “Having Cruithin play at our birthday party sums up what our organisation is all about, which is to celebrate Perth and Kinross’s culture in surprising and innovative ways.
“The band went down a storm and we were delighted to help Iain with his degree project.”
Perth last week submitted its bid to become UK City of Culture 2021.
The museum could house the historic Stone of Destiny, if a bid by council bosses to secure the treasure is successful.
Iain is now contemplating whether to continue with Cruithin, or if the performance was just a one-off.
