Authentic Irish jigs and reels from Poisoned Dwarf

These days, plenty of bands make money by blending Celtic music with rock 'n' roll.

Then there's Poisoned Dwarf.

Although members of the all-instrumental group say they love experimental rock, punk and even heavy metal, their overall approach to Irish music is relatively respectful.

Subtle hints of rock and bluegrass poke through their sound from time to time, but they don't crowd out the traditional tones.

"That's what keeps us going, the traditional side," said band founder Thomas DeRose. "Generally, we're traditionalists."

Three members of Poisoned Dwarf are alumni of the Colonial Williamsburg's Fifes and Drums. One of them, Lance Pedigo, is currently the corps' drum major. Another member of the band is a classically trained musician while yet another has roots in the Akron, Ohio, punk rock scene.

All of them currently work for the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

In the following interview with DeRose, this traditional group's untraditional outlook shines through.

Explain your name. The name comes from a Scottish pipe tune. The nickname "Poisoned Dwarf" is given to the Highland Light Infantry Regiment raised in Glasgow, Scotland. It is also a term given to British Soldiers who act inappropriately under the influence of alcohol.

Where is home base? Williamsburg

When did the band start? 2001-ish

Who plays what? Eric Hunter, banjo, guitar; Wayne Hill, fiddle, guitar; Lance Pedigo, bohdran, djembe, triangle, slappy things, shakey things and percussion; Stewart Pittman, whistle, smallpipes, low whistle, bones, shaker; Thomas DeRose, flute, whistle, button accordion.

Describe your style. Our style is mainly traditional music of Ireland, with music of Scotland, Cape Breton and Brittany mixed in. The result is energetically arranged music that is fun to listen to and entertaining to play.

Who are your musical heroes? The Beatles, The Clash, The Pogues, Dervish, Matt Molloy, Herb Watson, The Chieftains, Donal Lunny, Iron Maiden, John Moon, Frank Zappa, They Might be Giants, Lunasa, Mozart, the Bothy Band, Cab Calloway, Kevin Crawford, Rush.

What's your favorite local stage? It's a toss up between First Night Williamsburg and the Southwind Cafe in Mathews.

Describe your dream gig. Austin City Limits, Grand Ole Opry, opening act for Metallica.

Anything strange happen at a St. Patrick's Day show? Green panties thrown at us onstage.

Ultimate goal? To keep on playing the music that makes us happy. Or … maybe be on a soundtrack for a Spielberg movie.

News to Use

Poisoned Dwarf has the following performances scheduled:

• Friday and Saturday, Williamsburg Scottish Festival

• Sunday, Occasion for the Arts, Williamsburg

• Oct 26, Richmond Highland Games & Celtic Festival, Richmond Raceway Complex

• Dec 6, Newport News Main Street Library Celtic Christmas

For information on the band, visit www.poisoneddwarf.com or www.poisoneddwarf5.myspace.com. Call 804-266-5850.