Celtic progressive rock band Iona was formed in 1989 by multi-instrumentalists David Fitzgerald (saxophones, flutes, recorder, and tin whistle), Dave Bainbridge (keyboards, electric guitar) and lead vocalist Joanne Hogg.
Iona took their name from the small island off the west coast of Scotland. The group wrote spiritual, atmospheric, inspiring music.
By the time Iona recorded its first self-titled album, Iona, the band had expanded, featuring new members Terl Bryant on drums; Tim Harries on bass, Troy Donockley on pipes, whistles, flutes; and Peter Whitfield on strings.
The group combined rock, traditional folk, progressive music and ethnic and ambient elements showcasing the crystalline voice of Joanne Hogg.
Iona built up an admirable reputation as a talented live band. They released 7 highly praised studio albums, four live albums, and two boxed sets. The Book of Iona, a 17 disc compendium, includes the band’s entire discography plus a lot of bonus material.
Iona disbanded in 2016.
Discography:
Iona (What? Records, 1990)
The Book of Kells (What? Records, 1992)
Beyond These Shores (What? Records, 1993)
Journey into the Morn (ForeFront Records, 1996)
Heaven’s Bright Sun (Open Sky, 1997)
Woven Cord, with the All Souls Orchestra (ForeFront Records, 1999)
Open Sky (ForeFront Records, 2000)
The River Flows: Anthology Volume 1, 4-CD boxed set (Open Sky, 2002)
The Circling Hour (Open Sky, 2006)
Live in London (Open Sky, 2008)
Another Realm (Open Sky, 2011)
Edge of the World: Live in Europe (Open Sky, 2013)
The Book of Iona, 17-disc boxed set (2020)
Videos on DVD
Iona (Open Sky, 2004)
Live in London (Open Sky, 2006)