ABOUT

“His low whistle skills put Ali amongst the greatest, with names such as Brian Finnegan and Michael McGoldrick coming to mind.”
– FolkWorld review of ‘Project SMOK’

Hailing from Maryburgh, a small village in the northeast of Scotland, Ali Levack has firmly established himself as one of the most electrifying and influential instrumentalists in Scottish traditional music today.

As the frontman of the virtuosic indie-trad trio Project SMOK and one-half of the duo GLIN with acclaimed guitarist Craig Irving, Ali’s distinctive approach to the whistle and pipes has earned him a reputation as a trailblazer in the genre. His playing is marked by a rare combination of technical brilliance, raw energy, and unmistakable musicality.

A sought-after collaborator, Ali has recorded on over 50 albums and singles worldwide, lending his artistry to a diverse array of projects. He has worked alongside an impressive roster of artists, including Sam Lee, Valtos, Beth Malcolm, Edwyn Collins, Donald Shaw, Tidelines, and Anxo Lorenzo, to name a few. His ability to blend traditional styles seamlessly with contemporary influences has made him a defining voice in modern folk music.

Since winning the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year award in 2020, Ali has been a driving force in composing and releasing new music. His two published tune books have been met with critical acclaim, with a third volume currently in the works.

Now, with the release of his long-awaited, self-titled debut album—featuring an exhilarating collection of original compositions and a stellar lineup of guest musicians—Ali continues to push the boundaries of traditional music, captivating audiences with his bold, innovative sound.