"Songs of the Hebrides" by Alison Pearce and Susan Drake is a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of traditional Scottish folk music. Released in 1981 on the Hyperion label, this album is a beautifully curated collection of Hebridean folksongs, meticulously arranged by Marjory Kennedy-Fraser and Kenneth MacLeod. The enchanting vocals of soprano Alison Pearce are accompanied by the delicate and evocative harp playing of Susan Drake, creating a mesmerizing blend of ancient melodies and timeless stories.
The album features 21 tracks, each a gem of Scottish heritage, spanning a variety of subjects from love songs and laments to tales of war and clan attributes. Highlights include the hauntingly beautiful "An Eriskay Lullaby," the lively "The Leaping Galley," and the poignant "Ailein Duinn," a Harris love lament. The arrangements, often credited to Kennedy-Fraser and sometimes in collaboration with Granville Bantock, breathe new life into these traditional songs, making them accessible and appealing to both folk music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
With a duration of just over 53 minutes, "Songs of the Hebrides" offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of the musical traditions of the Hebrides. The album's production, overseen by Mark Brown and engineered by Tony Faulkner, ensures a high-quality listening experience, allowing the nuances of Pearce's vocals and Drake's harp playing to shine through. Whether you're a fan of traditional music or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted song, "Songs of the Hebrides" is an album that will resonate deeply and leave a lasting impression.
Vinylscout