When you go to the 2002 website the new release Celtic Fairy Dream is introduced as a relaxing, soothing, nurturing music for peaceful rest and sleep. Celtic Fairy Dream is a collection of timeless songs from ancient lands. Harps, flutes, piano, and subtle orchestration accompany delightful lyrics in Gaelic, Welsh and English. That puts it all into proper perspective for any potential listeners.
There is much more to this family’s music, however, Pamela, Randy, and Sarah Copus are the contributors to this lush soundscape. As the saying goes, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. In this case, what you hold within your mind’s eye may be different for all us, but what you hear is musical perfection with vocals that sound like they are coming straight from heaven.
The one thing that remains consistent throughout is Sarah’s incredible vocal talent. She is growing into the music with each release and mother and father have let her walk the path as they provide all the gorgeous layers of sounds for her silky sweet vocals to gloss over the top. She shines like a bright star on the verge of bursting into a supernova. I am hoping I have the opportunity to witness that event as time goes on, as each passing year will lend the experience and maturity to her vocal expertise and approach.
Sarah’s angelic vocals are the focal point of this album but she has the best support possible with her veteran musician parents. It is a beautiful thing, this amazing family and all their talents coming together as one musical energy. I am sure that there will be the third generation of musicians and vocalists someday but I am sure mom and dad are in no rush for that!
All ten tracks offer the listener a real music experience coming from three spiritual beings wishing to pass it on to humanity. They have been doing this for so long, I could not imagine another result than absolute bliss perfected in the studio.
Besides all of the excellent vocal tracks, there is an instrumental titled “Genevieve's Waltz” that puts the spotlight on the excellence of their musicianship. I am so glad that they did this track so listeners can realize the immense talent that these folks have, then to have a daughter with a voice like an angel, it completes the partnership. Celtic Fairy Dream takes their music to yet another level that so many people will most certainly appreciate. I would love to hear this album on vinyl someday, it would be amazing, not that it isn’t already. I am a firm believer that LPs give music a different dimension. This recording is well suited to be spinning on a turntable.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck April 10, 2020
Track List: 01. Castle of Dromore 5:00 02. The Green Fields of Autumn (Coinleach Glas an Fhomhair) 5:43 03. Dream(Suantrai) 5:07 04. South Wind 5:06 05. David of the White Rock (Dafydd y Garreg Wen) 4:41 06. Close Your Eyes (Dun do Shuil) 6:12 07. She Moved Through the Fair 5:59 08. Genevieve's Waltz 5:16 09. Little Bird (Einini) 5:41 10. Across the Waves (Trasna na d'Tonnta) 5:15
Available for pre-order now and will be released Jun 20, 2020
This amazing 17 disc set, captures not only all the studio albums from IONA but features almost the same amount of music again on a Companion Disk for each album. These companion discs, which Dave Bainbridge has personally overseen the assembly of are included; rare and unreleased studio recordings, different mixes, original demo recordings from when the songs were first written, plus new (mainly instrumental) recordings of many Iona songs featuring all Iona band members from each era of the bands history. Below is the provisional track listing to the “companion disks”. Additional tracks still being added at the time of writing.
In addition to the extra audio content of the box, also included is:
24 page A4 Booklet (full of previously unseen photos of the band and recently written sleeve notes to accompany each disc) Signed and Numbered certificate Reproduction memorabilia, Reproduction publicity photos, Poster.
Watch the promotional video:
IONA COMPANION AUDIO DISK
Turning Tide (remastered from original 2 track DAT master tape) Flight of the Wild Goose 1 (Dave's original demo) Flight of the Wild Goose (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape). The Island (Jo’s original demo) The Island (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape) White Sands (Dave's original demo) Dancing on the Wall (original demo) Dancing on the Wall (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape) A'Machair (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape) Vision of Naran (original demo) Vision of Naran (remastered from original 2 track DAT master tape) Beijing (Dave original demo) Iona (Jo’s original demo) Iona (remastered from original 2 track DAT master tape) Trilogy (first Iona studio demo version, which includes some sections not used on the album) Here I Stand (original version with piano) Columcille (with Electric guitar playing the melody!)
THE BOOK OF KELLS COMPANION AUDIO DISK
Kells Opening Theme (original demo) Revelation 1(early demo) Man - Vocal section 1 (demo, wordless vocal) Man - Vocal section 2 (demo, wordless vocal) Tree of Life (which became Mark the Lion) The River Flows (early demo) Faithful Heart (remastered from original 2 track mixtape) Virgin & Child (solo harp version) John the Eagle (demo, recorded on the Isle of Mull 1991) Kells Theme (Dave original demo) Kells Theme Jig! (Dave original demo) Eternity (Kensington Temple heavenly choir with new keyboards) Warrior of the Wasteland (studio recording with additional overdubs) Lost Tribe (demo March 1991) Harp & Whistle idea (demo March 1991) Watching You (demo). Sax / Keys Improvisation (demo September 1990, plus new additional keys). My Town (studio demo with new additional overdubs) Hard Way to Learn (demo with Frank violin - recorded on the Isle of Mull. in 1991) Reilig Orain (demo) Whistle & Keys Atmospheric (recorded on the Isle of Mull 1991)
BEYOND THESE SHORES COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Bird of Heaven (alternate vocal section - demo early 1993) Bird of Heaven (2007 remix) Machrie Moor (solo harp version) Burning Like Fire (rehearsal, Acton, London, early 1993) Beachy Head (rehearsal, Acton, London, early 1993) Murlough Bay (Jo's original demo, early 1993) Frippertronics (with Robert Fripp)
JOURNEY INTO THE MORN COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Bi-Se I Mo Shuil Part1 (Dave's original demo Feb 1995) Everything Changes (original completely different version, recorded during Kells album sessions) Journey into the Morn (2007 new arrangement & recording, featuring Roine Stolt) Frippertronics (with Robert Fripp) Moya Brennan & Joanne Hogg Vocal Loops
OPEN SKY COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Woven Cord (rehearsal take, including slow section not on the album version. Recorded at Joanne’s, Ireland 10/98) Wave after Wave (Dave & Jo's original demo Otley 3/99) Hinba (Jo’s original demo) Songs of Ascent Part 1 (Dave's early demo) Lament for the World (Dave & Jo's demo of this piece) Jo Hymn Tune idea (demo) A Dhia Gheigil (Angel of God) (Beautiful vocal version of this track, originally considered for inclusion on the album) Jo Song of Hope Vocal loops (from Open Sky album studio recording) I Cannot Understand (Dave & Jo song idea) Columba Poem song idea (Jo & Dave improvising around Columba’s 6th century creation poem) The Spacious Firmament (Jo & Dave working on a song idea which ended up on Jo’s first solo album) Voices (Jo Layered Vocals) Vocal Harmonies & Keys (nice layering of Joanne’s vocals over Dave’s chord progression)
THE CIRCLING HOUR COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
How Wonderful (original Jo & Dave demos, recorded late ’90’s in Ireland) Spirit of God (this version recorded in 2006 for BBC's Songs of Praise) Almighty Father Who Dost Give (this version recorded in 2006 for BBC's Songs of Praise)
ANOTHER REALM COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
All that we Have ever dreamed (recorded in July 2011. Troy plays low whistle on this demo, Jo piano, Dave keys & mixing) Jo & Dave Improvisation (Spontaneous improvisation, recorded at Open Sky Studio on 11th January 2011) Don’t Look Back (recorded October 2009 at Joanne’s, this was the original demo of what became White Horse) Dave & Martin Improvisation 1 (Spontaneous improvisation, recorded 14th December 2010) Gotta Lift Our Eyes Up (recorded in October 2009 at Joanne’s, another song considered for ‘Another Realm’) Dave & Martin Improvisation 2 Valley of Decision (recorded in October 2009 at Joanne’s, another song considered for ‘Another Realm’) Dave & Martin Improvisation Pipes Free What a Day (recorded in February 2010 at Joanne’s, another track considered for ‘Another Realm’) Dave & Martin Improvisation Pipes Hymn-like And the Angels Dance (single mix) Slow Air ( Martin & Dave - Recorded in February 2010 at Joanne’s)
THE SOUND WORLD OF IONA Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Featuring newly recorded, mainly instrumental tracks, with contributions from all past Iona band members
White Sands (Nick Beggs & Dave Bainbridge) Shell of Speech (Tim Harries with Dave Bainbridge. Based on sound samples from the Journey into the Morn album) I Will Give My Love and Apple (Dave Bainbridge solo piano version) Edge of the World (Mike Haughton & Dave Bainbridge) Air from France (Martin Nolan & Dave Bainbridge) Luke - the Calf (Dave Bainbridge guitar version) Táimse im Chodladh (Martin Nolan & Dave Bainbridge) Today (Dave Bainbridge solo piano version) Beyond These Shores (with special guest Sally Minnear) Beijing (widescreen remix) Plus other new recordings tbc, featuring David Fitzgerald, Terl Bryant, Frank Van Essen, Troy Donockley, Martin Neil, Phil Barker & Sally Minnear
Formed in 1989, IONA took their name from the small island off the west coast of Scotland. From the beginning, their aim was to write spiritual, atmospheric, yet uplifting music that would stir the emotions, weaving complex patterns that echo the intricate knot work of the great Celtic artists. Often inspired by the great figures of the Celtic Golden Age such as Columba, Aidan, Brendan and Patrick, IONA's music is as timeless as the message that reaches out to us across the centuries.
Uniquely combining rock / folk / progressive / ethnic and ambient elements with the crystalline voice of Joanne Hogg as their focus, IONA created 'a blaze of colours and textures...all the sounds fusing into a single, yearning, heartfelt beautiful cry.'
IONA built up a formidable reputation as a great live band with their incredible musicianship and disarmingly humorous banter and were noted for their timeless and innovative studio recordings. They released 7 acclaimed studio albums, four live albums (three doubles, plus one with The All Souls Orchestra), a beautifully illustrated 4 cd box set and two DVDs. Their last album, the 2cd ‘Edge of the World - Live in Europe’ was released in 2013.
Five years on from the bands last live performance and the decision to cease touring and recording “for the foreseeable future” comes ‘The Book of Iona’, the first of a series of Iona box set releases from Gonzo Multimedia. Including all the bands official studio albums, ‘The Book of Iona’ also features companion disks unique to each album, containing previously unreleased songs, original demos, alternate mixes and much more, all personally collated by founder member and band producer Dave Bainbridge. On top of this is included a cd of newly recorded (mainly instrumental) versions of Iona songs featuring performances from all previous Iona band members.
The band are thrilled that Iona’s music will once again be available to reach new listeners in search of innovative and emotive words and music that touches the soul. The ’wild goose' is indeed flying again.
Available for pre-order now and will be released Jun 20, 2020
This amazing 17 disc set, captures not only all the studio albums from IONA but features almost the same amount of music again on a Companion Disk for each album. These companion discs, which Dave Bainbridge has personally overseen the assembly of are included; rare and unreleased studio recordings, different mixes, original demo recordings from when the songs were first written, plus new (mainly instrumental) recordings of many Iona songs featuring all Iona band members from each era of the bands history. Below is the provisional track listing to the “companion disks”. Additional tracks still being added at the time of writing.
In addition to the extra audio content of the box, also included is:
24 page A4 Booklet (full of previously unseen photos of the band and recently written sleeve notes to accompany each disc) Signed and Numbered certificate Reproduction memorabilia, Reproduction publicity photos, Poster.
Watch the promotional video:
IONA COMPANION AUDIO DISK
Turning Tide (remastered from original 2 track DAT master tape)
Flight of the Wild Goose 1 (Dave's original demo)
Flight of the Wild Goose (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape).
The Island (Jo’s original demo)
The Island (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape)
White Sands (Dave's original demo)
Dancing on the Wall (original demo)
Dancing on the Wall (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape)
A'Machair (original album version - remastered from original 2 track mixtape)
Vision of Naran (original demo)
Vision of Naran (remastered from original 2 track DAT master tape)
Beijing (Dave original demo)
Iona (Jo’s original demo)
Iona (remastered from original 2 track DAT master tape)
Trilogy (first Iona studio demo version, which includes some sections not used on the album)
Here I Stand (original version with piano)
Columcille (with Electric guitar playing the melody!)
THE BOOK OF KELLS COMPANION AUDIO DISK
Kells Opening Theme (original demo)
Revelation 1(early demo)
Man - Vocal section 1 (demo, wordless vocal)
Man - Vocal section 2 (demo, wordless vocal)
Tree of Life (which became Mark the Lion)
The River Flows (early demo)
Faithful Heart (remastered from original 2 track mixtape)
Virgin & Child (solo harp version)
John the Eagle (demo, recorded on the Isle of Mull 1991)
Kells Theme (Dave original demo)
Kells Theme Jig! (Dave original demo)
Eternity (Kensington Temple heavenly choir with new keyboards)
Warrior of the Wasteland (studio recording with additional overdubs)
Lost Tribe (demo March 1991)
Harp & Whistle idea (demo March 1991)
Watching You (demo).
Sax / Keys Improvisation (demo September 1990, plus new additional keys).
My Town (studio demo with new additional overdubs)
Hard Way to Learn (demo with Frank violin - recorded on the Isle of Mull. in 1991)
Reilig Orain (demo)
Whistle & Keys Atmospheric (recorded on the Isle of Mull 1991)
BEYOND THESE SHORES COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Bird of Heaven (alternate vocal section - demo early 1993)
Bird of Heaven (2007 remix)
Machrie Moor (solo harp version)
Burning Like Fire (rehearsal, Acton, London, early 1993)
Beachy Head (rehearsal, Acton, London, early 1993)
Murlough Bay (Jo's original demo, early 1993)
Frippertronics (with Robert Fripp)
JOURNEY INTO THE MORN COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Bi-Se I Mo Shuil Part1 (Dave's original demo Feb 1995)
Everything Changes (original completely different version, recorded during Kells album sessions)
Journey into the Morn (2007 new arrangement & recording, featuring Roine Stolt)
Frippertronics (with Robert Fripp)
Moya Brennan & Joanne Hogg Vocal Loops
OPEN SKY COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Woven Cord (rehearsal take, including slow section not on the album version. Recorded at Joanne’s, Ireland 10/98)
Wave after Wave (Dave & Jo's original demo Otley 3/99)
Hinba (Jo’s original demo)
Songs of Ascent Part 1 (Dave's early demo)
Lament for the World (Dave & Jo's demo of this piece)
Jo Hymn Tune idea (demo)
A Dhia Gheigil (Angel of God) (Beautiful vocal version of this track, originally considered for inclusion on the album)
Jo Song of Hope Vocal loops (from Open Sky album studio recording)
I Cannot Understand (Dave & Jo song idea)
Columba Poem song idea (Jo & Dave improvising around Columba’s 6th century creation poem)
The Spacious Firmament (Jo & Dave working on a song idea which ended up on Jo’s first solo album)
Voices (Jo Layered Vocals)
Vocal Harmonies & Keys (nice layering of Joanne’s vocals over Dave’s chord progression)
THE CIRCLING HOUR COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
How Wonderful (original Jo & Dave demos, recorded late ’90’s in Ireland)
Spirit of God (this version recorded in 2006 for BBC's Songs of Praise)
Almighty Father Who Dost Give (this version recorded in 2006 for BBC's Songs of Praise)
ANOTHER REALM COMPANION AUDIO DISK Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
All that we Have ever dreamed (recorded in July 2011. Troy plays low whistle on this demo, Jo piano, Dave keys & mixing)
Jo & Dave Improvisation (Spontaneous improvisation, recorded at Open Sky Studio on 11th January 2011)
Don’t Look Back (recorded October 2009 at Joanne’s, this was the original demo of what became White Horse)
Dave & Martin Improvisation 1 (Spontaneous improvisation, recorded 14th December 2010)
Gotta Lift Our Eyes Up (recorded in October 2009 at Joanne’s, another song considered for ‘Another Realm’)
Dave & Martin Improvisation 2
Valley of Decision (recorded in October 2009 at Joanne’s, another song considered for ‘Another Realm’)
Dave & Martin Improvisation Pipes Free
What a Day (recorded in February 2010 at Joanne’s, another track considered for ‘Another Realm’)
Dave & Martin Improvisation Pipes Hymn-like
And the Angels Dance (single mix)
Slow Air ( Martin & Dave - Recorded in February 2010 at Joanne’s)
THE SOUND WORLD OF IONA Complete running order to be confirmed, but including:
Featuring newly recorded, mainly instrumental tracks, with contributions from all past Iona band members
White Sands (Nick Beggs & Dave Bainbridge)
Shell of Speech (Tim Harries with Dave Bainbridge. Based on sound samples from the Journey into the Morn album)
I Will Give My Love and Apple (Dave Bainbridge solo piano version)
Edge of the World (Mike Haughton & Dave Bainbridge)
Air from France (Martin Nolan & Dave Bainbridge)
Luke - the Calf (Dave Bainbridge guitar version)
Táimse im Chodladh (Martin Nolan & Dave Bainbridge)
Today (Dave Bainbridge solo piano version)
Beyond These Shores (with special guest Sally Minnear)
Beijing (widescreen remix)
Plus other new recordings tbc, featuring David Fitzgerald, Terl Bryant, Frank Van Essen, Troy Donockley, Martin Neil, Phil Barker & Sally Minnear
Formed in 1989, IONA took their name from the small island off the west coast of Scotland. From the beginning, their aim was to write spiritual, atmospheric, yet uplifting music that would stir the emotions, weaving complex patterns that echo the intricate knot work of the great Celtic artists. Often inspired by the great figures of the Celtic Golden Age such as Columba, Aidan, Brendan and Patrick, IONA's music is as timeless as the message that reaches out to us across the centuries.
Uniquely combining rock / folk / progressive / ethnic and ambient elements with the crystalline voice of Joanne Hogg as their focus, IONA created 'a blaze of colours and textures...all the sounds fusing into a single, yearning, heartfelt beautiful cry.'
IONA built up a formidable reputation as a great live band with their incredible musicianship and disarmingly humorous banter and were noted for their timeless and innovative studio recordings. They released 7 acclaimed studio albums, four live albums (three doubles, plus one with The All Souls Orchestra), a beautifully illustrated 4 cd box set and two DVDs. Their last album, the 2cd ‘Edge of the World - Live in Europe’ was released in 2013.
Five years on from the bands last live performance and the decision to cease touring and recording “for the foreseeable future” comes ‘The Book of Iona’, the first of a series of Iona box set releases from Gonzo Multimedia. Including all the bands official studio albums, ‘The Book of Iona’ also features companion disks unique to each album, containing previously unreleased songs, original demos, alternate mixes and much more, all personally collated by founder member and band producer Dave Bainbridge. On top of this is included a cd of newly recorded (mainly instrumental) versions of Iona songs featuring performances from all previous Iona band members.
The band are thrilled that Iona’s music will once again be available to reach new listeners in search of innovative and emotive words and music that touches the soul. The ’wild goose' is indeed flying again.
London - The Ladies of the Lake is the first themed compilation of the gold and platinum selling EXCALIBUR series of Celtic Rock albums.
The creator of Excalibur, Alan Simon, said of the compilation: “Since for creation of the first Excalibur album, it's been a privilege to work with so many strong ladies characters. I speak not just of Guinevere and Morgane, but also of the talented singers who have brought some of the roles to life.”
The compilation follows the re-release of the Excalibur Trilogy, and the recently released fourth album, Excalibur IV: The Dark Age of the Dragon.
Alan Simon continued: “The rock genre is often dominated by so many male musicians, but it shouldn't be forgotten how much Moya, Jacqui, Maddy, Karan, Kohann, Nikki, Sonja, Siobhan and Maite have given of their unique musical talents. This compilation is a tribute to them. they are the Ladies of the Lake. the Ladies of Excalibur. Please enjoy :)”
The compilation features the guests: Moya Brennan Maddy Prior Karan Casey Kohann Siobhan Owen Jacqui McShee Nikki Matheson Sonja Kristina Maite Itoiz
Tracks: 1) The Origins feat MOYA BRENNAN 2) Secret Garden feat MADDY PRIOR 3) The Girl & the Demon feat KARAN CASEY 4) Skye feat KOHANN 5) Calling For You feat MOYA BRENNAN 6) The Last Lament of a Fairy feat SIOBHAN OWEN 7) There is Someone feat SIOBHAN OWEN 8) Silver Moon feat MOYA BRENNAN 9) Yseult feat SIOBHAN OWEN 10) Sacrifice feat JACQUI MCSHEE 11) A Prayer For My Lover feat SIOBHAN OWEN 12) Morning Song feat NIKKI MATHESON 13) The Passion feat SONJA KRISTINA 14) Dreaming Again feat SIOBHAN OWEN 15) Dun Angus feat MAITE ITOIZ
London - The Ladies of the Lake is the first themed compilation of the gold and platinum selling EXCALIBUR series of Celtic Rock albums.
The creator of Excalibur, Alan Simon, said of the compilation: “Since for creation of the first Excalibur album, it's been a privilege to work with so many strong ladies characters. I speak not just of Guinevere and Morgane, but also of the talented singers who have brought some of the roles to life.”
The compilation follows the re-release of the Excalibur Trilogy, and the recently released fourth album, Excalibur IV: The Dark Age of the Dragon.
Alan Simon continued: “The rock genre is often dominated by so many male musicians, but it shouldn't be forgotten how much Moya, Jacqui, Maddy, Karan, Kohann, Nikki, Sonja, Siobhan and Maite have given of their unique musical talents. This compilation is a tribute to them. they are the Ladies of the Lake. the Ladies of Excalibur. Please enjoy :)”
The compilation features the guests:
Moya Brennan
Maddy Prior
Karan Casey
Kohann
Siobhan Owen
Jacqui McShee
Nikki Matheson
Sonja Kristina
Maite Itoiz
Tracks:
1) The Origins feat MOYA BRENNAN
2) Secret Garden feat MADDY PRIOR
3) The Girl & the Demon feat KARAN CASEY
4) Skye feat KOHANN
5) Calling For You feat MOYA BRENNAN
6) The Last Lament of a Fairy feat SIOBHAN OWEN
7) There is Someone feat SIOBHAN OWEN
8) Silver Moon feat MOYA BRENNAN
9) Yseult feat SIOBHAN OWEN
10) Sacrifice feat JACQUI MCSHEE
11) A Prayer For My Lover feat SIOBHAN OWEN
12) Morning Song feat NIKKI MATHESON
13) The Passion feat SONJA KRISTINA
14) Dreaming Again feat SIOBHAN OWEN
15) Dun Angus feat MAITE ITOIZ
There is a very good reason why Cecilie titled her debut album Fearless. This young lady has a strong belief that addresses fear and holding back. She believes the following “It’s about releasing, letting go of whatever is holding you back, being present and alive, and listening to the world around you until you find your own personal direction.”
Once you hear her voice you will believe what she believes. Her tasteful folk, pop, new age and Celtic styles are uplifting and carry a message. If you are looking for it or not, the message will be heard and received due her inviting angelic vocals. Her style and timbre reminded me fondly of Candice Night.
This is the kind of music I could imagine in a soundtrack for a movie or one of those great Disney films that deliver a positive message to an audience. This perception came as no surprise after reading about her love for plays like Cats etc. The elements of all the flavors that make this delightful ear candy are the keys to the kingdom on Fearless. This is a time and place created by the artist. The invitation to join her on the journey is inside her then translated through each song. What this woman has to share becomes transparent to anyone within listening range. It is a thing of beauty and a true work of art.
I think what impressed me the most was how each track was different musically and every time it was spot on to match her incredibly gorgeous vocals. Although the subject matter is about life, love and the trials we go through, you will hear sadness but at the time there are the silver linings inside those dark clouds. The clouds turn into a blossoming flower when Cecilie sings and expresses herself in each track.
Fearless is bound to stir your emotions and bring up things from your past and present but it is all good. Her music is healing from my point of view. I hope each and every listener can discover this incredible talent and have the opportunity to get past their own fears and feel the music.
Shauna Burns' new single is one of the most famous tracks ever recorded and Simon and Garfunkel was one of the most prolific folk-pop duos of all time. They had a ton of hits and one of them was "Scarborough Fair."
Shauna gives the classic tune her own treatment with a Celtic folk flavor. Her music can be haunting and this version certainly brings the song new life and puts an entirely different spin on the original.
This is further proof that indie artists like Shauna Burns can be original and interesting, even when doing a cover.
Burns had developed her captivating vocal and playing style while growing up in Miami, Florida where she was inspired by her mother’s love for the piano and groundbreaking pop/rock artists like Sarah McLachlan and Tori Amos. After releasing four studio albums and countless singles, Burns has hit FMQB AC Charts, was one of WCH Radio’s “Top Songs of the Year” and hit #1 on “Song Vault Radio.” The Moon and the Fire Circle album was selected as “Best of 2008” by Collected Sounds and The Promise Live. Shauna Burns continues to capture audiences across the globe with her heartwarming music. Her profound lyrics and piano driven sound has built her reputation in the Celtic music world and has also allowed her to tour extensively through the U.S. and U.K.
The legendary story of King Arthur will return to 11 German and 1 Swiss arenas in December 2016 for ALL NEW rock opera! A trailer for the tour can be seen here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e27yccjux1k
The creator of Excalibur, Alan Simon, said this of the tour: “Excalibur is back, with a full orchestra, special guest cast members, an aerial dancer along with King Arthur and Merlin as they battle evil forces. I have written an all new show, with a story set 1000 years after the famous legends we performed in 2011, and everything is ready to be unleashed on new audiences. This is the first Excalibur tour in nearly five years!”
Building on the 2009 shows (to up to 12,000 people per night) and subsequent arena tours in 2010 and 2011 in Germany, this new tour re-unites key members of the Excalibur cast, along with new special guests for an orchestral rock extravaganza expected to thrill and amaze concert goers!
The special guests on this tour include:
Michael Sadler (Saga)
Moya Brennan (Clannad)
John Helliwell and Jesse Siebenberg (Supertramp)
Maggie Reilly (Mike Oldfield Band)
Martin Barre (Jethro Tull)
Eric Fish (Subway to Sally)
John Kelly (The Kelly Family)
Maite Itoiz (Elfenthal)
Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth)
The Bohemian Symphony Orchestra of Prague
The show will be narrated by acclaimed German actor Micheal Mendl as Merlin.
The legendary story of King Arthur will return to 11 German and 1 Swiss arenas in December 2016 for ALL NEW rock opera! A trailer for the tour can be seen here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e27yccjux1k
The creator of Excalibur, Alan Simon, said this of the tour: “Excalibur is back, with a full orchestra, special guest cast members, an aerial dancer along with King Arthur and Merlin as they battle evil forces. I have written an all new show, with a story set 1000 years after the famous legends we performed in 2011, and everything is ready to be unleashed on new audiences. This is the first Excalibur tour in nearly five years!”
Building on the 2009 shows (to up to 12,000 people per night) and subsequent arena tours in 2010 and 2011 in Germany, this new tour re-unites key members of the Excalibur cast, along with new special guests for an orchestral rock extravaganza expected to thrill and amaze concert goers!
The special guests on this tour include: Michael Sadler (Saga) Moya Brennan (Clannad) John Helliwell and Jesse Siebenberg (Supertramp) Maggie Reilly (Mike Oldfield Band) Martin Barre (Jethro Tull) Eric Fish (Subway to Sally) John Kelly (The Kelly Family) Maite Itoiz (Elfenthal) Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth) The Bohemian Symphony Orchestra of Prague The show will be narrated by acclaimed German actor Micheal Mendl as Merlin.
The tile track of Blackmore's Night new release is All Our Yesterdays. From his days in Deep Purple and Rainbow to present day, legendary guitarist Richie Blackmore remains a relevant force in music. With his enchanting wife Candice Night on vocals, they present an entertaining mixture of Rock, Celtic, World and New Age Music.
The track and video presented here is a superb representation of their unique music. The song starts sadly then breaks into a gala festival of dance and song.
Enjoy the visuals and music that will take you back to simpler times in our history when castles ruled and there was no technology to complicate lives. Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck
All Our Yesterdays was released on a variety of formats: CD, CD/DVD and Digital versions on September 18th and in LP and Box Set configurations on October 16th (in North America).
British guitarist and songwriter, began his professional career as a session musician as a member of the instrumental band The Outlaws and as a backing musician of pop singers Glenda Collins, Heinz, Screaming Lord Sutch, Neil Christian, etc.. Blackmore was also one of the original members of Deep Purple, playing jam-style rock music which mixed simple guitar riffs and organ sounds During his solo career, he established neo-classical metal band called Rainbow which fused baroque music influences elements with hard rock. However, Rainbow gradually progressed to catchy pop style hard rock. Blackmore formed the traditional folk rock project Blackmore's Night transitioning to vocalist-centered sounds.Click here to read more about Ritchie.
Candice Night
Although she's done back-up vocals for such major bands as Deep Purple, Rainbow, and Twang (the Hank Marvin Tribute album), Candice Night's success was anything but overnight. In 1997, the talented lyricist and lead singer of Blackmore's Night completed a musical project with legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore titled Shadow of the Moon. The album features acoustic renaissance music, a direction she thoroughly enjoyed. "This music is feel good, soul searching music," says Candice. "Listening to it makes me appreciate the beauty in simple things that most of us overlook everyday. It has a magical effect. It makes me smile and it makes me cry, but listening to it always takes me on a different journey somewhere else. Being a part in creating such music is a reward in itself." Click here to read more about Candice.
Bard David of Larchmont
The spine tingling melodies of classical composers wafts through the rehearsal halls as Bard David prepares for his performances. This extremely talented virtuoso has been delighting audiences for the past 20 years on keyboards, piano, organ, harpsichord, accordion and pipe organ. He is a graduate of Purchase University in piano performances and Blackmore's Night is proud to add him to our Minstrel Band.
Lady Kelly DeWinter
Kelly was just a wee babe when she first found herself singing tunes – and it wasn’t long after that she discovered what joy music could truly bring those around her. Classically trained in voice, piano, French Horn, and various other musical instruments, she was clearly drawn to perform - and soon found herself a graduate of the Musical Theatre program at Shenandoah University. Thus far, her professional career has allowed her to perform on stages across the United States, but no indoor theatre ever gave her the same magical feeling as portraying Queen Elizabeth I at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. It was during this time that she truly discovered “All the Fun of the Fayre". She is thrilled to be joining Blackmore’s Night playing French Horn and singing harmony vocals. Lady Kelly says she owes a debt of gratitude to her Renaissance family for introducing her to such a wonderful group.
Troubador of Aberdeen
The percussionist for Blackmore's Night is truly of Scottish descent. His ancestors resided in a castle fortress near Aberdeen during Medieval times. The moonlight beckoned to him and he embarked upon a midnight journey -wandering the countryside, listening to and echoing the rhythms of the night. He spent a lot of time camping in the woods- playing percussion with the otters and badgers- and pitching acorns with the squirrels. Always atune to the rhythms that surround the country side- natural rhythms and sounds of nature abound in his soul, Blackmore's Night came across him in England- we picked him up hitchhiking to London on his way to see the Queen. He instantly felt a comaderaderie with the Band of minstrels and the group invited him to join and share his many talents with them.
Scarlet Fiddler
Our amazing violinist received her MM in violin performance at The Boston Conservatory where she studied with Masters. She has performed at the Amherst Early Music Festival , Oberlin’s Baroque Performance Institute,Trinity Baroque Orchestra and Choir, amongst many other prestigious performances. This Renaissance Fiddler is Concertmaster of the Astoria Symphony and Sinfonia Celestis, and can also be found performing with Greenwich Symphony, Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic, Di Capo Opera Company, Bronx Opera Company and the Orchestra of the Bronx. She has graced the stages at Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, Radio City Music Hall, Town Hall the Apollo Theater and Lincoln Center. She has been seen on tv on “Saturday Night Live,” “David Letterman” and “The View”.
Her heart called out for the simplicity of less technological times - and the beauty of nature. She longed to join a group where she could participate with Medieval/Renassiance music from within the castle walls. She found herself delightfully challenged by the music she heard from Blackmore's Night. We welcome this very talented musician to our group.
Earl Grey of Chimay
Bass, mandolin, guitar. Often enchanted with a musical spirit he can be found performing his music throughout medieval forests and cavernous terrains where they echo the melodic sounds resonating from the instruments played by Earl Grey of Chimay. Assimilating an alchemistic approach to a variety of instruments , he brings to Blackmore's Night his music, camaraderie, a plethora of potent ale, and an extraneous habit of being a bit verbose., yet a dash of humor emanates through the serious facade-but he is always passionate about his love for the music of Blackmore's Night.
Yeti Love are a folk duo made up of songwriters Peter Hamilton and Dave sears are about to release their cracking new single 'Lonely Road' on 15th June!
Hamilton is
also influenced by his own ancestry, being half Spanish and, at a young age,
falling in love with the folk traditions of home town Galicia. Having started
out as a drummer before expanding his own musical horizons, his love of rhythm
was informed by this specific branch of celtic roots music. Married to Sears’
intricate, multi-instrumental approach, the result is a hybrid sound unlike any
other act on the circuit today.
New single,
‘Lonely Road’, is set for release on June 15th, and you can hear it
here.
The pair have labelled their unique combination as
‘alt-rogue-folk-rock’, which is as fitting a description as any. Based in South
London, they have been playing together since 2012 and ‘Lonely Road’ is the latest
fruit of their labours.
Live Dates:
May 13th - Red Lion Godalming
May 21st- Kings Head Guildford
June 4th Shortlands Tavern London
June 6th Matthews Yard Croydon
June 11th Pelton Arms Greenwich
June 19th Barge Inn Wiltshire
June 21st The Acoustic Solstice et la fete de la
musique Batley Yorkshire
Release Date: 24th December 2013 Label: Open Sky UK Website
It comes as a refreshing change to review a band that I am very aware of, and that band is the progressive Celtic rock band from the UK, Iona. Beginning back in the 1989, the band has not flooded the market with their releases, with only 7 studio albums across their 25+ year existence. The self-titled debut album was issued in 1990 and the latest studio release was the double CD, Another Realm, from 2011, although they have also released 4 live albums, the latest being the one under review, Edge Of The World. (2013)
Currently Iona is a 5 piece band comprising Joanne Hogg (vocals, keyboards and acoustic guitar), Dave Bainbridge (guitar, keyboards), Frank van Essen (drums, percussion and violin), Phil Barker (bass) and Martin Nolan (pipes, whistles and flutes). Two of the current band, Joanne and Dave, have been present from the birth of the band.
Edge of the World (Live in Europe) was recorded at various venues in the UK and The Netherlands during their 2012 Another Realm tour. The double album contains 20 tracks split equally over the two discs with a total playing time of around 130 minutes, again split almost equally across the discs with about 65 minutes each disc. The longest and shortest tracks across the release are “White Horse” and “Another Realm,” both on disc 1 and 11:10 minutes and 4:17 minutes respectively.
The tracks are taken from almost all of the studio albums, although for some reason, the album released in 2006, The Circling Hour doesn’t feature at all, and there are 7 tracks from the last studio album, Another Realm, which isn’t surprising considering the name of the tour.
Edge of the World starts with loud audience appreciation before the crystal clear voice of Joanne emerges over a subdued background. The whistles appear around 1:40 minutes and the track builds with the return of Joanne and the rest of the band seamlessly upping the ante, slowly generating a stunningly atmospheric opening track, “Irish Day” (7:39). Apart from the applause prior to the band starting, there is little to suggest that this is a live album such is the clarity and quality of the music. All too quickly, the 7:30+ minutes of “Irish Day” have gone and it serves as a superb opener to an album highlighting the supreme musicianship within Iona.
“Jigs” (7:03), track 4, “does exactly what it says on the tin,” to quote a UK advert. Jigs it states and unsurprisingly, jigs abound for the length of this track. Bass runs, piano, superb whistle and uillean pipes combine to form an amazing track.
The title track, “Edge of the World” (8:04) allows Dave Bainbridge to show his majestic skill on the guitar with a simply amazing first 2:30 minutes when the guitar atmospherics are replaced by terrific drumming and superb piano. Add into that scenario the beautiful voice possessed by Joanne and the band have hit the bulls-eye again.
The closing track of disc 1, “The Ancient Wells” (8:30) starts with those amazing pipes while the drums and bass play gently in the background. The sound builds with the keyboards becoming more prominent prior to more superb percussion and Joanne’s voice appearing. This track is certainly one that carries people along in an almost anthemic way. The pipes are always there, just behind the rich tones of Joanne and edge to the forefront again around the 4 minute mark. Just after the 5 minute mark, the violin changes the sound again and the feet start to unconsciously move to the rhythm. “The Ancient Wells” is a real tour-de-force of a track to finish off disc 1.
The third track on disc 2, “And The Angels Dance” (9:02) is another superb example of progressive folk rock or Celtic rock, call it what you will. A pacey atmospheric track with great guitar, drumming, vocals and whistles as the track builds to about the 3:50 minute mark, when pipes and fiddle combine perfectly to carry the track along and drops back into an almost military style drumming with superb whistle playing over the top. The band slowly fills in the background and the majestic pipes come in to take the song out at around 8:15 minutes with the rest of the track being taken up by Joanne explaining that the following 3 tracks will be played uninterrupted.
Track 7, “An Atmosphere of Miracles Part 3” (10:25) is another stunningly atmospheric soundscape. The pipes commence the song, which gently evolves into vocals, drums and an exquisite piano motif behind the vocals. The powerful voice of Joanne carries the track along before passing it onto a violin led passage and further on into another of those sublime guitar statements by Dave. The music drops away to leave an almost a cappella section, which is stunning in its simplicity. The song continues to change with driving drums and whistles with acoustic guitar before the return of the vocal, which leads on and into a pipe/piano passage. This is a track that builds and builds and then, it has gone.
The following track, “Castlerigg/Reels” (9:51) is again a bit of a giveaway and is another in the plethora of tracks that simply refuse to let your feet stay still. The finale to disc 2, “Columcille” (4:29) is an amazing soundscape with pipes and whistle which slowly builds in intensity and then it is over. Disc 1 ended with a tour-de-force, disc 2 ended with an emotional tinged slow air and both, in very different ways, epitomize what the band, Iona, is all about.
Edge of the World easily deserves, and gets, both stickers, “One to Buy” and “The Experience will last Forever” on the cover, and my advice is to get out and buy a copy of this album, as you will certainly not regret it.
5/5 Stars
Key Tracks: Irish Day, Edge Of The World, And The Angels Dance Tracks:
Disc 1 Irish Day Today Another Realm Jigs End Of The World White Horse Luke..the calf Wave After Wave Let The Waters Flow The Ancient Wells
Disc 2 Chi Rho Flight Of The Wild Goose And The Angels Dance Ruach Divine Presence Let Your Glory Flow Atmosphere of Miracles Part 3 Castlerigg/Reels Bi-Se I Mo Shuil Part 2 Columcille
Release Date: 24th December 2013 Label: Open Sky UK Website
It comes as a refreshing change to review a band that I am very aware of, and that band is the progressive Celtic rock band from the UK, Iona. Beginning back in 1989, the band has not flooded the market with their releases, with only 7 studio albums across their 25+ year existence. The self-titled debut album was issued in 1990 and the latest studio release was the double CD, Another Realm, from 2011, although they have also released 4 live albums, the latest being the one under review, Edge Of The World. (2013)
Currently Iona is a 5 piece band comprising Joanne Hogg (vocals, keyboards and acoustic guitar), Dave Bainbridge (guitar, keyboards), Frank van Essen (drums, percussion and violin), Phil Barker (bass) and Martin Nolan (pipes, whistles and flutes). Two of the current band, Joanne and Dave, have been present from the birth of the band.
Edge of the World (Live in Europe) was recorded at various venues in the UK and The Netherlands during their 2012 Another Realm tour. The double album contains 20 tracks split equally over the two discs with a total playing time of around 130 minutes, again split almost equally across the discs with about 65 minutes each disc. The longest and shortest tracks across the release are “White Horse” and “Another Realm,” both on disc 1 and 11:10 minutes and 4:17 minutes respectively.
The tracks are taken from almost all of the studio albums, although for some reason, the album released in 2006, The Circling Hour doesn’t feature at all, and there are 7 tracks from the last studio album, Another Realm, which isn’t surprising considering the name of the tour.
Edge of the World starts with loud audience appreciation before the crystal clear voice of Joanne emerges over a subdued background. The whistles appear around 1:40 minutes and the track builds with the return of Joanne and the rest of the band seamlessly upping the ante, slowly generating a stunningly atmospheric opening track, “Irish Day” (7:39). Apart from the applause prior to the band starting, there is little to suggest that this is a live album such is the clarity and quality of the music. All too quickly, the 7:30+ minutes of “Irish Day” have gone and it serves as a superb opener to an album highlighting the supreme musicianship within Iona.
“Jigs” (7:03), track 4, “does exactly what it says on the tin,” to quote a UK advert. Jigs it states and unsurprisingly, jigs abound for the length of this track. Bass runs, piano, superb whistle and uillean pipes combine to form an amazing track.
The title track, “Edge of the World” (8:04) allows Dave Bainbridge to show his majestic skill on the guitar with a simply amazing first 2:30 minutes when the guitar atmospherics are replaced by terrific drumming and superb piano. Add into that scenario the beautiful voice possessed by Joanne and the band have hit the bulls-eye again.
The closing track of disc 1, “The Ancient Wells” (8:30) starts with those amazing pipes while the drums and bass play gently in the background. The sound builds with the keyboards becoming more prominent prior to more superb percussion and Joanne’s voice appearing. This track is certainly one that carries people along in an almost anthemic way. The pipes are always there, just behind the rich tones of Joanne and edge to the forefront again around the 4 minute mark. Just after the 5 minute mark, the violin changes the sound again and the feet start to unconsciously move to the rhythm. “The Ancient Wells” is a real tour-de-force of a track to finish off disc 1.
The third track on disc 2, “And The Angels Dance” (9:02) is another superb example of progressive folk rock or Celtic rock, call it what you will. A pacey atmospheric track with great guitar, drumming, vocals and whistles as the track builds to about the 3:50 minute mark, when pipes and fiddle combine perfectly to carry the track along and drops back into an almost military style drumming with superb whistle playing over the top. The band slowly fills in the background and the majestic pipes come in to take the song out at around 8:15 minutes with the rest of the track being taken up by Joanne explaining that the following 3 tracks will be played uninterrupted.
Track 7, “An Atmosphere of Miracles Part 3” (10:25) is another stunningly atmospheric soundscape. The pipes commence the song, which gently evolves into vocals, drums and an exquisite piano motif behind the vocals. The powerful voice of Joanne carries the track along before passing it onto a violin led passage and further on into another of those sublime guitar statements by Dave. The music drops away to leave an almost a cappella section, which is stunning in its simplicity. The song continues to change with driving drums and whistles with acoustic guitar before the return of the vocal, which leads on and into a pipe/piano passage. This is a track that builds and builds and then, it has gone.
The following track, “Castlerigg/Reels” (9:51) is again a bit of a giveaway and is another in the plethora of tracks that simply refuse to let your feet stay still. The finale to disc 2, “Columcille” (4:29) is an amazing soundscape with pipes and whistle which slowly builds in intensity and then it is over. Disc 1 ended with a tour-de-force, disc 2 ended with an emotional tinged slow air and both, in very different ways, epitomize what the band, Iona, is all about.
Edge of the World easily deserves, and gets, both stickers, “One to Buy” and “The Experience will last Forever” on the cover, and my advice is to get out and buy a copy of this album, as you will certainly not regret it.
5/5 Stars
Key Tracks: Irish Day, Edge Of The World, And The Angels Dance Tracks:
Disc 1 Irish Day Today Another Realm Jigs End Of The World White Horse Luke..the calf Wave After Wave Let The Waters Flow The Ancient Wells
Disc 2 Chi Rho Flight Of The Wild Goose And The Angels Dance Ruach Divine Presence Let Your Glory Flow Atmosphere of Miracles Part 3 Castlerigg/Reels Bi-Se I Mo Shuil Part 2 Columcille
