Music Commentary
The traditional definition of folk music (i.e., "music originating from the common people of a nation or region passed down orally") implies old tunes describing the culture of the times but don't let the definition lead you to believe that new folk music cannot be penned today. One listen to Dave Gilfillon's "Rosslyn" tune will change your perspective. The tune is inspired by the DiVinci Code and describes the Legendary Scottish history of the Rosslyn chapel. Gilfillon's tune takes a lighthearted look at some of the events he found amusing while studying its history.
North Sea Gas' newest project continues their traditional flavor and is Scottish Folk at its best. Part of why I like this band so much is that the songs they choose to sing are so rich in Scottish history plus are lush with color and filled with humor as well as hardships. Some of my favorites on this new project are "Torn Screen Door" which is a sweet ballad sung a cappela and describing the demise of another farm house which now stands empty and worn. "I Will Go" is a battle tune with a twist conveying the spirit of Scottish men willingly leaving their homes to serve in the King's army, only to return to find their homes burned and their families gone. Dave on Bodrum is the only instrument that compliments their harmonies on this powerful tune. "Follow the Heron" offers a sweet melody that takes you soaring with the Herons in the spring. "Classy Lassie" with a catchy tune and lyrics tell the story of new love blooming. "Mac" gives us another sweet ballad, reminiscent of my perennial favorite "Dark Island", in "Jamie Raeburn" with vocals that can make you melt. You can see the passion "Mac" feels as he sings. A sad tune, "Jamie Raeburn" tells of a man's exile to Australia and his longing for the hills of Caledonia. Grant Simpson – newest member of the band on fiddle – has relaxed into his role with North Sea Gas. The new project has two sets of fiddle tunes showing off Grant's talents. What you will find on this CD is a mix of Scottish folk tunes featuring well blended harmonies, some a cappella and some accompanied by instruments, all with a touch of tongue in cheek humor. Don't miss this project or pass up a chance to see these guys in a live performance.
Photo by Chris Curtis
| Project Title: | Rosslyn | |
| Artist: | North Sea Gas | |
| Released: | 2007 | |
| Produced by: | North Sea Gas | |
| Record Label: | C&P MCPS |
Dedication: Cameron Gaskell
Song List/Credits
| Rosslyn | (D. Gilfillan/Garron Music) | |
| Congress Tunes Set: Wee Michael's March, NSG Reel, The Congress Reel | (John McCusker/Eric Allan/Traditional) | |
| Barnyards O'Delgaty | (Traditional – Arrangement by Gilfillan/Simpson/MacDonald/Garron Music) | |
| Follow the Heron | (Palwart/Bay Songs Ltd) | |
| One of Those Days | (D Boultan/J Parton) | |
| Birnie Boozle | (Traditional – Arrangement by Gilfillan/Simpson/MacDonald/Garron Music) | |
| Classy Lassie | (D. Gilfillan/Garron Music) | |
| Jamie Raeburn | (Traditional – Arrangement by Gilfillan/Simpson/MacDonald/Garron Music) | |
| Aberdeen Set: Irene Meldrum's Welcome to Bon-Accord, Asleep at the Wheel, Break yer Bass Drone | (Traditional/Gordon Duncan/Gordon Duncan/Grian Music) | |
| Torn Screen Door | (Dave Francey) | |
| Killiecrankie | (Traditional – Arrangement by Gilfillan/Simpson/MacDonald/Garron Music) | |
| I Will Go | (Traditional – Arrangement by Gilfillan/Simpson/MacDonald/Garron Music) | |
| Tramps and Hawkers | (Traditional – Arrangement Gilfillan) | |
| Too Far from She | (Ian Bruce) | |
| Bonnie Lass O'Fyfie | (Traditional – Arrangement by Gilfillan/Simpson/Garron Music) |
Guest Artists/Musicians
Gerry McKenna, Keyboards and Bass guitar; Tim O'Leary, Whistle
The CD is available on North Sea Gas' website.
Look here for a wider selection of music by North Sea Gas
North Sea Gas booking agent:
Linda Zelenski
P.O. Box 1953
Woonsocket, RI
508-883-7972
Cell 508-410-1872
booknsg@quik.com
