Gillian Frame and Back of the Moon

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This CD has a varied programme of traditional and self-penned tunes played with style, finesse and consideration for their composers. It is pleasing to discover that song has not been neglected. There is Matt McGinn’s rousing “Rolling Hills O’ the Borders” sang by Findlay Napier, and a beautiful rendition of the gaelic song “Am Buachaille Ban” sang by Gillian.  My own particular favourite - “Gin I were a Baron’s Heir” beautifully sung by pianist Hamish Napier.

It is good to see the advance of the Border and Uilleann pipes in the Scottish bands. While the Highland pipes are often too loud and shrill for indoor use, those popular alternatives have a muted sound which is delightful. Piper Simon McKerrell has effectively weaved his playing with the other musicians to great effect. This is very evident for example in the band’s own composition “Eric’s March” where pipes and piano beautifully coalesce. In the old Scottish air “Fingal’s Weeping” the piping is superb, creating the required sad and haunting effect.
Gillian’s fiddle playing prowess is evident throughout. The album opens with her solo fiddle. Crisp and clean, it demonstrates her firm control of her instrument. Unusually for a fiddler she also sings, taking lead vocals on a number of tracks including the difficult task of Gaelic Songs. However, all band members must be congratulated as the album is very much a combined effort which creates such a pleasing sound.
There seems little doubt that this band will become a major force in an already talented Scottish folk scene.
Highly Recommended