Malinky are a band whose song-centred repertoire combines a deep appreciation of tradition with a vibrant freshness of approach, taking in both the classic ballads and outstanding and original songwriting, alongside sparkling instrumental sets.
On this album (produced by John Morran) the line-up has undergone a couple of changes - singer Karine Polwart has moved on and is replaced by the outstanding young vocalist Fiona Hunter, and Ewan MacPherson (mandolin, mandola, guitar, tenor banjo, vocals comes in for button box player Leo McCann. Jon Bews (fiddle, vocals), Steve Byrne (vocals, bouzouki, guitar) and Mark Dunlop (whistles, bodhran, vocals) continue to be key members of the group.

With three of the five sharing lead vocal duties, and the entire group contributing backing vocals, the richness and breadth of their song palette is second to none, leaving listeners spoilt for choice between Fiona’s cool lyrical clarity, Steve’s Angus-accented resonance and Mark’s soulful, Ulster-style delivery.

All five, too, are noted as sympathetic and imaginative accompanists, responding fluently to the intrinsic mood and shape of a song, while weaving in colours and rhythms borrowed from a wide swathe of traditional and contemporary sources. Steve has also been hailed as one of Scotland’s talented young songwriters, while Mark, Jon and Ewan contribute strong original tunes into the mix.