Blistering fiddles, wheezing accordions and healthy dollop of guitar and mandolin, the Halton Quartet arrive in impressive style with their debut album, Based on True Events. Comprised of the collective talents of some of Scotland’s most innovative folk musicians, this collaborative project sees two well known duos embark on a collective musical odyssey.
The accordion and fiddle combination may be a staple of every Scottish household’s Hogmanay television. Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham have pretty much wrapped up the market. But for those seeking something other than the usual shortbread tin, Sir Walter Scott-ladened romanticism, The Halton Quartet features Angus Lyon and Ruaridh Campbell.
Combined with the guitar expertise of Adam Bulley and Chad MacKenzie, the band are complete. With recommendations, accreditations and various spots at the famous Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow, this venerable collection of some of Scotland’s most valuable folk talent have formed what could be loosely described as a super group.
Album opener ‘Washington Square Park’ aptly begins the work and displays the depth and wealth of the band’s talent. Describing an evening of musical jamming in Manhattan, the track incorporates flavours of traditional Southern bluegrass with Scottish folk for an eclectic, contemporary tonal and harmonic journey.
This same, internationally charged approach to composition is reflected throughout the album. ‘Triger’ and ‘Burger the Rabbit’ form accolades and fitting tributes to adventures shared by the musicians on their various travels to the Alps and Canada respectively.
However, it is a much closer to home story that forms the inspiration behind what is arguably the album’s best work.’The Goodship Halton’, named after the boat on which the band mates first met, serves as one of the first, rawest and pure forms of the band.
With an opening closer to a Spanish tango, the track is a laid-back, multilayered and harmony rich ode to the very combination of musical talent, that went into its production. Every plucked string and pressed key, a flavour of nostalgic, heart felt warmth and pride comes across to the listener. Not out of place in the closing credits of a feel good summer movie, ‘The Goodship Halton’ is the perfect compliment to any dram after a long suffering day.
Conjuring up images of awkward school dances, sweat ladened hired kilt jackets and the inevitable romantic dissatisfaction has never sounded so enjoyable. The Halton Quartet manages to combine the very best of traditional Scottish folk music with a contemporary, almost surreal quality.
Enjoyable, lovable and above all listenable. Based on True Events is an album that will appeal to any and all lovers of Scottish folk. All delivered in a 21st century manner, Mac friendly manner.
www.thehaltonquartet.com