9: 6 : 20
During the Covid-19 crisis we are combining our three titles into one MNS MUSIC NEWS Scotland :: MNS FESTIVALS! :: MNS GIGguide
Record Store Day 2020 (with social distancing) - see p5 Langtoun Jazz Festival 'At Home' - p6 :: 'Make Music Day' - p14
MU Welcomes Extension Of Self Employed Income Support Scheme All MU support info @ www.musiciansunion.org.uk/Home/Advice/covid-19/Taking-Action-to-Protect-Musicians The Musicians' Union has welcomed the news the UK Government has announced that eligible self-employed workers will be able to apply for a second round of Self Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grants in August.
"... we absolutely must not forget the 45% of musicians who are currently not covered by SEISS"
Support for self-employed musicians who run as limited companies and pay themselves in dividends through the Self-employment Income Support Scheme. Ensure that musicians who have taken time off from work for maternity / parental reasons are not discriminated against. Speed up the Universal Credit application process up to cover the gap until support via the Self-employment Income Support Scheme is made available in June, or put in place an alternative method of covering the income gap.
Applications will open in August, and will provide a further three months of support, backdated through June, July and August. However, in line with the furlough scheme, the amount of support will be reduced to 70%.
The MU has all the information you need, including template letters, on their 'Taking Action to Protect Musicians' page - link at top of page.
This extension of SEISS is something the MU has Income Support Scheme, as no equivalent cap exists for employed people, and pay people up to been lobbying very hard for on behalf of our the cap. members.
www.musiciansunion.org.uk www.twitter.com/WeAreTheMU www.facebook.com/Musicians.Union
The MU was instrumental in securing the introduction of SEISS in the first place, but as it has become clear that musicians cannot go back to work in the near future, they have argued for continued support. Many MU members have answered the call to write to their MPs and to the Chancellor, calling for continued support. And today’s announcement shows that members efforts really do work, from introducing SEISS, to amending the scheme to include migrant workers and extending the amount of time that it will be available for. No musician left behind ..... However, we absolutely must not forget the 45% of musicians who are currently not covered by SEISS. No musician should be left to fall through the cracks in the Government’s current support schemes. Please continue to write to Rishi, and to your MPs, highlighting the points below; Provide meaningful support for musicians who have been self-employed for less than a year. Allow musicians who are part self-employed (at less than 50% of their total annual income) to access support through the Self-employment Income Support Scheme. Remove the £50,000 cap in the Self-employment http://bit.ly/issuu-googleplay
Covid-19 advice @ www.smc-covid19.com web @ www.scottishmusiccentre.com fb @ www.facebook.com/scottishmusiccentre
tweet @ www.twitter.com/scottishmusic
www.musicnewsscotland.wordpress.com
your listen 'n' watch guide during lock-down :: a selection of music on scotland's tv + radio this week
Music on Scottish
culture from across Scotland. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland
ALT :: 9pm on BBC ALBA. New music show with MULL HISTORICAL SOCIETY, COLONEL AND THE DIJON 5. www.bbcalba.co.uk
Get It On... With Bryan Burnett :: 6pm on BBC Radio Scotland. With essential music chosen by listeners. Pipeline :: 9pm on BBC Radio Scotland. Gary www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland West presents the definitive pipe music programme, featuring news and recordings from Travelling Folk :: 8pm on BBC Radio Scotland. the piping world. Bruce MacGregor is joined by CATRIONA WATT www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland for the next in the instalment of the Young Trad at 20 series. Billy Sloan :: 10pm on BBC Radio Scotland. Hot www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland releases plus rock and pop music from Scotland and around the world. Natasha Raskin Sharp :: 10pm on BBC Radio www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland Scotland. From 50s rockabilly to country to jazz to the latest indie sounds, Natasha has it all. Celtic Connections Shorts :: 10.45-11pm on www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland BBC ALBA. The Seumas Egan Project from the States play a tune and also perform the song --------------------------------------Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile:: 10-10.30pm on Days of war and musical folk trio Lau perform BBC ALBA. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile is a music one of their own tunes – far from Portland. series that takes place at an extraordinary time www.bbcalba.co.uk Music all day every day from Glasgow in our history. The series gives musicians, promoting Celtic and roots music of all deprived of playing live concerts, a virtual stage The Quay Sessions :: 11.30pm on BBC and an opportunity to perform directly from their Scotland. Songs from HUE & CRY, KT genres - at 95FM or online @ homes to viewing fans. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig TUNSTALL, JACK SAVORETTI, SNOW www.celticmusicradio.net Baile builds on that, inviting musicians from PATROL, KARINE POLWART and more. Scotland, Ireland, Europe, Canada and the US to www.bbc.co.uk/Scotland --------------------------------------connect with fans and to perform in a visceral way, appealing to feelings as much as intellect. Belladrum :: Midnight on BBC ALBA. Highlights from Belladrum 2018. Independent Alternative digital radio, This episode has many highlights, including versions of Calum Sgaire and Cànan nan www.bbcalba.co.uk broadcasting live from the upstairs of LP Gàidheal performed by KAREN MATHESON Records in Glasgow, listen online @ with an international cast of musicians. Karen SUNDAY 14 JUNE www.lpradio.co.uk/listen also performs with Galician musicians XABIER DIAZ and GUADI GALEGO on a traditional Take The Floor :: 5pm on BBC Radio Scotland. --------------------------------------Galician song. An innovative musical format, For the very best in traditional music and song, Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile gives music a new join Gary Innes for Take The Floor. WEDNESDAY 10 JUNE platform. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland www.bbcalba.co.uk Get It On... With Bryan Burnett :: 6pm on Celtic Connections Shorts :: 6.30pm on BBC BBC Radio Scotland. With essential music chosen Na Trads :: 11.15pm on BBC ALBA. HEISK ALBA. The Seumas Egan Project from the States by listeners. perform at the 2019 Trad Awards. play a tune and also perform the song Days of www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland www.bbcalba.co.uk War. www.bbcalba.co.uk Ricky Ross Meets :: 8pm on BBC Radio Belladrum :: 11.25pm on BBC ALBA. THE Scotland. Ricky in conversation with singer SUPERNATURALS perform at Belladrum 2018. Jazz Nights :: 7pm on BBC Radio Scotland. songwriter RUFUS WAINRIGHT. www.bbcalba.co.uk Seonaid Aitken with Home Studio sessions and www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland another chapter of Richard Michael's Song Book. FRIDAY 12 JUNE www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland Na Trads :: 8.55pm on BBC ALBA. Phil & Aly perform at the Trad Awards. The Friday Afternoon Show :: 2pm on BBC Classics Unwrapped :: 9pm on BBC Radio www.bbcalba.co.uk Radio Scotland. Weekend tune and what is Scotland. Folk traditions in classical music, plus happening in music, arts and culture from across Andrea Baker presents overlooked opera The Quay Sessions :: 9pm on BBC Radio singers. Scotland. TOM GRENNAN, COURTNEY MARIE Scotland with Nicola Meighan. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland ANDREWS and BOW ANDERSON. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland Grant Stott's Vinyl Collective :: 6pm on BBC Iain Anderson :: 11pm on BBC Radio Scotland. Radio Scotland. Celebrating the vinyl revival with End the day in the company of the songwriting Opry le Daniel :: 9pm on BBC ALBA. Opry le masters of country, folk, blues and soul. Daniel on BBC ALBA. With a wealth of musicians classic records and new releases. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland who are at the heart of country music. With Daniel O’Donnell as master of ceremonies and Ashley Storrie :: 10pm on BBC Radio Scotland. Rewind :: 11pm on BBC Scotland. Rewind to Anne Sinclair narrating the series. We’re in the New and classic Scottish music, soul rockabilly, the music, news and events of 2004. company of Jimmy and Claudia Buckley. pop and indie from around the world. www.bbc.co.uk/Scotland Recorded in front of a live audience in the www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland Millennium Forum, Derry and bringing us the MONDAY 15 JUNE best of music from Ireland.. ALT :: 11pm on BBC ALBA. New music show www.bbcalba.co.uk with AIDAN MOFFAT and RM HUBBERT, The Afternoon Show :: 1.30pm on BBC Radio Scotland. What is happening in music, arts and Port - Druthag Bheag Eile :: 10.30pm on BBC COLIN MacLEOD and ZOE GRAHAM. www.bbcalba.co.uk culture from across Scotland. ALBA. Julie Fowlis and Muireann NicAmhlaoibh www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland explore shared musical roots in Ross-shire Rewind :: 11.30pm on BBC Scotland. Rewind to www.bbcalba.co.uk the music, news and events of 2005. Get It On... With Bryan Burnett :: 6pm on www.bbc.co.uk/Scotland BBC Radio Scotland. With essential music chosen Rewind :: 11.30pm on BBC Scotland. Rewind to by listeners. the music, news and events of 2004. SATURDAY 13 JUNE www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland www.bbc.co.uk/Scotland
TV & RADIO over the next week ...
Celtic Music Radio
LP Radio
Belladrum :: 11.45pm on BBC ALBA. Three songs by D. DUNCAN at Belladrum 2016. www.bbcalba.co.uk THURSDAY 11 JUNE The Afternoon Show :: 1.30pm on BBC Radio Scotland. What is happening in music, arts and
Take The Floor :: 7pm on BBC Radio Scotland. For the very best in traditional music and song, join Gary Innes for Take The Floor. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland
Vic Galloway :: 8pm on BBC Radio Scotland. Vic's in conversation with erstwhile Savages singer JEHNNY BETH. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland
Na Trads :: 8.55pm on BBC ALBA. Phil & Aly perform at the Trad Awards. www.bbcalba.co.uk
Opry le Daniel :: 10.30pm on BBC ALBA. Opry le Daniel on BBC ALBA. With a wealth of musicians who are at the heart of country music. With Daniel O’Donnell as master of ceremonies
Email your virtual gig dates to robert.musicnewsscotland@gmail.com
your listen 'n' watch guide during lock-down :: a selection of music on scotland's tv + radio this week and Anne Sinclair narrating the series. We’re in the company of Jimmy and Claudia Buckley. Recorded in front of a live audience in the Millennium Forum, Derry and bringing us the best of music from Ireland.. www.bbcalba.co.uk
at BBC Scotland's Pacific Quay. www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland
Opry le Daniel :: 9pm on BBC ALBA. Opry le Daniel on BBC ALBA. With a wealth of musicians who are at the heart of country music. With Daniel O’Donnell as master of ceremonies and Iain Anderson :: 11pm on BBC Radio Scotland. Anne Sinclair narrating the series. We’re in the End the day in the company of the songwriting company of Irish country heroes - Louise masters of country, folk, blues and soul. Morrisey, Frank McCaffrey, Paddy O'Brien & www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland Mary Duff. Recorded in front of a live audience in the Millennium Forum, Derry and bringing us the Rewind :: 11.30pm on BBC Scotland. Rewind to best of music from Ireland.. the music, news and events of 2007. www.bbcalba.co.uk www.bbc.co.uk/Scotland Celtic Connections Shorts :: 9.50pm on BBC Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile:: 11.30pm on ALBA. DALLAHAN perform. BBC ALBA. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile is a music www.bbcalba.co.uk series that takes place at an extraordinary time in our history. The series gives musicians, Port - Druthag Bheag Eile :: 10.30pm on BBC deprived of playing live concerts, a virtual stage ALBA. Julie Fowlis and Muireann NicAmhlaoibh and an opportunity to perform directly from their explore shared musical roots in Cork. homes to viewing fans. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig www.bbcalba.co.uk Baile builds on that, inviting musicians from Scotland, Ireland, Europe, Canada and the US to Rewind :: 11.30pm on BBC Scotland. Rewind to connect with fans and to perform in a visceral the music, news and events of 2006. way, appealing to feelings as much as intellect. www.bbc.co.uk/Scotland An innovative musical format, Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile gives music a new platform. THURSDAY 18 JUNE www.bbcalba.co.uk Port - Druthag Bheag Eile :: 9.40-9.55pm on TUESDAY 16 JUNE BBC ALBA. Druthag Bheag Eile is a collection of three previously unseen musical gems from the The Afternoon Show :: 1.30pm on BBC Radio award-winning series Port. This episode features Scotland. What is happening in music, arts and music recorded in Donegal, Cork and Inverness culture from across Scotland. in 2015 and 2016. A cast of renowned musicians www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland joins presenters Julie Fowlis and Muireann NicAmhlaoibh to play on three tracks. In this Get It On... With Bryan Burnett :: 6pm on episode, Bruce MacGregor, Liz Doherty, Mhairi BBC Radio Scotland. With essential music chosen Hall and Mike Vass gather in Inverness to lend by listeners. musical weight to Falls of Lora. In Cork, Port www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland assembled Scottish flautist Rachel Harris, along with esteemed Irish trad musicians Matt Another Country with Ricky Ross :: 8pm on Cranitch, Jackie Daly, Conal Ó Gráda and BBC Radio Scotland. Ricky introduces you to new Caoimhín Ó Fearghail for a rousing set of reels and classic Americana and Alternative Country. and in Donegal, esteemed singer Margaret www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland Stewart shared music with Muireann, Máire Ní Choilm and Florian Blanke. Roddy Hart :: 11pm on BBC Radio Scotland. www.bbcalba.co.uk Roddy shines a spotlight on great songwriting, both contemporary and classic. Julie Fowlis | Ceol Aig Baile :: 10.00www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland 10.30pm on BBC ALBA. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile is a music series that takes place at an Orain Oir :: 11pm on BBC ALBA. Archive extraordinary time in our history. The series performances of Gaelic song, through the gives musicians, deprived of playing live decades. concerts, a virtual stage and an opportunity to www.bbcalba.co.uk perform directly from their homes to viewing fans. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile builds on that, Celtic Connections Shorts :: 11.25pm on BBC inviting musicians from Scotland, Ireland, ALBA. Musical folk trio Lau perform one of their Europe, Canada and the US to connect with fans own tunes – far from Portland. and to perform in a visceral way, appealing to www.bbcalba.co.uk feelings as much as intellect. Filmed during lockdown in April and May, this episode is WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE curated by Siobhan Miller and Euan Burton and features Kathleen MacInnes Karan Casey, Louis The Afternoon Show :: 1.30pm on BBC Radio Abbott, Hannah Read, Kris Drever and Olov Scotland. What is happening in music, arts and Johannsson. An innovative musical format, Julie culture from across Scotland. Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile gives music a new www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland platform. www.bbcalba.co.uk Celtic Connections Shorts :: 2.55pm on BBC ALBA. A Canadian trio play one of their tunes. WEDNESDAY 24 JUNE www.bbcalba.co.uk Opry le Daniel :: 9-9.50pm on BBC ALBA. Opry Get It On... With Bryan Burnett :: 6pm on le Daniel on BBC ALBA. With a wealth of BBC Radio Scotland. With essential music chosen musicians who are at the heart of country music. by listeners. Opry le Daniel, with Daniel O’Donnell as master www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland of ceremonies and Anne Sinclair narrates as they give a warm welcome to the stars of Gospel Ricky Ross Meets :: 8pm on BBC Radio music. Tonight’s show features Cliona Hagan, Scotland. DEL BRYANT, son of writing duo Michael English, Chloe Agnew and Patrick Felice and Boudleaux, shares stories of his Feeney. Recorded in front of a live audience, parents songs. Opry Le Daniel introduces the cream of country www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland music artists from the length and breadth of Ireland, from the Millennium Forum, Derry. The Quay Sessions :: 9pm on BBC Radio www.bbcalba.co.uk Scotland. Enjoy live performances from the foyer
THURSDAY 25 JUNE Port - Druthag Bheag Eile :: 9.40-9.55pm on BBC ALBA. Druthag Bheag Eile is a collection of three previously unseen musical gems from the award-winning series Port. This episode features music recorded in Edinburgh, Lewis and Belfast in 2015 and 2016. A cast of renowned musicians joins presenters Julie Fowlis and Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh to play on three tracks. In this episode Irish singer and guitarist Dónal Clancy joins Julie for a beautiful rendition of the Archie Fisher’s song Open the Door softly, Louise Mulcahy travels to Lewis to play with Alasdair White, accompanied by Innes White and Arthur Cormack joins singer Seán Mac Corraidh,his daughter Róise and guitarist Paul Meehan for their version of the well- known song Fear a’ bhàta. www.bbcalba.co.uk Julie Fowlis | Ceol Aig Baile :: 10.0010.30pm on BBC ALBA. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile is a music series that takes place at an extraordinary time in our history. The series gives musicians, deprived of playing live concerts, a virtual stage and an opportunity to perform directly from their homes to viewing fans. Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile builds on that, inviting musicians from Scotland, Ireland, Europe, Canada and the US to connect with fans and to perform in a visceral way, appealing to feelings as much as intellect. Filmed during lockdown in April and May, this episode is curated by Mischa MacPherson and Donald Grant and features multiple Grammy winning music star Rosanne Cash, Dreamer’s Circus from Denmark, May Erlewine from Michigan and virtuoso jazz pianist, Kit Downes. An innovative musical format, Julie Fowlis | Ceòl Aig Baile gives music a new platform. www.bbcalba.co.uk
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page 4
music news scotland
www.birnamcd.com/artists-0520 ROBERT SEVERIN
LA-LLAMAS
POSTCARD FROM BUDAPEST
BREAD AND JAM LA-LLAMAS.COM
ROBERTSEVERIN.COM
The La-Llamas sound is a blend of Rootsy Americana and Celtic Folk built on a foundation of world music rhythms. The songs on this album primarily explore the themes of philosophy and friendship, featuring tight harmonies, banjos, guitars and foot stompingly positive energy (alongside a peppering of world weary cynicism!).
Stories about real lives lived and disrupted in 20th century Hungary, several of which intertwine with Scotland. “…stunning debut album.” Celtic Music Radio “profound stories… we should listen to.” Folking.com “Robert delivers intimate songs, beautifully accompanied.” Northern Sky Reviews ****
Released on CD and vinyl.
LORRAINE JORDAN
PETER CROFT
SEND MY SOUL
With Mark Jones And Hazel Fairbairn
BUTTON BOX BREAKDOWN
LORRAINEJORDAN.NET
“a modern sound that is somehow infused with the folk music of the ages” RnR
AVAILABLE FROM: BIRNAMCDSHOP.COM
A collection of Old Time, Bluegrass and Western Swing instrumentals played on the Cajun Accordion. Peter Croft has been playing traditional music for half a century. Mark Jones lends his flatpicking guitar and Hazel Fairbairn contributes soulful fiddle.
“All 12 tracks are a sheer delight.” Folk Wales “The quality of Lorraine’s writing in both lyrics and melody put her firmly in the top league” Folk London “Enchanting vocals and absorbing songs” Maverick
“Peter Croft plays a range of surprisingly complex tunes on his simple D melodeon.” FolkWorld
JOHNNY STEINBERG
FAR FLUNG COLLECTIVE
SHADOWLAND
BLACK BAY
JOHNNYSTEINBERG.COM
FACEBOOK.COM/FARFLUNGCOLLECTIVE
The new album from Folk/Americana songwriter Johnny Steinberg - out in Summer 2020.
Far Flung Collective create new music inspired by the stunning landscapes and heritage of the Scottish Outer Hebrides and South-West England. Featuring top musicians from both areas, Black Bay is the longawaited follow-up to acclaimed debut, Far Flung Corners.
"Johnny's songs have tremendous heart, vulnerability and emotion. He made me cry on the first listen of a song and that is a potent gift of a songwriter." Karine Polwart, BBC Folk Singer of the Year
“a beautiful and engaging collaboration… beguiling, gorgeous and delightful.” Songlines
AINSLEY HAMILL
THE CHAIR
BELLE OF THE BALL
ORKNEY MONSTER
AINSLEYHAMILL.COM
LOVETHECHAIR.COM
“…considered one of the best of her generation.” RnR
Forged in the fire of an Orkney sunset, hewn from the rocks of the Orcadian shoreline, The Chair's longawaited third album, Orkney Monster, blends the old and the new, raucous and beautiful, tunes and songs to enjoy. Fiddles, Accordion, Banjo lead the attack, buoyed by vibrant guitar bass and drums; folk to make you move.
“Hamill’s refreshingly soulful voice, a mixture of Julie Fowlis and Heather Small (if you can imagine that), is very much to the fore.” Northern Sky **** “Ainsley Hamill’s stirring voice could compete with anyone at Celtic Connections.” Pat Byrne, The Voice of Ireland
Released on CD and double vinyl.
STEVE GARRETT & PETER LOWIT
HALTADANS
WITH JAMES EDGE IN ARDEN
LIGHT IDA LUM HALTADANS.COM
“Haltadans celebrate the Shetland traditions… This is music full of character, played with great skill and often a sweet sense of harmony.” Songlines ****
STEVEGARRETTGUITAR.COM/IN-ARDEN
New music for acoustic guitar and double bass - four hands, ten strings, and two bits of wood - with a shimmering string quartet arrangement on the title track.
“Bold, beautiful, and based on firm roots.” The Living Tradition
"...what they do with folky themes, jazzy chords and a sliver of Bach is a delight… will not disappoint.” FATEA
“Haltadans is a well-drilled musical machine which when in full flow produces a spectacular sound.” The Shetland Times
VARIOUS ARTISTS
SILLY WIZARD
TMSA YOUNG TRAD TOUR 2019
LIVE AGAIN
TMSA.SCOT
BIRNAMCDSHOP.COM
Experience the Scottish folk scene’s best, with original material & traditional tunes, from finalists & winners of the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year Competition: 2019 winner Benedict Morris (fiddle); 2018 winner Hannah Rarity (voice); Cameron Ross (fiddle); Catherine Tinney (voice); Luc McNally (guitar/voice); Ross Miller (bagpipes) & Sarah Markey (flute), guided by MDs Findlay Napier & Anna Massie.
“Generally considered the world's finest performers of traditional and contemporary Scottish music – and with good reason. Silly Wizard is not just another folk music group; they rank with the greatest creators and performers from any country from any time.” allmusic.com “an essential part of any ‘true’ folk music enthusiast’s collection.” Folking.com
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info@birnamcd.com
click links directly in advert or go to - www.birnamcd.com/artists-0520
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music news scotland
page 5
#RSD20 is social distancing! Record Store Day 2020 official releases to be split across 3 dates to support independent record shops In 2020, the world is a different place, and for that reason, Record Store Day has had to adapt to fit into this different place. So Record Store Day will unfortunately no longer be taking place on 20 June.
record stores around the world, taking into consideration the varying circumstances and situations they and their customers might find themselves in at any point this year. This current RSD 2020 plan to spread the spotlight and the support over three months, was made with as much available information as possible, and gives the largest number of stores a chance to participate globally in the strangest Record Store Day ever. RSD will be using the guidance of government and scientific experts to ensure these RSD Drop dates are as socially responsible and safe for all involved as possible. Don't necessarily expect all the normal in-store celebrations and events as these changes have been made to allow customers to get the RSD product safely in a socially distanced world. Our RSD online rules will be adapted in due course in line with retail developments.
Instead, the titles on the RSD 2020 official list will be available from independent record shops on one of the three following RSD “Drop” Dates: Saturday 29 August, Saturday 26 September and Saturday 24 October. A new version of “The RSD List” with assigned release dates was launched on 1 June and updates will be found on
To clarify, this year online rules have changed so that shops in the UK can sell online from 6pm. :: :: photo by Assai Dundee Selling online is a shop by shop decision and will be dependent on the status of the pandemic at www.recordstoreday.co.uk and the RSD social the time of these three dates. This is new to all media accounts. You can find the participating of us and very new to the shops. They are still UK record stores at figuring how to best make this work in the safest www.recordstoreday.co.uk/stores/ and fairest way. They will communicate how Record Store Day 2020 - originally scheduled for they intend to sell these records closer to the 18 April - was bound to look and feel different time as this is a fast-moving and ever-changing from any of the previous twelve. Prior events situation. have been as much about the gatherings, parties, concerts and “group hang” element of a Fingers crossed for the return of the biggest celebration as the financial bonus for the record party of the year on the third Saturday of April 2021. RSD Black Friday is still being planned and shops. is scheduled to take place on 27 November. However, in this unprecedented situation, the RSD are aware that this is an ever-changing focus of these three RSD Drop dates is on situation that brings new challenges every day, supporting the stores, as well as the artists, so please check links below for updates. labels, distribution and every other business behind the scenes making record stores work. Something for everybody at Assai Dundee RSD19
www.recordstoreday.co.uk Record Store Day organisers have looked at www.twitter.com/RSDUK numerous possible dates and various ways to re- www.facebook.com/rsdayuk
RSD19 at Monorail Music :: photo by Monorail Music
work an event that takes place at thousands of
Queuing overnight at Love Music in Glasgow in 2019 :: photo by Love Music
email news to :: musicnewsscotland@gmail.com
page 6
WHAT'S Langtoun Jazz Festival Revived ::
HOT! from the latest releases to reach us ....
Musicians line up for exciting online version of June Festival
DOGHOUSE ROSES
The Langtoun Jazz Festival scheduled for late June 2020 was one of many casualties of the pandemic. Now, thanks to some imaginative thinking, music fans will be able to enjoy a virtual version of the Festival. www.doghouseroses.net
TORRIDON
Some albums are like fleeting thoughts, written and recorded in a blink of the eye. Others are nurtured over time, allowed to develop and blossom and this is the case for the fourth album from Glasgow's Doghouse Roses
www.torridonlive.com
TOM McGUIRE + THE BRASSHOLES
Their new album signals a significant progression in the band’s style, sound, vision and drive to showcase a passion for serious and original songwriting. With tracks inspired by men’s mental health and suicide in Scotland
www.tomandthebrassholes.com
AMY PAPIRANSKY
An eclectic, modern-soul-funk, 8 piece band from Glasgow, headed by Tom McGuire. The funky collective of “killer animals from hell”, consists of a colourful, hilarious bunch of wonderfully talented, animated young men
Musicians around the world have found the last three months the most challenging of their careers. Many have continued to perform lockdown concerts online from home, even assembling large virtual bands and orchestras to play for their fans on social media so Langtoun Jazz organisers are delighted that many performers have jumped at the chance to revive the cancelled June festival in virtual form as Langtoun Jazz Festival at Home Secretary Grace Black said: “We were aware of a few Festivals presenting a version of their programmes online and wanted to offer the bands we had booked a chance to perform for the Fife audience. We are delighted that almost a dozen of the acts booked for the Festival are recording performances for us, and in fact the event has grown far beyond the original programme and more than 30 artists are now going to take part – bands who have played at festivals and fundraisers in the past and staunch supporters of the festival. Full details will be revealed soon on the Langtoun Jazz Facebook page." Final touches are still being made to the programme, but the intention is to follow as closely as possible the original Festival timetable. Performances will be broadcast between 7 and 10pm on the evenings of Thursday 25 and Friday 26, with two sessions each on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June between 12 noon and 4pm and again between 6 and 10pm The performances will be broadcast on Facebook and YouTube, and information will also appear on Instagram. The Festival had planned to raise funds for Kirkcaldy Food Bank at a Jazz Picnic on the Sunday afternoon and volunteers would have been collecting at all festival performances. Organisers are delighted that most of the bands are willing to forego payment for their performances, instead encouraging audiences to donate to the Food Bank. Donation links will appear on the broadcasts for viewers to make a contribution if they would like to.
Zoe Gilby and Band playing at a Langtoun Jazz fundraiser in February :: photo by Gareth Surgey
Whilst helping to publicise and promote the event in 2018, and the Mini Festival in 2019, K107fm is keen to do more in 2020. Given the current climate and the understandable cancellation of fundraising and live music events across the country, we are keen to bring as much of the event to our listeners on-air, especially those who miss any of the festival or are not able to stream the performances live. Furthermore, with funds being raised for Kirkcaldy Foodbank, it's important for us to help another community organisation. We look forward to announcing more details with the organisers of the event very soon." It seems that live music will have to wait until the last phase of the Scottish Government’s lockdown plan, but for now Fife music lovers have at least one treat in store.
K107fm Community Radio has enthusiastically welcomed the plans and is aiming to broadcast part of the Festival over the weekend on their website and on Foodbank donations can be made via air John Murray, chair of the station, said: "As www.kirkcaldyfoodbank.org.uk both the only truly independent FM station in Fife, and with regular jazz programming, K107fm is delighted www.langtounjazz.wixsite.com/mysite to support the Langtoun Jazz Festival Festival at www.twitter.com/langtounjazz Home. www.facebook.com/langtounjazz www.amypapiransky.com
A stunning self-penned debut album, Amy has been gathering and writing songs over the last eight years. Her debut release is a lesson in flawless vocal dexterity and heartfelt song writing with a side of sass, funk and class
THINK YOUR NEW RELEASE IS GOOD ENOUGH TO APPEAR HERE? To be considered for our 'What's Hot' spot send your new album/ep/single to: MNS Top 4, MUSIC NEWS Scotland Romar House, Birgham, Berwickshire. TD12 4NF
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SCOTTISH MUSIC CENTRE ......... Member Profile :: Rūta Vitkauskaitė www.mic.lt/en/database/classical/composers/vitkauskaite "The Scottish Music Centre's task is to champion the wealth of talent that abounds in Scotland's musical community"
Rūta Vitkauskaitė’s work shows a powerful basis of irrational intuition, hard to describe soundscapes resembling archetypes – the shapes of the collective unconscious. The composer often combines the language of contemporary academic music, elements of ethnic and ritual music of different cultures (African tribes, shamans of the North, Georgians, Arabs and Jews, or the Lithuanian laments), or the sounds of experimental electronics. Her eccentric music often resembles natural forces, seemingly unorganised and chaotic formations, sticking together into a highly dynamic, vital and unpredictable whole, always generating an active emotion. Asta Pakarklytė
:: photo by Anders Bigum
Rūta Vitkauskaitė was born in 1984 and graduated from the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre (2009), composition class of Prof. Vytautas Barkauskas. She also studied composition at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance with Prof. Ari Ben-Shabetai (2007), participated in the 3rd Workshop for Young Composers in Dundaga (Latvia, 2006), the Dartington International Summer School Composition Courses (England, 2007 and 2011), the 4th
Workshop for Young Composers in Maszalaca (Latvia, 2008), the 14th and 15th Young Composers Meetings in Apeldoorn (The Netherlands, 2008, 2009), the 18th Workshop for Composers in Trebnitz (Germany, 2009), the New Music Incubator Latvia (2010). During her studies she participated in numerous new music festivals in Lithuania and abroad, including YOUrope Together (Essen, Germany, 2008), Gaudeamus Music Week (Amsterdam, 2008), Aldeburgh Festival (England, 2008). In 2008 the composer was awarded (together with four other composers from the New Opera Action Festival) the prize for the best stage work at the annual Lithuanian Composers’ Union competition (for the opera Juliet and Juliet). Presently she is continuing her composition studies at the London Royal Academy of Music with Prof. Philip Cashian. Rūta Vitkauskaitė is also performing musician (violin, piano, voice, electronics), a member of R&R Electronics, Music Is Very Important, and Operomanija collectives, an organizer of many new music events in Lithuania, among them: international contemporary music festival Druskomanija in Druskininkai, network of contemporary music workshops The PROCESS in Vilnius. Rūta Vitkauskaitė’s work shows a powerful basis of irrational intuition, hard to describe soundscapes resembling archetypes – the shapes of the collective unconscious. The composer often combines the language of contemporary academic music, elements of ethnic and ritual music of different cultures (African tribes, shamans of the North, Georgians, Arabs and Jews, or the Lithuanian laments), or the sounds of experimental electronics. Her eccentric music often resembles natural forces, seemingly unorganised and chaotic formations, sticking together into a highly dynamic, vital and unpredictable whole, always generating an active emotion.
:: photo by Martynas Aleksa
will be online and interactive from home. Led by composer Dr Rūta Vitkauskaitė, the project invites musicians of all instruments, composers and sound creators to come together to create and perform a collaborative and unique piece of contemporary music for the lockdowngeneration. The piece will be developed over 4 workshop sessions via the video calling platform Zoom, and will culminate in the final edited composition being streamed online. The next workshop session is on Thursday 18 June from 7-9pm, and the final recorded composition will be streamed online on Saturday 20 June at 4pm. CoMA Glasgow want to ensure that ‘Contemporary Music for All’ is truly accessible to everyone, especially in this challenging economic climate, so this project is run on a pay what you can afford model. How to Register – Visit the project website – www.youcreateproject.co.uk to register. This is also where we will publish all of the resources needed to participate. You can also find more @ www.coma.org/get-involved/ensembles/glasgow/
www.twitter.com/RutaVitkauskai1 www.facebook.com/ruta.vitkauskaite.3
Rūta also helps to run the CoMA group in Glasgow. CoMA Glasgow is the first CoMA ensemble in Scotland. It kick-started on 10 November 2019 with an afternoon event of playing and discussion. The event was well attended with those interested becoming members and a few who were excited about the ideas of CoMA and just wanted to join for a one-off event. CoMA Glasgow will eventually grow into a large new music collective with members of all abilities, who will be invited to actively influence the future development of the group. As they can’t meet physically at the moment, they have moved onto their second project. CoMA Glasgow Online Composition and Performing project :: Their second project
"The Scottish Music Centre's task is to champion the wealth of talent that abounds in Scotland's musical community"
www.scottishmusiccentre.com : https://twitter.com/scottishmusic : www.facebook.com/scottishmusiccentre The Scottish Music Centre currently supports in excess of 100 composer, group/small business and corporate members. Offering a wealth of advantages, initiatives include the bi-monthly Composers' Digest and Exposed Melodies podcast series, regular networking events and notification of valuable opportunities, extensive publicity and increased correspondence with national companies, chamber ensembles, soloists and festivals.
Scottish Music Centre’s City Halls office is currently closed and our staff and project teams are working from home. We have made changes to some of our services: please go to the individual page(s) on our website for more info. For general enquiries please contact us on info@scottishmusiccentre.com
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the mns collection â&#x20AC;Ś.
Covid-19 update from Creative Scotland Chief Executive Iain Munro "It is clear that this year will be the most challenging yet seen for the arts, screen and creative industries in Scotland. The creative sector is in a crisis like never before. Based on the evidence so far, many of our organisations, companies and venues are being forced to contemplate their ability to continue, putting at risk the livelihoods of the thousands of people employed and the thousands of artists and creative practitioners commissioned. Access to UK and Scottish Government emergency support, along with flexibility over Creative Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing resources and the introduction of new funds, have been quickly put in place and are reaching those in urgent need. However, the scale and severity of the challenges being faced by people and organisations across the arts, screen and creative industries in the months ahead is daunting to address. Easing of lockdown restrictions is likely to happen in stages, and with social distancing measures necessary for a long time to come, the ability for people to come together in traditional cultural spaces will be hard to manage and, particularly for the many organisations who are reliant on high levels of earned income, extremely challenging to
make viable. This means the cultural sector, particularly where live audiences are vital, will take longer to recover. Creative Scotland has an important role to play as part of a broader ecology of support and I want to reassure you that we are doing everything we can to secure further resources to help stabilise the current situation and adapt to a new future. We continue to meet regularly with sector development bodies* and the Scottish Government to map the impacts being felt and draw on the data we hold alongside sector surveys being undertaken. It is clear that it may not be possible to meet everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs and some radical thinking will be required, but we will continue to work together to tackle the challenges. The publication by the Scottish Government of a National Culture Strategy just prior to lockdown was a significant step in recognising the significant cultural, social and economic contribution of the sector. I believe this is amplified even more in this current context where culture and creativity have never been more important to the wellbeing and prosperity of the country and must play a vital part in the process of recovery and renewal for everyone in Scotland. I will continue to regularly update on our progress. In the meantime, please do look after yourselves, your friends and families, and keep safe."
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Socially distanced Concerts, Cinema, Raves, Comedy and more set for Scotland Three of the UK’s biggest dance music promoters have partnered up to launch 'Drive In Events', Tom Ketley [FLY Open Air, Scotland], Steffan Chelland [Time Warp, Bristol] and Richard Ince [Woodland Dance Project, UK]. As we begin the easing of lockdown it has become clear that social distancing will still exist for many months into the future - leaving both those who enjoy culture and events and those safe success story and we have plans to roll this who work in it without part of the fabric of their out across the UK - bringing high quality lives. entertainment to people while ensuring strict social distancing.” The prospect of the summer without theatres, music festivals, cinemas, stand-up comedy and Co-promoter, Steffan Chelland runs Bristol nightclubs has led to both artists and promoters Based Time Warp events which produces a host needing to reinvent themselves with many of shows across the country including the 26 city moving online to the world of virtual streams. Disco Wonderland Tour. However, three promoters believe that they Steffan added, “Our aim is to bring back a have a better solution and Drive In Events is set sense of normality in a climate of uncertainty. to offer safe and socially distanced It's been difficult for not only the music industry entertainment across the UK – including itself but the average person has lost their sense Edinburgh, Bristol, Glasgow, Leeds, London, of weekend release, be that music events, live Cardiff, Aberdeen, Nottingham, Oxford and shows or just socialising with your friends - we Newcastle. are trying to build a safe bridge back to this.” As far back as 1910, drive in events have With the loss of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival occurred, though famously credited to Richard Drive In Events could offer Drive In Comedy Hollingshead who patented the concept in 1933 throughout the whole month of August as well as to accommodate those for whom cinema seats Drive In Cinema for families, Drive In Raves for were too small, this form of drive in gathering is young people and Drive In Concerts for live proving ideal for the current Covid-19 context music fans. with music and cinema events starting to take There are a great number of safety precautions off in Europe. that each show will have to meet but from initial Tom Ketley from FLY, which produces FLY Open discussions with venues, Police, and relevant Air music festivals in unique locations in local councils, the team believe that this will be a Scotland, is part of the team behind the new valuable solution to boost everyone’s mental idea: health. Tom says, “Drive In Events could be a massive Two free car places will be available to NHS
workers at each performance. Tom Ketley said, “People need something to look forward to, they need access to social interaction and entertainment. Many people who have been in lockdown on their own are suffering with mental health problems and once lockdown laws are eased the Government will need to ensure there is not a mass free for all with people descending into crammed pubs and then a second wave of the virus to hit. I cannot see how socially distanced drinking culture can exist safely.’ The team are looking at how successful events in Germany and Denmark have occurred and working with the venues to ensure that safety and social distancing measures are ensured so that there is no additional pressure to front line workers. “One of the venues that we are in discussion with is Scotland’s finest stately home - Hopetoun House. It would offer a fantastic backdrop and we are looking to programme a wide a range of entertainment for people of all ages. As the timings of when this will be possible become clearer, we will release information on events and tickets here: www.drive-in-events.co.uk
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Make Music Day - 21 June 2020 - 1,000 participating cities, and over 120 countries :: including the Auld Land Syne Digital Participation Project Make Music Day is a grassroots yet global music festival. It takes place every year on 21st June, which is the summer solstice. The festival was originally launched in France in 1982, as Fête de la Musique, and its popularity continues to grow organically.
:: Hamish Napier
Musicians from all over the world will be participating this year in a celebration which spans 1,000 participating cities, and over 120 countries. Unlike traditional music festivals, Make Music Day is an open invitation which is extended to everyone; to make music anywhere and everywhere. In these times of social distancing, music has a unique power to bring us together as a community.
capture the wealth and diversity of people playing and singing together from their own So whilst physical public gatherings homes. The song is sung across the world and understandably are likely to remain prohibited the message of friendship is perfect for for a while, we can stay connected by filming our celebrating how music connects us across our music making endeavours on camera phones, community, nationally and globally.” and sharing online, enabling performances to be enjoyed by audiences all over the world, as part This classic Scottish song takes on a new poignancy in these times of social distancing, as of the global Make Music Day event. it acknowledges the importance of friendship and In response to the assembly challenges created human connection. The song is renowned the by Covid-19, Make Music Day UK, supported by world over, yet remains quintessentially The National Lottery through Creative Scotland Scottish. With lyrics written by Robert Burns, launched the Auld Land Syne Digital ‘For Auld Lang Syne’ is loosely translated as ‘For Participation Project. the Sake of Old Times’. The project invited musicians and singers of all Make Music Day UK has commissioned ages, skill levels, and musical persuasions to join internationally acclaimed Scottish musician and together in a celebratory performance of one of composer Hamish Napier and in-demand Scotland’s must popular and ensuring folk songs. drummer Cat Myers to create a special Alison Reeves, the Scotland Development Project Manager for Make Music Day UK says: “Make Music Day UK has been developing the presence of this global festival which recurs on the 21st June each year since 2017, and we decided early on in lockdown to divert all our efforts into supporting people to take part online. “There has been a huge outpouring of Scottish music making on social media over the past months, and the Auld Lang Syne project will
arrangement of this traditional folk song for the project.
opportunity to join in by singing, playing the melody, the chords, drums or bass line. Or get the pots and pans out, dance or juggle. The most important things is to enjoy getting involved, and I’m really looking forward to seeing the song come to life in the final project video.” Video submissions have been stitched together to create a musical collage, which will be premiered on the Make Music Day UK website and social channels, on Sunday 21 June, and it will be part of the global Make Music Day Live Stream. Performers are encouraged to share their video performance to their own social channels on Make Music Day, tagging #MakeMusicDayScotland and #MakeMusicDayUK The invitation to participate was not limited to those enjoy singing, or having access to musical instruments. The project welcomed contributions from people playing home-made instruments too, and included links to Bash The Trash’s environmental art project.
Hamish Napier commented: “The lockdown has kept so many apart, but this project has been created to bring us together. It was Full information on the exciting to be asked to create this new Auld Lang Syne Project can be found at arrangement of one of Scotland’s most famous www.makemusicday.co.uk/auld-lang-syne songs. I’ve been singing it for as long as I can remember at ceilidhs, weddings and other public www.makemusicday.co.uk www.twitter.com/MakeMusicDayUK gatherings. It only has 5 chords in it: G, A www.facebook.com/MakeMusicDayUK minor, C, D and E minor. People have had the
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Online Premiere Of Scottish Opera’s New Short Film The Narcissistic Fish - in Scots :: watch The Narcissistic Fish on June 18 @ www.scottishopera.org.uk On 18 June, Scottish Opera is premiering 'The Narcissistic Fish', a new 12-minute film in Scots that is a collaboration between Scottish Opera’s Composer in Residence Samuel Bordoli, Scottish poet and novelist Jenni Fagan (The Panopticon) and Scottish Opera’s in-house filmmaker, Antonia Bain. Set in the kitchen of a restaurant called The Narcissistic Fish, in the Leith area of Edinburgh, the opera tells the story of the stormy relationship between chefs Angus, Kai and Belle, and touches on the themes of narcissism, gender bias and class. The concept of the film was first conceived by Antonia and Samuel two years ago, who had the idea of creating a narrative set in a commercial kitchen. It features three of the Company’s 2019/20 Emerging Artists, baritones Arthur Bruce and Mark Nathan and soprano Charlie Drummond, singing over a digitally created score, that incorporates real sounds from a kitchen as percussion. As well as being able to view the film online, a digital programme will be available to download, along with photos, trailers and interviews with the cast and creative team.
click www.facebook.com/watch/?v=285485392632417 to watch video trailer
Antonia Bain said: ‘Since joining Scottish Opera in 2015, I have always wanted to present opera in a digital format that would be a piece in itself rather than to promote our stage shows or be based on an existing opera: a brand new piece of digital operatic work that would appeal to new audiences, as well as existing ones. ‘When we found Jenni Fagan, we gave her the location and number of characters and she delivered an exciting, fresh, and engaging plot and libretto. Her decision to write this in Scots really throws the audience into the heart of the action, but she has also managed to create an opera which I find to be dramatic, funny at moments but genuinely emotionally charged which is exactly what you want in an opera!
Soprano Charlie Drummond and baritone Arthur Bruce during the filming of The Narcissistic Fish :: photo by Julie Broadfoot
vibrantly contemporary in subject matter and identity. It is a short story that comes alive due The very first work in Scottish Opera’s new ‘The project was technically challenging as it was to the passion and conflict inherent in the three Opera Shorts initiative – opera created by a wide made in a very different way from a stage show, main characters’ lives. The Narcissistic Fish is a range of artists using digital technologies – The contemporary, modernist opera encompassing but it was great to work with the rest of the Narcissistic Fish will be screened on the Scottish Opera team to meet those challenges. It themes of narcissism, gender bias and class.’ Company’s website and social media channels. was also eye opening for me to direct an opera Charlie Drummond said: ‘I have a particular The libretto, written in Scots, was completed for the first time. The singers made it so easy, passion for contemporary opera so was delighted first by Jenni, followed by extensive and it was brilliant to talk through ideas for their to be invited to take part in this project. Equal storyboarding, then Samuel composed the vocal characters.’ parts opera, soap opera and ‘Kitchen music, with basic harmonic templates Nightmares’, it was fascinating to learn about Samuel Bordoli said: ‘Working on The underneath. Vocals were then recorded to a click Narcissistic Fish with Antonia and Jenni has been the process of television making, and to see how track, allowing the cast to sing along to their such different art forms could be combined.’ fascinating. We had to invent a new way of own recordings during the shoot, which took working, unfamiliar to the world of opera. This Arthur Bruce said: ‘The crew were amazing, place at the end of last year at Parkhouse has been a highly collaborative process with lots and it was a proper film set. It took a while to Business Park, in north Glasgow. Samuel then of back and forth along the way. get used to all the lingo - I previously had no composed the rest of the score underneath the idea what the grip, the gaffer, the focus-puller, ‘Our approach from the outset was to make a first edit allowing him to react to the visual short film that happened to be an opera, rather and the best boy did! Obviously having trained stimulus of the film. to sing and act simultaneously on a very large than an opera that happened to have been stage, it was a massive difference to then have filmed. In other words, it was built and The Narcissistic Fish composer, Samuel Bordoli conceived from the ground up, with every aspect to sing or mime along to the track we had :: photo by James Glossop previously recorded, whilst acting with a camera working in tandem from conception to right in your face. While I might not be winning completion. an Oscar anytime soon, it was a hugely ‘One of the fun things about a kitchen setting educational and useful opportunity.’ was the opportunity to incorporate real sounds into the score as percussion. Some of these are Mark Nathan said: ‘When I was first told about electronically manipulated and disguised. In the The Narcissistic Fish, I was a little trepidatious. A full on filming project? An electronic first half of the film, tempo increases ramp up the tension. Metric modulations are used to get accompaniment that hadn't yet been written? A Leith accent? I went into the project with an from one repeated sound to another – a cross rhythm cuts across the beat, then becomes the attitude of excitement, coloured by a healthy dollop of terror. However, I ended up having new beat. more fun than I could have imagined! The ‘Completing the score underneath the recorded experience of working on a film set with a performances of our wonderful cast was an wonderful crew was incredibly educational and experience I would love to repeat. I did not need enjoyable. I had a brilliant time learning and to imagine their voices as I worked – I could recording Sam's fantastic score.’ actually hear them.’ Thanks go to everyone in the Scottish Opera Jenni Fagan said: ‘My goal was to collaborate Team, Scottish Opera Emerging Artists with Scottish Opera on a libretto written in Benefactors, Idlewild Trust, Scottish Opera’s working class Scottish. I felt the nuances and New Commissions Circle and Andrew Lockyer for richness of the language deserved to create a their assistance in making the film. musicality and story that would have its own edge and identity. I didn't want the characters to www.scottishopera.org.uk necessarily be a more classical opera concept - it www.twitter.com/ScottishOpera was interesting to go for something that felt
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Baby Chaos :: album - Ape Confronts Cosmos Released? :: Out Now @ www.babychaos.com/product-category/ape-confronts-cosmos/ Glasgow five-piece Baby Chaos return with a buzz, a bang and a battalion of hooks on their new album, Ape Confronts Cosmos. The band have produced a bi-polar behemoth which throws monstrous riffs at walls of harmony, drawing the occasional tender acoustic breath before slapping the listener in the face with further savage guitars and soaring melodies. Following the release of three previous albums, in one case separated by many years apart. Safe Sex, Designer Drugs and The Death Of Rock And Roll [1994] which established the band as energetic upstarts with hugely memorable songs; Love Your Self Abuse [1996] which was included in Kerrang! Magazine's 100 Best British Rock Albums of All Time; and the comeback album Skulls, Skulls, Skulls, Show Me The Glory [2015] the band are rightly confident in the value of Ape Confronts Cosmos. Our fourth album as Baby Chaos represented a very different challenge to album three, explains singer and guitarist Chris Gordon. For Skulls, we drew on many songs that had been lying around for years then added to the cacophony with a host of newly written songs. For Ape Confronts Cosmos, we were faced with the
stretch for them all, but one they were all happy to make.
blank slate more typically encountered by an active group between albums. Would inspiration strike? And, if so, would it unleash a torrent of enthusiasm that we could white-water all the way to a great fourth album? The feeling among the band is that this may be our finest work yet. In the five years that have passed since the release of Skulls, the world has uncovered yet more ways of being more volatile than ever. Ape Confronts Cosmos is the Baby Chaos dossier on what it is to live an examined life in the 21st century. Finding solace and sanity in the burgeoning and diverse world of podcasts, Chris found that the bickering and soundbites of traditional media spats were replaced with something infinitely more satisfying. It seemed a few years ago that people started to believe that the world had lost the plot. That line of thinking never really held sway with
We're all grown men with families and busy lives, explains Chris, and making this time to be with each other and work on music takes a real commitment. I recently remarked to our (recently added) guitarist Alshy me, and it doesn't now, although I that occasionally I step back and confess the whole Trump thing think what luck I had getting stuck almost converted me. I started in a band with such excellent human listening to long conversations beings. Although we tease him between people with opposing views endlessly about his extended who could disagree strongly yet probation period, we wouldn't have graciously. It was such a relief to asked him to join if we didn't think know these conversations were he could add to this strange brew. happening, that I devoured countless hours of podcasts This new three-pronged guitar listening to things way beyond my assault opened up panoramic intellectual capacity. possibilities for Baby Chaos and their new songs, and the band were Newly inspired, the writing and pushed to the limit of their skills recording process began but, unlike and beyond. As a happy the previous album, the band was consequence, Ape Confronts starting from scratch. The blank Cosmos holds its own alongside canvas was both intimidating and many of its illustrious exhilarating but Baby Chaos found contemporaries; the likes of Biffy that inspiration can handle a nudge Clyro, Royal Blood, Muse, Queens of and a kick now again and, once that The Stone Age and Foo Fighters, spark takes hold, it gathers its own some of whom would also willingly momentum and things fall into quote Baby Chaos as an influence in place. As a successful producer in their own formative years. his own right, Chris knew that time would need to be ruthlessly www.babychaos.com procured to make the album www.twitter.com/babychaosband www.facebook.com/officialbabychaos happen. Dividing time between many different projects would be a
Kara Conway :: single - 'Two Hearts' Released? :: Out Now @ across all major streaming platforms
Singer-songwriter Kara Conway released her first single record on Friday, June 5 – a song that was inspired by a Doctor Who TV storyline.
“Hearing my songs come to life was such a lovely feeling ..."
The 24-year-old from Bishopbriggs near Glasgow has picked Two Hearts from her forthcoming, four-track EP titled “This Life” and it will be available in the summer. “I am very excited but also nervous about it all but I do hope people will like what they hear,” said Kara, who taught herself to play guitar while studying at the University of Glasgow between 2013 and 2017. “The single is a result of me being a massive Doctor Who fan,” said Kara. “It’s kind of a break-up song but it came to me when Karen Gillan (Amy Pond) was the Doctor’s (Matt Smith) companion and she was leaving. I got the piano part first, then the lyrics and it all came together after that.” Kara has been playing the piano since she was a young girl and says she spent her childhood city, covering Nick Drake and Crosby Stills and singing along to her dad playing music by The Nash songs, while honing her skills as a singerBeatles, Eric Clapton and The Eagles on guitar songwriter. and participating in her local choir. Kara has emerged on to the Scottish music While studying English literature at university, scene winning slots to appear at the prestigious Kara became inspired by the song writing skills Danny Kyle Open Stage at Glasgow’s Royal of Gabrielle Aplin and began teaching herself to Concert Hall as part of Celtic Connections, Killin play guitar so she could perform her own Music Festival and Scottish singer/songwriter material at open mic nights in and around the Dougie Maclean’s annual Perthshire Amber
Festival. She has also performed solo Gershwin’s ‘Someone To Watch Over Me’ on the SEC Armadillo stage, accompanied by a full orchestra. Recently, Kara began hosting an hour-long, Sunday morning show on Celtic Music Radio, where she plays a mixture of music from up and coming and established artists. Her EP ‘This Life’ was recorded at Chem19 Studios in Glasgow where it was produced and engineered by Derek O’Neill (King Creosote) and was mastered by Paul Savage at Chem 19 in Blantyre. “It was amazing working with them,” said Kara. “We were in the studios for three or four days in total. Derek plays piano and guitars on all the tracks and I focused on singing. “Hearing my songs come to life was such a lovely feeling and I’m so grateful to Derek and Paul for all they did for me.” Two Hearts by Kara Conway was self-released on 5 June. It is available via major platforms including Amazon music, Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Deezer, YouTube, Google Play, and Tidal. www.twitter.com/KaraConwayMusic www.facebook.com/KaraConwayMusic www.instagram.com/karaconwaymusic
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Edinburgh Tradfest :: single/video 'Wild Mountain Thyme' Released? :: Out Now @ www.givey.com/edinburghtradfest2021 for £5 donation :: #EdinTradfest2021 (donations over £5 receive an mp3 of the track) @ www.givey.com/edinburghtradfest2021
Edinburgh Tradfest has released a brand new recording and video of the popular Scottish/Irish song Wild Mountain Thyme to mark this year's cancelled festival.
Watson from the Department of Celtic and Scottish Studies at the University of Edinburgh; a key partner of the Festival.
Taking on the enormous task of editing all the videos into a well-synced whole is Edinburgh videomaker Ruth Barrie from Waltzer Films.
energy into whilst confined to my Glasgow flat.
Jane-Ann Purdy of Edinburgh Tradfest said: “We were looking for an uplifting Scottish folk song with a summer vibe, no easy task! Wild Mountain Thyme is very popular and, like many other traditional tunes The 36 artists included on the recording include acclaimed folk musician and songs, is claimed by both Scotland and Ireland. It’s also well known and this year’s festival headliner Eliza Carthy. Also featured are Fiona in North America and around the globe with many, many versions Hunter (Malinky), Rachel Newton (The Shee), James Mackintosh recorded over the years. However, ours is the first to include a mass band (Shooglenifty), five leading Shetland fiddlers including Catriona Macdonald from Scotland, Ireland, England, California, Nova Scotia and Norway! We and Chris Stout, accordion player Phil Alexander (Moishe’s Bagel), and are hugely grateful to everyone who has united to create this new Irish folk-singer Daoirí Farrell among others. recording and hope that it will bring some joy to music fans worldwide, during these difficult times.” The artists hail from Scotland, Ireland, England, California, Nova Scotia and Norway and recorded and videoed themselves at home for the Mike Vass (Traditional Artist in Residence at University of project, under the expert guidance of Traditional Artist in Residence Edinburgh) said: “This was quite an unusual but amazing project to (University of Edinburgh) Mike Vass, who arranged and produced the work on. Like everyone else I was gutted to have my Tradfest recording. performances cancelled but this has been a really positive thing to put my “Last week I watched in awe as the emails with vocals and instrumental The song was selected by Jane-Ann Purdy, Producer of Edinburgh Tradfest parts came flooding in from around the world. I ended up with 72 tracks to mix, by far the biggest thing I’ve ever produced. It’s a behemoth! and one of the founders of The Soundhouse Organisation, and Dr Lori ”One of the main challenges was that not everyone has state of the art equipment to work with so recording was handled on everything from smart phones in front rooms to professional quality kit in sound-proofed booths. Making everyone’s recordings sound like the belong together took some work but I’m really happy with how it turned out. It’s a big sound, and very joyful.” The release of the recording will also kickstart the festival’s fundraising for 2021 via www.givey.com/edinburghtradfest2021 Anyone donating more than £5 will receive an MP3 of the track via email.
click https://youtu.be/k_gXLsHrjpU to watch the video
Thanks to Creative Scotland, the William Grant Foundation and the City of Edinburgh Council for supporting this video. The dates planned for Edinburgh Tradfest 2021 are 30 April to 10 May.
www.edinburghtradfest.com
www.twitter.com/EdinTradfest www.facebook.com/tradfestedinburgh
The Glasgow Barons :: Live 'Street Music' in Govan When? :: 10 + 17 June
Govan's community orchestra - The Glasgow Barons - has partnered up with local agencies to provide
music on the streets of Govan. The first one was with cellist Alice Allen performing at Govan Cross on 3 June.
Working collaboratively with local partners Govan Housing Association, Govan Salvation Army, Unlock Employment, Govan Youth Information Project and NSPCC whilst they are giving out free food, sanitary products and toys to locals in need, Paul MacAlindin, Artistic Director of The Glasgow Barons, has programmed hour long concerts to keep the local community entertained. This new initiative is playing a major role in Govan's wider strategy to help with mental health during lockdown, which is under immense strain for so many vulnerable people being here. Other dates confirmed so far at Govan Cross at 11am-noon are: Jocelyn Pettit, Fiddler on Wednesday 10 June and then Balazs Renczes, Cello on Wednesday 17 June. The Glasgow Barons are a flexible orchestral ensemble helping to revitalise Govan. Founded in 2017 by local conductor Paul MacAlindin, it creates concerts and music projects around Govan’s spaces and schools. The Glasgow Barons aim to: develop local and national pride in Govan; instill hope, discipline, skills, listening and teamwork; build community resilience; develop creativity, connectivity and self-confidence.
www.glasgowbarons.com Alice Allen plays a 'Food of Love Gig' at Govan Cross :: photo by James Chapelard
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