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REVIEW FROM www.livingtradition.co.uk

 


 

 

 
SGOIL CHIÙIL NA GÀIDHEALTACHD - The Final Trawl 

SGOIL CHIÙIL NA GÀIDHEALTACHD - The Final Trawl 
Private Label SCGCD019D 

One of the highlights of the turning of the year is the release of a CD compiled and performed by the students at the National Centre of Excellence in Traditional Music in Plockton. Looking back, I find that in 2006 I was delighted to review their album, Duck (SCGCD005). I wrote then that, “this album demonstrates the richness and vivacity of the current Scottish traditional music scene...The selection of material, by the students themselves, is broad and varied; several from the core of the tradition, some contemporary pieces and student compositions. There’s Gaelic and Scots song; tunes, solo and ensemble playing utilising every instrument used in traditional Scottish music.” Nothing has changed, this is equally true of their most recent showcase: The Final Trawl.

There are 28 great tracks and I find it difficult to isolate standout tracks but review needs must so, by a whisker, on Disc 1 it has to be the title track, mainly because I found myself joining in the chorus. On Disc 2 it is the ‘Big Set’, Friendship.

I consider it a delight and a privilege to have listened to so much of the music from these young people and to have followed the careers of some of the graduates over the years. Try listening to some samples on the website. You will not be disappointed and remember that every CD sold helps secure the future of traditional music in Scotland.

www.musicplockton.org

Iain Campbell

 

This review appeared in Issue 133 of The Living Tradition magazine