Gaol

Description

Introducing ‘Gaol’, the long-awaited new studio album from Rachel Walker.

With a title evoking love, affection and the human bonds that bind us, this collection of songs reflects just that – a labour of love. Spanning the centuries, the songs include apposite selections from the Gaelic tradition, such as ‘An t-Iarla Diùrach’ (‘The Earl of Jura’), informed by Rachel’s intimate knowledge of Gaelic song as well as contemporary Gaelic songwriting.

Of the brand-new offerings, three represent collaborations with two of Gaeldom’s finest poets. ‘Caisteal Ghaoilein’ (‘Gylen Castle’), co-written with Tiree-native Flora MacPhail evokes the heroism of Clan Dougal. A contemporary anthem documenting an emotive episode in Highland history.

Also featured is fresh writing alongside Edinburgh-based Marcas Mac an Tuairneir, the result of two songwriting sessions held at the Scottish Poetry Library, prior to lock-down. ‘Là Luain’ is set to become a timeless classic, a heartbreaker of a ballad recorded alongside Mòd Gold Medallist James Graham. ‘Tìr is Sàl’ is a rollicking modern waulking song, evoking rural life, building on timeless imagery of land and sea.

The album also features brand new English-language compositions, ‘All For You’ and ‘I Never Knew’, which see Rachel exploring a new, contemporary style. In all, Gaol takes listeners on a journey through the many iterations of love: romantic, familial, of language, land and lore