RORY MATHESON & GRAHAM RORIE - We Have Won The Land
Rumley Sounds RUMS03CD
The history of the rights to land ownership in Scotland is not comfortable reading for ordinary people, with land speculators often having bought vast areas only to make poor use of them. Imagine, then, the joy of the Assynt Crofters’ Trust when, in 1993, they managed the unprecedented feat of buying the North Lochinver estate for the community.
This inspiring CD celebrates the crofters’ story with 10 tracks inspired by the different stages of the process. Local man Rory Matheson plays piano and keyboards, and Orcadian Graham Rorie fiddle, mandolin and tenor guitar. Guesting are Craig Baxter, bodhrán; Tiernan Courtney, flutes and whistles; James Graham, vocals; Kristan Harvey, fiddle; Anna Massie, guitar; Charlie Stewart, bass; and Fraser Stone, drums and percussion. And what a superb combination this is, with all the arrangements creating tunes that are immediately engaging, whilst helping to convey the feelings and emotions that followed the initial hesitation then the final victory for the people.
Whilst all the musicians are on absolutely top form throughout, with great interplay, Rory’s piano playing stands out. I was recently discussing the role of the piano in traditional music, and here we have a perfect example of how to use it as a lead melody instrument. Just listen to the vivacity of the last two tracks which help you feel just how elated everyone must have been.
This is an outstanding album to commemorate a very important historical event, and it is also one which stands alone for the quality of its music.
www.rmgr.bandcamp.com
Gordon Potter
This review appeared in Issue 145 of The Living Tradition magazine