Insistent rhythms and depths of instrumental layers are a great foundation for Alec Dalgleish’s voice in the latest single from Skerryvore. In ‘The Sea That Sings’, Dalgleish’s vocal is as tuneful and pure as the song’s words and sentiment: “You’re a melody as sweet as the sea that sings.” Unselfconsciously romantic, the song is about the kind of love that gives you the strength to face your troubles – it’s affirming and joyful, both thematically and musically. The sound is full and textured, with propulsive percussion and bass pushing beneath flourishes of keys, whistle, fiddle and accordions, the energy continuing to build to the song’s climax.
Singer and guitarist Dalglish says: “The intention behind ‘The Sea That Sings’ was to evoke images of the west coast of Scotland in the height of summer. The beauty of the scenery and the feeling of freedom that you’d feel walking along the shore with someone you love.”
The band are celebrating their 20th year in style, having toured across Australia and the USA and playing a special Skerryvore XX show at the historic Floors Castle. There’s also a Glastonbury performance this summer with more US and UK shows to follow. The band’s Daniel Gillespie says of the celebrations: “As part of our musical journey over the past 20 years we have been very fortunate to travel the world and cross paths with so many incredible musicians along the way. From artists we first met in the bars and halls of the west coast of Scotland to bright new talents who are thriving in the amazing Scottish music scene, we wanted to fill the Skerryvore XX stage with a host of musical pals that we know will help make it an extra special day for everyone making the journey to the castle.”
This is energetic, soaring music, absorbing and joyful – made for live performances. Enjoy.
