What’s in a name? Well in this case, the title of the album is Gaelic for lineage, in other words those who come before. Frances Morton has a musical root which is stacked with music from Celtic heritage both Scots and Irish and playing the flute in the flexible manner she does makes this debut album a bundle of joy.
From the whirl and skirl of the opening “Mayo Set,” the music is by turns driving, joyful and atmospheric. You’ll be tapping your toes within the first few minutes and dancing around the kitchen by the time you get to track 3 “Miss Ramsey’s” ; though you will be allowed a breather whilst the air “Fonn Mall” slows matters somewhat. Supported by a list of heavyweights including producer/co conspiritor Eamon McElholm on all manner of strings/keyboards and fiddler Ciaran Tourish ensures each track is first class. Packaging and production are up there too.
Look, I’m not going to rabbit on for ages justifying this album. There is no point. “Sliocht,” is to all intents and purposes everything you could ever want an instrumental Celtic recording to be. Frances Morton has done her lineage proud in delivering an attractive slice of roots and the certainty of a satisfying listen. Touring should follow naturally. Meantime seek her out if you know what’s good for you.
Simon Jones
