This is the debut album from the Ross Couper Band. Hailing from Shetland, Ross grew up surrounded by music. His mother, Margaret Robertson was his fiddle teacher when he was growing up. In his teens he studied music in (lovely) Plockton on the west coast of Scotland, then on to take a Folk Music degree at Newcastle University. Following his long-time duo partnership with guitarist/flautist Tom Oaks he joined the pioneering Peatbog Faeries. His work with Celtic Connections and particularly ‘New Voices’ heralded the creation of his tight four-piece band – Sam Mabbett (melodeon), Michael Biggins (piano) and Paul Jennings drums. They are joined on the album by Duncan Lyall on bass and synthesiser.
The set that opens the album comprises three reflections on fondly remembered homes and the memories contained within them. Sandwiched between the borderline furious ‘Da Clubb’ and the hypnotic romp ‘Clunie Road’ is ‘Farewell to Dumbarton Road’, a haunting adieu to what must have been a well-loved residence.
‘Da Lang Ayre’ shows the band at their brawny best, a piece that really rocks – perfectly balanced, wonderfully percussive, and tight as a Formula One double hairpin. Not a stray note in sight.
An exhilarating mix, superbly engineered and inspired by everything from home fires and childhood recollection to the shape of a Shetland hill and Guinness-soaked stag-do’s. (Other Extra Stout brands are available).
Roll on album number 2.
Bob Langstaff.
