The Shieling [VINYL]

Distinctive Scottish pianist and composer Fergus McCreadie presents 'The Shieling', an album that marks a nuanced and subtle yet powerful shift for him and his trio. Following the huge acclaim and success of 'Cairn', 'Forest Floor' (shortlisted for Mercury Prize and winning Best Album at Scottish Music Wards) and 'Stream', Fergus McCreadie draws on fresh inspiration from the wild, elemental beauty of North Uist in the Scottish Outer Hebrides. Recorded in a remote cottage and produced by celebrated and fellow Mercury shortlisted artist, Laura Jurd (Dinosaur), 'The Sheiling' reflects a deeper sense of oneness and primal rawness. The trio - recording in one room with McCreadie on an upright piano - finds new ground to their sound - lyrical, untamed and alive. Joined by trusted collaborators David Bowden (bass) and Stephen Henderson (drums), McCreadie holds on to that signature mix of Scottish folk spirit and modern jazz but lets it breathe in new ways. In just a few years, he's become one of British jazz's most compelling voices, praised for performances that feel raw, honest and full of heart. From the groundedness of 'Cairn' to the earthiness of 'Forest Floor' and the flowing lyricism of 'Stream', his music continues to speak to audiences far and wide and 'The Shieling' feels like the next natural, powerful step. Available on CD and marbled blue coloured vinyl. Fergus McCreadie: piano David Bowden: double bass Stephen Henderson: drums Press: "The Shieling is music of land and spirit - raw yet refined, intimate yet expansive, confirming McCreadie as an artist whose musical voice resonates far and wide." - ***** UK Vibe "McCreadie's fleet fingers disguise a delicate touch on folksy, pastoral musings driven by his intuitive interplay with Bowden and Henderson." - **** MOJO "They have forged a distinct identity and cross-genre appeal...The album marks a shift in approach from McCreadie and his trio, yet maintains their ability to flawlessly mix jazz and folk expression. Transporting everything to a remote island cottage may seem unusual, but it has paid dividends, as the recording beautifully captures the wild landscape surrounding them." - **** All About Jazz