Going on board the Tall Ship is fascinating (worth a visit in any case). As soon as you go down the stairs to where the launch was held, you are instantly submerged in history. Gratefully, we were greeted by a brilliant spread of food and free champagne (on ice), which sat on top of some old barrels. Although the audience was thoroughly spoiled, with free food and drink, comfy seats and a brilliant setting altogether, in front was a simple, bare stage, with nothing but a mic and a keyboard. During the performance it became clear why the location was chosen – the history of the Tall Ship communicated the history of the emigrant Gael. Some of the very people Fiona sang about had travelled on the Clyde during the Highland Clearances as they flooded out of Scotland, forced from their homes to emigrate to the likes of Canada and the States.

Fiona’s voice filled the entire deck and Irvin’s accompaniment complimented the arrangements beautifully. The no-frills stage was a testament to the fact that many of the people in the songs didn’t have a lot and were trying to make the best with little that they had – Fiona and Irvine did the same on the night. No fancy set up of any kind was needed as the songs spoke for themselves. The talented duo gave us a sample of 4 songs from the Album released by Greentrax Recordings Ltd; ‘Dèan Cadalan Sàmhach’ (Sleep Quietly), ‘Tha thu Beò nam Anamsa’ (You are Alive in my Soul), ‘O Mo Dhùthaich’ (Oh my Country) and ‘Dùthaich nan Craobh’ (Land of Trees). This was an excellent choice of repertoire for the evening, most definitely leaving the audience wanting more. mygaelic.com had to have this album.

The album not only reaffirms the talent of Fiona and Irvin, it also exhibits more musical talent. The Album also features Mary Ann Kennedy, Darren MacLean, Sineag Macintyre, Cathy Ann MacPhee, Anna Massie, Fraser Fifield and a number of other fantastic artists. Quality performers plus quality songs plus Fiona’s passion for the Gaelic language has produced a superb 12 song CD.

The songs on the album pay homage to those who left for pastures new during in the 18th, 19th and 20th century. Some are happy and some are sad, but all are equal in beauty and meaning. The vocals are strong throughout and all instrumental accompaniment compliments the blend of voices. The words are what count on this album and without feeling, the songs would have lost much, if not all, of their meaning. However, this is not the case on the Album. Fiona’s understanding of the songs and the striking arrangements produced an album that would have done the emigrants proud. The album gives a voice to those who had to leave Scotland and in the year of Homecoming, it is important to acknowledge these voices and reach out to our friends and relatives overseas. The album ‘Deagh Dheis Aodaich’ shares the tales of the emigrant Gael and captures the thoughts and feelings of those who left to the highest standard.

mygaelic.com verdict: ‘Deagh Dheis Aodaich’ is a must have for all who appreciate and take an interest Scottish history and good music. Packed full of history and talent.

After the gig mygaelic.com spoke to a couple of audience members to see what they thought:

G. Macready - (who doesn’t speak a word of Gaelic, from Port Glasgow) said: “That was an amazing performance; the song from Uist [Oh mo Dhùthaich] was my particular favourite. I didn’t have a clue what she was saying but whatever it was she meant it. Stunning.”

Ms Brough - (Glasgow) – “I don’t speak much Gaelic, but you really didn’t have to, to appreciate the good music. What a voice! Fiona explained the songs before performing them and the accompaniment was phenomenal. Ace venue, ace performance and ace champagne! Needless to say, I bought the album.”