Former Clydesider’s tribute to the fallen
Land of Gold is an album by singer and guitarist Duncan McCrone, writes Robert Woods.
Duncan is probably best known for his time with The Clydesiders, who made many radio and TV appearances in the eighties.
Land of Gold has been created as a tribute to all the soldiers from Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales, and also their Commonwealth brothers in arms from all corners of the globe, who fought and suffered together in the Great War and, in particular, all those who died.
Most of the songs are written by Duncan and bassist Cy Jack, but also included are songs written by the likes of folk legends Eric Bogle and Matt McGinn.
Duncan is backed up by a stellar cast of A-list traditional musicians, including accordionist Sandy Brechin, fiddle player Chris Stout of Fiddlers’ Bid, Catriona McKay on clarsach, and Rab Noakes, a well-known and respected singer.
Though there are some big names playing on the album, there is nothing flash about it. No big prima donna solos, no pyrotechnics. This is a well-crafted and lovinglycreated collection of songs, expertly arranged and delivered with a fine polish.
In the CD liner notes, Duncan tells the stories behind the songs, with tales from the world wars, and touching stories of his family and others who have made a strong impression on him.
One of those tales is told in the song Honeymoon Bridge, bringing a tragic tale to light of a place which will be well known by drivers who pass it on their way to Oban.
Preceding it on the album is Song of the Skylark. The story of a rescue boat which saved 660 exhausted soldiers from impending massacre at Dunkirk. The song has a stirring rendition of Banks of Sicily, played of the bagpipes by Finlay MacDonald.
In Land of Gold, Duncan McCrone tells stories of the songs and characters that shaped his life. This album will tell you a lot about the man himself.
Land of Gold is available to buy now, priced £12, from Greentrax Recordings Ltd. Visit www.greentrax.com