Scottish ballads have been a staple of folk music for centuries, and their impact is felt world-wide. However, a unique new collaboration between two of Scotland’s most acclaimed artists has taken the traditional folk form to a new level. The collaboration, titled “Rhymer”, combines traditional Scottish ballads with a modern twist, featuring alien elves from a fantasy world as its stars.
The project was created by Glasgow-based musician, songwriter and composer Alasdair Roberts and Edinburgh-based film and digital media artist Ellie Harrison, and it’s set to be released this summer. The collaboration brings together elements of traditional folk music and modern digital art, resulting in a soundscape that is both unique and captivating.
The story of “Rhymer” follows the journey of two alien elves – the Rhymer and his companion Constance – who find themselves stranded on a strange planet. During their travels, they come across a mysterious music box that plays a strange song which captivates both of them. They find themselves deeply linked to the music, and eventually discover they are part of a larger cosmic quest. Throughout the journey, they encounter a host of mystical creatures, and eventually join forces with a few other elves.
The music accompanying their adventures is a mix of traditional Scottish ballads and the sounds of science fiction and fantasy. The songwriting is diverse and layered, fusing elements of folk music in inventive ways. Album highlights include the ambient, atmospheric opener “In The High Places” which is awash with electronic textures and haunting vocals. Meanwhile, the title track, “Rhymer”, brings the traditional ballad to life with an enchanting beat and sweeping strings.
The collaboration has already received glowing praise from fans and critics. It has been called “exhilarating” and “gently transporting”, and described as a “fantasy fable that plays like a modern-day fairytale”.
With their innovative combination of traditional folk music and modern digital art, Roberts and Harrison have created an otherworldly journey unlike anything you’ve heard before. “Rhymer” is an imaginative and moving musical experience that will delight all fans of Scotland’s rich musical heritage.
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