In the world of Scottish ballads, Rhymer has recently set itself apart from the rest. This musical adaptation dives deep into the realm of Scottish magic, taking listeners on a journey that blends traditional folk music with visions of alien elves.
Rhymer, created by Scottish songwriter Isobel McArthur, takes old poems from Scotland and sets them to music. The music is often accompanied by electronic sounds, setting the tone for a theme of ‘otherworldliness’, inspired by nature and the unknown.
At its core, Rhymer is a collection of traditional Scottish ballads that feature ethereal melodies and lyrics inspired by pieces of Scottish folklore.
McArthur’s vision of alien elves is most evident on the title track, which leads the story with ethereal flutes, spacey synths and a mystical vocal section in which an alien speaks in a complex, alien tongue.
This deep exploration of alien elves is complemented by softer, more traditional pieces that take listeners closer to the roots of folk music. These include the spellbinding “Hightower”, which features acoustic guitar, fiddle and vocal harmony, and the gospel-tinged “Stornoway Sound”, with its uplifting harmonies and magical melodies.
The combination of Scottish ballads and alien elves makes Rhymer a truly unique listening experience. McArthur’s songwriting is both modern and traditional at the same time. Her evocative lyrics make the listener feel as though they are truly travelling through ancient Scotland, while the electronic elements help the listener unlock otherworldly mysteries.
Rhymer is a journey through time and space as McArthur sings of stories of love, loss and adventure. A fitting tribute to Scotland’s past and a celebration of its future, Rhymer is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the realm of traditional Scottish magic combined with modern-day synth-pop.