The Castalia

Edinburgh based fiddler Ratcliff’s beguiling debut is an evocative blend of traditional music cultures of Cape Breton, New Brunswick and the musician’s own Gaelic heritage. Taking its title from the name of the ship that took her great-great-great-uncle and his family from Glasgow to New Brunswick in 1873, the album follows a central reflective theme of the journey from Scotland to Canada. The 13 tracks, comprising 32 traditional and original tunes, were also inspired by time Ratcliff herself spent in Cape Breton.

Joining Ratcliff are Cape Breton pianist Adam Young, Glasgow-based cellist Ellen Gira and American step dancer Annabelle Bugay, ensuring an intimate sound with a purity of instrumentation. ‘Tune for Annabelle’ is a joyful, sparkling set of dance tunes, while ‘Lament for Owen Christy’ interprets the Jim Stewart tune with a heartfelt longing palpable in Ratcliff’s mournful violin. Step dance ‘Thinking on My Feet’ is a playful piece of whimsy, while ‘The Blue Mist’, an ode to Ratcliff’s local bar where she spent many hours in the weekly music sessions, perfectly captures the immersive atmosphere of a live recording. The Castalia is a beautiful listen, with a considered sensitivity.