Burden Lake

Burden Lake is the debut collaboration between Scotland’s Kevin Henderson on fiddle and American Neil Pearlman on piano, a beautiful and accomplished release it is too. Recorded over three days, the album’s title takes its name from the lake in Albany, New York where the album was written, but the sound is not limited to NY state. There are influences from both countries here, as well as Shetland and Scandinavian traditions, but you will also find some Cape Breton flourishes and even some touches of jazz.

There are some fine airs and reels here. Opener ‘Sjovald’ is a pacey little introduction, a nifty little tune that draws the listener in. ‘Head Her in for Bastavoe’ is a playful set of tunes that perfectly captures the superb musicianship of both players while ‘San Simon/47 Hours’ is a buoyant, and frantic, number with a catchy and sweeping medley that plays both instruments off well. The title-track closes the album in a reflective, chilled mood. Burden Lake is a sweet and rather soothing album, with some nice touches and beautifully played. Sit back, relax and enjoy a fine duet between piano and fiddle.