Handsel

It's hard to believe that Malinky, those champions of Scots song, are 20 years old, having formed back in 1999. For this significant anniversary the band haven't disappointed. The title, Handsel, refers to a good-luck gift, especially to mark a special occasion and entirely apt here. Welcoming guests such as Barbara Dymock, Hector Riddell and Len Graham among many others, they deliver a double CD celebration of their history and passions. Songs from the Child Ballads, the Greig-Duncan Collection and the Scottish Traveller tradition frequent throughout. The first CD consists of new recordings, while the second includes rare demos and live tracks gleamed from the band's extensive performance career, and includes early tracks with previous members including Karine Polwart.

With such a strong selection of songs and tunes to choose from (12 tracks on disc one and 14 on disc two) it is almost impossible to choose particular highlights; suffice to note Handsel is caricatured by effective vocals (with some beautiful work from Fiona Hunter, Steve Byrne, Mark Dunlop and new recruit Mike Vass), subtle instrumentals and a genuine focus on the power of Scots song and voice. A genuine delight. One of the standout releases from 2019 and a must-have for anyone interested in Scottish traditional song. Here's to the next 20 years. Superb.