Where From Here

Comprising the fiddle of Graham Mackenzie, the pipes and whistles of David Shedden, and the guitar of Innes White, talented Highland folk trio Assynt follow their 2018 debut Road to the North with an evocative recording inspired by the landscape of their West Coast home. It's a tight-knit sound that characterises the trio; one of the most stimulating on the traditional Scottish scene, but while the trio unashamedly champion their roots, they never slavishly stick to the past. Peter MacLeod's ‘Assynt House’, a reel from piper Donald MacLeod, and the well-known Gaelic puirt à beul, ‘Nighean Donn’ provide the traditional element of the trio's backgrounds while self-penned tunes feature heavily with the trio delivering a sound comprising, subtly, of synth, electric guitar and strings. Joining the trio on Where From Here is guest musician Charlie Stewart on double bass, providing the album with a slightly fuller and expansive sound.

The title proposes a question the trio are keen to explore: where next for the band? In the meantime though, they deliver a beautifully atmospheric recording, showcasing some excellent Scottish tunes, accomplished new writing, and the taut musicianship expected from this gifted trio.