Back in 2022, when this project first emerged, BOLD REYNOLD seemed to be a prime example of those one-off endeavors where an inspired person gathers like-minded performers for a star-studded album which sparkle for a while and disappear without a trace. Turned out the folk formation’s self-titled offering was destined to have a longer narrative, with its mastermind David Carroll’s creative engagement with friends from FAIRPORT CONVENTION and GRYPHON, as well as a few more musicians, gathering anew two years later to fashion "Too". And now this pun is to be taken a step further with a release of “Free” on July 31st.
Fans could wonder whether 2028 will see the appearance of its follow-up, and whether it will be titled “For” or “Fore” – but anticipating the current platter is enough to make an aficionado happy.
“The album consists of ten traditional songs and our take on Eric Bogle’s classic anti-war song ‘No Man’s Land,’ all given the legendary BOLD REYNOLD make-over and arrangement,” recounts Mr. Carroll. “Graeme Taylor has again recorded and produced at his Morden Shoals Studio, and has astounded us with the depth and clarity of the production. Brian Gulland has, as usual, added amazing woodwind and keyboard arrangements, and kept us all in line musically, whilst Dave Oberlé has added stunning percussion to his usual sharp drum tracks. I have added more pipes and acoustic guitar than usual, plus a smattering of other things as well, and Lucy Cooper again sings like a lark. Did I mention Chris Leslie’s oud?
“Unavoidable delays to the start of recording meant that Dave Pegg was unable to join us this time due to his commitments with FAIRPORT CONVENTION, and we had to shoehorn in Chris Leslie’s contributions remotely at Woodworm Studios – big thanks to Stuart Jones for fitting us in at short notice! – for the same reason. Peggy suggested that Graeme take up bass playing duties as well as his customary electric guitar, which he has done to great effect. All in all, plenty to keep our fans very happy, and of course, plenty of surprises too!”
Free
And that’s how the album goes:
1. Sweet Jenny Of The Moor
2. Hanging Johnny
3. Well Sold The Cow
4. I Will Put My Ship In Order
5. Molly Bawn
6. Down By Mount Callan Side
7. What Will We Do When We’ll Have No Money?
8. The Hunt Is Up
9. The Female Transport
10. The Parting Glass
11. No Man’s Land
