David Leask has never forgotten his Scottish roots, even though he's living in Canada today. His third album, Tightrope of Dreams, reflects both influences and is an interesting mixture of self-crafted songs with a few of Leask's favourite Scottish ballads.

The CD opens with Runrig's wonderful ballad "Every River." Leask has a beautiful voice and he has gathered together some very fine musicians, so they bring forward a perfect cover version of this brilliant song.

Leask is an exceptional singer-songwriter, and the title song "Tightrope of Dreams" is certainly one of the highlights of the album. Beautiful arrangements, first-rate recordings and a rich sound brought forward by a varied line-up underline the beautiful melodies and rhythms.

The words are telling us about Leask's memories of Scotland, like on "The Rain Came Down," a stunning rhythmic song, or about his reflections of the world he's living in. He talks about politics, philosophy, simple daily events or personal feelings and he lets us share his thoughts and feelings accompanied by the amazing sound of his music.

Robert Burns' song "Green Grow the Bushes O" has been transformed to "The Lasses," my favourite song on the album. Brilliant rhythms, amazing musicianship and Leask's gorgeous singing make this one of the best versions of the song I've ever heard. The CD ends with another cover track: Dougie MacLean's "Caledonia" expresses Leask's love for his homeland.

The CD is a collection of beautiful songs with traditional background and influences, interpreted by a remarkable singer and songwriter.

by Adolf Goriup
Rambles.NET
19 May 2007

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