Steven Spence is a well-known Shetland fiddler who played in the band Hom Bru for 10 years. The album Spencie's Tunes is made up of 37 pieces over the 16 tracks. There is a range of instrumentation with the help of arranger John Laughland, whose piano playing provides an attractive complement to Spence's fiddle -- as does Spence's own mandolin.

A key point of interest in this album is that, although Spence's playing is embedded in the Shetland (specifically Unst) tradition, all the tunes are his original compositions, which he has written over a period of almost 30 years from the age of 11. Throughout the album there is no doubting Spence's fine musicianship as both musician and composer.

As well as the obvious Shetland influence, there are Scandinavian touches, too -- not least in "Inga's Waltz" in a Norwegian style. The tunes fit the subjects well as in the upbeat and celebratory "Tullock's Farewell to Hagdale" with its characteristically vibrant piano accompaniment. Although there is much at high pace, Spence is quite comfortable too with slower numbers like the old-time waltz "Bonar & Mabel's Golden Wedding." A jazz tinge throughout is another characteristic of the album, most obviously apparent in the "White Wife" set. The album concludes with the touching "Calum's Waltz," performed with children from Sound Primary School.

This album is sure to be enjoyed by those who like new tunes in the folk tradition. The sense of fun is captured well on the unusual cover, which amusingly states: "Men! End health worries now! Ladies! Stay young & beautiful! Government Health Warning: Spencie's Tunes can ruin your chances of being miserable." I don't know about the first two claims, but the last one is surely right!

by Andy Jurgis
Rambles.NET
19 November 2005

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