ALBUM OF THE WEEK – Louise Bichan ‘The Lost Summer’

The second solo album from Orkney fiddler, LOUISE BICHAN, boasts both traditional tunes and original compositions.

It’s a compelling collection that brings new life and personal meaning to existing music as well as showcasing unique work self-penned in recent years.

Louise, who’s based in the USA, has completed a degree in performance at the prestigious Berklee College of Music and she’s seized the opportunity to travel and perform around the States.

“Meeting and playing with so many inspiring people broadened my musical horizons,” she said. “I felt it was high time I took all of these new experiences and inspirations and created a new record, and I’m lucky to have been joined by some fantastic musicians in the making of it.

“I hope people connect with and enjoy the album because we had a wonderful time making it, and I think you can definitely hear the joy throughout.”

LOUISE BICHAN

Louise is joined on the album by Conor Hearn on guitar, Brendan Hearn on cello, and Ethan Setiawan – who Bichan collaborates with in duo Hildaland and transatlantic string band Corner House – playing mandolin, octave mandolin and octave tenor guitar.

The album’s title track was written in 2020 when Louise was missing Scotland and her family but couldn’t visit due to the restrictions of the global pandemic.

It’s a tune that captures the beauty of her homeland sonically, with a sense of longing and optimism both audible throughout.

Louise is in conversation today with Liz Clark on our Album of the Week Show, starting at midday.

• ALBUM OF THE WEEK SHOW – Louise Bichan with Liz Clark – at midday.

louisebichan.co.uk