The Celtic Music Radio Album of the Week commecning Saturday 23 February 2013 is from Mary Jane Lamond and Wendy MacIsaac who are stalwarts of the Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canadian traditional music scene.

Gordon Hotchkiss talks to Wendy MacIsaac and Mary Jane Lamond on their recent visit to Glasgow to play Celtic Connections on 25 January 2013.  They came into the Celtic Music Radio base at Adelaides in Bath Street, Glasgow to talk about their music, Cape Breton and their album Seinn. 

In September 2012 they released a duo album titled Seinn (pronounced “shane”) that represents their first studio collaboration. From old-school Strathspeys to smooth jazzy jigs and rocking reels, and silvery songs sung in Scots Gaelic, this record rewards the ear from start to finish.

“Seinn” reflects the great love and respect that Mary Jane Lamond and Wendy MacIsaac have for Nova Scotia tradition, and for each other.

The record achieves a delicate balance between the musical sensibilities of two artists, showcasing traditional and original compositions among the melancholy of Gaelic song and the joy of fiddle tunes. Some of the material was learned from the recordings of older Cape Breton singers and fiddlers, some songs were chosen from existing repertoires, and some were written specifically for this project.

Seinn fuses roots arrangements with a traditional presentation, capturing the enjoyment and fun that Mary Jane and Wendy have together on and off the stage.

Album of the Week, Saturday 23

February at 12 noon and 12 midnight and Monday 25 February at 6.00pm and Catch Up anytime.