(Fence Records)

We’re beginning to suspect Fence Records have some secret laboratory in Fife where they genetically splice brilliant musicians to create new wonders. In the case of Irish singer-songwriter Seamus Fogarty, that would involve DNA samples from a James Yorkston nail clipping, a strand of Mark Linkous’ hair and some spit from Jason Lytle, maybe.

This is folk music that nods towards Irish tradition but with a dreamy, mesmerising feel all of its own; echoes of Scotland and rural Americana haunting everything. Loops, bleeps and shimmers interplay with banjo, guitar and violin to sumptuous effect and, while the stripped-down tracks in the middle display Fogarty’s songwriting chops, it’s the more experimental beginning and ending that really demonstrate an exciting talent.

Seamus Fogarty :: The Waterside

Seamus Fogarty :: Homegame Festival :: Scotland