Album of the Week – Shooglenifty ‘Stamina Island’

On their 10th album release, Shooglenifty command attention and deserve wholehearted praise for remaining one of the most exciting and enduring folk scene acts.

They certainly don’t hold back when it comes to invention, sparkle and spirit in the music created over the nine tracks here.

There’s a tangible excitement in their approach on Stamina Island, a title the band says is an homage to the island and people of Eigg, and its small but determined community.

Formed in 1990, Shooglenifty – the founders of ‘acid croft’ and known as The Shoogles to their fans – seamlessly fuse traditional and traditional-sounding melodies with the beats and basslines of a mixed selection of contemporary influences.

Every track was written collectively by the band members – Malcolm Crosbie, guitars; James Mackintosh, drums, percussion, programming; Euan McLaughlin, bass; Kaela Rowan, vocals, percussion, ukulele; Ciarán Ryan, tenor banjo, mandolin and Eilidh Shaw on fiddle.

They will be chatting with Liz Clark on the Album of the Week Show this Saturday at midday.

ALBUM OF THE WEEK SHOW – SHOOGLENIFTY in conversation with Liz Clark (aka Auntie Liz) – Saturday, October 17, noon.

https://www.shooglenifty.com/