Album of the Week – Roo Geddes ‘Close’

Written by celtic music radio on June 28, 2025

Roo Geddes brings together music from five generations of his family on this solo album, which was recorded live on his great-great-grandfather’s violin.

Named after the Glaswegian tenement ‘closes’ where he grew up, the album stays close to home, featuring performances alongside his mum, gran, and auntie, as well as three never-before recorded compositions by his grandfather.

Each track flows as a vignette from Roo’s eclectic musical upbringing, spanning ancient, mysterious airs and plaintive pipe tunes, to dancing solos and bursts of technical fireworks.

Mixed in with the sounds of his family, the album is sewn together by sets of his own original tunes – jigs, reels and marches that serve as stepping stones through a journey of musical heritage.

The album, made possible with support from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, was recorded in Glasgow with Gus Stirrat at Solas Studios.

Roo will be discussing the music and ‘Close’ with Liz Clark, aka Auntie Liz, on the Album of the Week Show today at midday.

• Album of the Week Show – Roo Geddes in conversation with Liz Clark – midday – Saturday, June 28, 2025.