Fraser Fifield – In Buenos Aires
Self Released – 2017
When it comes to musical innovation in Scottish music the name Fraser Fifield frequently come up in conversation. As Neil pointed out in his Celtic Connections review for The Big Music Society series which aimed to help find a place for Piobaireachd in a modern setting, Fraser may be well known for bringing the traditional reels, jigs and strathspeys of Scotland to the soprano saxophone, but he trained first as a piper. It’s here her returns, along with the low whistle, for his latest album.
On In Buenos Aires, Fraser plays Low Whistle and Bagpipes. As the album title suggests, it was recorded in Argentina where he was joined by three of the most highly regarded exponents of New Tango: Walther E. Castro, Quique Sinesi and Mono Hurtado on bandoneon, guitar and double bass.
Scottish traditional music is no stranger to fusion with other musical cultures and genres. As proven by the likes of Salsa Celtica, Shooglenifty, Peatbog Faeries, Jim Sutherland, Martyn Bennett and numerous others…it was destined to travel and has shapeshifted and surprised us along the way.
In Buenos Aires is no exception, it’s a beautiful album, whether it’s the remarkable interplay of low whistle and guitar on the three Improvisation tracks or the wondrous jazz infused Vals Socialista finale this is an album that opens the door ever so wider on each listen revealing depths which unveil a musical relationship that was surely predestined.
In Buenos Aires is available via Bandcamp now in Digipack 4 panel case with original art by Victoria Fifield.
Don’t miss out: https://fraserfifield.bandcamp.com/album/in-buenos-aires