Alyth is one of today’s most exciting new talents in the world of Gaelic song. Born in 1970 and raised on the Isle of Lewis (Outer Hebrides, Scotland), Alyth was immersed in the music, poetry and drama of her native Scottish Western Isles from a very early age.
Although aware of the long tradition in all things Gaelic, McCormack understands that within the tradition there is and must be a constant transition for the Gaelic language, culture and heritage to survive. With this in mind, she recorded her debut album An Iomall (The Edge). “This recording began a long time ago in my mind. I come from the Island of Lewis and loved being raised there. Lewis is exposed and weather torn and this is evident in its culture, but it is also beautiful and compelling. In this album I wanted to express these extremes which are also inherent in Gaelic song and Gaelic culture. The songs stand alone, so to work with them I chose a careful approach. Changing musical styles from arrangements but don’t always remain true to the spirit or beauty of the original. I have listened to the stories of these songs, and with these musicians, have interpreted them. The response is honest: the songs remain timeless.”
In 2009, Alyth released her second solo album, People Like Me that included members of the Scottish band Lau.
Discography:
An Iomall – The Edge (Vertical Records, 2000)
People Like Me (Navigator Records, 2009)
Red & Gold, with Triona Marshall (ANE Records, 2011)
Homelands (ANE, 2015)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.