Iain Fraser – Kōterana (Capon Tree Music, 2023)
The enthralling new album, “Kōterana” from Scottish fiddler and instructor Iain Fraser, delves into themes of faith and acceptance while weaving together the rich history, heritage, and music of four nations. Set to release on Friday, 14th April, the record is based on the awe-inspiring story of 800 Scottish Highlanders who embarked on a journey of no return with Reverend Norman McLeod in the 1800s. Their voyage, spanning almost 40 years and continents, was in pursuit of a better life.
The project, originally a 35-minute piece by Iain in 2016, has been expanded into 11 tracks and four sections, with each part featuring music originating from the countries visited by McLeod and his people. The album features a host of international talent, including Clackmannanshire-born Iain Fraser on the fiddle, and renowned artists with connections to Canada and New Zealand, like Emilia Bartellas and Gillian Boucher.
Kōterana draws inspiration from the journey of the Highlanders, who placed all their trust in the Church as they left behind everything they knew, in search of a brighter future. Iain’s captivating melodies evoke powerful emotions and contemplate the true devotion of those who crossed oceans almost two centuries ago in the name of their faith.
The album’s one vocal track, sung by Gaelic singer Calum Alex Macmillan, is Iain’s interpretation of a poem by Skye-born John Gillies, expressing his love for his home country after emigrating to New Zealand. “Kōterana” showcases traditional fiddle playing in tracks like “Chagair Chagair Chagair a’ Ghruagach” and “Sandy Cameron,” while tracks like “From Capes Breton to Good Hope” feature fuller arrangements with piano and flute. The album ends with “Norman McLeod’s Welcome to Waipu,” a joyous composition that reflects the congregation’s sense of belonging upon reaching their final destination.
Iain Fraser said: “Norman McLeod’s decision to leave Ullapool came at a time when many were forced to leave the Highlands due to the ongoing clearances of land. The journey he and his congregation faced was both spiritual and physical, and it highlights the sheer desperation at that time. This group of people were forced to leave their homes, family members and everything they knew, and put all of their trust in the Church.
“The incredible tale has linked the nations of Scotland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand in history and heritage forever, and has been a huge source of inspiration for myself as an artist. Their story is one of grit and commitment, highlighting the true strength of faith.
“Thinking of the landscapes Reverend McLeod and his followers would have left behind, and what few objects they would have chosen to take with them, is what drove me to write this body of music. I wanted to celebrate the joining of four countries in one remarkable story, and shine a light on the heritage, beauty and musical traditions of each.”
Also playing with Iain on Kōterana are fiddle players Pete Clark, Gordon Gunn and Sarah Wilson and Bernadette Kellerman on viola. Seylan Baxter and Wendy Weatherby are on cello, Signy Jakobsdottir on percussion, Donald Knox on guitar, Lorne MacDougall on pipes, Freya Rae on flute and whistles, James Ross on piano and Scot Wilson on bass.
The recording process for Kōterana began at Glasgow’s Gorbals Sound in August 2022, with subsequent sessions in Auckland and Quebec taking place in November 2022. The album was completed at GloWorm Studios in Glasgow and was mixed by Barry Reid in January 2023.
Buy Kōterana.
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.