Simon Thoumire and Dave Milligan – Portraits (2023)
Portraits, the third collaborative album by Simon Thoumire and Dave Milligan, is a heartfelt collection of original compositions mixing Scottish folk traditions with diverse musical influences. Each track serves as a musical portrait, capturing the essence of individuals significant to the artists. Composed and recorded over three years, the project evolved organically, embodying themes of connection, memory, and tribute.
The album is a lovely, moving personal and collective journey. Thoumire and Milligan began composing Portraits during the pandemic, with beautifully rafted pieces dedicated to family, friends, and mentors. Thoumire’s contributions include tributes such as Persephone Nichol-Bose, for a friend and colleague; Grace Campbell Grierson, honoring his late grandmother; Sonny Jim, dedicated to his father-in-law, James McLaughlin; and Anastasia McAroe’s Waltz, celebrating his mother-in-law, Anastasia.
Milligan contributed two affectionate compositions: King Bill’s Hornpipe, in memory of his piano teacher, William Kinghorn; and Misha, honoring the late Ukrainian pianist Misha Alperin.
The album also features Louis DeCarlo’s 70th Birthday Strathspey and Su-a’s 50th Year, marking milestone celebrations for close friends. These tracks weave personal stories into universal themes, making them relatable to listeners.
The album was shaped during a time when home became both a sanctuary and a studio. Milligan notes, “Each track felt like a vignette, an honest sketch of someone special. The act of ‘painting’ with music allows others to connect personally to these tributes.” Thoumire echoed this sentiment, describing the project as both joyful and deeply meaningful.
Simon Thoumire, a concertina virtuoso and winner of the 1989 BBC Radio 2 Young Tradition Award, is known for exploring folk, jazz, and improvisational genres. Meanwhile, Dave Milligan, an accomplished pianist, has collaborated with a wide array of artists, including Art Farmer and Mark Knopfler. Together, they bring a rare synergy to Portraits, balancing virtuosity with emotional depth.
For fans of traditional Scottish music and heartfelt storytelling, this album offers a profound listening experience.
Musicians: Simon Thoumire on concertina; Dave Milligan on piano
Mixed by Andrea Gobbi at GloWorm Recording, Glasgow.
Mastered by Andrea Gobbi at Carrier Waves Mastering.
Produced by Simon Thoumire and Dave Milligan.
Artwork by Van Gill Media.
Buy Portraits.
Author: Ryan Emmert
