DESCRIPTION:
Shona Mooney & The Mosse Troopers (with artwork by Roberto F. Castro)

Hollin is the Scots word for holly. Pre-christian belief maintained that this plant possessed powerful magic to ward off evil and was also the symbol of life. Holy tree sprigs were brought into houses during cold months in the belief that they afforded shelter to the fairies - those tiny spirits of the forest. Lady John Scott acquired this air from Sir Walter Scott in 1825 and the melody was found in the Bronson's ballad collection. The lyrics were sourced from Boulton-MacLeod Songs of the North II.30. The birk, which is another tree mentioned in the song, was known as the watchful-eye' because of eye-like impressions on the tree bark.

I have reinterpreted the original melody in the form of a triple-time strathspey, a jig and finally a fiery 5/4 reel. The rhythmical intensity eventually gives way as we return to the original air once more.

This live recording was taken from my recent Master recital at Newcastle University. It was part of a performance titled, Tak' Tent o' Time. I was accompanied by a group of wonderful musicians and the fantastic artwork was produced by Robert Fernandez Castro. Many many thanks to everyone involved!