Ruth Angell - Hlywing

by Zena Grieg

published: 20 / 2 / 2023

Label: Talking Elephant
Format: CD

intro

Enthralling strings-laden debut album from classically-trained multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Ruth Angell

‘Hlywing’ is the debut solo album of the multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter Ruth Angell. Comprising mainly original compositions, the title derived from the medieval English word for shelter, this is an enthralling collection, the songs distinctively underpinned by an eclectic range of strings: “I knew from the start that using a variety of strings was always going to be an important element of this album – when they are all arranged in one piece the result is intense and conveys exactly what I hoped would represent the settings for each of my songs.” Classically trained at Birmingham Conservatoire as a violinist and composer, Angell displays strong lyrical and empathic storytelling skills inspired by nature and the landscapes around her home, themes spanning an array of different circumstances, situations and emotions. Songs to listen out for in this ten-track collection include: the Celtic-tinged, atmospheric opener ‘In The Vale of Contemplation’; the elegiac ‘No Roses’, Angell’s arrangement of Christina Rosetti’s poem ‘Song’; an assured cover of Joni Mitchell’s searing ‘Magdalene Laundries’; ‘Castle on the Hill’ highlighting Angell’s mellifluous, soaring vocals; and the haunting, poignant ‘Little Boy Blue’ with its elemental, tidal rhythm. Evocative, melodious, ‘Hylwing’ marks an intriguing milestone in this promising artist’s career.

Track Listing:-

1 Castle on the Hill
2 The Boathouse
3 Little Boy Blue
4 Shipyard Fairy
5 Little Bird
6 Treasure
7 Magdalene Laundries
8 No Roses
9 Three Stags'
10 In the vale of Contemplation