Skerryvore - Evo [CD]

Evo noun: An unfolding, opening out, process of development from a simple to a complex form or of gradual, progressive change. As with the definition of Evo, Skerryvore - named after a remote reef in western Scotland - have stealthily evolved their driving Celt-rock sound over the past 12 years. Formed in 2005 by Isle of Tiree-born Gillespie brothers Daniel (accordion) and Martin (Highland bagpipes), the band now boasts newest member Scott Wood on pipes and whistles, Craig Espie (fiddle) and Alan Scobie (keys), Jodie Bremaneson on bass and Fraser West (drums). Recorded at the renowned Castlesound Studios in Scotland and Carriage House Studios in Conneticut, Evo is instantly engaging. . An expectant drone kicks in for the haunting tour de force opening number - Martin Gillespie's The Exorcists. Triggered by the band's exorcising of spirits of a different kind from promoter Gordon MacKenzie's Oman home in his absence. Mackenzie remarked: "If you want spirits removed from your house, call in the Skerries!" It segues into Scott Wood's tune Donnie's. Opening at full throttle with that big emphatic sound of thundering drums and pipes, as rich as a Scottish single malt, it lays down the gauntlet for this captivating album that for 45 minutes draws you into another world that is vibrant and emotive in equal measure.