Across the Borders cover

Across the Borders

Battlefield Band · 1997

66 min · 15 tracks · traditional folk music

A lively blend of traditional Scottish folk melodies infused with contemporary instrumentation and rich emotional storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Tramps & Hawkers — This track captures the spirit of traveling folk musicians, featuring a driving rhythm and spirited melody that exemplifies the band's energetic approach to traditional music.
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    Tuireadh Iain Ruaidh (The Lament for Red-haired Iain) — A poignant piece that showcases emotional depth through its lyrical storytelling and haunting melody, reflecting themes of loss and remembrance prevalent in folk music.
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    The Trimdon Grange Explosion — This track stands out as a vibrant instrumental that blends traditional reels with modern energy, highlighting the band's skillful musicianship and ability to engage audiences.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • upbeat energy for group gatherings
  • celebratory tunes for road trips
  • engaging melodies for dancing
  • dynamic instrumentals with rich textures
  • nostalgic vibes for family gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking slow, introspective moments
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time Battlefield Band released 'Across the Borders' in 1997, they were well-established within the folk music scene, following their previous album 'Oro,' which had showcased their ability to innovate while honoring tradition. This album marked a continued evolution in their sound, integrating more diverse influences and collaborations with notable musicians like Eric Rigler and Alison Kinnaird.
Stylistic neighbors
Altan· Lúnasa· The Chieftains

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Miss Sarah MacManus / The Appropriate Dipstick / Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Welcome to Shetland 4:03
  • 2 Tramps & Hawkers 6:10
  • 3 Snow on the Hills / Xesus & Felisa (feat. Eric Rigler) 4:36
  • 4 The Concert Reel / The Green Mountain (feat. Seamus Tansey) 2:24
  • 5 The Arran Convict (feat. Eric Rigler) 4:44
  • 6 My Home Town / Kalabakan 3:43
  • 7 Tuireadh Iain Ruaidh (The Lament for Red-haired Iain) (feat. Alison Kinnaird) 4:58
  • 8 The Trimdon Grange Explosion 4:10
  • 9 Simon Thoumire’s Jig / Shake a Leg / Ríl Gan Ainm (The Reel with No Name) 4:03
  • 10 Miss Kate Rusby (feat. Eric Rigler) 4:21
  • 11 The Green and the Blue (feat. Eric Rigler and Kate Rusby) 5:18
  • 12 Donnie MacGregor / The Clumsy Lover 3:05
  • 13 Woe Be Gone / Bubba’s Reel / Frank’s Reel (feat. Alison Kinnaird) 6:40
  • 14 Six Days on the Road (feat. The Radio Sweethearts) 4:15
  • 15 In and Out the Harbour / The Top Tier / Sleepy Maggie / Molly Rankin 3:40

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata