What makes Rain, Hail or Shine by Battlefield Band notable?

This album is notable for its successful blend of traditional and modern folk elements, which helped it reach a wider audience and solidify Battlefield Band's reputation in the genre. It has been well-received critically, with reviewers praising the band's musicianship and innovative arrangements, contributing to the resurgence of interest in Scottish folk music during the late 1990s. By the time 'Rain, Hail or Shine' was released in 1998, Battlefield Band had established themselves as a prominent force in the folk music scene, following their previous album 'Home Is Where the Van Is' from 1996. This album marked a period of creative maturation for the band, showcasing their ability to blend traditional tunes with contemporary arrangements while continuing to honor their Scottish heritage.

Who is Rain, Hail or Shine for?

Rain, Hail or Shine works well if you're into lively tunes for social gatherings, intricate melodies for detail listeners and celebratory energy throughout tracks.

How many songs are on Rain, Hail or Shine?

Rain, Hail or Shine has 9 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Rain, Hail or Shine

Battlefield Band · 1998

45 min · 9 tracks · traditional folk music

A vibrant tapestry of traditional Scottish folk melodies interwoven with lively instrumentation and rich harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Heave Ya Ho — This track captures the energetic spirit of maritime work songs, featuring robust vocals and rhythmic instrumentation that invite listener participation.
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The Beaches of St. Valery / Elizabeth Clare — This medley beautifully illustrates the band's ability to weave narratives through music, blending poignant melodies with intricate instrumental interplay.
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Jenny O' the Braes — The heartfelt rendition of this classic ballad showcases the band's vocal harmonies and storytelling prowess, resonating deeply with themes of love and longing.
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Magheracloone / Norland Wind / The Royal Scottish Pipers Society / Gardez Loo / Donald MacLean — This ambitious suite exemplifies the band's virtuosity and innovative approach to traditional material, seamlessly transitioning between diverse tunes while maintaining a cohesive sound.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

lively tunes for social gatherings
intricate melodies for detail listeners
celebratory energy throughout tracks
danceable rhythms for festive moods

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Rain, Hail or Shine' was released in 1998, Battlefield Band had established themselves as a prominent force in the folk music scene, following their previous album 'Home Is Where the Van Is' from 1996. This album marked a period of creative maturation for the band, showcasing their ability to blend traditional tunes with contemporary arrangements while continuing to honor their Scottish heritage.
Stylistic neighbors: Altan· Lúnasa· The Chieftains

Tracklist

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

1 Bodachan a Gharaidh / General MacDonald / Creag an Fhithich 3:47
2 Heave Ya Ho 4:30
3 Margaret Ann / Manor Park / Trip to the Bronx 5:24
4 Jenny O' the Braes 3:23
5 Magheracloone / Norland Wind / The Royal Scottish Pipers Society / Gardez Loo / Donald MacLean 9:24
6 The Beaches of St. Valery / Elizabeth Clare 6:27
7 Wee Michael's March / Oot B'est da Vong 4:03
8 The Lass O' Glencoe 4:24
9 The Canongate Twitch / Steamboat to Detroit / Twenty Pounds of Gin / Break Yer Bass Drone 4:23

What to play next

Listen next

Leaving Friday Harbor

1999

Go back to

Another Quiet Sunday

1997

Full Battlefield Band discography Artists like Battlefield Band

traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata