Feature: FOURWINDS Decodes ‘ALLTA’
How does 'ALLTA' reflect your musical journey and growth as a band?
I think this new album is definitely more solid and confident. The first album was fresh out of university and quite experimental in places while this one was longer in the making and therefore illustrates years of making music separately and together. An album still is a snapshot in place and time- this one is full strength and confidence. Like it or lump it.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for 'ALLTA?'
The excitement of putting the sets together during the first run in Black Mountain studio was very special- it's an ideal setting to record live tracks and bounce ideas back and forth and the energy was electric during that session.
Can you talk about any standout tracks on the album and what makes them special to you?
I think the fact that we are marrying traditional tunes with our own/ or our friends compositions is quite special. It's a real honour to hear fresh material sit next to timeless classics and make it work. I personally love Caroline's tune "McKinneys of Chicago" written for the owners of Chief O'Neill's pub, or Mighty Keith O'Neill by our mate Isaac Alderson.
Can you tell us more about you as a band?
As a band, we come under the umbrella of FourWinds- because we're musicians that have a unique style and approach individually. We all perform separately as well but I think FW really is a collective of 3 individuals joining forces with music, and energy in mind. The band started in 2015 and we've been around the world playing since the release of our first album. For this release we're so happy to bring a whole number of guest musicians/ friends on board and where this one leads us. The album line up is the three core members: Caroline Keane, Robbie Walsh and Myself (Tom Delany) plus extra guests Alan Murray, Barry Kerr, Laura Kerr. On the tour we'll be also joined by Teresa Horgan, Conal O'Kane, Kyle McAulay. A very strong line up for Irish trad musicians.
Can you share a standout moment from one of your live performances that you'll never forget?
I'll never forget Woodford Folk Festival in Australia in Jan 2017- the biggest, funnest, hottest festival we've ever played. The madness was unbelievable, filled with laughter, sunshine and some pretty out-there Hippy dancers! Can't wait to go again.
