Halocline is the debut piping album (Scottish bagpipes and others) from Malin Lewis, to be released on the 3rd of May 2024 via Hudson records

Hailing from North West Scotland, Malin’s music is firmly rooted in the folk traditions of their homeland. However, their innovative approach as a musician, composer and instrument maker takes the album beyond the constraints of tradition, creating a unique sound of their own.

Atmospheric drones give the album a beautiful ethereal touch but the rasping melodies of the pipes, combined with enticing rhythmic grooves, demands the listener’s attention. Luna’s is my favourite track of the album, beginning with a hypnotic set of plucked arpeggios inspired by the Bulgarian Kopanitza rhythm in 11/16. A serene flute melody then washes over it, before making way for the pipes to take the lead with a driving and rhythmic melody.

Not only is the music in Halocline largely based on Malin Lewis’ original compositions, it is also played on instruments crafted by Malin. Malin collaborated with Donald Lindsay, the inventor of the 3D printed two octave smallpipe, to create the world’s first wooden version. Through the use of inspired self-made instruments, Malin has created a sound that will be hard to come across in any other folk album.

Halocline is inventive in composition, concept and delivery. With exquisite and tasteful musical arrangements, performed by an array of talented musicians; this is an album not to be missed by lovers of contemporary folk, as well as those looking for something more experimental which is fearless in pushing the boundaries of traditional folk music.

www.malinlewis.co.uk
Facebook: @MalinLewisMusician
Instagram: @malinlewismusic

Photos by Jonathan Doyle