Jim Malcolm is a well known name in Scottish traditional circles. He is perhaps best known as the former lead singer for the great progressive-trad band, Old Blind Dogs. Several years ago, Jim left the band to pursue a solo career.
It had been two years since I had attended a Jim Malcolm concert. It was a wonderful event and I hope I don't have to wait two more years again!
Jim's voice has never been better. When you listen to any of the OBD projects and listen to Jim now, I think you will see that his voice has not slipped one bit. It is as smooth and clear as ever! My daughter and I were amazed at some of the higher notes he hit with relative ease.
Jim mixes a good amount of comedy with his singing. Her is a very personable performer and puts an audience at ease very quickly. He also gives some history of Scotland that coincides with the music he sings. Smaller venues are great places to hear him work his magic. You get he sense that he is singing just to you. Jim Malcolm is a master at his craft!
Many of the songs he sang this particular night came from his new project "Still." It consists of mostly traditional Scottish songs and only has one of Jim's original compositions. Some of the highlights for me were The Baron O Brackley, Queen Amang the Heather, Jock o Hazeldean, and Pawky Patterson. He also sang a couple of songs from his days with OBD.
Jim is currently on tour and you can get information as to where he is performing at www.jimmalcolm.com. If you love good Celtic music and he is anywhere near you, Jim Malcolm is a must see!! And yes, I am a huge fan and proud of it!
Just a heads-up is this is your first time to hear Jim; he uses a lot of Scottish phrases in his singing which may be hard to understand. I have heard him and read so many of the liner notes that is does not adversely affect my listening experience.
Needless to say, this was an A+ listening treasure.
Have a great day!
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