Search - Wolfstone :: Seven

Taking a new direction

breagha | 06/12/1999

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This latest release by Wolfstone showcases a new line-up that rose out of a two year transitionary period. The music reflects not only the change in personnel but a slight change in attitude. Stuart Eaglesham, the band's guitarist/vocalist, steps forward (perhaps unintentionally) to take on the primary focus for this new Wolfstone. The music doesn't kick as forcefully as their first four releases. The Scottish flavor that was so prevalent in their previous releases is also dulled. This band was always great in concert - making even their hard-edged recordings seem tame afterwards. (I've seen them twice and was completely knocked out each time!) I just hope that the music on this CD is not indicative of a restrained performance for any future live shows."

The Scots do it again

breagha | MN | 04/22/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've always loved Scottish music, so when I bought this cd I had pretty high expectations. But I can honestly say that Wolfstone met them. This band has an amazing ability to mix Celtic tunes with rock. Whether you're looking for bass and drums, or fiddle and pipes, this cd has it. The instrumentals on "seven" are exquisitely beautiful. Many of them have a moving somberness about them, but then the band kicks back with songs like "Psycho Woman" and "Maggie's". My particular favorite, however, is the intro to "Brave Boys". It is lovely and powerful music at its height. As for the lyrics, they may not appeal to all because they are somewhat vague, but you'll get it if you listen to the cd enough. For those who are more familiar with the deep voice of Wolfstone's previous singer-Ivan Drever-the vocals might take some getting use to. However, Stuart Eaglesham has one of the most beautiful and unique voices I have heard in a long time. He captures in his voice much of the Scottish youth. In addition, the lyrics in these songs teach better lessons than most modern music("Black Dog"'s anti-drug message, for instance). The cd ends with an instrumental, overlapped by the band's recital of a poem in their melodic Scottish accents. This album is truly a delight."

Not *quite* what I expected

C. Holcomb | Upstate NY USA | 04/13/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First let me say that I that this is my first exposure to Wolfstone. Instrumentally, I was delighted with their sound. I love the pipes, the guitar, drums, fiddle, the whole musical package. I only gave it a 4-star rating, though, because the vocals really left me wanting. I didn't find any real power or character to them and kept hoping for another, more passionate voice, more along the lines of Canada's Glengarry Bhoys or Hadrian's Wall. A very polished, self-assured sound to the music, though, will certainly compel me to buy another of their albums."