Customer Reviews

Scotland the Brave: Bagpipes Greatest Hits

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Despite what some others have said here this is actually quite a fine recording by the pipes and drums of the 48th Highlanders of Canada. This regimental pipe band remains one of the finest in North America, proof of this is the numerous tattoos it performs in. The selection of pipe music here is both popular and less known. I think a happy mix is acheived here for a change. The recording quality is actaully quite good, the drums and pipes sound well together and the ensemble affect sounds fine to me. I think sometimes people criticize things without really taking other matters into account. Overall one of the better pure pipe music recordings out there by a fine regimental pipe band.

As a beginning student of bagpipes I find the large selection of songs helpful, but the quality of the recording seems flat. I've tried turning the volume way up, but then it sounds "tinny" or "sharp" (the volume is lower than for most CDs). And for those who play, the "throws" and similar embellishments are not well articulated...the band plays quite fast.

The sound of pipes is supposed to stir the soul - not on this CD. This disc is an example of everything that can not be achieved by recording out of doors. The tones are indistinguishable - flat, flat, flat and the side drums often overwhelm the pipes.

Put it simply - the recorded rendition of Amazing Grace, always a highlight of a pipes recording, is more boring than a lullabye, and Scotland the Brave is about as thrilling as the Teacup Ride at Disneyworld.

Don't waste your money.

Just a note about the sound quality. If this were a Chicago Symphony recording, it would be nearly unbearable. But this is a pipe and drum band, and we are hearing it approach from across the field, down the street or around the corner. This is the kind of sound we hear from a distance with our guts. It excites us as it comes closer and becomes louder. It is outdoor music of the grandest order. The music my English grandmother (in her 80s) would go out on her porch to hear, always bringing her Scottish husband back to her.

For anyone who loves the 'pipes' this CD is a must-have. It stirs the Scottish soul and the rendition of "Scotland the Brave" will bring you to tears!