Customer Reviews

Seven

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

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.

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.

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.

Great musicians, top notch production. This cd has a more atmospheric sound to it than their past cd's. The vocals add to the moody flavor of the sound.But make no mistake, these guys can still rock, and do on this cd. The track Quinne Fae Ryhnie is awsome. Love that electric guitar and fiddle, and oh, those pipes!!!

While this CD isn't as pounding as their others, it is their 'grow-up' CD. GREAT instrumental tracts and 'Black Dog' is a good percpective on dealing with a friend's substance abuse. 4 out of 5 stars for a GREAT CD and a wonderful return to the music scene.

I can't do anything else than agree with Björn. The instrumnetals are rather good, but when they're singing it becomes awfully soft, boring and indifferent.

Even with the change of personnel, the band still manages to pleasingly combine traditional Highland melodies with powerful modern rock, compromising neither in the process. Such a combination is most evident in Quinie Fae Ryhnie, Crowfeathers, and Maggie's. Even the less traditional pieces such as John Simmers and J-Time fit in very well.
Other recommended Wolfstone albums are, in order, The Half Tail, Unleashed, Almost an Island, and Year of the Dog.
If you ever thought about taking a chance and buying a rock album from a different genre, try this one!

I am owner of all their albums, but this one and "This strange place" are big disappoinment for me. Without energy, without invention, bored laddies can only bore.

I can't do anything else than agree with Björn: The instrumentals are rather good, but when they're singing it's just awfully soft, indifferent and boring.

I caught the name of Wolfstone as I once listened to a compilation CD of Scottish music, and I immediately fell for this unique fusion of rock and Scottish folk!

So I decided to get a CD with Wolfstone alone, and when I finally found some, I saw to my surprise that this new album »Seven« for some reason was less expensive than the band's earlier stuff. Sold!

But then the disappointment. »Seven« is not that great.

In fact, most of the instrumental tracks are very good. They are in the same style as always. Brilliant folk to which a few rock elements are added.

In contrary, the tracks containing vocals are boring. The singer is not that good, and it all becomes very pop'ish and much too soft.

So, Wolfstone, stick to your nice instrumentals, please...