Swainn, known for merging old-world Celtic charm with the brash energy of punk, has taken a beloved local hit and transformed it into a festival-ready masterpiece. Their new re-master Under a Willow Tree (2023 Remaster)doesn’t just polish the sound but sharpens the band’s live-wire energy, making it easy to imagine the clinking glasses and dancing feet in a raucous pub.,
The album kicks off with “Voices,” a track that instantly throws listeners into Swainn’s raucous mix of thrumming guitar riffs and bold, gritty vocals from Neil Jay Ward. Here, the remaster especially shines, adding richness to Ward’s electric guitar and Mandy Lubking’s fiddles, which soar with a raw, unrestrained energy. The fiddle serves as a bridge between Celtic roots and punk attitude, setting the tone for what’s to come.
“Bag of Bones” is a standout, with bassist Rob MacIntosh’s new lines adding a bounce that feels both fresh and nostalgic, lending the track an infectious, toe-tapping rhythm. It’s impossible not to imagine this one played on a festival stage, the bassline rolling through the crowd and the fiddle pulling everyone into an irresistible sway.
While Swainn excels at high-energy anthems, “Home” is a beautifully unexpected pivot into gentler territory. This stripped-down track lets Ward’s voice soften and Lubking’s fiddle take on a more melodic, reflective tone. It’s a pastoral respite that’s enhanced by ambient sounds of crickets, giving listeners a rare chance to catch their breath and connect with the band’s roots in a way that feels personal and tender.
The socially conscious “Take Action” is another high point, showcasing the band’s depth beyond their raucous edge. With acoustic guitar and fiddle complementing Ward’s lyrics, this track manages to blend message with melody seamlessly, making it catchy without losing its substance. In “Sink or Float,” the album’s pulse spikes once more as Swainn returns to their signature high-octane sound. Lubking’s fiddle practically sprints through the song, balanced by MacIntosh’s propulsive bass. The result is pure foot-stomping joy that captures the full dynamism of the band’s live performances.
The album wraps up with “Another Drinking Song,” a spirited finale that’s as celebratory as it is infectious. It’s Swainn at their rowdiest, inviting fans to raise a glass and join in, the track exuding the warmth and camaraderie that make Swainn’s music feel like an open door to a Celtic-punk party.
The 2023 remaster, polished by Abbey Road’s Sean Magee, brings a new clarity to Under the Willow Tree without sacrificing its down-to-earth energy. Still, the album occasionally leans on familiar Celtic-punk tropes, with some tracks hitting the same high-energy beats without exploring new territory. While this reliance on genre staples could risk overshadowing Swainn’s softer side, the remaster preserves enough range to keep the listening experience engaging.
Overall, Under a Willow Tree (2023 Remaster) is a vibrant homage to Celtic tradition with punk attitude, a blend that Swainn has mastered with authenticity and flair. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this album promises a wild, celebratory ride that’s hard to resist.
Mindy McCall
