From the recording Gold and Coal
This track is a special one for us. We've always been drawn to the rhythms and cadence of the Gaelic language. The words come from Hugh F. MacKenzie, a poet from Grand Narrows, Nova Scotia.
He tells a story of leaving home and the regret that follows. We took a couple of his verses, turned them upside down, twisted the time signature, and reshaped the melody. Then we mixed in an old Appalachian tune called "Rise Ye Lazy Fellow."
It’s a nod to the blend of influences that shape our music.
Music by :
Traditional
Fiddle Tune: Rise Ye Lazy Fellow
Lyrics By:
Hugh F. MacKenzie 1952
Translation By:
Calum MacLeod
Adapted and arranged By:
Cassie Anne MacDonald SOCAN
Maggie Jane MacDonald SOCAN
Lyrics
Bu deònach leam tilleadh, bhi tilleadh, a’ tilleadh
Bu deònach leam tilleadh a rithist do’n Chùl;
Dhol a shealltainn na cruinneig a dh’fhàg mi fo mhulad,
Bu taitneach leam fuireach an cuideachd mo rùin.
I would willingly return, return, be returning,
I would willingly return again to the Cùl; (Christmas Island ,CB)
To visit the maiden whom I left in sadness,
I would be happy to stay in the company of my beloved.
Gur muladach tha mi gach là o’n a dh’fhàg mi,
Chan’eil sunnd orm an dràsda làmh thoirt air ceòl;
Chan’eil agam de bhàrdachd a dh’ìnnseas an dàn dhuibh
Gach buaidh th’air an àit’ ‘s an deach m’àrach glé òg.
I have been dejected every day since I departed,
I do not feel the urge, at the moment , to turn my hand to music;
I have not sufficient bardic facility to compose verses for you
To extol every virtue of the location where I was reared when very young.