Norrie MacIver and The Glasgow Barons

Description

The Glasgow Barons, Govan’s orchestra, have teamed up with Skippinish lead singer Norrie MacIver to release their debut album, Songs of Govan Old – a collection of material celebrating the Glasgow neighbourhood’s rich heritage. The album is a tapestry of stories from the vibrant, close-knit community of Govan’s days gone by and pairs Norrie’s brand new Scots and Gaelic songs, rooted in the tradition of social commentary, with the stunning sounds of a string orchestra.

Govan’s ship building era is brought back to life as The Glasgow Barons and Norrie celebrate the area’s working class heroes and heroines, and recognise its Gaelic population. Songs like Mary, which pays tribute to rent strike activist and former Bailie of Govan Mary Barbour, recognise some of Govan’s most iconic figures. Elsewhere, Lady Elder celebrates philanthropist Isabella Elder who promoted the education and welfare of Govan residents. Songs of Govan Old also sees Govan’s boy soldier WW1 Private Lawrence Nealis honoured, while Latha Na Fèille tells the tale of the Glasgow Gaels’ historic connection between this part of Glasgow and the Highlands, through the eyes of the Govan Fair.