An excellent album filled with outstanding musical moments...
The extraordinary late-career journey of Edwyn Collins has become one of the most inspiring narratives in British music. Overcoming significant health challenges, the songwriter has not only endured but flourished – his 2010 release ‘Losing Sleep’ stands proudly alongside his finest work. Now settled in the Highland village of Helmsdale, his new album ‘Nation Shall Speak Unto Nation’ is remarkable, presenting a heartwarming song cycle rich in wit and affection, characterized by clear production and impressive vocals.
As the Laird of Clashnarrow Studios, Edwyn works at his own pace, imparting a sense of precision to his current work. This album flows intentionally from start to finish, featuring everything from Creedence-influenced guitar riffs on ‘Knowledge’ to bossa nova touches on the closing track ‘Rhythm Is My Own World’. Confident throughout, Edwyn seems to merge his extensive experience with the delight of making music.
There is an abundance of musicality throughout the album. ‘Strange Old World,’ with its lively Motown bassline, radiates joy, while the ballad ‘It Must Be Real’ showcases one of Edwyn’s best post-illness performances, filled with genuine longing and emotion. ‘A Little Sign’ is dripping with sentiment, whereas the witty ‘Sound As A Pound’ brings a smile to the listener's face.
The title track is particularly relevant—derived from an old World Service motto (a now-unused piece of broadcasting equipment is currently housed in Edwyn's Highland studio), it calls for communication in an age of misinformation.
If there is a single takeaway from this album, it’s the warmth of Edwyn's present circumstances. Together with his wife Grace, he has created something remarkable in Helmsdale, and this atmosphere resonates throughout the record. ‘The Mountains Are My Home’ features elegant Jansch-like fingerpicking, while its folk-inspired counterpart ‘The Bridge Hotel’ celebrates Sutherland life, enhanced by a pastoral flute. A space for joy, happiness, and relaxation, the album concludes with the Jobim-influenced ‘Rhythm Is My Own World,’ replacing the sands of Rio with the gentle tide of Brora beach—you get the feeling Edwyn wouldn’t have it any other way.
8/10
Words: Robin Murray
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