Christmas is a special time for so many people across the globe and, irrespective of age, is filled with wonder and a sense of wellbeing. There is a heady nostalgia for simpler and better times and that is probably needed more this year, than it has been in decades, as memories of the season past are constantly with us through the films and television shows that flood the airwaves.
Blackmore’s Night – Here We Come A-Caroling
Release Date: 4 December 2020
Words: Paul Monkhouse
Perfectly tapping into this desire to shelter in the loving arms of yesteryear, Blackmore’s Night bring their wondrous talents to bear on this four track EP that is shot through with an intoxicating brew that will bring a smile to the faces of all who love that golden age.
You can almost smell the pine of the tree and the crisp freshness of a wintery evening as this quartet of traditional tunes weave their magic, the legendary guitarist leading his outfit in something that is utterly timeless.
Anyone who has ever followed the career of the black clad King of Pranks knows what an incredible talent he is and that, despite the history of wind-ups, here is a man who takes his craft seriously. From the titular opener through to ‘It Came Upon a Midnight Clear’, ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ and ‘Silent Night’, the instrumentation is perfect, Blackmore’s acoustic work exquisite and all this topped off by the angelic and characterful vocals of Candice Night.
The arrangements of these classics retain the heart at their centre, but add twists that give new light through old windows, the multi coloured patina a delight in its kaleidoscope of hues.
In a jaded world, and one that has the tendency to oversaturate the market with saccharine filled fluff, Blackmore’s Night has come up with something that has the quality and brio to win over even the hardest of Scrooge-like hearts.
Genuinely wonderful.
News also hits MetalTalk Towers, that Blackmore’s Night have signed to earMUSIC, with a new album ‘Nature’s Light’ set for release in Spring 2021. earMUSIC is the global independent Rock and Contemporary music label of Edel Germany GmbH.
Ritchie Blackmore and Candice Night told MetalTalk: “On 2 June, 1997, we released our first Renaissance Folk-Rock album ‘Shadow of the Moon’.
“With devotion and professionalism, our new record label, Edel, brought ‘Shadow of the Moon’ to the top of the charts, where it remained for 17 weeks, earning us our first Gold Record as Blackmore’s Night, a project close to our hearts and, as untouched territory, a new genre for us to bring to the world.
“Our music is an escape from the stress and pressure of modern times. Journey back through time with us, to a simpler, magical time where music enters your heart and soul.
“We are honoured to be ‘Back Home Again’, with our friends and colleagues of Edel.
“Blackmore’s Night has returned with our new CD. Fans have been waiting for five years and we are excited to be able to pair up again with Edel to bring it to them.”
Max Vaccaro, General Manager of earMUSIC, told us: “We celebrate the ‘homecoming’ of a true music legend.
“Blackmore’s Night started its wonderful musical journey with Edel in 1997.
“Today, decades later, it is a joyful occasion to welcome Ritchie and Candice back and to plan many years of exciting collaboration with them
for their new music and a catalogue that has reached the heart of millions of fans over the years.”
There will be a full catalogue re-issue.
Limited Edition 10” Translucent Green Vinyl as well as a Limited Edition CD Digipak and Digital.
TRACKLIST
- Here We Come A-Caroling (Vinyl Side A)
- It Came Upon A Midnight Clear (Vinyl Side A)
- O Little Town Of Bethlehem (Vinyl Side B)
- Silent Night (Vinyl Side B)
