Phoenix-based Celtic folk-punk band Swainn Releases Timeless re-Master

Swainn’s re-release of their debut Under a Willow Tree breathes new life into an already excellent collection. The Arizona-based Celtic folk/punk band plants their flag in familiar territory. However, Under a Willow Tree’s songs sparkle with individuality and unique imaginative flair. This new collection introduces the band’s new bassist Rob MacIntosh, and he leaves his mark on the tracks with re-recorded and re-imagined parts for the material. Other tweaks polish the revamp to an even brighter shine. Under a Willow Tree is a vigorous musical release that satisfies casual fans and music devotees alike. Nothing about the remastering of this album smacks of a rehash.

“Voices” is an ideal example of band’s bold and undeniable personality. Swainn doesn’t put on any airs with songs such as this. The album opener presents the band as a hard-driving, single-minded force capable of conjuring a maelstrom of sound from comparatively few instruments. The chorus is an especially effective moment. Attitude abounds throughout Under a Willow Tree, but you hear a lot of grabbing life by the throat. Few songs exemplify that feeling better than the second song “Bag o’ Bones”. The lyrical content of songs such as this reaches a high level; “Bag o’ Bones” rides a wave of words with message and meaning. They aren’t afterthoughts providing the vocalists with something to sing.

Fiddle opens “Take Action” with an attention-grabbing melody. The full band falls in soon after, and Swainn develops it into one of the album’s most fully realized moments. Commitment marks every turn of Under a Willow Tree‘s vocals, and the singing reaches an exhortative notch during “Take Action” that stands out. Their lyrical tendencies continue during “Home”, but pulling the reins back on the band’s wont to rampage past listeners serves this well. It’s an effective change of pace. Production qualities are strong throughout Under a Willow Tree and particularly benefit songs like this. Sean Magee’s engineering acumen and superb remastering help frame “Home” in the best possible way.

“Let’s Get Loose” adopts an airier approach to Swainn’s familiar musical slant. Eschewing the prevalent rock influences infiltrating many Under a Willow Tree songs, Swainn looks for fewer sonic knockouts. However, they shake you when they land.  “Let’s Get Loose” is one of the band’s clearest testaments to its collective zest for life. Straight-forward acoustic guitar riffing kicks off “Sink or Float”, and we’re off again soaring with an energetic mix of traditional Celtic instruments and rock percussion. Neil Jay Ward’s gravelly physicality wrestles energy from every line. It’s a song for survivors but also a defiant middle finger to accepting one’s fate.

“Fairwinds” is a dynamic powerhouse that holds together as a song and a highlight reel for the instrumental prowess fueling Swainn. You can’t miss the uncompromising tilt of their music. “Fairwinds” is intelligent songcraft that radiates improbable flash given its rustic DNA. There are no Marshall stacks or long-winded guitar solos; Swainn cuts to the chase and does it with minimal instrumental flair. They deserve kudos for balancing the songwriting imagery of traditional forms with modern life. These songs, despite their specific roots-oriented sound, are relatable.

“Up on the Mountain” is one of the album’s most successful mergers of punk and Celtic-styled songwriting. Some listeners will sense Swain reaching a little higher than usual with “Up on the Mountain”, but they are up to the task. It’s one of Under a Willow Tree’s biggest stand-out moments. It’s one of many. Swainn’s remastered album shows a lot of things, but one of them is that sometimes you can go home again, you just need guts.

Nicole Killian