Sally Beamish is throwing open the doors to her inner sanctum with 'House of Wonder', a deeply personal album that's as much a family affair as it is a celebration of her 70th birthday. This eclectic collection brings together a veritable who's who of collaborators, including her own musical clan and closest confidants – a true testament to the power of love, loyalty, and lifelong friendships.
The opening salvo sets the tone for an album that's as much about memory as it is music. 'April', a luminous chaconne for viola and accordion, shines like a beacon in honour of the late Ellis Marsalis Jr – a poignant tribute to a musical giant whose legacy will be felt for generations to come.
But make no mistake: this is not just an album about someone's life – it's a living, breathing portrait of Sally Beamish herself. Her own experiences are woven throughout like a rich tapestry, from the wistful 'Crescent', which distils the joy and heartache of childhood games in Islington, to the elegiac 'Where You Are', contributed by her son Tom with a mournfulness that'll leave you breathless.
The family tie that binds is one of the album's greatest strengths. Her son Laurie brings his A-game on the sly, spiky tango 'Lurk', while daughter Stephanie shows off her harpist chops and singing talents on the title track – a true showcase for the summerhouse where it all came together.
It's an intimate glimpse into Beamish's world, one that showcases her enduring influence on the British music scene. With its rich musical textures and emotional depth, 'House of Wonder' is more than just an album – it's a housewarming party that'll leave you wanting to join the family.