The awareness that many traditional American styles have their origins elsewhere is a common thread in the career of singer and mutli-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens. She was classically trained, but achieved great success with her interpretation of old-time music in the group The Carolina Chocolate Drops. In recent years she has made several albums with her (musical) partner Francesco Turrisi.
They're Calling Me Home was recorded in Ireland during the 2020 lockdown. According to Giddens, the call to come home can be understood as the longing for a safe home, but also as the proverbial call of death: a tribute to the victims of covid-19. The repertoire consists for the most part of traditionals, in which the connection with Irish music is naturally emphasised. One exception is a piece by the Italian composer Monteverdi, in which both Giddens' beautiful voice and Turrisi's skills as an accompanist reach a climax. (JV)more
