Known for fusing Celtic roots with punk rock fire, Swainn doesn’t just revisit their classic songs in this remaster—they electrify them, capturing the frenetic energy of their live performances with a whole new level of clarity. This high-definition remaster doesn’t just refine the sound, but brings an extra punch to Swainn’s rough-around-the-edges style, making each track feel like it’s ready to be belted out in a bustling pub. “Under a Willow Tree (2023 Remaster)” by Swainn in born.
The album’s opener, “Voices,” immediately grabs hold with Neil Jay Ward’s gritty, full-throttle vocals over a driving rhythm that propels listeners right into Swainn’s rollicking world. This remaster allows every note of Mandy Lubking’s fiddle to pierce through with striking clarity, adding a soaring edge that ties the track’s Celtic influences to its punk heart. It’s an anthem of unabashed joy and the perfect track to open an album designed to get you moving.
“Bag of Bones” is another standout, with bassist Rob MacIntosh’s fresh lines adding depth and bounce to this irresistible tune. The bassline is lively and infectious, laying down a groove that practically demands foot-tapping along. It’s easy to imagine crowds at a festival stage letting loose to this one, caught in the momentum of Lubking’s nimble fiddling and MacIntosh’s driving beat.
Not every song is a full-throttle sprint, however. “Home” offers a moment of softness and nostalgia, stripping things down to let Ward’s vocals shine against Lubking’s tender fiddle. With the addition of ambient cricket sounds, the track offers a brief, beautiful pause in an otherwise high-energy album, giving fans a glimpse into the band’s folk roots and proving that Swainn can capture quiet emotion just as well as they can a raucous pub vibe.
Another highlight, “Take Action,” showcases Swainn’s more thoughtful side, with Ward’s lyrics taking center stage in a rallying cry for social awareness. While still toe-tappingly catchy, this track has a message, blending substance with Swainn’s signature sound to prove they’re more than just about celebration—they’ve got a cause, too.
The band’s energy spikes once more with “Sink or Float,” a song bursting with infectious dynamism. Here, Lubking’s fiddle almost races ahead, challenged by MacIntosh’s bass to keep pace. It’s pure, unfiltered Celtic-punk joy, channeling the adrenaline of a live Swainn performance straight into your headphones.
“Another Drinking Song” wraps up the album on a festive note. True to its name, it’s Swainn’s invitation to kick back, raise a glass, and celebrate. The lively beat and sing-along chorus capture everything fans love about the band—boisterous, unapologetically fun, and full of warmth.
Despite the brilliance of this remaster, Under a Willow Tree occasionally veers into familiar Celtic-punk tropes. Some tracks stick to a well-worn formula, which, while undeniably fun, might leave fans wishing for a bit more variety.
Overall, Under a Willow Tree (2023 Remaster) is a spirited blend of Celtic charm and punk grit, showcasing Swainn’s talent and tenacity. It’s a love letter to both genre and fans, and whether you’re a longtime listener or new to their sound, this album promises an energetic, unforgettable experience.
Cleopatra Patel