Norman Paterson - TORN (2024) [Hi-Res]

Originally from the windswept islands of the Outer Hebrides he penned his first song at the age of 65
Incorporating the acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo and accordion as they sweep through his songs, Norman is making the kind of music that stirs the ancient soul. Painting memories of a nostalgic island life, his lyrics and signature vocals are warm, authentic and deeply intoxicating.

Torn the Story
From the wind swept lonesome shores of the Outer Hebrides and his current hometown of Glasgow comes a winsome collection of finely crafted songs from Norman Paterson titled Torn. Reflecting the picturesque cluster of islands renowned for their rugged beauty, untouched landscapes, and rich Gaelic heritage, Norman reflects a sense of peace and tranquillity with his debut album.

The moment you step into this 15 track opus, you will be transported to the breath-taking vistas and memories of a time long forgotten. At 65 years of age, Norman has brought together all of his experiences to craft an album that is a testament to the faith he has placed in himself. Embarking on a journey that would be challenging enough for someone in their twenties, he has the vision and the knowledge to add a new and exciting voice to the world of Scottish folk and country music.

Blending traditional Scottish melodies and storytelling with a dash of contemporary flavours, Torn is not a rip in time but a full blown dive into what makes the Scotland’s music of Auld so rewarding. From the spoken word opening of The Pier, to the imperious majesty of the Country infused Tender, and the more toe tapping creativity of Accident or Design, Norman wraps everything in a warm embrace of unbelievable textures.

Banjos, Accordions, Guitars, perfect complimentary female harmonies, are all given the chance to breathe in the rarefied air that Norman creates. His lyrics and their phrasing hark back to the time of the poets and traditional Gaelic storytellers. With a voice that carries the weight of centuries of tradition, he weaves a tapestry of words that transports listeners to a different place and time.

An example of the old adage that ‘it’s never too late to follow your dreams’ , Torn is a gift from the older generation to age groups that will have never experienced such beauty in the modern music world. Join him on his path as he shares his music to an audience that will fall in love with an album that defines the social fabric of the islands. It is a long player that will tear no person asunder but restore their faith in humanity.

Tracklist:
1.01 - Norman Paterson - The Pier (1:28)
1.02 - Norman Paterson - Torn (2:55)
1.03 - Norman Paterson - Two Rivers (3:03)
1.04 - Norman Paterson - The Heart of the Hebrides (4:46)
1.05 - Norman Paterson - Tender (2:20)
1.06 - Norman Paterson - Silver Locket and a Key (4:18)
1.07 - Norman Paterson - The Tree that Bends (2:43)
1.08 - Norman Paterson - The Alchemists (2:50)
1.09 - Norman Paterson - Tides the Turn (2:54)
1.10 - Norman Paterson - Mary Ann (2:58)
1.11 - Norman Paterson - When the Yellow is on the Broom (3:12)
1.12 - Norman Paterson - And the Healing will Begin (2:21)
1.13 - Norman Paterson - Accident or Design (3:13)
1.14 - Norman Paterson - Suilisgeir (1:29)