Hayden Stern - The Morning Dark (2026) [Hi-Res]

Fiddler and composer Hayden Stern, who grew up in the Bay Area Scottish traditional music scene, returned to his instrument during the COVID pandemic after a long break. Relocating to Seattle, engaging with the contra dance community, and searching for local queer folk musicians spawned a collaborative ensemble, full-time touring, and teaching. The album The Morning Dark presents a rich collection of traditional Scottish reels, jigs, strathspeys, and marches. Instrumental contributions from Pat Gunning, Ezra Jane Landsman, and Elise Snoey shape the arrangement, with producer Yann Falquet of Genticorum joining on jaw harp.

Hayden Stern - fiddle
Ezra Jane Landsman - guitar
Elise Snoey - fiddle
Pat Gunning - mandolin
Casey Murray - cello (4, 6, 7)
Yann Falquet - jaw harp (10)

Tracklist:
1. Hayden Stern - Susie's
2. Hayden Stern - Heather Lake
3. Hayden Stern - Farewell to Santa Ana
4. Hayden Stern - Wedding at 11 West
5. Hayden Stern - Pit Trap
6. Hayden Stern - The Morning Dark
7. Hayden Stern - Boston Harbor Welcome
8. Hayden Stern - Rhododendron
9. Hayden Stern - Out and About
10. Hayden Stern - Bomb Cyclone
11. Hayden Stern - Driving Back From Bellingham
12. Hayden Stern - Look Up