IndieShark Music News, Reviews & Interviews
The 2023 remaster of Under a Willow Tree by Phoenix-based Celtic folk-punk band Swainn, formerly known as Cockswain, brings new life to their beloved studio album. Originally a local Arizona hit and now an Irish festival favorite, Swainn’s fusion of Celtic tradition and punk vigor is reimagined in this release, reflecting both the rawness of their live performances and a heightened production polish that feels truer to their evolving sound.
Opening with “Voices,” Under a Willow Tree dives straight into Swainn’s unique blend of Celtic roots and driving rock energy. Neil Jay Ward’s vocals resonate through each track with a punchy grit that’s as much punk as it is pub-ready, and his electric guitar re-recordings on several songs bring a bold new edge to the melodies. Mandy Lubking’s fiddle provides a central, spirited pulse to each song, seamlessly bridging the Celtic vibe with Swainn’s rockier inclinations. On “Bag of Bones,” the band’s sound roars with new basslines by Rob MacIntosh, whose addition brings added depth and elasticity to the rhythm, ideal for any live setting. The track is upbeat, with a raucous energy that will likely be a festival go-to for fans.
Not all tracks stay high-energy; Swainn balances the album with quieter moments, like “Home.” This track trades the typical grit for a soft, acoustic approach that evokes a pastoral beauty enhanced by subtle cricket sounds in the background. Ward’s lyrics and Lubking’s fiddle here achieve a kind of warm melancholy, painting an emotional landscape that feels reflective and grounded. It’s a testament to the band’s dynamic range and ability to explore the quieter corners of Celtic folk while still keeping their unique identity intact.
In “Take Action,” Swainn straddles rock and social commentary without dipping into heavy-handedness. The acoustic guitar carries the melody with precision, creating an uplifting backdrop for Ward’s socially-conscious lyrics. The track is one of the album’s standouts for its blend of message and melody, underscoring Swainn’s knack for imbuing their music with purpose beyond the celebratory.
However, the band is at its best when it embraces the foot-stomping revelry that fans have come to expect. “Sink or Float” is a rollicking ride, capturing the group’s live energy and letting Lubking’s fiddle fly at full throttle, paired with MacIntosh’s driving bass. “Another Drinking Song” closes the album with unabashed exuberance—a toast to life’s ups and downs, a Swainn trademark, inviting listeners to join in a spirited farewell that’s both raucous and joyful.
Some might argue that Under a Willow Tree could benefit from further experimentation beyond its Celtic rock core, as the repeated high-energy songs tend to overshadow the softer tracks. Yet, the remaster does give Swainn’s core sound a fuller, more polished resonance, thanks to the expertise of Abbey Road’s Sean Magee, who has crafted a remaster that amplifies the album’s depth and dynamism without losing the charm of its raw roots.
For those seeking music that blends authenticity with festive spirit, Under a Willow Tree serves up anthems that celebrate life’s wild moments while grounding listeners in tradition—a blend that is Swainn’s lasting gift to Celtic punk.
Mark Druery
