Hebridean Baker Coinneach MacLeod has swapped his kitchen for the recording studio and teamed up with his partner Peter MacQueen to
record a Gaelic rendition of Auld Lang Syne, the perfect anthem for the festive period.
Previous winners of the Royal National Mòd, Coinneach and Peter have joined forces as the Hogmanay Boys to sing Air Sgàth nan Iomadh Linn.
Sileas Sinclair, the maestro behind the arrangement, infuses the song with a touch of tradition while Brian McAlpine from Session A9 ensures the production sparkles with modern charm.
A stellar lineup of backing singers – Claire MacLeod, Kirsty MacInnes, Jodie Beaton and Anna MacGregor add a harmonious depth to the Gaelic rendition.
The result is a musical treat that promises to be a heartfelt, anthemic addition to any playlist.
“Collaborating with Peter and this incredible team has been a dream come true and I’m proud to be sharing a song in Gaelic with the world,” said Coinneach, who’s third cookbook Hebridean Baker at Home is already hitting the bestseller lists.
The making of the track will be followed in a BBC Alba documentary about Coinneach which will be shown across the UK on Christmas Day.
Radio nan Gàidheal featured the first play of Air Sgàth nan Iomadh Linn on Feasgar just after midday on Tuesday November 28 and the track was released to download or stream on Friday December 1.
“Auld Lang Syne is not just a song; it’s a global tradition,” added Peter.
“Air Sgàth nan Iomadh Linn is our way of honouring the spirit of Rabbie Burns and infusing it with the rich cultural heritage of the Hebrides.”
Coinneach and Peter will be hoping for the first ever Gaelic song to hit number one in the charts.
The song can be played and uploaded through BBC Introducing.
Photograph: Coinneach MacLeod and Peter MacQueen have joined forces as the Hogmanay Boys. NO_F49_HogmanayBoys_23_AuldLangSyneCover_CoinneachMacLeod_PeterMacQueen