Drawing us in with an intimate, folk-hybrid, acoustic guitar melody, Gf Morgan opens his new album, Magenta with intrigue, a masterful performance and a track called An Mhaighdean Mhara/ Southwind. The presence of a concertina adds to the cosmic value of the opus, and invites us on a transcendental and immersive journey with the talented composer.
We appreciate the emotional depth and timeless nature of the track, which serves as the perfect album opener. Next up is Bonnie George Campbell, and opens with situational prose with a captivating narrative and the lyrics, “High upon Highlands and low upon Tay, Bonny George Campbell went out on a day, saddled and bridled, so gallant rode he…”
The universe that Gf Morgan manifests with his lyricism invites us to reminisce on times past, and we love how the album taps into the traditional music of the Celtic lands to bring to life his unique soundscape and mesmerizing words.
The Moth and the Candle kicks off with a cinematic guitar introduction and showcases the masterful skill that Gf Morgan has to offer with his performance acumen. Henry Martyne takes on a more alternative country twist with darker sonic tones, in line with the concept of the track itself. The dramatic flair featured on the song is tangible.
We then experience Josefin’s Walz which sets the scene with a movement inspired energy, perfect for a Bridgerton synch deal, laced with emotional detail and riffs that remain in our minds long after the song has finished. This leads us to Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming / Planxty Irwin which holds a celestial energy, whilst Vale of the Red Wolf taps into the darker and more subversive vibes that the talented composer has to offer.
It is no surprise that Gf Morgan has been delighting and entertaining audiences for over 40 years with his renditions of classic ballads, original songs, jigs, reels, hornpipes and sea chanties. The Great Sun feels like an epic ode to our solar creator, and the conscious and enlightened energy that Gf Morgan exudes with this piece is welcomed.
Slán le Cara Maith taps into a more meditative nuance, a repose that feels aligned with the wider construct of the record, whilst Roselyn Castle taps into a Spanish guitar energy which brings to life a plethora of historical moments as Gf Morgan showcases his versatility as a composer and performer.
Finally, we experience the title track of the album, Magenta, which despite being one of the shortest tracks on the album, is actually one of the most intricate by design. Gf Morgan is a true virtuoso, whose skill and mastery of the instrument are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
From the moment Gf Morgan‘s fingers touch the strings, it is evident that the talented creator possesses a rare talent and deep connection to his craft. His technical proficiency is unmatched, as he effortlessly navigates complex fingerpicking patterns, intricate chord progressions, and dazzling runs with precision and grace.
Each note is played with intention and nuance, showcasing a level of control and finesse that sets them apart as a true maestro of the acoustic guitar. Beyond his technical prowess, what truly sets Gf Morgan apart is his ability to infuse each performance with emotion and soul, evoking a range of emotions from joy to melancholy to longing.
We have connected deeply with Magenta, and have been inspired to explore Gf Morgan‘s wider discography, including his critically acclaimed album, Driftwood, whilst we anticipate future releases from the visionary artist and composer.
NOTE FROM EDITORS: The album order for this review is per the track listing on BandCamp, the album is also available to stream on Spotify with a slightly altered track listing!