We previously featured Martin Lloyd Howard in May as he fused flamenco and Elizabethan influences on the cinematic composition, Hidden Andalucia, so when we heard that Martin was back with Highland Mist, we couldn’t wait to immerse ourselves in his universe once more.

Highland Mist opens with intimacy and syncopated notions, as we experience Martin’s intricate finger work. The composition taps into raw and organic folk notions with microtonal DADGAD tuning as Martin takes us on a journey through the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. The altered DADGAD tuning creates a mystical Celtic quality that feels ancient and cinematic.

He creates a vivid cosmic universe that allows us to build our own narrative around the music. As Martin explains, “I was experimenting with DADGAD tuning for another project and came across an opening fingerstyle chord sequence which seemed to evoke a mood of quiet mystery and rugged landscapes. I took it from there.”

The result is a deeply atmospheric piece where every detail feels super intentional. We love the way that the DADGAD tuning is used melodically. It gives the guitar an almost vocal essence. There is a tangible sense of solitude and wonderment at play and we could easily imagine Highland Mist accompanying a sweeping cinematic landscape sequence in a film or television series set against the Scottish wilderness.

Speaking on the deeper intention behind the release, Martin shares, “It’s all about evoking a soundscape that takes the listener to the mist and mystique of the Scottish Highlands.” That philosophy really comes to life through the composition. There is no need for vocals or elaborate production because the guitar itself becomes the storyteller, painting an expansive picture through tone, phrasing and dynamics.

We also appreciate the refreshingly old-school recording process. Recorded in Martin’s home loft with a single Rode NT4 microphone positioned around nine inches from the join between the neck and body of the guitar, Highland Mist feels remarkably organic.

Fans of Martin Simpson, Julian Bream, Dominic Miller, and the acoustic explorations of Jimmy Page and Ritchie Blackmore will be able to connect with Martin’s approach. Needless to say, we love what Martin Lloyd Howard is creating, and have added Highland Mist to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, as we continue to stream Martin’s wider discography, including Selene and Winter’s Light through to Hidden Andalucia.

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