SOMETIMES it’s hard to recapture the old magic, especially after a 17-year gap, but when Bryony reformed six years ago, it was as though we’d never been apart.
When we first got together in York in 1981 we rapidly gained a reputation for close harmony singing and for using particularly the Appalachian and hammer dulcimers which became our trademark. We were, and still are, the only female all-dulcimer band. After six years on the folk circuit during which time we produced two albums, Part-Time Job and Last Of The Great Whales, we headed in different directions – Ailsa ending up in north west Scotland, Alison in Lancashire and Cathy ensconced in Surrey. Alison, responding to being constantly asked for a CD versions of the albums, contacted the others about a possible re-launch of Last of the Great Whales. They travelled to her home in Lancashire and, despite so much time apart, the old magic returned immediately. There was only one thought – let’s carry on.
The result three years later was Bryony – So Far. A new album of traditional and contemporary songs and we’ve added the Scottish harp and recorders to the dulcimers. Voices have mellowed, keys have dropped, but the sound is still unmistakeably Bryony.
Thankyou most kindly for your invitation. We are still unsure where the winds will blow us on our next walk, but we look forward strongly to meeting and sharing songs with you all.
You are making lovely music, and many thanks for the all your good works.
Blessings and continuations to you all, and until soon...farewell.
