Reviewed by Phil Thomson

I think I'm disappointed. Only two out of the 14 songs on 'I Lift My Eyes' are sung in Gaelic, which, of course, makes this a totally accessible album in one way. It is all very gentle and refreshingly acoustic. But it is hardly playing to Donnie Murdo Macleod's strengths as a multiple winner in 1996 of the National Mod awards (which, I would stress, isn't given for how many mirrors you have on your scooter, but is something set up to encourage Gaelic language, music and culture). On this album you find yourself listening to a decent enough version of "How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place" but will have you thinking, well it's okay but I've heard more contemporary, more interesting versions. And there are times here when the song doesn't always suit the singer. The piano-driven arrangements and gentle accompaniments - flute and harp and accordion and whistle - are all well-meaning, but tend to be repetitive and soporific. . . and English. Surely the unique selling point of Mr Macleod's music is the wonder of the Gaelic language. With such a beautiful voice this album is a lost opportunity. The native tongue is an instrument in its own right and Macleod, Hebridean by birth, is a fine exponent of Gaelic but needs more appropriate material to express his Christian faith. I would suggest he commissions of new Gaelic language worship songs. Now, that would nail it!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.