Open Sky by Iona

Open Sky is a 2000 album by the British band Iona, and I came to it only recently. Iona blend Celtic folk, uilleann pipes and progressive rock into long, patient pieces rooted in the landscape and faith of the Scottish isle they take their name from. This record's theme is space, the wide sky and the room it gives the spirit to wander. The unhurried, open feel is what made me stay.

Why listen?

The music breathes, with pipes and whistles drifting over warm rock textures and Joanne Hogg's clear voice. The production is rich but never crowded, every instrument given air. The lyrics turn to creation, pilgrimage and the long road of faith. There is a real sense of journey across these long tracks, each one a walk through changing country. It is a record to put on and follow rather than dip into.

Favourite song: Castlerigg

Named for an ancient stone circle, this long piece rises and falls like weather over open moor. The pipes and guitar trade the lead until the whole thing lifts off.

The track has a wordless central stretch where the band simply soars, pipes calling across a wide bed of guitar and drums. It is the sound of standing among old stones with the sky huge above you, where you feel small and at home at once. The piece walks you out into open country and lets the view do the talking.

Key takeaway

Open Sky is a spacious, slow-burning record for anyone who likes their music to take its time. A fine companion for a long walk or a quiet hour.

Tracklist

• Woven Cord
• Wave After Wave
• Open Sky
• Castlerigg
• A Million Stars
• Light Reflected
• Hinba
• Songs of Ascent (part 1)
• Songs of Ascent (part 2)
• Songs of Ascent (part 3)
• Friendship's Door

Details

Listen on

• Apple Music
• Amazon
• Spotify

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