Swilkie is the new album from Highlands-based songwriter Iona Lane. Charting at #23 in the Official Folk Album Charts, Swilkie weaves ecology, conservation, islands and folklore into poetic songs and contemplative melodies. Written during three residencies on the Isle of Eigg, Isle of Mull and Sanday in Orkney, sense of place and landscape are at the core of these songs. From basking sharks to lighthouses, lichen to vanishing islands, curlews to tree planting; the album was recorded in a boathouse on the West Coast of Scotland and the eager listener may even hear the lapping sound of the tide murmuring through the album. Iona’s connection to places by the sea is translated through these songs with evolving vocal melodies, subtle guitar and droning shruti box.

“It stopped me in my tracks when I first heard it… Haunting, touching, atmospheric, loving it!” – Mark Radcliffe BBCR2

“Swilkie is a masterful album full of heartfelt emotion and breathtaking songwriting” – KLOF Mag

“Swilkie is evocative of coastline, nature & history, much like the sound of wind & sea reflecting Iona’s airy, light & gentle voice.” – RnR

“Iona’s lyrics and musical arrangements crackle with wide-eyed curiosity.” Jude Rogers, The Guardian“Iona feels like a kindred spirit with her gorgeous evocations of landscape and geeky scientific references.” – Karine Polwart