Euan Stevenson’s latest album is a captivating musical journey through his hometown of Falkirk, Scotland. Known for his work with vocalist Georgia Cécile, Stevenson now steps into the spotlight with a stunning nine-piece suite that paints a vivid sonic portrait of this Central Lowlands gem. Joined by virtuosi Katherine Bryan on flute and Betsy Taylor on cello – both principals from the Royal Scottish National Orchestra – Stevenson’s Earthtones Trio crafts a rich tapestry of sound, with the addition of BBC Big Band percussionist Tom Gordon on three tracks adding further depth to an already lush ensemble.

The album seamlessly blends contemporary classical and jazz influences with the raw emotion of folk music. From the Chick Corea-inspired opener ‘Skirmish’, which imagines a clash between neighbouring medieval tribes, to the Nino Rota-esque ‘La Scozia’, paying homage to Falkirk’s Italian immigrants, each piece tells a story. Gershwin’s spirit dances through the syncopated rhythms of ‘Outdoor Feeling’, while ‘Wheel Slowly Turning’ celebrates the engineering marvel of the Falkirk Wheel. The album closes with the hypnotic ‘Nostalgia’, where Stevenson’s mesmerising piano chords provide a backdrop for a spellbinding dialogue between cello and flute. This love letter to Falkirk is a must-listen journey through history, landscape and culture.