Mills: Elan Valley

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Barry Mills' debut album, "Mills: Elan Valley," released on May 4, 2018, under the prestigious Claudio Records label. This captivating collection of compositions is a testament to Mills' virtuosic command of the mandolin and guitar, offering a rich tapestry of musical landscapes that span a full hour and eleven minutes.

The album opens with the evocative "Elan Valley," setting the stage for the intricate and beautifully crafted "Mandolin & Guitar Concerto." This four-movement piece, with its titles like "Rainfall," "Serenade," and "The Ever Changing Sea," paints vivid sonic pictures that will transport you to serene and dramatic natural settings. Following this, "Evening Rain (Sunset)" provides a moment of reflective calm before the expansive "Guitar Concerto 'The Travels of Turlough O'Carolan'" takes center stage. This six-part journey, inspired by the legendary Irish harper and composer, is a tour de force of Mills' guitar prowess, with movements titled "Walking the Wind," "At the Coast," and "Under the Stars" that evoke the spirit of travel and adventure.

The album concludes with the "Mandolin Concerto," a four-movement suite that showcases the full range of the mandolin's expressive capabilities. From the tranquil "Watching the Surface of the Sea" to the dynamic "The Interplay of Dark and Light," Mills' compositions are a celebration of the instrument's versatility and beauty.

"Mills: Elan Valley" is a remarkable debut that highlights Barry Mills' exceptional talent and his ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.