Mills: Elan Valley

Barry Mills invites you to explore the enchanting landscapes of Wales and Ireland through his captivating compositions on "Mills: Elan Valley." Released on May 4, 2018, under Claudio Records, this album is a testament to Mills' virtuosity as a composer and his deep connection with the natural world.

The album opens with the evocative "Elan Valley," setting the stage for a journey through a variety of musical terrains. The Mandolin & Guitar Concerto unfolds in four movements, each depicting different natural phenomena, from the gentle "Rainfall" to the dramatic "The Piercing Wind." The concerto is followed by "Evening Rain (Sunset)," a piece that beautifully captures the tranquility of a Welsh sunset.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the Guitar Concerto "The Travels of Turlough O'Carolan," a six-movement suite inspired by the journeys of the famous Irish harper and composer. Mills masterfully paints vivid musical landscapes, from the breezy "Walking the Wind" to the serene "Under the Stars," culminating in the lively "Bridget Cruise."

The album concludes with the Mandolin Concerto, a four-movement piece that explores the interplay of light and dark, both in nature and in music. From the reflective "Watching the Surface of the Sea" to the joyful "My Singing Bird," Mills demonstrates his exceptional ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his music.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "Mills: Elan Valley" is a rich and immersive listening experience that showcases Barry Mills' unique voice as a composer and his deep appreciation for the natural world. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking for a beautiful and engaging album, "Mills: Elan Valley" is sure to delight.