Silly Wizard – Wild & Beautiful

Representing the Scottish lowland folk revival with breathtaking speed and lyricism, this 1981 release captures Silly Wizard firing on all cylinders. Phil Cunningham's lightning accordion runs and Johnny Cunningham's sweet, singing fiddle lead blistering reels, yet the emotional heart lies in Andy M. Stewart's impassioned tenor vocals. Songs like The Queen of Argyle and The Valley of Strathmore ground the band's virtuosity in specific Scottish places and historical pride, pairing traditional tune structures with contemporary narrative vitality.