Grendelcynn - Wæloeæ

The hearpe, commonly known as Anglo-Saxon lyre, is probably the most recognisable musical instrument from pre-Norman England. In fact, it has been a distinctive voice for anyone living north of the Channel at least from the early 5th century.

Paul Wilding, artist name Grendelcynn, is today the most notable exponent of this early instrument and his second album Wæloeæ provides a nice glimpse into the everyday music of the British Isles in that not so dark age.

The majority of the nine tracks are ancient tunes or compositions inspired by the poetry, the history, the events and the imagery of the Anglo-Saxon period; among them, the evocative title track, the melancholic Herr Mannileg and the dancy Ilfig. All tunes are here performed on the lyre, with a sporadic touch of hilsung, a form of drum, and the fitting accompaniment of the echo of the recording room.

The potential of the hearpe is also showcased on some tunes from other periods and cultures, like the 16th century Spanish carol Riu Riu Chiu, the late medieval Schiarazula Marazula, a tune from the far northeast of Italy, the Norwegian medieval song melody Ronaldskadet and the Irish evergreen Brian Boru’s March, inspired by the funeral procession of the eponymous king of the 10th and early 11th century.

The album rounds up with a brief and suggestive coda that goes under the title of Winter Spears, a self-penned tune that closes the release in contemplative mood.

The mellow timber of the lyre, the echo, these well-chosen tunes all contribute to a very imaginative musical experience. It is not hard to see the smith’s shop and the scribe’s desk, the wealthy hoards, the golden halls lit up by fireplaces and full of valiant warriors and skilled musicians, all thanks to the worthy-of-praise effort of a modern day bard.

With its fascinating concept, warm sound and calm stride, Wæloeæ proceeds in the right direction and allows many to rediscover the bewitching voice of a long forgotten instrument. Since the album is made up of short tracks and has a total length of just under 18 minutes, we hope to have more of this in the near future.