Folk/Review Hamish - Singing in My Soul

Hamish is a British musician who has been on the subculture scene in the UK for 3 decades. He founded the now famous Rabbit Hole at Glastonbury Festival, where he specialised in backing young, up-and-coming talent from all genres. His music is known for its melody and storytelling and has a substantial fan base who love his stuff.

Hamish’s “Singing in My Soul” captures the timeless appeal of authentic songwriting, bringing together a distinctive recording environment, collaborative musicianship, and a track with a meaningful history. Originally featured on his 1999 debut album “Picture in My Bag,” the single stands as a memorable chapter in Hamish’s musical journey, shaped by an atmosphere that feels worlds away from conventional studio production.

Produced by Les Penning, celebrated for his work with Mike Oldfield, the song benefits from a creative partnership that places musical expression at the forefront. Its subsequent success on New Zealand’s folk charts during Hamish’s travels there, alongside its placement in a major television programme, demonstrates how a personal composition can find a wider audience through its emotional accessibility.

Perhaps the most distinctive element of the recording is its setting. Captured at Hatfield Court, a sprawling, partially ruined mansion in Herefordshire, “Singing in My Soul” emerged from an environment rich in character and history. Local musicians gathered in an ancient oak-paneled drawing room, with an old wood-fired Aga contributing to the setting’s lived-in atmosphere. This unusual backdrop helped create a raw, authentic energy that gives the recording its particular identity.

Rather than feeling overly polished or detached, the track carries the spirit of musicians sharing a space and responding to the moment. That sense of immediacy is central to its appeal, reminding listeners that memorable music often grows from genuine collaboration rather than elaborate surroundings or technical perfection.

Ultimately, “Singing in My Soul” remains a compelling example of Hamish’s early artistry. Its journey from a debut album to international folk-chart recognition reflects the enduring power of honest musical expression, while its remarkable recording location adds another layer to an already distinctive story.