Duo to launch album celebrating Paisley's heritage

"Silver Threads", a musical collaboration between friends Evelyn Laurie and Neil Thomson, will be showcased at Paisley Central Library on Thursday, November 21.

The pair’s shared affection for their hometown brought them together to produce the collection of 12 tracks.

The record features both traditional songs by Robert Tannahill and well-known local folk artist, Danny Kyle, as well as several original numbers.

Neil Thomson, left, and, right, the new album (Image: Supplied) Neil told the Gazette: “Nothing like this has existed before that captures in music so many of the local stories.

“We hope the fusion of our different backgrounds has helped us produce an album which is a fitting tribute to our hometown and one that will be enjoyed by ‘buddies’ here and abroad.”

Tracks include “Keep your Eye on Paisley”, which is Evelyn’s own story of growing up in the town, moving away and returning to find it much changed.

Title track “Silver Threads” is Neil’s account of how the Paisley pattern developed and brought wealth to the town.

“Spinning”, meanwhile, relates to the witch trials and “Espedair Burn” is a humorous and upbeat tale of a smelly waterway now, fortunately, culverted.

Other songs describe the fame of the Paisley Pinks and eccentric local character, Tatabella.

Both successful artists in their own right, and each boasting impressive discographies, the production combines Evelyn’s jazz-influenced sound with the more traditional folk-oriented background of Neil.

Evelyn Laurie (Image: Supplied) Evelyn added: “It’s taken us 5 years to complete this project, with a few challenges on the way, not least financing it.

“I think though the additional time has allowed us to hone the songs, our performance and the production.”

Downloads are available on Amazon and iTunes, streaming on all usual platforms and CDs may be purchased from the artists themselves at evelynlaurie.com and neilthomson.co.uk.