LISTEN: Lisa Ward & The XYY release debut album recorded in Mareel

Lisa Ward & The XYY have released their new album 27 – with a launch concert at the Lerwick Legion planned for April.

On the bill that night are other local bands including Forgotten Sons, Big Time Quell, and DJ Lyall Halcrow.

The album, available to download, features pop choruses, energetic offerings and rock riffs.

Ward, who appeared on television show The Voice two years ago, said: “The album reached its crowdfunding total around this time last year and since then it’s been an exciting journey and a learning process for us all.

“Sending out the digital downloads to our crowdfunders last night felt amazing and we can’t wait to get the CDs printed and ready for the launch gig in April.”

27 was recorded at Mareel by local sound engineer Tim Matthew and mixed by Shetland engineer Ewan Nowak, who produced Ward’s first EP Liminal.

Mixing was done in her US studio by Sylvia Massy, who has worked with artists including Prince, Bjork, Johnny Cash and Skunk Anansie.

The band features Ward on lead vocals and guitars, Sarah Thomson on backing vocals and guitars, Craig Birnie on bass, and Eamonn Watt on drums and electronics. They will perform the new album in its entirety at the launch concert on 1st April, accompanied by special guests Lewis Hall on keyboards and Chris Grant on additional guitars.

Ms Thomson said: “We’re really looking forward to playing the songs live and celebrating a night of original Shetland music with the other great acts on the line up. With the digital download now available and the first three singles on the SIBC playlist from next week onwards, we’re hoping that people will get to know the songs and sing along with us.”

Kicking off the night will be punk rock four-piece Forgotten Sons, who launched their self-titled EP on Shepherd’s Pie Records in October last year.

Also on the line-up is Big Time Quell with DJ Lyall Halcrow, finishing off the night.