Album Notes

Distant Oaks is an award-winning ensemble specializing in dynamic, historically informed performances of traditional Gaelic and early European music. Rich, expressive singing in a variety of languages, combined with virtuosic, skillfully arranged ensemble playing on a broad array of period and traditional instruments, define Distant Oaks' musical style. Their warm, intimate performances appeal to both the intellect and the emotions and have proven to delight a diverse range of listeners.

In addition to their strong dedication to Gaelic music, language, and culture, as well as authentic traditional and Early Music performance practices, Distant Oaks is also actively engaged in composing new music in older styles. In the spirit of fine music-making and respect for tradition, Distant Oaks continues to bring a brilliant panoply of music to their audiences.

Distant Oaks has had the pleasure of performing and recording with such fine traditional musicians as Jerry O'Sullivan, Liz Carroll, Patrick Ball, Shay Black, and Paul Kotapish (Open House), as well as such Early Music luminaries as David Douglass (The King's Noyse, The Newberry Consort), Julie Jeffrey (Sex Chordae of Viols), Cheryl Ann Fulton (Ensemble Alcatraz), Shira Kammen (Ensemble Alcatraz, Fortune's Wheel), and Peter Maund (Ensemble Alcatraz, Skyedance).

"Against the Tide is, hands-down, Distant Oaks' best CD. They've achieved an overall feeling of both the ethereal and joyful - and that is not an easy combination. I just keep hitting the Repeat button on my CD player." - Douglas MacGowan, author of Murder in Victorian Scotland

"Close your eyes, and you could be sitting in a céilidh house. The artwork and packaging are every bit as good as the music and singing." - Daibhidh Ealaghoil, Web developer and software engineer, Isle of Skye, Scotland

"Deborah White, along with sons Jared and Shayne, are proof positive that musical talent does run in some families. Training in Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque music makes their playing impeccable, their passion for Celtic tradition makes it irresistible." - Celli Tiemann/Borders Books and Music