We’ve updated our Terms of Use to reflect our new entity name and address. You can review the changes here.
We’ve updated our Terms of Use. You can review the changes here.

Bold Nelson

from Homecoming by Alex Cumming

/

  • Buy the Full Digital Album

  • Compact Disc (CD) + Digital Album

    Homecoming is the debut solo album from folk singer and accordionist Alex Cumming. This album explores the world of traditional song and dance music from both sides of the pond and takes you on an exciting and emotional journey through the thoughtful and intricate arrangements. The album is produced and recorded by Alex's long-time collaborator Pete Ord and features the incredible musicianship of fiddler Audrey Jaber, guitarist Max Newman along with various special guests.

    Includes unlimited streaming of Homecoming via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
    ships out within 7 days

      $20 USD or more 

     

about

I first heard this song from the singing of Peter Bellamy, but first started singing the song after learning it from British/Australian folk singer, James Fagan. I love a good historical story, and these lyrics coupled with an incredible tune have made it one of my favourites to sing. To optimize the sing-along credentials of the song, I added an extra line to the refrain which has certainly created some incredible harmony moments over the years. Though this song never became an official song that we sang with my band The Teacups, we did arrange a version of it when we were invited to the Netherlands to perform at the Internationaal Folk & Seasongs Festival Bie Daip Appingedam, and we needed to up our sea themed repertoire.

lyrics

On the Twenty-First of October, before the rising sun,
We formed the line for action, my boys, at twelve o’clock begun
Brave Nelson to his men did say: “The Lord will prosper us this day.
Give them the broadside, fire away.”
On board the man of war x2

Then broadside to broadside our cannon balls did fly,
Like pale stars, their small shots all round our deck did lie.
Our mast and rigging they were shot away, Besides some thousand in that fray
Were killed and wounded on that day
On board the man of war x2

And then our brave commander in grief he shook his head:
There is no relief , there is no reprieve, Great Nelson he is dead.
It was a fatal musket-ball, That caused our hero for to fall
But he died in peace, God bless you all
On board the man of war x2

When the merchants of Yarmouth, when they did hear it so,
They said: “Come brother sailors, to church now let us go.
And there we’ll build a noble pile, All for the hero of the Nile
Who gave his life for England’s isle
On board the man of war.” x2

Our soldiers and sailors many noble deeds have done
While fighting in foreign, many battles they have won.
If the Nile it could witness there, Or the Capes of Trafalgar declare:
There is none to Nelson can compare
On board the man of war x2

credits

from Homecoming, released February 28, 2024
Alex Cumming: Lead Vocals & Backing Vocals
Rosie Calvert: Backing Vocals
Will Finn: Backing Vocals

license

all rights reserved

tags

about

Alex Cumming image

Alex Cumming Brattleboro, Vermont

Alex Cumming is a traditional Singer, Accordionist, Pianist and dance caller hailing from England, now living in Brattleboro VT, USA. He performs songs and tunes from around the United Kingdom and America with a great depth of knowledge of the tradition. Alex has made his mark on the folk scene with his rhythmic dance-able accordion style, strong voice and his fun and engaging stage presence. ... more

contact / help

Contact Alex Cumming

Streaming and
Download help

Shipping and returns

Redeem code

Report this track or account

Alex Cumming recommends:

If you like Alex Cumming, you may also like:

Bandcamp Daily  your guide to the world of Bandcamp

On Bandcamp Radio

Featuring Riley Pinkerton (aka The Rat Queen) from the theatrical NYC rockers, Castle Rat.
listen now