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How Can I Keep From Singing?

from Homecoming by Alex Cumming

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    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.

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about

This is a song that has got me through some incredibly hard times, through the Covid years and my battle with chronic pain. I had known this song for a long time but first arranged and performed the piece whilst I was the Music Director for Unitarian Universalist Church of Medford, MA. For the first month of the pandemic, I had to move away from my partner and children due to being Immunocompromised and my wife being a doctor working on the front lines of the Covid outbreak. This was a really scary time, being away from my family, the fear I could die or become seriously ill, but this song really helped keep my head above the water. No matter what, this song reminded me I could still sing and hold onto the music to guide me through.

lyrics

My life goes on in endless song
Above earth´s lamentations,
I hear the real, though far-off call
That hails a new creation.

Through all the tumult and the strife
I hear its music ringing,
It sounds an echo in my soul.
How can I keep from singing?

While though the tempest loudly roars,
I hear the truth, it liveth.
And though the darkness 'round me close,
Songs in the night it giveth.

No storm can shake my inmost calm,
While to that rock I'm clinging.
Since love is all of heaven and earth
How can I keep from singing?

When tyrants tremble in their fear
And hear their death knell ringing,
When friends rejoice both far and near
How can I keep from singing?

In prison cell and dungeon vile
Our thoughts to them are winging,
When friends by shame are undefiled
How can I keep from singing?

credits

from Homecoming, released February 28, 2024
Alex Cumming: Lead Vocals, Piano
Kathleen Ord: Orchestral Strings

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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

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