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Watchet Sailor

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

I was very lucky to grow up in the same village as the late, great traditional folk singer, George Withers. It was a really special evening when George was present at our local folk session, always bringing fabulous songs such as this and many comical songs.
Watchet is an utterly beautiful harbour town on the north coast of Somerset, and to this day still has a steam railway running through the town. This arrangement is inspired by version I used to perfor with the wonderful English fiddler Nicola Beazley. The accompanying tune was composed on one of the coldest winter days in New England.

lyrics

As I was a-walking down Watchet Swain Street
A jolly old ship mate I chanced for to meet.
Said I, “Hello sailor and welcome to home;
In season to Watchet I think you have come.”

“You remember once courting a pretty young maid,
Well, you’ve been so long gone now she’s going to be wed.
In Bristol, tomorrow, the wedding’s to be
And I am invited for that thing for to see.”

Jack went a got a licence that very same night.
And he travelled up to Bristol as soon as t’was light,
He sat in the Temple church yard for a while
And he saw the bride coming which caused him to smile..

And he took that fair maid by the lily white hand,
“You’re going to be married so I understand.
Well if you’re to marry then you must be mine
So I have come here for to baulk your design.”

“Well alas,” cried the maiden, “oh what can I do?
I know I was solemnly promised to you.
But the sailor’s my true love and I’ll be his bride,
There’s none in the world I can fancy beside.”.

Well the man he roared like a man that was mad,
“I’m ruined, I’m ruined, I’m ruined.” he said.
So all of you fellah’s, get wed while you may,
Or all those Jack Tars they will take them away.

credits

from Homecoming, released February 28, 2024
Alex Cumming: Lead Vocals, Piano Accordion
Audrey Jaber: Fiddles
Max Newman: Acoustic Guitars
Pete Ord: Electric Guitars, Percussion, Bass

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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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