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Album Review: "Araon" by Sian

"Araon" By Sian
"Araon" By Sian

On August 1, 2025, Scottish band Sian released their latest album, “Araon.” The album features Ceitlin Lilidh, Eilidh Cormack, Ellen MacDonald, and Innes White. The album was produced by Innes Strachan and Innes White, engineered and mixed by Iain Hutchison at GloWorm Recording, and mastered by Peter Beckmann at Technologyworks.

The band’s self-titled debut album was released in 2020. Since then, they have become known for their exquisite harmonies and beautiful arrangements. “Araon” continues this journey as the band’s second album.  Sian released two singles for this album: “Seo a' Bhliadhna” and “Pèidse Fir Ròdhaig.”

The album consists of 11 songs that all celebrate the Gaelic language and Scottish culture. Those who are learning Scottish Gaelic will be able to test their skills and their ears to see if they can figure out what each song is saying before they look up what the songs mean on the band’s website. 

Each song is written in Scottish Gaelic. The band’s website has a section that gives a background to what each song is about, which is great for those who are not familiar with the language or those who are beginning to learn it. 

Every song of the album has a different sound and vibe, but they all harken back to the group’s unique voice and sound. The harmonies on this album are gorgeous and unique, causing listeners to be drawn in to pay attention to each note. 

Although the album has 11 songs, they go by quickly. The album feels like a complete story, but listeners will want to remain in the stories and land that the album creates. The album is so peaceful and beautiful that listeners will want to remain wrapped in the songs for longer.

Overall, this album is perfect for those who love powerful female voices. Those who are unfamiliar with the Gaelic language may have a hard time understanding the lyrics, but the emotion carried in each note conveys the messages of the songs. Fans of Celtic Woman will appreciate the similar sounds between the groups. People who are learning Scottish Gaelic will be able to test their ears to practice what they know. 


Musical Credits:

Accordion – Megan MacDonald

Acoustic Guitar, Electric Baritone Guitar, Piano – Innes White

Cello – Alice Allen

Bass Guitar, Double Bass (2, 10) – James Lindsay

Drums – Phil Wilkinson

Fiddle, Double Bass (5, 6) – Charlie Stewart

Synths, Percussion – Innes Strachan

Violin – Megan Henderson

Viola – Patsy Reid

Whistle – Seonaidh MacIntyre


Track List: 

1. Ceòlan

2. Seo a' Bhliadhna 

3. O Hòireannan 

4. Chì Mi a' Ghrian 

5. Cùm na Ghealladh 

6. Fear a' Bhàta 

7. Adelaide 

8. Pèidse Fir Ròdhaig 

9. Fear Nach Ainmich Mi

10. Smeòrach 

11. Tìr mo Bhruadair


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