Elbow Grease & Whiskey
Hadrian’s Wall
Elbow Grease & Whiskey (2000) marked another important step in Hadrian’s Wall’s musical journey, combining traditional Celtic music with contemporary folk influences and original songwriting. Building on the success Read more
Elbow Grease & Whiskey (2000) marked another important step in Hadrian’s Wall’s musical journey, combining traditional Celtic music with contemporary folk influences and original songwriting. Building on the success of the band’s earlier recordings, the album expanded the group’s sound while remaining firmly rooted in the Scottish, Irish and Canadian traditions that had become its trademark.
The album introduced Jay Weiler on fiddle, bringing a fresh musical voice to the band alongside Neil Emberg, Richard Irwin and Terry O’Farrell. Featuring energetic instrumental sets, traditional ballads and original material, Elbow Grease & Whiskey captures Hadrian’s Wall during a period of growing confidence as both performers and songwriters.
Recorded in Kingston and Ottawa, the album showcases polished production, strong musicianship and the lively spirit that helped establish Hadrian’s Wall as a favourite at Highland Games, Celtic festivals and concert venues throughout North America.
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0:00/3:30
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The Underwear Song 2:550:00/2:55
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0:00/4:04
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The Bluenose 3:320:00/3:32
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South Australia 2:090:00/2:09
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0:00/4:59
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Aftermath 5:130:00/5:13
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Roadside Jig Set 3:120:00/3:12
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0:00/8:11
Album Highlights
- Released in 2000
- Studio album
- First album featuring Jay Weiler on fiddle.
- Recorded in Kingston and Ottawa.
- Includes the original composition The Underwear Song.
- Dedicated to the memory of James Arthur Emberg.
Historical Note
Elbow Grease & Whiskey reflects a period of musical growth for Hadrian’s Wall as the band continued to develop its own identity through original material while celebrating the traditional music that inspired its sound. The addition of Jay Weiler helped broaden the band’s arrangements and contributed to the evolving style heard on subsequent recordings.
Track Listing
- Fridge Full of Empties
- Tuttle’s Reel
- Lady Ann Montgomery
- Cape Breton Fiddlers Welcome to Shetland
2. The Underwear Song (Neil Emberg with Hadrian’s Wall)
3. MacPherson’s Farewell
4. The Bluenose (Stan Rogers)
5. South Australia
6. Elbow Grease & Whiskey
- Miss Lyall
- Mrs. Grant of Laggan
- Sweeney’s Buttermilk
- Paddy’s Trip to Scotland
7. Aftermath (Kirk MacGeachy)
8. Roadside Jig Set
- Kerfunten’s Jig
- Eddie Kelly’s
- Calliope House
9. The Maid on the Shore
Personnel
Hadrian’s Wall
- Neil Emberg
- Richard Irwin
- Terry O’Farrell
- Jay Weiler
Recording Credits
Recording
- Duncan Holt – Concept Audio (Kingston)
- Sean Hammond – Distortion Studios (Ottawa)
Mixing
- Jay Ruston – Distortion Studios (Ottawa)
Mastering
- Jeff Coombe – Shark Fin Digital (Ottawa)
Live Sound
- Jason Collis
Photography
- Will Cunnington
Graphic Design
- Tammy Brown – Healey Disc (Ottawa)
Dedication
This album is dedicated to the memory of James Arthur Emberg.
“We hope there’s a pub in Heaven playing our music.”
Special Thanks
Special thanks to:
- Our families, friends and fans
- Bill & Karen Reid
- Eric Willison
- Jason Collis
- Everyone involved in the making of this album