Sony Music Masterworks releases the soundtrack to the sixth season of Outlander, with music by Bear McCreary. Also included within the 18-track (1 hr, 03 min, 20 sec) collection is a new version of the main title theme 'The Skye Boat Song,' which was re-recorded as a vocal duet for this season. Joining singer Raya Yarbrough is Scottish poet and singer Griogair Labhruidh, who contributes his voice to the original song alongside Yarbrough in addition to featuring on two Gaelic versions of the track...

I have to admit that when this album opened I wasn't full of optimism for how it would pan out. I've never been a fan of 'The Skye Boat Song' and so I cringed my way through it. Thankfully, once Bear McCreary's score started my fears were allayed.

Talking about the score McCreary says: "Each new season of Outlander brings new adventures, beginning with a musical reimagining of our now iconic use of ‘The Skye Boat Song’ as a main title theme. For five seasons, our main titles have featured the warm vocal tones of singer Raya Yarbrough, representing Claire’s journey. For this sixth season, we created the show’s first vocal duet, joining her with Scottish poet and singer Griogair Labhruidh, to represent Jamie’s musical perspective. This move was inspired by the dramatic arc of the sixth season itself, where Jamie and Claire’s relationship is put to the test, and they must strengthen their bond more than ever to overcome new obstacles. I’m excited for audiences to hear the new musical adventure on this unforgettable new season of Outlander."

Personal favourite tracks include 'Malva Christie' and 'Fergus and Marsali' which have memorable, melancholic segments. I'd argue, however, that as a whole the album works incredibly well as a standalone collection of interesting themes.

For those that have been following this series from the start, this is an essential purchase.

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Darren Rea