Mull Historical Society — Val McDermid Guests On "Room Of Masks" || + New Album Out 21 July

Offering a further clue into his new record - MULL HISTORICAL SOCIETY - is pleased to present a writing collaboration with VAL McDERMID.

LISTEN TO “ROOM OF MASKS” HERE STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE

Teaming up with the Scottish crime-writing supremo for a case unlike any she has undertaken, Colin MacIntyre asked Val to write a song about a room that has occupied a special place in her life. Putting those words to music, the pair have master-minded the elegant and evocative new track: “Room Of Masks”.

For her contribution, Val McDermid chose to reflect on the space where her love affair with music began. An avid listener and player from a tender age, she explains:

“I don’t remember a time in my life without music – singing in the car, in the church; later, in my room, singing along to my guitar, teaching myself the songs I loved most. I always admired the skill of singer/songwriters who could match lyrics with music. I tried, but it never really worked. So it was a real thrill when Colin invited me to join this project. I can always set some words down on the page; to have Colin pick out the ones that worked for song then add music that sticks in the mind has been a privilege I never expected.”

“Room of Masks” will feature on the new Mull Historical Society album ‘In My Mind There’s A Room’, scheduled for release by Xtra Mile Recordings label on 21 July. The first new material from Colin MacIntyre in five years, it will feature contributions from thirteen highly acclaimed guest authors each of whom was asked to write about a room of special significance to them. Those authors include Ian Rankin, Nick Hornby, Jacqueline Wilson, Jennifer Clement (‘Widow Basquiat’), Booker-winning Sebastian Barry, Alan Warner, 2021 US National Book Award-winner Jason Mott, Scottish poet laureates’ Jackie Kay and Liz Lochhead (on current single “1952”), booker-shortlisted Stephen Kelman (‘Pigeon English’) and of course Val McDermid.

Appearing at an array of literary festivals this summer in support of the record, Colin MacIntyre and Val McDermid will both be appearing in conversation together at the Borders Book Festival this Saturday, following a Mull Historical Society live set - remaining tickets here. Further confirmed dates are also listed below.

Mull Historical Society / Colin McIntyre - 2023 Live dates

• 17th June - Borders Book Fest — with crime writer Val McDermid - (music & conversation) - TICKETS
• 29th July - MHS Belladrum
• 4th Aug - MHS Edinburgh Fringe @Summerhall
• Sept - Wigtown Book Fest (music & book)
• 27th Oct - Tobermory Book Fest (music & book