#7/10 singles out today! 'Nightingale'

“Nightingale” is a poem by World War 1 poet James Lyons, who was re-discovered by Cecilie Anna’s poet and writer friend Robert Cochrane. Lyons tragically died at the age of 22.

Cochrane stumbled across Lyon’s second book of poetry, ‘Gleam o’ Pearls’, (released posthumously) in an antique book shop. He had not heard of Lyons before and having a good working knowledge of World War poets, was instantly curious.

Cochrane researched Lyons for years but the information was relatively scarce. Not even experts on WW1 poets had heard of him. Only one photo was discovered, a handful of letters, and what turned out to be the first book Lyons released; ‘Sons of the Empire, and other poems’. Cochrane was struck by the excellence of many of Lyons’ poems and decided to release a collection of his works, naming the book after one of his favourites: ‘Do you Remember - the selected poems of James Lyons’ (Bad Press, Manchester 2018)

Cochrane invited artists to put music to poems of their choice, and Cecilie Anna immediately connected with ‘Nightingale’. The collection of sung poems will be released during 2024, titled ‘Do you Remember’.

Robert Cochrane’s research is presented as a very intriguing foreword in the book, making you wish you could know more of this beautiful soul who amongst so many other young souls sadly died all too young. Cochrane has, through his love and patience, made sure Lyon’s forgotten work has been lifted into the light again. For that, he deserves a medal.

Words by James Lyons
Music, Vocals and Piano: Cecilie Anna
Recording: Vidar Vedå
Mixing, Co-Production: SirSound, Stord
Mastered by Alex Wharton in Abbey Road, London
Cecilie Anna Records 2023