Spring 188

Traditional shape-note song, from Sacred Harp

Shape-note is a traditional Appalachian style of singing with a rich history, that has been referred to as “heavy metal a cappella.”

(Contrary to the lyrics in the song, these practice tracks were recorded during a thunderstorm, so please enjoy the background sounds of thunder and rain.)

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LYRICS:

The scattered clouds are fled at last,
The rain is gone, the winter’s past;
The lovely vernal flow’rs appear,
The warbling choirs enchant our ear.
Now, with sweetly pensive moan,
Coos the turtle dove alone.

The voice of my beloved sounds,
While o’er the mountain top he bounds;
He flies exulting o’er the hills,
And all my soul with transport fills.
Gently doth he chide my stay.
Rise, my soul, and come away.