We hope you enjoy this collection of traditional and medieval ballads from Sweden, Finland, the British Isles, France, and the U.S.A. Some of these texts have survived from at least medieval times in oral tradition before they were eventually noted down. They all share themes that have traveled cultures, continents and centuries. We respectfully present them to you with our own modern arrangements: Sweet William, Earl Brand, King Vallemo and Wake Up tell the legend of a mythical couple who run away to fulfill their love. Binnoorie and Systrarna are examples of the ghost story also known in English versions as “The Cruel Sister.” Fair Annie, Skön Anna and Les Tristes Noces relate a narrative also found in the form of a lay by medieval author Marie de France [12C] Johanna Hongell-Darsee: Vocals and Woodwinds Scott Darsee: Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Bass Special Guests: Christopher A. Carlson, Violin and Octave Violin; Juan Wijngaard, Hurdy Gurdy; Sharon Berman, Recorders Produced by: John Wall, Scott and Johanna Hongell-Darsee Recorded at Wall of Sound Studio, Albuquerque, NM Scott and Johanna Hongell-Darsee have performed myths, legends and medieval ballads at festivals, theaters and universities throughout the U.S. Johanna (Finland) received her education in France (theater) and India (dance) and has worked as a performing artist for over 30 years in Scandinavia, Europe, India and the USA. Scott (USA) composes innovative arrangements and themes on string instruments.