On this record, Ed Miller performs a mix of new and traditional songs from Scotland, sung in a mix of English and Scots. While traditionally grounded, Border Background has a varied instrumentation, offering accompaniment to Miller's singing on guitar, fiddle, flute, accordion, harmonium, bagpipes, and more. Among its traditional songs include the often recorded Child ballads "Thomas of Winsebury" (also called Willie o' Winsbury") and "Broom of the Cowdenknowes"; its newer songs include the work of Hamish Henderson and Archie Fisher.