Reviews (page 5 of 7)
After getting Bee Gees yesterday, getting another 60's folk album wasn't really what I was hoping for. But overall, this is a pretty solid listen. Definitely feeling the Joni Mitchell influence on this album, especially with a song like The Deserter. I do tend to prefer the rockier cuts on this record, although as mentioned, The Deserter is really good.
This was fun but I wasn’t in the mood for it
Reminded me of the folkier led Zeppelin songs
3+
Very slowpaced, chill album. Maybe too much, it's not really my thing
6/10
You have to imagine Ann and Nancy Wilson must fucking love this
Musique de hobbits, dans le pas si bon ses du terme
The perfect album to drink earl grey in the countryside
Everything is there for me to love it, it's right in my palette, but somehow, Fairport Convention just don't appel me like it should. That said, it's nice, it sounds good, nothing bad here...
Really cool folk rock album. Vocalist is incredible, and instrumentation was good, but the entire thing felt a little too disjointed and dysfunctional. 3
Pretty good folk rock
It’s ok. It’s just too classical for me
Quite enjoying the British folk music compared to the American folk albums we've had so far. However it didn't make me feel like returning to it later.
That was... actually quite good ! I didn’t expect much since I’m not a big fan of folk-rock, a genre that often tries to put lipstick on bad rock music by adding random folk instruments. But this is absolutely not the case here – it’s even the other way around. Strictly speaking, it’s very traditionnal folkloric music with celtic and medieval influences, and a few modern guitar lines sprinkled here and there. That worked quite well in my opinion. The songs seem all nice and sweet, but if you listen closely to the lyrics... it’s actually not that sweet, there’s quite a lot of vengeance and bloodletting going on, as is often the case with old folksongs (Matty Groves is a song from the 17th century about a lady who seduces a commoner, who later gets stabbed to death for it by her husband...). The album does get a bit repetitive after a while (Matty Groves, Reynardine and Tam Lin are clearly the highlights), and it is a bit too quiet at times. But the singer’s voice makes up for it. Objectively it's maybe a 2 or a 2,5*, but I'll give it a 3* because real folkloric music (not the US redneck version) is sadly under-represented in this list.
Good jam band until it got weird
It wasn't bad. Typical 60s folk rock
British folk rock. Meh. This genre really produced very little music that you hear today, which should tell you about its importance in the annals of music. That said, it might have helped to spawn Jethro Tull, so bonus points there. This album is fine, though nothing spectacular. The lead singer's voice is very good. There's a touch of Grace Slick in there. Grace was certainly more powerful and rock oriented, while Sandy Denny's voice is more melancholy at times, even haunting. Really technically sound. Both are pretty distinctive. The songs here are decent, many of which are old English folk songs. Interestingly, I actually much preferred what the band created themselves (especially the harmonies on Come All Ye, Crazy Man Michael) vs. what they covered. I also liked the guitar work throughout this, better than most. Not amazing, but good enough for a listen and worthy of inclusion on this list, at least more so that some of the British bands which were included that shouldn't have been. 3 stars.
Richard Thompson is great. Sandy Denny was great. I've heard and liked lots of their stuff in the last 10 years, but have never listened to this album. Lots of it I love. The trio of 'Matty Groves', 'Farewell, Farewell' and 'The Deserter' are fantastic. I'll definitely add them to my list of folk favourites. It's not an actual list, but you know what I mean!! 'Crazy Man Michael' makes that list too, so, so good. Aside from that it's patchy. Too many tracks are too long. There's some genuine brilliance here, even though I wouldn't listen the whole album again.
Hit and miss. The second song had me wishing it was over, but Matty Groves is an absolute banger. Evens out to being just alright.
Imagine if Joan Baez was the lead singer of Jefferson Airplane…and start the first song. There was definitely a ‘60s Psychedelic West Coast folk rock influence here, and I really liked it. Judy Dyble’s vocals were fantastic though so feel a little locked in at points without variations. The guitar work and jam band feeling was great, especially on songs like Tam Lin, and the Lark in the Morning, which had a lot of familiar Irish jigs to it. Marty Groves was my jam on this album, though it did sounds very Jefferson Airplane. Overall, this is a must listen! It’s a nice reminder that America wasn’t the only country that had great folk music in the 1960s!
Random thoughts: * I was expecting some renaissance fair shit and was dreading listening to this but it was way more Crosby Stills and Nash than I expected. * There was even a little Jethro Tull (Tam Lin) and even Doors (Quiet Joys of Brotherhood). * I knew of Sandy Denny and her participation on Battle of Evermore but never explored her music further. (Thanks again 1001 for the education!) * Overall this was pretty decent listen. I don’t feel like I need to explore more but I’d gladly listen again.
solid (not for me)
it's alright i mean. nice folk, nice guitar. not for me however
Wasn't as bad as the last FC album on this list.
Good dreamy folk
This album is okay, it’s a little one note and I feel many of the tracks linger for far too long. The tones are pleasant but it’s the lack of direction that lets it down in my opinion. Few highlights. Fav Tracks - Come All Ye - Marty Groves
Whoa! I know idea I was into british folk-rock with a medical twist! These guys are awesome. It amazed me the production value of these older albums, how clear and clean the instruments sound and I love the tight drum sound on these older records.
Classic sound, very neutral feelings
A bit odd
More British Folk Renaissance Faire music. It's not bad, but it's not anything I'd listen to again.
3.0 - Ok
I liked it. Not much to say other than that.
Very good folk album with some traditional British sounds.
British folk music just sounds pretty decent. If it were Irish though... Solid album I guess.
It was alright
Medieval rock cosplay that's kinda giving Spinal Tap's "Stonehenge." Is it 1969 or 1669?
Like someone decided to sing a book of fairy stories.
Sandy Denny had such a sweet, moving voice. This is lovely electrified-trad-folk fair. More traditional than their previous album, which I liked a bit more than this. Still, the arrangements, melodies, and thoughtful delivery of traditional folk songs works for me just fine.
Previously rated: Unhalfbricking (3/5) ************************* More folk rock with a Grace Slick sounding vocalist. It's nice sounding for a while, but it does get tiring with all the "the sky it did spin" and "her lover's heart it did pound" stuff.
Solid!
Very solid
pretty. didn't engage me 100%, but it was a nice, soothing record.
Nice folk vibes. Lovely voice and Celtic narrative. Got a little tired of it quite quickly and maybe for a certain mood and setting, but likely not a go to for me too often. However, nice to get the surprise and sudden turn around in some songs like ‘Matty Groves’. Just a little repetitive if it’s not your thing and was looking forward to finishing it. It does what it does well, but it’s not for me.
Made me want to listen again. 3 stars for now.
Initially listened whilst running which was a dreadful choice, enjoying much better on a relisten so have split the difference. One to return to- could go either way
3.5
Enjoyed the sound of it but not sure when I would be reaching to play the album. Favorite aspects were the vocals and the inclusion of Celtic sounds/instruments.
Angelic and ethereal irish / celtic folk vibes from this one. Felt like I was at a renaissance faire or transported into Braveheart. This style of folk music isn’t usually my thing but I respect the artistry through and through — also the lyrics are such a nice departure from Bob Dylan. Also Chelsea enjoyed listening which is a nice bonus. Wish I could do 3.5 stars, will have to give 3.
Used to love this. Now it’s a bit boring
Sounded pleasant but some of the songs were kind of long. High 3.
5/10 - Worse version of Unhalfbricking and a less funny name
Sobre solid jams on here but most of the vocals aren’t for me
Halvskön vibe men inte helt för mig
Pretty good. Folky and fine, but not top tier.
Nije mi ovo njihov naj album ali sam primijetio da tebi baš nikako ne sjedaju 😃
Getting some real Woodstock vibes with this folk album from '69. Thought it was a pretty decent album, and 'Matty Groves' was a particularly nice song. I think the singer's voice fitted really nicely with the music as well. Overall nothing too ground breaking for me, but still a decent album. Weak 3.
One 1 star because no stars is not an option. Makes Mariah’s album look like a 5!
I mean this is very English folk. Very very English folk. And I liked a lot of it. Matty Groves of course. And Come All Ye, Tam Lin and one or two more. Amazing songs and the vocals and performance are superb. But I also felt very very on the verge of absolutely hating everything about this. If Sandy Denny's voice was just "normally good" rather than "amazing" then this whole album could have been a complete dud.
I've never heard of the band or the album. Folk is a genre that I don't usually get on well with. But I enjoyed most of the album, even if I won't be listening to it again any time soon. But who knows? 3/5
Very pleasant
I liked a bit of this, there were some nice instrumental sections that were jams - celtic folk jams but jams nonetheless. It's really just not my thing though, I guess.
I don't think I've listened to much British folk rock before. Not much else to say here I guess. Despite folk rock not really being my thing, this was somewhat pleasant to listen to. Sandy Denny's vocals and storytelling help carry things along and liven the listening experience. The fiddle playing in the instrumental medley was also fun. Some of the tracks can feel repetitive at times, though.
Interesting - I think I enjoyed the psychedelic aspects of the quiet joys of brotherhood the most.
3.4 2x amazing voice
Ren Faire Rock (tm).
Sandy Denny’s voice makes this album work for me, but the updated traditional songs full of the doings of lords and ladies and faeries and knights aren’t my thing. It would be very enjoyable at a Ren Faire or a Caleigh it’s just not the sort of thing I care to listen to outside of that context.
Beautiful music and I love the storytelling. Wasn’t too interested by it though.
3.5/5
As far as that forest folk genre goes, this one is good. Doesn't go off the rails. Girls voice is unique but still listenable
This had a pleasant and primising opening. I can never emotionally connect with the storytelling style of lyrics that are this heavily "folky". The dynamics were notable in the arrangements where the lulls led to satisfying crescendos and then back down to a chill vocal-heavy section. I have heard other versions of some of these songs before but these might be my favourite. Tam Lin is such a meandering tale, my god. D.N.F. last song
A product of it's time: pretty decent folk rock. I don't think it's essential, but its a good listen.
Didn’t mind this at all
Was a bit scared at the start - I'm no fan of 60s folk music. This was good though, songs were interesting and not too hippyish. Singer was excellent.
Definitely an album of it's era, this has a cool Irish flair while still depending on many of the Indian influences that affected the psychadelic music of the era. The folk nature is nice, but the album can get a bit too hippie for me at times. My favorite is Matty Groves.
I love the concept. Some execution left to be desired Enjoyed the listen though
Not sure if this combination of these genres is it
Started strong and faded with a whimper. Love the band and singer. Their upbeat stuff is better.
I’m surprised to see Fairport Convention here, but pleased. I don’t think I’ll ever dislike their music, but Who Knows Where the Time Goes could never be beaten.
I'm such a hypocrite. I'm always complaining about country albums being like cowboy cosplay and yet I still have a soft spot for this sort of twiddly-diddly ren faire bullshit
Some decent hippy classic rock. Some chill vibes but not really my style.
Nice album; pleasant vocals & easy listening musical arrangements.
I liked Come All Ye and The Deserter.
Pretty good
I really enjoyed this album. It went on a bit too long and its production could have done with more variety.
I didn’t mind this one - was a bit samey throughout but I’d listen to it again
Classic English folk music
That was pretty
46/1001 - This was somewhat enjoyable. The songs got VERY repetitive at times and I'd like to hear more vocal/dynamic variation and a lot more melodic variation.
Interesting. Didn't hate it.
average folk rock that’s all i have to say
Interesting coincidence to receive a Jefferson Airplane album immediately before this one by the "British Jefferson Airplane". This one is much more directly based in folk music, with traditional songs given a slightly electric update. Some good tracks, but I don't really get much from traditional folk ballads, especially divorced from the acoustic roots of folk. I'm glad it's not an "olde worlde psychedelic" sound, but it still seems like a fairly forgettable record to me. 3*
Enjoyed this. More fiddle please. 3 Stars.
This will be my second and subsequently final Fairport Convention album to review. I thought that Unhalfbricking was fine, but I didn’t really find anything too remarkable about it. I imagine that I’ll probably feel the same way towards this album. It’s time to jump into another folky February album! As I expected, I thought this album was pretty middle of the road. Sandy Denny’s vocals were fantastic, and there were some great string arrangements, but overall, this album was fairly bland, and most of that is just due to my personal preferences. I’m not opposed to music that’s more focused on storytelling, but I’m not wild about this particular style of folk music. It’s nice to listen to, but it’s just not something I’d reach for on my own. I thought that the arrangements did a good job of balancing a sound that was both modern and also gentle and simplistic in a way that stays true to the traditional roots of these folk standards. When it comes to my personal musical preferences, I love catchy hooks and riffs, so while I appreciate the musicianship, this album just isn’t my speed. I liked “The Deserter” quite a bit though; the string arrangements had a twang to them that I really liked, and I loved how the song built in intensity over the last half. I didn’t think this album was bad, but it’s not the sort of thing I’d come back to.
I read a YouTube comment (I know I know but wait) that said Fairport Convention did for British folk what The Band did for North American folk, so imagine my surprise when I didn't dislike this nearly as much as The Band. It's actually... alright! Much jauntier than I expected. I don't think I'd ever put this in regular rotation but it could be fitting for the right mood and moment.
Not my genre, but much more listen able than Dylan. Richard Thompson is another musician that loads of musicians I like seem to adore, and it's just never clicked for me. That said, I'm ready to deep dive into Sandy Denny because she has a great voice.
Fairport Convention are another of those bands where I respect their place and influence, but have never connected with at all - despite loving Sandy Denny and (in particular) Richard Thompson's solo work. The vocal work really stands out, and the group harmonies are strong and clear with some enjoyable interplay against/with the fiddle. The songs themselves are a mix of traditional arrangements and originals, and you'd be hard pressed to tell which is which - Fairport Convention did well to put their own cohesive voice on a heavily saturated style! There's definitely a lot of prog crossover too, as a few instrumental sections (especially across Matty Groves) feature tight riffs and breaks leading into expressive solos. After a bright start, the album takes a few darker and more drawn-out turns which I did not expect - the strongest moments on this record are when it goes more The Wicker Man than The Railway Children! I like this album more than expected, but would still love it to explore the darker/weirder/pagan/occult elements of the countryside. Favourite tracks: Reynardine, Matty Groves, The Deserter, Tam Lin
LL Squared
Lyder helt fint, rigtig dejlig sanger, men altså hvis jeg vil høre soundtracket til The Wicker Man sætter jeg bare soundtracket til The Wicker Man på
Interesting, but again too much of the same thing
think i need to listen to this one again
English Druid folk songs you can fell asleep with
I wasn't really paying attention. I'll give it a 3. I played it while working, and it never annoyed me and occasionally did something I'd notice positively before fading into the background again. Maybe I'll circle back to it, but I'm more likely to forget about it. So, again, it's a 3.
Generic Stevie Nicks knock off, not terrible
First time listening. Ok.
Pleasant listening, but not very exciting. Curious to hear that I know "Matty Groves" as "Little Musgrave". The instrumental was the best track.
Очередные нафталиновые динозавры из далёкой древности. Ну на один раз.
Nice and relaxing, time just flew by
UK folk music with an Irish/Celtic vibe. I liked it.
I can understand why people like it, but for me it's too monotonous. British style folk with lots of drone notes in the background. They know how to play. They're good at setting a mood. It's entrancing. I prefer more dynamic music. Favorite song: medley the lark in the morning
I started out very pleasantly surprised and loving this record - finally I found some Richard Thompson that I liked! But by the end the songs started sounding the same and I was sick of Sandy Denny's voice. It's not entirely their fault, however, as I noticed the version I was listening to had 2 extra songs tacked on the end. Perhaps without those it would have ended before it wore me out. As a side note, this part of the wikipedia entry is like the opposite of a humble brag: "It was voted number 254 in the third edition of Colin Larkin's All Time Top 1000 Albums (2000)." - - - I mean, third try's the charm and all but what was so special about the first two editions that it didn't make the cut?!?
Although not really to my taste, I'm really glad to have had this album in this collection, simply for the chance to listen to something that I would never had listened to otherwise and that appears to have a fairly important place in a stream of music history (in this case, British folk rock). I also appreciate getting something founded by (and featuring) Richard Thompson, as it helps expand my very limited exposure to him and his approach to music (which previously mainly consisted of hearing "1000 Years of Popular Music" and his occasional contributions to various albums and artists in this collection). If their other albums are like this one (albeit with more original material and fewer ancient songs), I feel like Fairport Convention is a sort of antidote--or perhaps a more palatable alternative--to the fairy-ness of prog rock bands and others like Led Zeppelin or (earlier) Queen, as well as to the acoustic-only American folk rock from the 60s. (And I guess I'll get to see, as we also get their earlier "Unhalfbricking".) Admittedly, there were few tracks that I genuinely enjoyed--"Matty Groves" and "Tam Lin" might have been the only ones--but I appreciated the blend of often *very* old songs and a more modern rock sound. Aspects of this album made me think of Billy Bragg's 1985 cover of "The world turned upside down", and I was very relieved that *none* of this album was reminiscent of much later pet projects like Sting's "Songs From the Labyrinth".
First track (Come all ye) hasn't aged well--sounds a little too much like something you hear outside a RenFest. The rest was a contemporary take on traditional music, which isn't my bag but it was well done.
Reluctant 3. Didn’t do much for me but I can see where it’d nice background music.
Interesting sound, but gets old
Pre-listening thoughts: have once again never heard of this band or album. Post/during listening thoughts: This is kind of like Jefferson Airplane if they were more traditionally folk aligned. I think I prefer the more rock sound that Jefferson Airplane had, plus nobody comes close to Grace Slick in that genre imo. But this isn't bad. I feel like I'm in Anne with an E if it was set in the 1960s. If that makes literally any sense. 5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: no Fav tracks: Farewell, Farewell Least fav tracks: Reynardine
Side one four stars, side two very much a three. I have to come down on the three in the end. Not quite enough Sandy Denny and a bit too much flute and fiddle for a four.
Ok, not amazing.
British folk rock super warm and upbeat love the medleys and the voice is beautiful
Pretty great, not my personal favorite of their work but still really good
I’ve listened to it three times and I can’t decide whether or not if I like it. I definitely like parts of it. “Matty Groves” has lots of energy and actually rocks pretty hard. https://open.substack.com/pub/richcain/p/project-1001-liege-and-lief-by-the?r=4ztyq&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Felt lacklustre compared to the other Fairport Convention album. Fave Track: The Deserter 3.2/5
Authentic hippie folk, skilled & precise
This started pretty well, although it lost me a fair bit in the middle, and certainly the medley of trad songs all felt way too village fete for me. Still, the female vocalist in particular has a great voice and it's notable that the only song that is credited to her and Ashley Hutchings, as opposed to a trad song, was easily the best. Weirdly, felt quite appropriate for the festive season.
Shanty Renaissance fest.3/5
I have not heard this album before, it's really good. I've heard one of their other albums and really liked it, this one is in the same vein. Very nice folk music with an otherworldly type vibe. Very relaxing in an old school way. I'm sure I will be listening to this one again.
The first half of this really grew on me but the second half really drops away and loses my interest. Much preferred the Richard and Linda Thompson offering which is one of my best discoveries from this thing
Este es raro. Me gustaron las historias y la ambientación del disco en general, pero siento que el sonido no es tanto mi estilo... si me gusta, pero no me llega a encantar. Total del álbum: 70
The 60's
3.5
Judging a book solely by its cover, I expected this to be a chore to listen to, and I think it took me a little too long to shake that feeling. In the end, though, I do think it’s a good album, and a good representation of this niche of British folk revival. The good? Denny’s vocals, which are maybe the sole thing keeping me engaged throughout Liege & Lief. Swarbrick’s fiddle work - very impressive, too! The bad? It’s a psychedelic-adjacent folk band taking traditional British Isle tunes and arranging them the way you’d imagine a psychedelic-adjacent folk band would circa 1969. And not to be a hater, but I don’t know if that vibe is really pivotal to the overall history of music. Especially when the results can range from standard-esque (“Reynardine”) to annoyingly of its time (“Tam Lin”). It’s overall pleasant, but it’s not so gorgeously arranged and executed that I’m gushing over it. It’s pretty, which is a high compliment coming from me regarding this era. I wouldn’t turn it off, but I wouldn’t seek it out. Maybe the hater in me judged it too early, though, and I need to give it another listen, but while it’s not as bad as I anticipated, it just isn’t the kind of thing that sticks with me.
Fairport Convention - Liege And Lief Ok, this is a decent album. Coming from the 60's, Fairport Convention offers a folk-rock type album, where it has it's chill and catchy elements into it. The highs are not noticeable, but fortunately the lows on this album aren't as bad as it is. To be honest, it really does capture that time era, where the world was involved in an upcoming war, while at the same time they were transitioning to peaceful times after WW2, and listening to this feels bittersweet, for me at least. But nevertheless, this is good. 1.- Come All Ye = 7/10 2.- Reynardine = 8/10 3.- Matty Groves = 8/10 4.- Farewell, Farewell = 6/10 5.- The Desert = 7/10 6.- Medley: The Lark in the Morning = 7/10 7.- Tam Lin = 8/10 8.- Crazy Man Michael = 8/10 FINAL SCORE = 7.4/10
Something fun and light. I enjoyed it. Two discs may have been a little overkill. It has a very specific sound and the female vocals sound similar to another artist that I cant quite pinpoint. Worth another listen.
Okay I guess, was not blown away
Alright so I like this one, but (and this is a big but) it feels a bit...too British for me? Jethro Tull is about my limit, and these guys exceed that with flying colors. The combination of contemporary folk rock with almost Celtic jigs is an interesting one but I can't say it's one I'd listen to again. Bonus points for being something original though!
Better than I thought it would be
I didn’t think I’d enjoy this that much but I guess I was in a mood for British traditional music today. Makes me want to play dungeons and dragons or read a King Arthur book. I liked “deserter”, “Tam Lin”, and “reynardine” the most. The singer has a great voice and her accent is just enough to lend “authenticity” to all of it. I think the best songs are all traditional reworks rather than originals but it’s a nice sound, and the performance is good.
Listened to it at work. It was okay.
Een middeleeuws huisfeestje op de derde verdieping van de lokale donjon. Eigenlijk is het jammer dat het vrouwtje er tussendoor zingt, want daardoor klinkt het af en toe wat meer country-achtig op de één of andere manier. Muzikaal gezien best prettig en leuk, qua zang is het niet helemaal m'n ding. Al met al wel een grappig album om een keer te luisteren. Door de manier van zingen zet ik het niet gauw nog een keer aan, helaas. Het doet toch een beetje denken aan tante Joni en dat is geen compliment. 2 à 3 sterren. Eigenlijk is 3 sterren wat hoog, maar ik geef ze gewoon.
#406. I usually dread listening to album on here described as folk, but this was actually pleasant to listen to. I'm not entirely sure if I like it, but I surely don't hate it. 3/5: decent
After their previous album which was mainly Bob Dylan style American folk, and a devastating tour bus crash, Fairport Convention regrouped and produced this album which mixes traditional English folk tunes with (gasp!) electric guitars to great effect. The highlights are Matty Groves which is an epic tale of adultery, murder and revenge that builds for eight minutes, and Tam Lin which has all of the faeries, magic and big rock riffs that you could wish for
3.5
Idk what’s going on here
Can’t remember now, average probably
Odd album, feels like they are going to a medieval or Renaissance Fair sound. Works for a while, but then gets a bit tedious.
Similar experience to some of the other 60's folk albums, taking a bit of time and patience to enjoy. Got there after a few listens and would happily put this on again. 3.5
pretty cool
Their abandonment of Bob Dylan covers and creation of the first major British folk rock album raises my esteem of this album over UNHALFBRICKING that also appears on this list. As someone who is not a British citizen, it was fun hearing traditional British and Celtic folksongs that I was unfamiliar with performed as folk rock. It was the sort of album that left me whistling jaunty tunes the rest of the morning.
Drums and bass are absolutely the best part of this record. The folk vocals just don’t really connect with me like I thought they would.
Outro álbum com essa pegada bucólica, esses álbuns próximos a década de 70 tem um pouco dessa vibe indie, porém eu achei esse bem ok, sem nada muito relevante sobre ele.
This was an interesting album. Folk songs with a medieval vibe and some psychedelic rock mixed in. The vocalist truly sells the songs and was a highlight for me Favorites: "Farewell, Farewell", "Tam Lin", "Crazy Man Michael"
Fav: Come All Ye Least Fav: Medley: The Lark In The Morning The singing and instruments was good in terms of ability but it didn’t do much for me. It was ok.
British folk songs re-arranged for the psych rock era. The guitars are cool, a bit of combined drone/lead/rhythm playing going on that sounds oddly like Sahel desert rock. The lilting vocal melodies are all straight out of the king arthur. Some surprisingly deep grooves and heavy riffing at times. It's got a bit of Led Zeppelin and a bit of Velvet Ungerground to it and you can hear the early roots of UK prog in the tight complex combination instrumental playing and the interest in folklore as source material/inspiration.
Nice enough
Off the many records I’ve heard in recent memory, Unhalfbricking was one of the most genuine surprises. I couldn’t have anticipated anything from it, and what I got was maybe one of the best folk albums I’ve ever heard. I wasn’t sure if there other acclaimed record, Liege & Lief would appear at some point too. Turns out I didn’t even have to wait a month. But considering how much I enjoyed that other album, I had real expectations for something good here. And I guess I learned another lesson about having such expectations. Because I am slightly disappointed. I was really hoping for me here. The differences between the two are pretty minor. It’s made up of mostly original material instead of mostly covers, and it leans in a more electric direction than Unhalfbricking did. At least I think so, my memory does not serve me very well. The biggest difference is really the addition of Celtic folk. The closest I’ve ever gotten to other forms of Celtic music was The Pogues, which I haven’t heard in over a year now. But that aspect of the music is what makes Fairport Convention an interesting group. During a period of time where people knew what worked, and chose to chase success over innovation, this band was showing what could really be done with folk. And even if I admit that I had expectations for this, I wasn’t sure if anything would reach the level of A Sailor’s Life from the previous record. It potentially set the bar far too high. This follow-up doesn’t hit the same for me. It is far less consistent from track to track. And surprisingly feels more stagnant, even with all of the Celtic stuff added in. The band is still a very talented group, and they almost enter into a jam territory with the Medley or Matty Groves. I’m also aware I make a lot of Joni Mitchell comparisons, but Sandy Denny really sounds like her. Even will all of those positives, this doesn’t trend in the same directions that made it’s predecessor such a shockingly good record. Rating: 6/10
This is pretty good folk, love the vocals especially.
Nice background during this morning’s abysmal chess performance
could i write poetry to this? n
Mostly like it, some mixed sentiment. Come All Ye is a perfect intro for what this is going to be: the guitar thumps in a more rockin' way than you'd figure (and actually cool, not cheesy 'check it out!!! electric guitars!! on traditional music!!!'). Then some violin comes in and it's still pretty cool. Then the vocal comes in and it doesn't ruin it but it IS come all ye minstrels, and if there's anything to run from it's modern musicians that think they're minstrels. But then they also keep something of a distance from the lyrics, there's no yearning for olde thymes in merry Englande - as the album goes on it's a little more like the 'hey these trad folk themes are all kinda fucked aren't they?' that you'd see now. It does lose me at the fiddle medley and doesn't recover. There's a good chunk of most songs that legitimately sounds like it could be Television if you muted everything but guitar and drums, so if you're a person that likes trad more I could see this band being an all timer. music: appreciated. (⌐o_0)
Enjoyable folk from across the pond.
Intressant folk rock. Bästa låten är den instrumentala "medleyn". Sång rösten är inte min favorit.
Neat album. Wouldn't listen to again tho
It was nice, good change of pace. I really liked Marty Groves, but no better than a 2.5, but I’ll round up.
Solid album, some meh moments but altogether not bad at all
Was alright
Interesting parts but generic at times standout songs: Matty Groves The Deserter
Second time listening to this. There is something there. I can see why it’s on this list. Not my favourite but I get it.
Of the things that I really care about, folk music continues to not be one of them. This album is fine, like most of the folk albums on this list, but it's ultimately not for me 3/5
This is all daisy crowns and diaphanous gowns. Sandy Denny’s voice is incredible but at times I felt like I was being battered by a bunch of crocuses in a wildflower meadow. This is the zenith of English Folk Rock though.
Such a sound capsule! I dig the blend of rock and old Brit folk. While familiar with some of the old ballads (Matty Groves), I am not familiar with Fairport Convention. However, we've all heard Sandy Denny because she's the other voice in Battle of Evermore.
Leans more in to the folk rock than Unhalfbricking. Fun to hear the reimagination of some of the classics and compare this to some of the other music going on in England in the late 60's.
Fun folk rock, blending in some kinda celtic leanings
It's good, but doesn't vary much in texture or dynamics – either within songs or between them. I'm not well-versed in traditional British and Celtic folk material, so it's possible there are more nuanced variations I'm not picking up. But for the most part, there's the "bard tunes" (e.g. Matty Groves, The Lark In The Morning) and the mournful yet hopeful ballads (e.g. Reynardine, Farewell Farewell), and Fairport Convention sticks solidly to one of those two. The music lacks versatility. But for what it is – a showcase of classic folk tunes and original compositions emulating them – it succeeds pretty darn well. The instruments are mostly ones traditionally used in a rock band (vocals, electric/acoustic guitars, bass, drums), but they're played creatively to get that distinctive "folky" feel. This is particularly noticeable in the drum playing/mixing. Then we have the vocalist - love the singing here. Reminds me of Christine McVie. The musical modes are also indicative of that old English (and surrounding regions) sound. Definitely stands out from the rest of the pack, and is deserving of a spot on this list. But there are more versatile, engaging albums out there. 3/5 Key tracks: Come All Ye, Matty Groves, Reynardine
Ce n'était pas mauvais, mais j'oubliais que ça jouait au fur et à mesure. Un autre album dont je soupçone un gros biais UK. 6/10
What if Jefferson Airplane went to a renaissance faire? And then an Irish jig was sometimes performed. Come find out!
I don’t like giving every album 3
I liked it. Never heard of the band before.
Here's an album that's more or less all about the stories being told within. And I'm sure they're wonderfully crafted tales of folk and magic and all that good stuff, but I wouldn't say I was drawn in to any one in particular. The production was solid as a rock, and the band knew what they were doing here; I just wanted a bit more...juice? I guess?
Fairly pleasant conventional British folk rock.
Nice Celtic vibe
I'm not a massive folk fan, but this is charming and ethereal. Really liking Sandy Denney's voice.
✅✅ what a gorgeous voice. went back and listened a second time. don't see it going three check, but immediately listened a second time.
✅✅ I was surprised by this one. I'm the first track I was worried it would be the same 60s folk that everyone seemed to be doing them. But the music is interesting, the singer is incredible, and the use of electric instruments gives it an "edge" (for 60s folk) that's really interesting. I'll come back to this one.
This seems like a really nice example of 60s British folk. I don’t really care for 60s British folk.
I like Matty Groves, Lark in the Morning Medley
Albums like this are part of why I enjoy the 1001 albums journey. It's not one of my favorites or anything, but it was definitely interesting and there's no way I'd ever listen to this otherwise. Who listens to semi-medieval folk?
Interesting and had no expectations going in. Definitely not my style but appreciate it.
Jefferson Airplane vibes. Makes me wish I could time-travel to the 60s
Folk is not my thing but there are is some interesting musical ideas in this
One of those filling, ringing high female voices with British folk music that always sounds like it is about King Arthur and magical swords. Some crazy guitar on Matty Groves. The Lark is a rave up reel. The album is excellent for what it is, just not my cup of tea.
Two Fairport Convention albums in the space of a week. If ever I was going to convert to a folk fan, this was it. I liked it enough but it does start to bounce off you after a while and feel quite samey. I appreciate what's year but am sure someone has a better take on this by now.
Found it fairly irritating at the start, but by the end I was enjoying it. Perhaps the second half of the album was stronger? Tam Lin stood out. Loads of wailing. 3.5 for me.
Wasn't convinced initially but actually grew to quite enjoy this. She has a good voice and the guitars got fault interesting at times. Probably won't be back but solid 3.5
I like the lady's voice. Besides Matty Groves, there wasn't another standout to me.
It's all very nice. Bit too much of it mond and you really need to be into the genre to reach the end.
Fine. Occasional fun moments. By listening to this album I am now contractually obligated to frolic in a field and/or barn within the next fortnight.
Sandy Denny's voice is perfect. The jam sections are tedious at best. I skipped to the next song. British folk rock has it's place, but sometimes it really just annoys me. I might have liked it more with the drums more in the background. But this was done in the 60s, so it's what was popular then. 3 stars for Sandy's voice.
Her voice was so soothing that I fell asleep on the train. But in the best way possible!
Pretty generic 60s folk rock
Quite nice and surprisingly short.
fairytale music
This is, like, the folk you know and you’re not sure why.
Irish folk with some interesting rock syncopation moments
Couldn't find the entire album. What I was able to find was ok.
Enjoyed it! First track is a banger. Overall something I would check out again in the future🔥
easy to listen to, very sweet singing. some of the songs were too long but most worked well
Was fine, maybe I am too removed from it and context would be important.
I don't get it? Some tracks were very good and some were repetitive and annoying. Maybe I need to listen to more Celtic folk.
I enjoyed the vibe and will probably keep that Matty song available.
Honestly quite enjoyed this. It didn’t try to be absolutely mind blowing and out of this world but that was fine. It was just generally quite relaxing with the songs being quite slow and long without being boring. I also appreciated the random studio recording bits at the end of the last track.
I likes this one asw, kind of groovy
3.5
I kinda liked the first few songs. My bias against most 60s bands was melting. Then it devolved into mostly forgettable tunes. But nothing overtly terrible. Might need to revisit at some point. 3/5
Nice
sort a folk rock/country fusion with some celtic influences too. a unique sound on folk rock that really reflects the UK.
Not great not terrible...won't remember it by tomorrow
not my genre but sonically pleasant.
Ok
As far as British folk-rock, Fairport Convention is one of the most influential and important bands of the genre. Sandy Denny's lovely vocals are essential for their sound and a band that also includes Richard Thompson must be good. For the most part, I enjoyed it and this is something I've overlooked and glad it showed up on this list. Definitely worth the time, if you're in the mood for traditional folk served up late 60's style.
I still find it hard to understand why so many bands of this era were into the renaissance-core sound, but this was at least better than the others
Aika hyvä, vaikkei ihmeellinen. 2,5 = 3
Cool
Didn't get time to absorb tis properly on this occasion which us annoying as I've heard it before and enjoy the late 60s British folk stuff generally. Another one I'll return to. Enjoyed what I heard so far.
Not exactly my style, but it was decent. Some of the songs are at least a minute or two longer than they need to be though. Standout track(s): Tam Lin
Meh, nothing too special, some tracks were alright tho, 5/10
I quite enjoyed this. Nice background music, can't complain
Absolutely beautiful voice, didn’t get much else out of it
so la-la, nice folk but boring after a while, too
kinda cool at times the long songs drag
Every song kinda sounds the same? They are very long songs but I don't hate it? Like I could do one in a playlist but not the whole album at once
Folk music is one if my favorite genres, and within the genre, American, Celtic, and Scottish would be my go-to listens. Unfortunately, my hope for this album was never realized. Folk music often sounds similar song-to-song, and the transitions on this album were somewhat unexciting. Sandy Denny does a very nice job but the songs left me flat rather than inspired with the exception of 'Percy's song' which was written by Bob Dylan.
I would like to dedicate the last track on the first side of this album to the fearless leader of this album review group. That is all.
Sounded like listening to a pub band on certain songs, then plugged in for some electric, nice mix.
enjoyed the blend of traditional instruments & ballads, but her voice got a wee bit boring after couple songs. really enjoyed the Lark in the Morning Medley.
Folk country not my style
Very nice soft voice, telling you some stories.
I felt like a Viking listening to this. Imagine this is what Robert Plant listens to when he has time on his hands. Also felt like the soundtrack to the old Excalibur movie.
Cool music, Denny’s style isn’t for me. It’s an excellent album though.
Folk-Music .... hat mich nie interessiert. Ist aber sehr angenehm zu hören
quote repetitive
Very nice. Didn't affect me in a big way like some of the Richard & Linda Thomson stuff but great record.
I really like the lead singer’s voice, and the musical style is right up my alley. Lots of really beautiful melodies, with light yet rhythmic backing. Things were different in the 60s - 8-minute songs?? Wild. My only criticism might be my own lack of attention span. I would definitely listen to this again, though I’m not sure in what context. I didn’t pay attention to the lyrics, but based on the music I assume they were poetic and meaningful.
I never knew British Folk was a genre. I guess it makes sense that this album is what started it. This was a welcome divergence to most of the albums in this list. I wouldn't normally go out of my way to listen to folk music, but I might have to start. A beautiful voice that's easy to fall into followed by a folk sound that's not quite Appalachian Mountains and not quite Celtic either. It's a great blend between the two to make it's own genre. For an album that's 55 years old, it sounds like it could come out today.
Tämä oli jotensakin parempi kuin mitä yleensä Folk Rockilta odottaa. Voisin jopa kuunnella uudestaan!
Klingt wie eine Schmalspurversion von Jefferson Airplane. Ist aber nicht schlecht. 3-4.
Interesting blend of traditional folk and some psychedelic rock.
This album feels like an afternoon at the pub. A time to enjoy with friends, catch up, and relax.
This wasn't bad, kind of middle of the road in terms of what I like in 60's/70's folk rock. Some of the tracks leaned way more into the folk and didn't do much for me. Overall not bad.
Decent one. Liked it about as well as the last Fairport Convention 3.49/5
Not really my thing at all but pleasant enough for background noise. I don’t really recall a lot of it though tbh C-
Pleasant listening but doesn't really grab me.
This is what I imagine medieval Europe to sound like.
I like Folk and Sandy Denny's voice is beautiful but I just don't like Richard Thompson's Rock-orientated version of Folk. It's just a personal thing....
Very melodic and nice. Could use some more edge or personality but I enjoyed it for what it is
Tis okay but folk music is definitely something I need to be in the mood for.
3 normally not for me
Richard Thompson's origin story. What a time to be alive.
Caveat that British/english folk rock isn't my thing, and was concerned about comparisons to the the byrds but I quite enjoyed this. Lead singer sandy dennys voice quite haunting and melancholic.
I only knew of Sandy Denny from her duet with Robert Plant in Led Zep VI. Here I hear her with the rest of her crew and it’s a pretty good listen. 3.5 stars.
I am unfamiliar with the British folk rock scene. I absolutely love American folk rock tho, like the Byrds. This one was surprisingly good, more influence from English folk rather than country. Can get psych/spaced out at times too.
Strong 3
Boomer rock. This book was written by mostly boomers, wasn't it? This is just fine music, but it feels like modern chamber music. I dunno. It's fine.
Interesting folk rock music with an English twist. My boyfriend would really like this.
Sandy Denny carries the album. You might recognize her voice from Led Zeppelin's "The Battle of Evermore", from Led Zeppelin IV. Fairport Convention is ok ... if you like British folk-rock.
Evoked happy Cropredy festival memories. I liked the memory more than the music itself though.
It's a funny one, I'm glad I listened to this, I'm glad it exists, I'm sure folks love it, do I like it? No. Well, maybe a little.
It was fine. Mostly charming. I'd go to a tavern to see it live. Another case of "I'm sure several artists I enjoy cite them as an influence."
wasn't able to give this my full attention but this was really good working music. enjoyed the parts i noticed!
Kinda nice, kinda interesting with all of the traditional folk songs, kinda boring. 5/10
Can def see how this album and band influenced a lot of music to follow. Not my cup of tea but still solid. Also, GVF should cover Tan Lim
so fun!
It was lovely & soothing, but I'd have to be in the mood for this.
3.5
Decent folk rock. Great vocals when they’re not buried too deep in the mix.
Some good songs but a very grating voice
Very Jefferson Starship, Mamas and the Papas
Thought this was going to be easy to dismiss, but it is actually a really pretty strong english tavern folk album that is pretty engaging. Really like Come All Ye and the first part of Matty Groves. Tam Lin sounds like the inspiration for Aqualung by Jetho Tull. Pretty interesting overall.
This is better than Jefferson Airplane. Great female vocals and haunting melodies. Could've done with out the Celtic style stuff
First Listen Folk Rock Band From England 1969 Standouts: Matty Groves, Tam Lin, Crazy Man Michael, Come All Ye Not a fan of Folk music, but this was better than expected. 3/5
Solid album - easy to listen to. 3/5
Celtic/english traditional songs, but good jammy background. Folky. 3.5
There's a lot I like about this but it feels just a little unfinished. I'd see this band at a local bar/venue regularly if they played.
I would be interested to know if the track Reynardine stands inspirations for Lingua Ignota's work in some way, very interesting track. Otherwise the albums some old white people bops I'm content in leaving in the past. Good enough but I'm not heading back to it.
Niet al te interessant, prima folk album maar is niet per se mijn smaak. Weinig over te zeggen verder
Lovely background album. Nothing that grabbed me, per se. Well worth a listen
I am not having the best day today and unfortunately didn't really have the energy to give this album my full attention. It had everything I liked on paper, but just didn't really grab my attention. Also it was a little off-putting for me that most of the tracks were covers of traditional songs. I don't have a problem with traditional songs themselves, I just am not the biggest fan of covers artists. Favourite track: Come All Ye
Folky as a renaissance fair, the vocals are the saving Grace. However, the tracks tend to drag on.
I’ve always like Richard Thompson but had never listened to this album. Worth another listen.
Fairport Convention definitely knew what they wanted to do and executed their vision brilliantly. Is the result an actually enjoyable record? Tough to say. 'Matty Groves' is awesome, the medley with non-stop fiddle not so much, and the whole schtick of Sandy Denny's gorgeous vocals over non-standard scales does get old a bit too fast.
The voice of Sandy Denny was was probably the best thing to happen to traditional British folk music since the songs were originally written. Especially the longer, traditional songs are beautiful and well-arranged. But while Swarbrick’s fiddle was essential in giving live to this entire genre, I just can not enjoy the times he is given too much control as on “Medley”.
I don't mind myself some folk music and fairy tales and this is a gently flowing album that takes you on a journey. Fave tracks: Matty Groves, Tam Lim
3.5/5
Rating:6/10
Incredibly meh listen.
Wel apart dat ik nog werkelijk waar nooit van deze band had gehoord, dat blijft toch het mysterieuze achter deze lijst en de reden waarom het leuk is om de lijst te volgen en te blijven ontdekken. En dat terwijl ze toch bijna 30 albums uitgepoept hebben. Fascinerend. Dan naar de muziek. In eerste instantie is het folky Fleetwood Mac met een frivool viooltje. Vervolgens een soort Jefferson Airplane met Joni Mitchell op zang. Een Dylanesque verhalend epos passeert de revue. En zo wisselt het zich een beetje af. Onderhoudend, zweverig, folky. Ik vind het wel leuk om hier kennis van te nemen.
Folk off, mate rooted in British and Celtic folk tradition which made it more interesting than the normal Laurel Canyon adjacent USA folk that usually pops up on here
Folk
The woman who does lead vocals has a really pretty and distinctive voice, and she was the forefront of all these songs which was a plus. There was an element of like older folk tunes here and even some Celtic influence at times, and this was a nice folk rock album that served as a huge influence to many future bands.
I went into this with some trepidation when I saw "British folk rock". And while I'm not super into the vocalist's traditional folk-style vocals a lot of the time, I do love the mix of rock and traditional music from the backing band.
This was like a chill Gaelic folk vibe.