Customer Reviews

Folk Songs Of Olde England, Vol. 1

5 star:		(4)
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Tim Hart and Maddy Prior became founder members of Steeleye Span, one of Britain's leading folk-rock groups. Before that, they established their reputation playing the folk club circuit. During that time, they recorded two albums of traditional folk songs, of which this is the first. The music is suitably primitive with very little musical accompaniment, sometimes none at all. The whole album was recorded in one afternoon with no second takes although Tim and Maddy wanted to re-record some songs. There are mistakes but one of the biggest is when Tim incorrectly pronounces Keighley (Key-ley instead of Keith-ley) in Dalesman's lament. Re-recording would not have helped there since Tim didn't realize his mistake until the album was released.

Maddy and Tim each get their share of solo vocals (there are also some duets) but Tim's rustic voice will not appeal to everybody although I quite like it. Nevertheless, Maddy was then (and still is) a class act and the best tracks are those that feature Maddy. On the second volume (which I've already reviewed), Maddy does most of the singing and that, together with the extra experience that Tim and Maddy had in folk music, makes it a better collection. My favorites here include Maid that's deep in love, Bruton tow, The brisk butcher and The stately southerner.

If you are interested in traditional folk music performed in a style close to its origins centuries ago, this is as close as you are likely to find on CD.

This album is a bit like listening to an acoustic version of Steeleye Span. The songs are well-picked and varied. Maddy Prior and Tim Hart sing expressively and harmonize wonderfully together. "Dalesman's Litany" is one of the most striking songs I have ever heard. An altogether enjoyable album.

Ranges from the very haunting to the very funny - all with beautiful melodies and delicate arrangements.

It's a pleasure for me to sit by the fire with all the lights off and listen to this wonderful voice.