Track Listing

1. The Old Turf Fire
2. The Tricks Of London
3. Horkstow Grange
4. Lord Randal
5. Erin
6. Queen Mary/Hunsden House
7. Bonny Birdy
8. Bonny Irish Boy
9. I Wish That I Never Was Wed
10. Australia
11. One True Love
12. The Parting Glass

Product Details

• Released on: 2003-04-15
• Number of discs: 1
• Format: Import
• Original language: English
• Dimensions: .23 pounds

From Amazon.co.uk
Given that Steeleye Span has been such a carnival of personalities over years, it was a little strange that the 1997 departure of vocalist Maddy Prior was viewed by some as the end of the band who had pretty much invented the electric folk rock genre. Horkstow Grange (named from the ballad that gave the group its name) is a less overwrought work than it's predecessor Time (the drums of guest Dave Mattacks appearing on a mere four tracks), as if almost an attempt to mark a new chapter. The dramatic balladry of guitarist Bob Johnson is still a major feature (best demonstrated by "Lord Randall") while Peter Knight's fiddle playing takes him into places that few would dare to follow, informed as much by classical and improvisational techniques as it is by traditional music. Bassist Tim Harries anchors the whole sound, occasionally bursting through, as well as supplying the vocal for the almost Gothic "One True Love". Gay Woods's Irish influences are perhaps the most noticeable development, moving from the lament of "Erin" to "I Wish I Never Was Wed"'s knockabout humour. A thoughtful, considered album and something of a rebirth. --Phil Udell