Anglicana
Eliza Carthy · 2002
54 min · 10 tracks
A vibrant fusion of traditional folk melodies and contemporary arrangements that breathe new life into age-old narratives.
Top tracks — play these first
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Worcester City — This track opens the album with a rhythmic intensity that sets the tone for the entire project, blending storytelling with a lively arrangement that captures the listener's attention immediately.
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Just as the Tide Was Flowing — The extended length allows for an intricate development of melody and emotion, showcasing Carthy's vocal prowess and her ability to draw listeners into the narrative.
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Pretty Ploughboy — This track highlights Carthy's skill in interpreting traditional ballads with a fresh perspective, combining classic folk elements with modern sensibilities that resonate with contemporary audiences.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Eliza Carthy's 'Anglicana' effectively blends traditional and contemporary folk, showcasing strong arrangements and storytelling.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a lively track that sets a brisk tempo, which is maintained through the first half before shifting to more reflective pieces.
- Several tracks feature intricate arrangements that blend traditional folk instruments with contemporary elements, creating a layered sound.
- The lyrics often draw from historical narratives and folklore, giving each song a storytelling quality that engages the listener.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- evocative storytelling through melodies
- rich tapestry of traditional sounds
- reflective moments of quiet beauty
- engaging narratives for thoughtful listening
- dynamic shifts in pacing
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- dislike extended musical explorations
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By 2002, Eliza Carthy had established herself as a prominent figure in the British folk scene, following her earlier acclaimed releases like 'Red Rice' in 1998. 'Anglicana' marked a continuation of her exploration into the roots of English folk music, showcasing her growth as both a musician and an interpreter of historical songs.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Kate Rusby· Laura Marling· Bellowhead
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Worcester City 4:48
- 2 Just as the Tide Was Flowing 8:00
- 3 Limbo 4:24
- 4 Little Gypsy Girl 2:11
- 5 No Man's Jig / Hanoverian Dance / Three Jolly Sheepskins 4:11
- 6 Pretty Ploughboy 5:21
- 7 Bold Privateer 7:10
- 8 Dr MCMBE 5:43
- 9 In London So Fair 8:06
- 10 Willow Tree 4:30
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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