What makes Basket of Light by Pentangle notable?

Basket of Light marked a significant moment for Pentangle as it showcased their unique sound and lyrical depth, leading to increased recognition in the UK folk revival movement. The album features tracks that have since become staples in the genre, influencing numerous artists and earning a lasting place in folk music history. Released in 1969, Basket of Light was Pentangle's third studio album, coming off the success of their self-titled debut and the acclaimed Sweet Child. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their reputation as innovators within the British folk scene, blending traditional elements with contemporary influences.

Who is Basket of Light for?

Basket of Light works well if you're into steady mid-tempo listening experience, intricate harmonies for detail seekers and reflective moments of poetic storytelling.

How many songs are on Basket of Light?

Basket of Light has 9 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Basket of Light

Pentangle · 1969

41 min · 9 tracks · folk rock

A seamless blend of folk, jazz, and rock that intertwines intricate instrumentation with ethereal vocal harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Light Flight — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its bright melodies and intricate rhythms, showcasing the band's signature blend of jazz and folk influences.
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Once I Had a Sweetheart — The haunting arrangement and poignant lyrics transform this traditional ballad into a showcase of harmony and emotional depth, illustrating the group's storytelling prowess.
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Train Song — This track stands out with its evocative imagery and rhythmic drive, demonstrating how Pentangle incorporates narrative elements into their music seamlessly.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate arrangements and strong vocal harmonies, solidifying Pentangle's unique sound in the folk rock genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with 'Light Flight', which features a complex interplay of guitar and flute, establishing a rich sonic texture.
Vocal harmonies are layered throughout the tracks, often featuring multiple singers trading lines rather than taking turns by verse.
Several tracks, such as 'Lyke-Wake Dirge' and 'House Carpenter', incorporate traditional folk melodies but are arranged with jazz-influenced instrumentation.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

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

steady mid-tempo listening experience
intricate harmonies for detail seekers
reflective moments of poetic storytelling
gentle warmth for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

need for fast-paced energy
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1969, Basket of Light was Pentangle's third studio album, coming off the success of their self-titled debut and the acclaimed Sweet Child. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their reputation as innovators within the British folk scene, blending traditional elements with contemporary influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Fairport Convention· The Incredible String Band· Nick Drake