Released 20 years ago
Bloody Men
Steeleye Span · 2006
62 min · 15 tracks · folk rock
A tapestry of traditional folk narratives woven with contemporary instrumentation and rich vocal harmonies.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Story of the Scullion King — This track encapsulates the album's thematic focus on folklore, blending vivid storytelling with dynamic instrumentation that highlights Steeleye Span's signature sound.
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Ned Ludd: Prelude To Peterloo — The opening piece of the 'Ned Ludd' suite sets the stage for a poignant narrative about social unrest, using evocative lyrics to draw listeners into a pivotal moment in history.
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Demon of the Well — This haunting ballad showcases Steeleye Span's ability to create atmospheric tension while exploring darker themes within traditional folklore, making it a standout track.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album combines traditional narratives with modern sounds, showcasing strong compositions but uneven cohesion.
What we noticed
- The album features a multi-part suite titled 'Ned Ludd' that spans over four tracks, creating a narrative arc focused on agrarian struggles.
- Vocal harmonies are layered throughout, with multiple singers often sharing lines rather than alternating verses.
- Several tracks incorporate traditional folk melodies but are arranged with contemporary instrumentation, blending acoustic and electric elements.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 pacing for reflective moments
- haunting narratives that linger
- historical tales with emotional depth
- immersive listening for storytelling lovers
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek upbeat party anthems
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2006, Bloody Men marked Steeleye Span's return to the studio after a five-year hiatus following their previous album, Present – The Very Best of Steeleye Span. This album continued their legacy of revitalizing English folk music, as it was the band's twelfth studio release since their formation in 1969. The record demonstrates their enduring commitment to storytelling through song, showcasing both historical themes and contemporary sensibilities.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Fairport Convention· Pentangle· The Albion Band
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Bonny Black Hare 4:39
- 2 The Story of the Scullion King 4:42
- 3 The Dreamer and the Widow 4:48
- 4 Lord Elgin 4:06
- 5 The 3 Sisters 4:16
- 6 The 1st House in Connaught 3:39
- 7 Cold, Haily, Windy Night 4:40
- 8 Whummil Bore 4:13
- 9 Demon of the Well 5:57
- 10 Lord Gregory 5:41
Disc 2
- 1 Ned Ludd: Inclosure 2:50
- 2 Ned Ludd: Rural Retreat 4:12
- 3 Ned Ludd: Ned Ludd 3:21
- 4 Ned Ludd: Prelude To Peterloo 2:58
- 5 Ned Ludd: Peterloo The Day 2:52
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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