Dragonfly cover

Dragonfly

Strawbs · 1970

36 min · 9 tracks · progressive rock

A blend of intricate melodies and poetic lyrics, merging progressive rock with folk influences in a lush soundscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Weary Song Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Dragonfly — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its soaring melodies and reflective lyrics, embodying the thematic exploration of change and transformation.
  • →
    The Vision of the Lady of the Lake — This lengthy piece showcases the band's storytelling ability through its intricate structure and vivid imagery, creating an immersive listening experience.
  • →
    'Til the Sun Comes Shining Through — This track highlights the band's folk roots while maintaining a progressive sensibility, featuring harmonies that evoke a sense of hope and renewal.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

Dragonfly showcases intricate compositions and strong vocal harmonies, marking a solid entry in the progressive rock genre.

What we noticed

  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, especially in the choruses.
  • The use of acoustic instruments alongside electric ones provides a dynamic contrast throughout the record, enhancing its folk influences.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • contemplative late-night vibes
  • intricate melodic explorations

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established Strawbs' reputation in the progressive rock scene with ambitious compositions.
Themes
mythical transformation· lake visions· soaring melodies
Career context
Released as the band's fourth studio album in 1970, Dragonfly came after their critically acclaimed record, From the Witchwood. At this point, Strawbs were solidifying their unique sound, moving from psychedelic influences towards more complex arrangements that would define their future works.
Stylistic neighbors
Camel· Genesis· Yes

Tracklist

  • 1 The Weary Song Start here 3:50
  • 2 Dragonfly 5:35
  • 3 I Turned My Face Into the Wind 2:38
  • 4 Josephine, for Better or for Worse 3:21
  • 5 Another Day 3:05
  • 6 'Til the Sun Comes Shining Through 3:32
  • 7 Young Again 2:53
  • 8 The Vision of the Lady of the Lake 10:50
  • 9 Close Your Eyes 0:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata