Hark! The Village Wait cover

Hark! The Village Wait

Steeleye Span · 1970

38 min · 12 tracks · folk rock · psychedelic folk

A vibrant tapestry of traditional folk melodies interwoven with electric instrumentation and layered harmonies.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its role in the British folk revival, helping to popularize folk rock alongside contemporaries like Fairport Convention. It received positive reviews upon release and has since been recognized as a foundational work that influenced future generations of folk artists.
Best for
steady, consistent energy levels long, immersive listening sessions layered, dense sonic textures
Context
Released on June 1, 1970, 'Hark! The Village Wait' was Steeleye Span's debut album, marking their entrance into the British folk rock scene. At this time, the band was still forming its identity after being founded in 1969, blending traditional folk music with contemporary rock influences.
Stylistic neighbors
Donovan· Piknik· Syd Barrett

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 A Calling-On Song 1:12
  • 2 The Blacksmith Standout 3:40
  • 3 Fisherman's Wife 3:14
  • 4 Blackleg Miner 2:47
  • 5 Dark-Eyed Sailor Standout 5:58
  • 6 Copshawholme Fair 2:34
  • 7 All Things Are Quite Silent 2:39
  • 8 The Hills of Greenmore 4:01
  • 9 My Johnny Was a Shoemaker 1:11
  • 10 Lowlands of Holland Standout 6:00
  • 11 Twa Corbies 2:06
  • 12 One Night as I Lay on My Bed 3:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata