Is Lie of the Land a good place to start with Show of Hands?

Yes, Lie of the Land is recommended as a starting point for new Show of Hands listeners. An evocative tapestry of traditional folk melodies intertwined with contemporary storytelling and rich, layered harmonies. Released in 1995, Lie of the Land is Show of Hands' third studio album, following their breakthrough album, From the Ground Up. At this point in their career, the duo had begun to solidify their reputation as key figures in the British folk scene, blending traditional influences with modern narratives.

Who is Lie of the Land for?

Lie of the Land works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, lyrical storytelling that captivates and reflective moments for quiet listening.

How many songs are on Lie of the Land?

Lie of the Land has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Lie of the Land

Show of Hands · 1995

47 min · 12 tracks · traditional folk music

An evocative tapestry of traditional folk melodies intertwined with contemporary storytelling and rich, layered harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Hunter Start here — This track opens the album with a hauntingly beautiful melody that showcases the duo's intricate harmonies and sets the thematic tone of exploration and discovery.
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Captains — With its vivid storytelling and emotive delivery, this song encapsulates the essence of maritime life, reflecting both nostalgia and longing.
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Exile — Closing the album with a poignant meditation on displacement, it highlights the duo's ability to weave personal stories into broader social themes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
lyrical storytelling that captivates
reflective moments for quiet listening
acoustic warmth for late nights
evocative melodies for introspection

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Acclaimed for lyrical depth, it solidified their status in folk music.
Themes: maritime nostalgia· displacement stories· British folk heritage
Career context: Released in 1995, Lie of the Land is Show of Hands' third studio album, following their breakthrough album, From the Ground Up. At this point in their career, the duo had begun to solidify their reputation as key figures in the British folk scene, blending traditional influences with modern narratives.
Stylistic neighbors: Bellowhead· The Unthanks· Lau