Myrrh
Robin Williamson · 1972
39 min · 10 tracks
A rich tapestry of folk-inspired melodies interwoven with mystical themes and poetic storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Dancing of the Lord of Weir — This track exemplifies Williamson’s ability to blend traditional folk elements with modern sensibilities, creating an enchanting atmosphere that captures the listener’s imagination.
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Will We Open the Heavens — With its contemplative lyrics and haunting melody, this song serves as a poignant reflection on spirituality and connection to the divine, a central theme throughout the album.
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Cold Harbour — This track stands out for its intricate arrangements and emotional depth, showcasing Williamson’s skill in merging storytelling with musical complexity.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and unique arrangements, contributing to its lasting appeal in folk music.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a track that features layered instrumentation, blending strings and woodwinds to create a lush soundscape.
- Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements alongside singing, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.
- The tempo varies significantly across the album, with some songs featuring brisk rhythms while others slow down for reflective moments.
- The final track concludes with a gradual fade-out, leaving an open-ended feeling that invites contemplation.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- mystical storytelling through melodies
- intimate moments of reflection
- gentle, flowing musical transitions
- warmth for quiet evenings
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of high-energy tracks
- prefer instant gratification sounds
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Myrrh is Robin Williamson's first solo album after his time with the influential band The Incredible String Band, marking a significant transition in his career. Released in 1972, it showcases Williamson's exploration of personal narratives and spiritual themes, diverging from the more eclectic sound of his previous group.
- Stylistic neighbors
- John Renbourn· Bert Jansch· Nick Drake
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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I See Us All Get Home
The closing verses shift from an abstract reflection on existence to a direct invocation of togetherness and homecoming.
This progression from introspection to communal affirmation underscores the album's overarching themes of unity and belonging.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Strings in the Earth and Air 3:12
- 2 Rends-Moi Demain 2:09
- 3 The Dancing of the Lord of Weir 5:31
- 4 Will We Open the Heavens 3:56
- 5 Through the Horned Clouds 5:08
- 6 Sandy Land 3:26
- 7 Cold Harbour 7:06
- 8 Dark Eyed Lady 4:05
- 9 Dark Dance 1:07
- 10 I See Us All Get Home 4:05
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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