What makes Nicely Out of Tune by Lindisfarne notable?

The album features Lady Eleanor, which became a significant hit for the band and is often cited as one of their signature songs. Its success helped solidify Lindisfarne's presence on the UK charts, contributing to the folk rock genre's popularity during the early 1970s. Released in November 1970, Nicely Out of Tune was Lindisfarne's debut album, marking their entry into the music scene after forming in 1967. At this point, they were gaining traction in the UK following performances at notable festivals and clubs, establishing themselves as key players in the burgeoning folk rock movement.

Who is Nicely Out of Tune for?

Nicely Out of Tune works well if you're into heartfelt storytelling with lush harmonies, melodic moments for reflective afternoons and easygoing tunes for casual gatherings.

How many songs are on Nicely Out of Tune?

Nicely Out of Tune has 11 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Released 56 years ago this November

Nicely Out of Tune

Lindisfarne · 1970

44 min · 11 tracks · folk rock

Melodic folk rock intertwines with heartfelt storytelling and lush harmonies, creating a tapestry of British musical charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lady Eleanor — This track stands out due to its poignant lyrics and engaging melody, showcasing the band's signature harmonies that became emblematic of their sound.
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Road to Kingdom Come — Combining reflective lyrics with an infectious rhythm, this song exemplifies Lindisfarne's ability to blend storytelling with catchy melodies.
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Winter Song — This track captures a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere with its evocative imagery and emotional depth, highlighting the band's lyrical prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong melodies and harmonies but lacks a fully cohesive flow across its tracks.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate layered instrumentation, with acoustic guitars and keyboards intertwining to create a rich soundscape.
The album includes shifts in tempo, with songs like 'We Can Swing Together' providing a more upbeat contrast to the slower ballads.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

heartfelt storytelling with lush harmonies
melodic moments for reflective afternoons
easygoing tunes for casual gatherings
gentle melodies that invite sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy, fast-paced music
want complex, experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in November 1970, Nicely Out of Tune was Lindisfarne's debut album, marking their entry into the music scene after forming in 1967. At this point, they were gaining traction in the UK following performances at notable festivals and clubs, establishing themselves as key players in the burgeoning folk rock movement.
Stylistic neighbors: Fairport Convention· The Albion Band· Pentangle

Tracklist

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

1 Lady Eleanor 4:13
2 Road to Kingdom Come 4:13
3 Winter Song 5:09
4 Turn a Deaf Ear 3:55
5 Clear White Light, Part 2 4:04
6 We Can Swing Together 5:45
7 Alan in the River With Flowers 3:07
8 Down 3:08
9 The Things I Should Have Said 4:01
10 Jackhammer Blues 3:27
11 Scarecrow Song 3:21

What to play next

Listen next

Fog on the Tyne

1971

Full Lindisfarne discography Artists like Lindisfarne

folk rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata