Parcel of Rogues
Steeleye Span · 1973
39 min · 10 tracks · folk rock
Ethereal harmonies weave through spirited folk melodies, blending traditional storytelling with a psychedelic touch.
Top tracks — play these first
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Alison Gross — This track showcases Steeleye Span's ability to reinterpret traditional ballads, combining haunting lyrics about a cursed lover with rich vocal harmonies and intricate instrumentation.
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The Weaver and the Factory Maid — A vibrant retelling of a classic tale, this song highlights the band's knack for storytelling through its engaging narrative and catchy melodies, capturing the essence of English folklore.
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Rogues in a Nation — With its politically charged lyrics and rousing chorus, this track stands out as both a commentary on national identity and a showcase of the band's dynamic musicality.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends traditional and contemporary styles effectively, showcasing strong composition and craft.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a traditional folk melody that features layered harmonies, setting a tone that persists throughout the record.
- The instrumentation frequently shifts between acoustic and electric elements, blending traditional folk instruments with rock-style guitar and bass.
- 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
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
- steady, consistent energy levels
- long, immersive listening sessions
- contemplative storytelling journeys
- atmospheric background focus
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in April 1973, Parcel of Rogues marked Steeleye Span's fifth studio album during their prime as a leading force in British folk rock. This album followed their breakthrough record, Below the Salt, and solidified their unique sound amid the folk revival movement of the early 1970s.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Fairport Convention· Pentangle· The Albion Band
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 One Misty Moisty Morning 3:32
- 2 Alison Gross 5:28
- 3 The Bold Poachers 4:18
- 4 The Ups and Downs 2:45
- 5 Robbery with Violins 1:50
- 6 The Wee Wee Man 4:00
- 7 The Weaver and the Factory Maid 5:24
- 8 Rogues in a Nation 4:35
- 9 Cam Ye O'er Frae France 2:50
- 10 Hares on the Mountain 4:30
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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