Poems and Songs of Middle Earth
Donald Swann · 1967
40 min · 14 tracks · opera
A whimsical blend of folk melodies and operatic vocals that bring Tolkien's verses to life.
Why this album works
- Best for
- whimsical storytelling in song dynamic journey through themes intimate moments of reflection
- Context
- Released in 1967, 'Poems and Songs of Middle Earth' marked Donald Swann's foray into setting J.R.R. Tolkien's poetry to music, establishing him as a unique voice in the genre. This album followed his previous work, showcasing his ability to weave literary influence into his compositions during a time when folk music was gaining popularity in the UK.
- If you like
- opera
Poems and Songs of Middle Earth is an album by Donald Swann, released in 1967. A whimsical blend of folk melodies and operatic vocals that bring Tolkien's verses to life. This album is significant as it contributed to the popularization of Tolkien's work through music, bridging literary and musical cultures. It has received acclaim for its artistic interpretation of Tolkien's poetry, influencing later adaptations and musical tributes to Middle-earth. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Poems and Songs of Middle Earth sound like?
A whimsical blend of folk melodies and operatic vocals that bring Tolkien's verses to life. Rooted in opera.
What makes Poems and Songs of Middle Earth by Donald Swann notable?
This album is significant as it contributed to the popularization of Tolkien's work through music, bridging literary and musical cultures. It has received acclaim for its artistic interpretation of Tolkien's poetry, influencing later adaptations and musical tributes to Middle-earth. Released in 1967, 'Poems and Songs of Middle Earth' marked Donald Swann's foray into setting J.R.R. Tolkien's poetry to music, establishing him as a unique voice in the genre. This album followed his previous work, showcasing his ability to weave literary influence into his compositions during a time when folk music was gaining popularity in the UK.
Who is Poems and Songs of Middle Earth for?
Poems and Songs of Middle Earth works well if you're into whimsical storytelling in song, dynamic journey through themes and intimate moments of reflection.
How many songs are on Poems and Songs of Middle Earth?
Poems and Songs of Middle Earth has 14 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Adventures of Tom Bombadil Standout 4:00
- 2 The Mewlips 1:21
- 3 The Hoard 3:25
- 4 Perry-The-Winkle 4:26
- 5 The Man in the Moon Came Down Too Soon 5:16
- 6 The Sea-Bell 5:25
- 7 A Elbereth Gilthoniel 0:14
- 8 The Road Goes Ever On Standout 1:00
- 9 Upon the Hearth the Fire is Red 1:35
- 10 In the Willow-Meads of Tasarinan 2:35
- 11 In Western Lands 2:15
- 12 Namárië Standout 1:25
- 13 I Sit Beside The Fire / Refrain: A Elbereth Gilthoniel 3:38
- 14 Errantry 3:43
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