Preserves Uncanned cover

Preserves Uncanned

Strawbs · 1990

106 min · 38 tracks · progressive rock

A rich tapestry of folk-infused progressive rock, blending intricate melodies with introspective storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Coal Creek March Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    That Which One Was Mine — This track exemplifies the album's introspective nature, weaving personal narratives with haunting melodies that linger long after listening.
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    The Man Who Called Himself Jesus — A poignant commentary on faith and identity, this song stands out for its thoughtful lyrics and engaging arrangement, encapsulating the band's thematic depth.
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    Martin Luther King's Dream — Reflective of social consciousness, this track captures a moment in history with powerful imagery, demonstrating Strawbs' ability to weave political themes into their music.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic flow with emotional peaks
  • thoughtful storytelling in each track
  • for reflective afternoon listening
  • varied pacing keeps engagement high
  • melodic intricacies reward attentive listening

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • dislike lengthy album experiences

Where this album fits

Themes
personal narratives· faith and identity· historical reflection
Career context
Released in 1990, Preserves Uncanned marked a significant period for Strawbs as they transitioned from their classic '70s sound into a more mature and varied approach. This album came after a series of lineup changes and creative explorations, showcasing both their roots and new directions in songwriting and instrumentation.
Stylistic neighbors
Camel· Genesis· Yes

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Coal Creek March Start here 2:15
  • 2 Sail Away to the Sea 3:51
  • 3 That Which One Was Mine 2:01
  • 4 How Everyone but Sam Was a Hypocrite 3:03
  • 5 October to May 3:10
  • 6 On My Way 3:05
  • 7 All I Need Is You 2:55
  • 8 Josephine, for Better or for Worse 3:21
  • 9 We'll Meet Again Sometime 3:05
  • 10 Spanish Is the Loving Tongue 3:35
  • 11 Handsome Molly 2:18
  • 12 Hard Times 1:29
  • 13 How I Need You 3:30
  • 14 The Man Who Called Himself Jesus 3:43
  • 15 Pieces of 79 & 15 3:08
  • 16 Following the Rainbow 3:56
  • 17 Always on My Mind 2:00
  • 18 Martin Luther King's Dream 2:04
  • 19 Bitter Sunshine 1:31

Disc 2

  • 1 All the Little Ladies 2:20
  • 2 Just the Same in Every Way 2:50
  • 3 Strawberry Picking 1:37
  • 4 A Good Woman's Love 2:37
  • 5 The Battle 6:09
  • 6 Jenny O'Brien 2:59
  • 7 Sweetling 2:28
  • 8 Flinthill Spcial 1:18
  • 9 The Blantyre Explosion 2:57
  • 10 Tell Me What You See in Me 3:37
  • 11 Or Am I Dreaming 2:13
  • 12 I'll Show You Where to Sleep 3:00
  • 13 And You Need Me 3:13
  • 14 You Keep Going Your Way 2:54
  • 15 Where Is the Dream of Your Youth 2:36
  • 16 Why? 1:57
  • 17 Lawrence Brown 3:55
  • 18 Wild Strawberries 1:45
  • 19 Song to Alex 2:15

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata