Roots: The Best of Show of Hands cover

Roots: The Best of Show of Hands

Show of Hands · 2007

153 min · 30 tracks · traditional folk music

A rich tapestry of contemporary folk woven with traditional melodies and heartfelt storytelling.

Why this album works

This album highlights the duo's influence on the modern folk revival in Britain and features tracks that have become staples within the genre. It has received positive critical reception, noted for its ability to resonate with both new listeners and long-time fans alike, solidifying their place in folk music history.
Best for
dynamic journey with emotional peaks rich storytelling through traditional melodies for long afternoon drives
Context
By 2007, Show of Hands had established themselves as prominent figures in the UK folk scene, with a discography that included several acclaimed albums. 'Roots: The Best of Show of Hands' serves as a retrospective compilation, showcasing their evolution from their debut in 1991 through to this celebrated collection.
Stylistic neighbors
Iwan Fals· Nikolai Noskov· Cesk Freixas

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 Roots Standout 4:09
  • 2 Are We Alright 3:04
  • 3 Exile 3:47
  • 4 Country Life 3:57
  • 5 Widecombe Fair 3:26
  • 6 The Falmouth Packet / Haul Away Joe 5:32
  • 7 Santiago 6:13
  • 8 Armadas 4:31
  • 9 The Blue Cockade 6:01
  • 10 Crow on the Cradle 4:28
  • 11 The Preacher 4:25
  • 12 Cousin Jack Standout 6:50
  • 13 Cold Frontier 4:15
  • 14 Hard Shoulder 5:17
  • 15 Captains 4:03
  • 16 The Galway Farmer 5:42

Disc 2

  • 1 Columbus (Didn’t Find America) 5:13
  • 2 You’re Mine 4:02
  • 3 The Blind Fiddler 3:48
  • 4 The Setting / Mary From Dungloe 3:55
  • 5 The Bristol Slaver Standout 3:52
  • 6 Port Isaac 4:23
  • 7 The Train / Blackwaterside 6:51
  • 8 Be Lucky 5:10
  • 9 Longdog 2:44
  • 10 The Keeper 5:02
  • 11 The Downeaster 'Alexa' 3:10
  • 12 The Oak 3:03
  • 13 Innocents’ Song / Gwithian 4:35
  • 14 Tall Ships 21:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata