What makes Special Agent by Martin Simpson notable?

Special Agent received critical acclaim for revitalizing traditional folk music with contemporary sensibilities, leading to increased recognition for Simpson within the genre. It has influenced subsequent generations of folk musicians and remains a significant part of the UK folk revival narrative. By the time of its release in 1981, Martin Simpson had established himself as a notable figure in British folk music following his 1977 debut album. Special Agent marked his third studio effort and showcased his evolving artistry, incorporating more intricate arrangements and bold interpretations of traditional songs.

Who is Special Agent for?

Special Agent works well if you're into heartfelt storytelling with warmth, intimate acoustic moments throughout and captivating medleys for deep focus.

How many songs are on Special Agent?

Special Agent has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Special Agent

Martin Simpson · 1981

47 min · 12 tracks · traditional folk music

Intricate fingerstyle guitar weaves through heartfelt narratives, blending traditional folk with personal storytelling.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Desperadoes Waiting for a Train — This poignant cover captures the essence of longing and loss, highlighting Simpson's emotive vocal delivery paired with delicate guitar work.
→
The Frost is All Over / The Redheaded Boil — This medley showcases Simpson's virtuosic guitar skills and deep understanding of traditional folk melodies, making it a standout instrumental piece on the album.
→
Jamaica Farewell — Simpson's rendition brings a fresh perspective to the classic song, balancing nostalgia with vibrant instrumentation that resonates deeply.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt storytelling with warmth
intimate acoustic moments throughout
captivating medleys for deep focus
reflective listening on quiet evenings
nostalgic melodies for personal reflection

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy party tracks
prefer instant gratification over depth

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time of its release in 1981, Martin Simpson had established himself as a notable figure in British folk music following his 1977 debut album. Special Agent marked his third studio effort and showcased his evolving artistry, incorporating more intricate arrangements and bold interpretations of traditional songs.
Stylistic neighbors: Richard Thompson· Nic Jones· Bert Jansch

Tracklist

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

1 Special Agent 3:30
2 Desperadoes Waiting for a Train 6:08
3 The Frost is All Over / The Redheaded Boil (guitar medley) 2:24
4 Roustabout 4:53
5 Jamaica Farewell 3:34
6 Barlow Knife / Shoot The Turkey Buzzard / Denis Murphy's Polka (banjo medley) 2:32
7 Joshua Gone Barbados 5:08
8 McCrimmon's Lament 4:10
9 Broke Down Engine 2:21
10 The Demon Lover 5:00
11 You Win Again 3:43
12 I Think It's Going to Rain Today 3:59

What to play next

Listen next

Grinning in Your Face

1983

Go back to

Golden Vanity

1976

Full Martin Simpson discography Artists like Martin Simpson

traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata