What makes Storm Force Ten by Steeleye Span notable?

Storm Force Ten is significant for its critical reception, featuring prominently in discussions about the evolution of folk rock during the late 1970s. The album's blend of traditional and contemporary sounds helped to influence a generation of folk musicians. Critics noted its inventive arrangements, which contributed to Steeleye Span's reputation as pioneers within the genre. By the time Steeleye Span released Storm Force Ten in November 1977, they were solidifying their position in the British folk rock scene following their commercial peak with 1975's All Around My Hat. The album marked a continuation of their exploration into electric instrumentation while retaining their roots in traditional folk music. This record came after a period of lineup changes, showcasing a stable group dynamic that allowed for more cohesive songwriting.

Who is Storm Force Ten for?

Storm Force Ten works well if you're into wave-like pacing with peaks, vibrant melodies for reflective moments and rich harmonies for group enjoyment.

How many songs are on Storm Force Ten?

Storm Force Ten has 8 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Storm Force Ten

Steeleye Span · 1977

41 min · 8 tracks · folk rock

A blend of traditional folk melodies with psychedelic influences that evoke the spirit of British storytelling and adventure.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Awake, Awake — This opening track captures the album's thematic essence, blending haunting melodies with rich harmonies that set the tone for the entire record.
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The Wife of the Soldier — This track stands out due to its poignant narrative and evocative storytelling, showcasing Steeleye Span's ability to weave personal tales into folk tradition.
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Seventeen Come Sunday — As a reinterpretation of a classic folk song, this track demonstrates the band's skill in revitalizing traditional material with intricate arrangements and vibrant performances.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional and contemporary folk elements but lacks strong cohesion across its tracks.

What we noticed

The album opens with a lively track that features layered harmonies and traditional instrumentation, setting a folk-rock tone.
Several tracks incorporate shifts in tempo, with 'The Black Freighter' introducing a more dramatic pace change mid-song.
The final track, 'Seventeen Come Sunday', concludes the album with a return to a slower, reflective mood, contrasting with earlier energy.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

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

wave-like pacing with peaks
vibrant melodies for reflective moments
rich harmonies for group enjoyment
engaging storytelling throughout tracks

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone hits

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Steeleye Span released Storm Force Ten in November 1977, they were solidifying their position in the British folk rock scene following their commercial peak with 1975's All Around My Hat. The album marked a continuation of their exploration into electric instrumentation while retaining their roots in traditional folk music. This record came after a period of lineup changes, showcasing a stable group dynamic that allowed for more cohesive songwriting.
Stylistic neighbors: Fairport Convention· Pentangle· The Albion Band