The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter
The Incredible String Band · 1968
50 min · 10 tracks · folk music
A whimsical blend of psychedelic folk, weaving intricate melodies with surreal storytelling and vibrant instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Koeeoaddi There — This track opens the album with a playful yet haunting melody, establishing the surreal atmosphere that permeates throughout. Its whimsical lyrics and unique instrumentation set the tone for the band's distinctive approach to storytelling.
-
→
A Very Cellular Song — At over thirteen minutes long, this ambitious piece showcases the band's eclectic mix of styles and philosophical musings, encapsulating their experimental spirit. The song's structure shifts dramatically, reflecting themes of existence and interconnectedness.
-
→
Mercy I Cry City — This poignant track combines evocative lyrics with a haunting melody, highlighting the band's ability to convey deep emotion through music. Its reflective nature contrasts beautifully with the more whimsical tracks on the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's intricate melodies and surreal storytelling create a distinctive listening experience within the psychedelic folk genre.
What we noticed
- Several songs employ unconventional song structures, such as 'A Very Cellular Song,' which has multiple sections and abrupt changes in tempo.
- The lyrics often incorporate surreal imagery and storytelling, with tracks like 'The Minotaur’s Song' presenting a narrative that unfolds in unexpected ways.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- whimsical storytelling with vivid imagery
- patient exploration of intricate melodies
- late-night introspection and wonder
- immersive journey through surreal landscapes
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, fast-paced music
- enjoy songs with immediate impact
Where this album fits
- Career context
- The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter is The Incredible String Band's third studio album, released in 1968 during their rise to prominence in the psychedelic folk scene. This album followed their self-titled debut and the critically acclaimed 'The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of the Onion', showcasing a matured sound and deeper lyrical exploration as they solidified their unique artistic identity.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Pentangle· Fairport Convention· Nick Drake
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Koeeoaddi There 4:50
- 2 The Minotaur’s Song 3:22
- 3 Witches Hat 2:36
- 4 A Very Cellular Song 13:13
- 5 Mercy I Cry City 2:48
- 6 Waltz of the New Moon 5:03
- 7 The Water Song 3:01
- 8 Three Is a Green Crown 7:48
- 9 Swift as the Wind 4:54
- 10 Nightfall 2:33
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.