What makes The Incredible String Band by The Incredible String Band notable?

The Incredible String Band is noted for its eclectic sound that helped shape the British folk revival of the 1960s. Critics praised it for its innovative approach to blending traditional folk with avant-garde influences, leading to its lasting impact on subsequent artists within the genre. Released in January 1966, The Incredible String Band marked the band's self-titled debut album, establishing them as pioneers in the UK folk scene. This album came at a time when the psychedelic movement was beginning to influence various musical genres, allowing the band to gain significant traction in the evolving music landscape.

Who is The Incredible String Band for?

The Incredible String Band works well if you're into whimsical storytelling with charm, playful melodies for sunny days and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on The Incredible String Band?

The Incredible String Band has 16 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Released 60 years ago

The Incredible String Band

The Incredible String Band · 1966

45 min · 16 tracks · folk music

A whimsical blend of folk and psychedelic elements, weaving intricate melodies with playful instrumentation and poetic lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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October Song — This track showcases the band's signature lyrical depth and melodic richness, encapsulating their unique blend of folk storytelling with a psychedelic twist.
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Womankind — Featuring lush harmonies and rich instrumentation, this song highlights the band's progressive views on gender and nature, making it a standout piece in their catalog.
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Dandelion Blues — With its infectious rhythm and whimsical lyrics, this track exemplifies the band's playful spirit and ability to fuse fun with thoughtful introspection.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

whimsical storytelling with charm
playful melodies for sunny days
short tracks for quick enjoyment
intimate moments of reflection
easygoing tunes for casual listening

Maybe skip if you

seekers of high-energy tracks
prefer lengthy, immersive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1966, The Incredible String Band marked the band's self-titled debut album, establishing them as pioneers in the UK folk scene. This album came at a time when the psychedelic movement was beginning to influence various musical genres, allowing the band to gain significant traction in the evolving music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Pentangle· Fairport Convention· Nick Drake

Tracklist

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

1 Maybe Someday 2:20
2 October Song 4:08
3 When the Music Starts to Play 2:44
4 Schaeffer’s Jig 0:58
5 Womankind 3:45
6 The Tree 2:55
7 Whistle Tune 1:01
8 Dandelion Blues 3:00
9 How Happy I Am 2:20
10 Empty Pocket Blues 4:47
11 Smoke Shovelling Song 3:47
12 Can’t Keep Me Here 2:14
13 Good as Gone 3:31
14 Footsteps of the Heron 3:14
15 Niggertown 2:09
16 Everything’s Fine Right Now 2:13

What to play next

Listen next

The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of the Onion

1967

Go back to

The Chelsea Sessions 1967

Full The Incredible String Band discography Artists like The Incredible String Band

psychedelic music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata