What makes The Prospect Before Us by The Albion Band notable?

The album is notable for revitalizing interest in British folk music during the 1970s, contributing to a wider resurgence of folk traditions in popular music. It has been praised for its innovative arrangements and was influential in shaping the folk rock genre, impacting subsequent artists and movements focused on traditional sounds. Released in 1977, The Prospect Before Us marked a significant point in The Albion Band's career as their first album after forming in 1971. This period saw them solidifying their identity within the British folk rock scene, blending traditional music with contemporary influences while maintaining their unique sound.

Who is The Prospect Before Us for?

The Prospect Before Us works well if you're into spirited group sing-alongs, short bursts of lively energy and joyful celebration of tradition.

How many songs are on The Prospect Before Us?

The Prospect Before Us has 16 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

The Prospect Before Us

The Albion Band · 1977

48 min · 16 tracks · British folk rock

A vibrant tapestry of traditional melodies woven with modern folk sensibilities and rich instrumental textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Wish I Was Single Again — This track stands out for its lively instrumentation and humorous lyrics that reflect on love and relationships, showcasing the band's ability to blend storytelling with engaging melodies.
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Wassail Song — This rendition captures the celebratory spirit of traditional wassailing, featuring a compelling call-and-response structure that invites listener participation, embodying the communal nature of folk music.
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Horse's Brawl — With its energetic tempo and intricate musicianship, this track exemplifies the band's skill at creating dynamic arrangements that maintain a connection to historical dance forms while sounding fresh.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

spirited group sing-alongs
short bursts of lively energy
joyful celebration of tradition
easygoing tunes for gatherings
playful melodies with varied tempos

Maybe skip if you

slow, introspective listening experience
seeking long, immersive tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1977, The Prospect Before Us marked a significant point in The Albion Band's career as their first album after forming in 1971. This period saw them solidifying their identity within the British folk rock scene, blending traditional music with contemporary influences while maintaining their unique sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Fairport Convention· Steeleye Span· Nick Drake

Tracklist

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

1 Uncle Bernard's / Jenny Lind 3:47
2 The Hunt Is Up 1:55
3 Varsovianna 2:51
4 Masque 1:02
5 Huntsman's Chorus 4:32
6 Minuet 2:11
7 Wassail Song 2:37
8 Picking of Sticks / The Old Mole 3:17
9 Merry Sherwood Rangers 3:24
10 La Sexte Estampie Real 1:58
11 I Wish I Was Single Again 3:47
12 The Whim 3:30
13 Hopping Down in Kent 2:47
14 Horse's Brawl 3:49
15 On Christmas Night All Christians Sing 3:44
16 Merry Sherwood Rangers 3:07

What to play next

Listen next

Rise Up Like the Sun

1978

Go back to

Battle of the Field

1976

Full The Albion Band discography Artists like The Albion Band

British folk rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata