What makes U by The Incredible String Band notable?

U is notable for its ambitious structure and eclectic instrumentation, which influenced a generation of artists exploring similar experimental sounds. The album received critical acclaim and showcased the band's creative peak, helping to solidify their status within the British psychedelic folk movement. Released in October 1970, U was The Incredible String Band's fourth studio album, following their acclaimed record The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter. At this point in their career, the band was experimenting further with their sound and expanding their lyrical themes into more abstract territories, showcasing their unique blend of folk and psychedelia.

U works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and whimsical, dreamy narratives.

How many songs are on U?

U has 18 tracks, running approximately 107 minutes.

Released 56 years ago this October

U

The Incredible String Band · 1970

107 min · 18 tracks · folk music

A whimsical tapestry of folk and psychedelic sounds, interweaving intricate melodies with surreal storytelling.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Light in Time of Darkness / Glad to See You — This track exemplifies the band's signature style, merging haunting harmonies with intricate arrangements that illustrate their complex sonic vision.
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Queen of Love — The song encapsulates the band's ethereal aesthetic, featuring layered instrumentation that evokes a dreamlike state while exploring themes of love and connection.
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Robot Blues — With its playful lyrics and unconventional structure, this track stands out as a commentary on technology's impact on humanity, blending whimsy with introspection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's ambitious structure and eclectic instrumentation showcase its creative peak while maintaining a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate unconventional instruments like sitar and dulcimer, adding to the eclectic sound palette.
The lyrics often employ surreal imagery and whimsical storytelling, which is evident in songs like 'The Juggler’s Song' and 'Puppet Song'.
The overall tempo varies significantly, with some tracks maintaining a brisk pace while others slow down to create reflective moments.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

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

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
whimsical, dreamy narratives
wave-like pacing and flow
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in October 1970, U was The Incredible String Band's fourth studio album, following their acclaimed record The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter. At this point in their career, the band was experimenting further with their sound and expanding their lyrical themes into more abstract territories, showcasing their unique blend of folk and psychedelia.
Stylistic neighbors: Pentangle· Fairport Convention· Nick Drake