Album Info
| Artist: | Steeleye Span |
| Album: | Now We Are Six |
| Released: | Australia, 1974 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Thomas The Rhymer | 3:15 |
| Producer - Ian Anderson | ||
| Recorder - Nigel Pegrum | ||
| A2 | Two Magicians | 4:23 |
| A3 | Edwin | 4:40 |
| Acoustic Guitar - Robert Johnson | ||
| Banjo - Tim Hart | ||
| Flute - Nigel Pegrum | ||
| Vocals [Whisper] - Maddy Prior | ||
| A4 | Twinkle Twinkle Little Star | 1:32 |
| A5 | Seven Hundred Elves | 5:11 |
| Synthesizer - Nigel Pegrum | ||
| Vocals, Synthesizer - Robert Johnson | ||
| B1 | The Mooncoin Jig | 3:50 |
| Tambourine - Nigel Pegrum | ||
| Tenor Banjo - Peter Knight | ||
| B2 | Drink Down The Moon | 6:21 |
| B3 | Long-A-Growing | 2:17 |
| Acoustic Guitar, Piano - Peter Knight | ||
| B4 | Now We Are Six | 4:02 |
| Piano [Pianoforte Accompaniment By] - Miss Knight | ||
| B5 | To Know Him Is To Love Him | 2:12 |
| Alto Saxophone [Alto Sax] - David Bowie | ||
| Vocals - Robert Johnson | ||
| Written-By - Spector |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
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- Happy Listening!
Description
Steeleye Span's "Now We Are Six," released in 1974, marks a significant moment in the evolution of British folk rock. The album, produced by the legendary Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, showcases the band's continued exploration of traditional folk music infused with rock elements. This fusion is evident throughout the album, which features a mix of traditional songs and original compositions, all delivered with Steeleye Span's characteristic energy and precision.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Thomas the Rhymer," a traditional ballad that the band revitalizes with a dynamic arrangement. Maddy Prior's powerful vocals are a highlight, bringing the ancient tale to life with a modern twist. The track exemplifies the band's ability to take traditional material and make it accessible and exciting for contemporary audiences. Another notable song is "Seven Hundred Elves," which combines a catchy melody with a whimsical narrative, showcasing the band's playful side.
The album's title, "Now We Are Six," is a nod to the band expanding to a six-member lineup with the addition of drummer Nigel Pegrum. This change allowed Steeleye Span to experiment with a fuller sound, incorporating more complex rhythms and arrangements. Pegrum's influence is particularly evident in tracks like "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star," where his drumming adds a new dimension to the band's sound.
"Now We Are Six" also includes a cover of "To Know Him Is to Love Him," originally by Phil Spector. This unexpected choice demonstrates the band's willingness to step outside the traditional folk genre and explore different musical styles. The cover is delivered with a gentle, almost whimsical touch, contrasting with the more robust folk tracks on the album.
The album received a mixed critical reception upon its release. Some critics praised the band's innovative approach to folk music, while others were less enthusiastic about the inclusion of non-traditional material. However, over time, "Now We Are Six" has been recognized as an important work in Steeleye Span's discography, illustrating their versatility and willingness to push the boundaries of folk rock.
Culturally, the album is significant as it reflects the broader movement of the 1970s where traditional music was being rediscovered and reinterpreted by a new generation of musicians. Steeleye Span, along with contemporaries like Fairport Convention, played a crucial role in this revival, bringing folk music to a wider audience and influencing countless artists in the process.
Despite not winning any major awards, "Now We Are Six" remains a beloved album among fans of the genre. Its blend of traditional and contemporary elements continues to resonate, and tracks like "Thomas the Rhymer" and "Seven Hundred Elves" are often highlighted in discussions of the band's best work. The album's production by Ian Anderson also adds a layer of historical interest, as it represents a collaboration between two influential figures in the British music scene.
In summary, "Now We Are Six" is a testament to Steeleye Span's creativity and their ability to innovate within the folk rock genre. The album captures a moment in time when traditional music was being reimagined, and it stands as a significant contribution to the folk revival of the 1970s. With its memorable tracks and unique blend of styles, "Now We Are Six" continues to be an essential listen for fans of folk and rock music alike.