Original

This is their fourth album and was released in 1972. By this time Ashley Hutchings and Martin Carthy had left replaced by Rock guitarist Bob Johnson and bassist and drummer Rick Kemp. This wasmy first introduction to their music as “King Henry” and “Gaudete” were both played on WMMR back then. I bought this record around 1973 or ’74. Side one is OK with a couple of jigs and “The Royal Forester” being the best but side two is really good. The seven minute “King Henry” is a Child Ballad that tells the story of an ugly woman who seduces the king and turns into a beautiful woman the next morning with some guitar and violin solos. “Gaudete” is a Christmas song from the 14th century, sung in Latin. “John Barleycorn” is a much covered song with Traffic doing an excellent version and even Hard Rock band Clutch using parts in “Run,John Barleycorn,Run”. “Saucy Sailor” is another good one with vocals by Maddy Prior. All songs are traditional. Another record in bad shape and one I will have to part with.