PARCEL OF ROGUES

Good album from this classic traditional folk band. "Parcel Of Rogues" is accessible and enjoyable with some really cheerful songs, such as the elegant "One Misty Moisty Morning". In my opinion the wah-wah guitar works very well here, adding an interesting dimension to the music. Electric folk was still a new concept at that time and Steeleye Span had their own way of experimenting with it. The dark, spooky "Alison Gross" is another highlight, as is "Cam Ye O'er Frae France" and "Weaver and the Factory Maid" the latter a very haunting piece with a hypnotic rhythm. Maddy Prior's vocals are also in top form here. Granted, better albums of theirs were to come. Some drumming would have worked well on one or two tracks from this album, but it's still tight and melodic in all. Not essential but recommended to folkies. Three solid stars.