Still Incredible (After All These Years)
S. GODFREY | Risca, South Wales | 08/10/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"It took some courage for Robin Williamson, Mike Heron, Clive Palmer, Lawson Dando and Robin's wife Bina to step out in the year 2000 as The Incredible String Band. After several relatively low-key reunions (Robin and Mike in 1997, Clive and Robin in 1999) and a generally poorly received New Years concert featuring mostly traditional material, the challenge was there to prove that they could still "cut it" as The Incredibles. Expectations were high, and potential critics of the "not-so-good-as-they-used-to-be" brigade were out in force. Happily, the concerts were a triumph and this CD proves it. Mike, the more reticent of the "main men", shines on the opening track, the gently caressing "Maker of Islands", with Robin providing tasteful violin and support vocals and the ever excellent Lawson keeping it all together on keyboards. Robin takes the lead on the classic "Ducks on a Pond" - in maturity that remarkable voice is gruffer than in the "Wee Tam" days, but he still nails those swooping notes and the joyous finale "ain't got no home in this world any more" is as uplifting as ever. Next we get another "Wee Tam" goodie in "Air". The big surprise here is Clive on lead vocal: this was one song he was surely born to sing - it fits him just like a glove. A great version of a great song. Other highlights include Robin's phenomenal performance on "Waltz of the New Moon", Clive's simple but moving banjo solo "Goodbye", and Robin's closing "October Song", delivered with a freshness that belies its 1965 vintage. There is also a storming version of a new song "Big City Blues" which bodes well for a new album sometime soon. Overall a historic performance in many ways - it was sheer good fun on the night (I was there!) and one which firmly establishes The Incredible String Band as far more than just a distant memory. If you were there, or at the 2001 gigs, you'll cherish this CD as a momento of a great concert. If you missed it the CD is the next best thing. Enjoy!"
Track Listings (9) - Disc #1