Search - Steeleye Span :: All Around My Hat

Quintessential "Classic" Steeleye Span

Michael Gmirkin | Beaverton, Oregon, USA | 05/02/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Steeleye Span pioneered folk rock along with Fairport convention (whose music I still haven't picked up yet, though I've been meaning to for variety's sake). If you're a Steeleye Span fan, you will like this CD. Period. It's a Steeleye classic, and one of my many favorites.



Skip the newer releases, like: They Called Her Babylon, Bedlam Born, Bloody Men.



Go for the Classics: Tempted and Tried, All Around my Hat, Sails of Silver, Storm Force Ten, Rocket Cottage, Hark! The Village Wait, Please to See the King, Ten Man Mop, Commoners Crown, Now We Are Six, Parcel of Rogues, Below the Salt, Back in Line.



If you must pick up "modern" Steelye albums, pick up: Time (one of their best "modern" releases) and Horkstow Grange (their other good "modern" release). "Winter" is supposed to also be good, on par with the classics (traditional arrangements of holiday songs), though I haven't yet seen it.



The above "classic" albums cover the early and middle years."

"All Around My Hat" Stands out above all Latter Span Release

Horkstow Grange | San Fransisco, California USA | 05/29/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"All aound my hat is truely one of Steeleye's best. The album kicks off with "Black Jack Davy", a wonderful, amazing swithc off between male and female vocals. The Highlights include "The Wife of Ushers Well", a beautiful 3 part harmony (I have a live version where they use five part harmony), and "All Around my Hat", which is basically a jig with lyrics. Even while riding in a car I can't help but dance to the lively rythm. I bet Maddy Prior was dancing in the recording studio when she recorded this song. You would have to be a pretty sour square not to like "All Around My Hat". It's a great album. Trust Me! (I'm under twelve years old)"

A Folk Band With A Modern Sound!!! And Maddy's HOT too!!!

John Baranyai | 04/25/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This would have to be one of my favourite albums. The title track is an old 19th Century Folk Song which is given a modern flavour yet stil retains its origins thanks to Maddy Prior's exquisite vocals and her talented band of musicians. Since buying this album I have colected every Steeleye Span CD that I could get my hands on and was very happy to learn that Maddy Prior went on to achieve success as a solo artist. This band's unique sound will enthrall and and capture the listener."