THE WATERS OF SWEET SORROW

Music from a trio of East Anglian folk enthusiasts that was recorded in 1972-3 but not released as an album until 1993. Very mediæval troubadour-like music, not unlike the that of The Mediæval Bæbes or Pentangle or even early Gryphon.

1. "Sanctuary Stone" (4:17) a foretaste of The Mediæval Bæbes. Jill Child has a very nice voice. (8.5/10)

2. "To Find A Reason" (3:50) Ken Saul has a very nice voice. (8.5/10)

3. "The Skater" (3:24) Jill singing over guitar, mandolin, and Jews harp. (8.25/10)

4. "Scarbrough Fair" (2:12) pretty standard rendition. (4/5)

5. "The Oak Tree Grove" (2:23) gorgeous. Just Jill's voice and two acoustic guitars. (5/5)

6. "Dirge" (1:48) pure mediæval instrumental. (3.75/5)

7. "Maids And Gentleman" (4:30) nice mix of electric guitars in with the acoustic. Very much an AMERICA America feel to it. (8.5/10)

8. "The Waters Of Sweet Sorrow" (3:08) a gorgeous little folk song--musically and vocally. (9/10)

9. "All Things Are Quite Silent" (2:32) an old English folk song rendered as if it were old. Great vocal by Jill Child. (8.5/10)

10. "The Two Sisters" (4:29) beautiful folk song with great vocals from Ken Saul with Jill Child in the harmony/background vocals spot. Electric guitar and bass enter for the choruses. (8.75/10)

11. "Winter Song" (3:59) delicate yet complex songscapes and performances. If the songs are in any kind of chronological order, this one demonstrates how far the band members had progressed in terms of musicianship and confidence. (9/10)

Total Time: 36:32

B/four stars; a very enjoyable journey back in time provided by some very respectful/reverent artists.