Fairport Convention – Angel Delight

Fairport Convention – Angel Delight

A beautifully crafted example of Fairport Convention's evolving folk rock sound, Angel Delight sees the legendary British band combining traditional English folk influences with spirited instrumentation, intricate arrangements, and original songwriting. Originally released in 1971, it was the group's sixth studio album and arrived during a particularly important period in the development of British folk rock.

Following the departure of founding member and multi-instrumentalist Dave Swarbrick from the band's previous studio album, Angel Delight marked a new chapter for Fairport Convention. The album features the core lineup of Dave Pegg, Dave Mattacks, Dave Swarbrick, Simon Nicol and Dave Thompson, with Swarbrick's fiddle playing helping to give the record its distinctive blend of traditional folk music and energetic rock instrumentation.

The album opens with Lord Marlborough, followed by Sir William Gower and Bridge Over The River Ash, immediately establishing the record's combination of traditional storytelling, English folk melodies and Fairport's dynamic ensemble playing. Wizard Of The Wordly Game and The Journeyman's Grace continue the album's exploration of historical themes and traditional musical influences.

The title track Angel Delight is one of the album's most accessible and memorable compositions, while Banks Of Sweet Primroses showcases Fairport's ability to transform traditional folk material into something fresh and compelling. The instrumental medley brings together The Cuckoo's Nest, Hardiman The Fiddler and Papa Stoor, providing a lively showcase for the band's musicianship and especially the prominent fiddle work.

Side B concludes with The Bonny Black Hare and Sickness & Diseases, reinforcing the album's mixture of traditional folk storytelling and Fairport Convention's distinctive British folk rock style.

Angel Delight reached the UK Top 10 upon release and remains an important album in Fairport Convention's extensive catalogue. While it followed the celebrated folk-rock experiments of albums such as Liege & Lief, the record demonstrates the band's continued commitment to traditional British music while incorporating the energy and instrumentation of rock.

An essential Fairport Convention vinyl LP for collectors and fans of British folk rock, traditional folk and progressive folk, Angel Delight captures one of the most influential bands in the history of British folk music during a fascinating period of their career.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Lord Marlborough
2. Sir William Gower
3. Bridge Over The River Ash
4. Wizard Of The Wordly Game
5. The Journeyman's Grace

Side B

1. Angel Delight
2. Banks Of Sweet Primroses
3. Instrumental Medley
   • The Cuckoo's Nest
   • Hardiman The Fiddler
   • Papa Stoor
4. The Bonny Black Hare
5. Sickness & Diseases