Magna Carta – Lord Of The Ages

Magna Carta – Lord Of The Ages

Originally released in 1973, Lord Of The Ages is one of the most highly regarded albums by British progressive folk group Magna Carta. Combining traditional folk influences, progressive rock arrangements and thoughtful singer-songwriter material, it captures the atmospheric, melodic side of the early-1970s British progressive music scene.

Formed in London in 1969 by singer-songwriter Chris Simpson, Magna Carta developed a distinctive sound built around acoustic guitars, expressive vocals, intricate arrangements and evocative storytelling. Their music bridged the worlds of the British folk revival and progressive rock, favouring strong melodies, lyrical depth and carefully constructed musical passages over the heavier approach of many contemporary progressive groups.

Lord Of The Ages is an excellent example of this musical identity. Across eight compositions, the album moves between intimate acoustic folk, pastoral folk-rock and more expansive progressive arrangements. Its songwriting explores friendship, memory, spirituality and the passage of time, creating a reflective atmosphere that gives the record a strong sense of identity.

The title track is the album's centrepiece, bringing together the group's melodic sensibilities and progressive ambitions in an evocative, extended composition. 'Wish It Was' and 'Two Old Friends' demonstrate the more intimate, song-led side of the band's work, while 'Isn't It Funny (And Not A Little Bit Strange)' introduces a more playful element. 'Song Of Evening' and 'Father John' continue the album's thoughtful, atmospheric character, before 'That Was Yesterday' and 'Falkland Grene' bring the collection to a close.

The album is also notable for its striking fantasy-inspired sleeve artwork by Roger Dean, whose distinctive visual style became closely associated with progressive music during the 1970s. The artwork complements the record's pastoral and imaginative atmosphere, making the original release particularly appealing to collectors of classic British progressive folk and rock.

For listeners who appreciate the acoustic and melodic dimensions of progressive music, Lord Of The Ages is a rewarding discovery. Fans of British folk-rock, progressive folk and the more pastoral side of 1970s progressive rock will find plenty to enjoy in Magna Carta's thoughtful songwriting and richly atmospheric arrangements.

A distinctive release from the golden era of British progressive folk, Lord Of The Ages remains an essential album for Magna Carta fans and collectors exploring the more understated side of early-1970s progressive music.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Wish It Was

2. Two Old Friends

3. Lord Of The Ages

Side B

1. Isn't It Funny (And Not A Little Bit Strange)

2. Song Of Evening

3. Father John

4. That Was Yesterday

5. Falkland Grene