Below the Salt

by Steeleye Span

Below the Salt cover art
  • Type: Album
  • Released: 15 September 1972
  • Label: Chrysalis
  • Country: United Kingdom
  • Length: 44:41
  • Community rating: 3.92/5 from 3 ratings

Artists on this release: Dan Morgan, We Are From Mars

Album Notes & Community Reviews

With the addition of guitarist Bob Johnson and bassist Rick Kemp, the group transitioned toward a more muscular, rock-oriented interpretation of traditional English balladry. The arrangements prominently feature heavy electric basslines alongside Maddy Prior's crystalline vocals, perfectly exemplified by the a cappella Christmas hit 'Gaudete'. It successfully modernized ancient folklore for a contemporary rock audience without losing its medieval atmosphere.

Genres

Descriptors: Folk, medieval, folklore, a-cappella, ballad, folk, traditional, progressive, choral, storytelling

Tracklist

  1. Spotted Cow (3:08)
  2. Rosebud in June (3:43)
  3. Jigs (3:13)
  4. Sheepcrook and Black Dog (4:45)
  5. Royal Forester (4:36)
  6. King Henry (7:12)
  7. Gaudete (2:27)
  8. John Barleycorn (4:50)
  9. Saucy Sailor (5:52)
  10. Gaudete (Single Version) (2:27)
  11. The Holly and the Ivy (2:25)

Credits

  • We Are From Mars - primary artist
  • Ariel Space - keyboards [additional]
  • Brad Johnson - lacquer cut by
  • Ray Love - performer [1988 chant]

More from Steeleye Span: full discography