The Incredible String Band
The Incredible String Band (ISB) was a pivotal and highly influential group in the British folk music scene, known for their eclectic and innovative approach to music.
Formed in 1965 in Edinburgh, Scotland, by Robin Williamson and Clive Palmer, the band quickly became a key figure in the countercultural movement of the 1960s and early 1970s, blending traditional folk music with a wide array of international instruments and psychedelic influences.
Formation and Early Years
The Incredible String Band's origins trace back to Robin Williamson and Clive Palmer, who started performing together in Edinburgh. Mike Heron soon joined them, solidifying the band's initial lineup. Their first album, self-titled "The Incredible String Band," was released in 1966 and was a collection of traditional folk songs alongside original compositions. This album, produced by Joe Boyd, received critical acclaim and established the band's reputation for their innovative approach to folk music.
Evolution and Innovation
After the release of their first album, Clive Palmer left the group, and the ISB became primarily the duo of Williamson and Heron, although they frequently collaborated with other musicians. The band's subsequent albums, including "The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of the Onion" (1967) and "The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter" (1968), showcased their growing experimentation with musical styles, instruments from around the world, and lyrical themes that ranged from the spiritual to the whimsical.
Their music during this period was characterized by a mix of traditional British folk music, Eastern instruments (such as the sitar and gimbri), and an avant-garde approach to songwriting and performance. This fusion of styles resonated with the burgeoning psychedelic and hippie movements, making the ISB a staple in the soundtrack of the era.
Critical Acclaim and Influence
"The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter" is often considered the band's masterpiece, reaching number 5 in the UK Albums Chart. Its rich tapestry of sounds and innovative use of recording techniques contributed to its standing as one of the era's most influential folk albums. The ISB's music during this peak period was notable for its lyrical depth, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and a return to nature, which aligned closely with the ideals of the counterculture movement.
Changes and Challenges
The late 1960s and early 1970s saw changes in the band's lineup and musical direction. Williamson and Heron remained the core members, but they were joined by various musicians, including Williamson's girlfriend, Licorice McKechnie, and Heron's girlfriend, Rose Simpson. This expanded lineup participated in the band's ambitious project, "Wee Tam and the Big Huge" (1968), a double album that continued their exploration of diverse musical landscapes.
However, as the 1970s progressed, the ISB struggled to maintain their commercial success and critical acclaim. Changes in popular music tastes, along with the band's own evolving musical direction, led to a decline in their influence and output. By 1974, after the release of "Hard Rope & Silken Twine," the Incredible String Band disbanded.
Legacy
Despite their later years' challenges, The Incredible String Band's influence on the folk and psychedelic music scenes remains undeniable. Their innovative use of international instruments, pioneering recording techniques, and eclectic approach to folk music inspired a generation of musicians. Bands and artists across genres have cited the ISB as an influence, underlining their lasting impact on music and the countercultural movement of the 1960s.
In the years following their disbandment, the members of the ISB pursued solo careers and occasionally reunited for performances. Their music continues to be rediscovered by new generations of listeners, drawn to its unique blend of whimsy, spirituality, and musical exploration. The Incredible String Band remains a symbol of a transformative period in music history, celebrated for their contribution to expanding the boundaries of folk and psychedelic music.
Band Members
1. Robin Williamson - He played a wide variety of instruments, including guitar, gimbri, mandolin, and violin, and was known for his mystical and complex lyrical compositions. Williamson was a co-founder of the band and remained with it throughout its existence, contributing significantly to its distinctive sound and philosophical depth.
2. Mike Heron - Also a co-founder of the band, Heron played guitar, sitar, and keyboards, among other instruments. His songwriting complemented Williamson's, with both sharing a penchant for exploring spiritual themes and incorporating a diverse range of musical influences into their work.
3. Clive Palmer - Palmer was a co-founder of the ISB and played banjo and guitar. He was part of the band's original lineup and contributed to their first album before leaving to travel and subsequently pursue other musical projects. Palmer's early influence helped shape the band's direction towards blending traditional and contemporary folk music.
4. Licorice McKechnie - She joined the band in the late 1960s and contributed vocals, as well as playing various instruments. McKechnie's presence added to the band's eclectic sound and helped solidify their image as pioneers of the psychedelic folk genre.
5. Rose Simpson - Simpson, who joined around the same time as McKechnie, played bass and violin and also contributed vocals. Her involvement coincided with the band's most experimental phase, during which they produced some of their most acclaimed work.