WELCOME TO LPCDREISSUES
Customers who bought this also bought:
From Little Acorns Grow is the rare 1976 debut album by North-East English folk group Crooked Oak. Originally issued privately by Folkland Records, it combines traditional British and Irish material with contemporary songs, creating an intimate recording distinguished by expressive singing, fiddle, whistle, mandolin and cittern.
The album features Steve Evans on guitar, mandolin and vocals, Paul Rogley on whistle, mandolin and cittern, and Barry Walker on fiddle. With no drums or electric instrumentation, the trio rely on careful acoustic interplay and changes of texture, allowing the melodies and narratives to remain at the centre of the music.
“Hold the Lantern High” opens the record with one of Steve Evans' most memorable compositions. Inspired by the fishing communities of North-East England, its concise melody and restrained arrangement establish the reflective atmosphere that continues throughout the album.
“Jimmy Clay” develops into a darker narrative performance, while the instrumental set combining “Lord Inchyquinn,” “Fairmoyne Lasses” and “Sporting Paddy” highlights the group's traditional playing. Fiddle, whistle and plucked strings move naturally between measured melodies and livelier dance rhythms.
“The Morning Lies Heavy on Me” and “Paddy's Green Shamrock Shore” bring a melancholy vocal character to the end of the first side. The short instrumental “The Morning Dew and the Oak Tree” provides a gentle transition into the second half of the album.
“Cold Hard Town” and “The Village Fool” continue the mixture of original songwriting and traditional influence. The energetic “Kilfonora Jig” is followed by the reflective “Green Mountain Home,” before the instrumental “Song of the Lonesome Boatman” closes the album with whistle and strings.
Its understated arrangements, strong melodies and sense of place have made From Little Acorns Grow a valued recording among collectors of privately pressed British folk. This limited Seelie Court edition restores the complete original eleven-track album on vinyl and includes a printed inner sleeve.
Track listing:
Side A
Side B
