The early 1970s would prove to be the start of a vintage period for music and the beginning of an era that would change the world. For Steeleye Span – as the previous decade had drawn to a close – it would see them established as a major creative force.
By the end of 1971 they had not only released their classic debut Hark The Village Wait but two follow ups – Please To See The King and Ten Man Mop – launching one of the most enduring stories in the folk world and beyond. Pioneers of folk-rock, Steeleye Span changed the face of folk music forever, taking it out of small clubs and into the world of gold discs and international tours. Five decades on and the band, led as ever by the iconic vocals of Maddy Prior and a line-up featuring some of the most skilled musicians on the UK music scene, celebrate fifty years of these famous albums, playing key tracks from all three as well as favourites and gems from their long and glittering career. The legendary band commence their 2022 tour when they face the Lytham Pavilion spotlight on Tuesday 3rd May.
Steeleye Span will release a special live concert recording of their debut album Hark The Village Wait, which will be available digitally on 2nd May.
The present Steeleye line-up is: The Legendary Maddy Prior (vocals), with long term member Liam Genockey (drums), Julian Littman, guitar/keyboards and vocals) Andrew Sinclair (guitar), Violeta Vicci (violin and backing vocals), Benji Kirkpatrick (guitar and backing vocals) and Roger Carey (bass)
Maddy Prior is a true legend of folk and popular music. Her voice swooping and soaring in harmony and melody. Her voice is still remarkable. It is hard to think how Steeleye will survive without her at the helm when she eventually does decide to hang up her hat (the one with the green willow around it). But let us bask in her glory, she still dances infectiously to the jigs, as happy in the moment as she has ever been.
Sitting at the back with his long beard looking every inch the hippy figure is Liam Genockey on drums. Liam uses his kit to create sounds and atmospheres which are far more than hitting a stick against a skin. He utilises the metallic edges, the case – any part of the drum kit he thinks can add a particular moment to a song. His playing is very subtle and always beautiful
Julian Littman has been a part of the band since 2011 and has a huge pedigree of playing with some top-rated artists including David Bowie. He is a bit of a jack of all trades being an actor, singer, musician, song writer – you name it he does it. Julian plays guitars, keyboards and vocals.
Another relative newcomer to the bus is Andrew ‘Spud’ Sinclair. Playing superb guitar and impressive on vocals too, he clearly is an excellent fit.
The newest members bassist Roger Carey and multi-instrumentalist Benji Kirkpatrick (son of former member John Kirkpatrick who played with the band in 1977-1978 the group are now a dynasty) playing and singing as if they had forever been a part of the line up. Also, Violeta Vicci, a virtuoso violinist, who skilfully steps in when Jesse Mae Smart is unable to tour.
Tickets and more information are available here: https://lowtherpavilion.co.uk/shows/steeleye-span-the-50th-anniversary-of-hark-the-village-wait-tour-2022/
