Folkal Point

Release Overview

Folkal Point, the sole studio album from the Bristol-based folk quartet of the same name, was released in 1972 under Midas Recordings. The album was produced by Alan Green and is cataloged as MR-003. With its limited initial pressing of only 500 copies, the album faced a significant setback when approximately half of these were lost in a warehouse disaster shortly after its release.

Musical Composition

The album features Cherie Musialik on lead vocals, supported by multi-instrumentalists Stuart Amesbury, Mark Steed, and Paul Cook. The combination of acoustic guitars and banjo provides a rich backdrop for Musialik's clear and youthful voice. Folkal Point presents a blend of traditional British folk songs and contemporary American folk standards. Highlights include renditions of "Scarborough Fair," "Lovely Joan," and "Edom O'Gordon," alongside modern classics such as Joni Mitchell's "Circle Game" and Bob Dylan's "You Ain't Going Nowhere."

Track Highlights

Among the 12 tracks, "Sweet Sir Galahad" and "Victoria Dines Alone" showcase the group's ability to interpret complex narratives through their music. The arrangements are marked by intricate acoustic instrumentation, allowing the harmonies and melodies to shine. The album's production emphasizes the warmth of the acoustic sound, which is characteristic of the folk music genre in the early 1970s.

Historical Context

Folkal Point was part of a vibrant folk scene in the UK during the early 1970s. The group's sound reflects the era's fascination with both traditional folk music and the burgeoning influence of American folk artists. The album’s diverse repertoire captures the essence of this musical crossover, appealing to fans of both British and American folk traditions.

Release Details

Folkal Point's eponymous album was released in 1972, and it includes a total of 12 tracks. The album’s catalog number with Midas Recordings is MR-003.