An English Winter{plus}: Musicke Through the Ages

Look hard and see me parachuting into Castle Croude Studios near Big Ben

That particular spelling of music dates back at least to the early 1600's--and--symbolizes our exploration of the antiquarian marrying the modern this Saturday night.  From modern melodies to ancient... old Albion has given us a treasure of  songs and tunes that have survived centuries... sometimes in original but often modified forms that carry the same spirit of the past.

Saturday night brings us to a show circling a diversity of forms as you'll hear them - original vinyl, CDs, MP3s - ringing from across the pond to your sonic abode.  Almost 20 years ago I had an informal band that enjoyed bringing to life some fo this week's fare.  However...all you need do is cozy up and pour yourseslf a warm libation.  Light a few candles while you're at it.  Imagine snow like I will do, too.

I will say the hour is a unique blend with our own kind of wassail apples, or more corectly, Apple (as in the studio) from Mary Hopkin to original and derivative Beatles.  What we now take for granted with the incorporation of electric and acoustic instruments together was quite novel during the original releases of classic English songs interpreted by the likes of Steeleye Span, Pentangle, Fairport Convention.  They lend their originality to the mix as well.  These are three of the watershed groups of late 60's origin that at times exchanged band mates.  Ashley Hutchings as bass did double duty with SS and Fairport.  I'm to happy to say, being such a fan of anglo-celtic musings I have been able to see musicians from all of the latter grouping. Even John Renbourn did a stint at VCU's Guitar and Other Strings series a few summers ago.  WCVE Public Radio was a sponsor for that and I'm happy to say, again.

This aural episode of a winter's tale--yes pun intended (don't boo) also delves into some mighty eclectic fourth season sounds. Only Blood, Sweat and Tears back in the late 60's could use brass and woodwinds to conjure their own form of artistic precipitate. And in a completely different sonic forum, the trio of Cream - dare I say iced Cream on this night?  Musical bookends are provided by the legendary Robin Williamson from one of his most neglected discs in the mid 80s, now considered an unalloyed masterpiece. I had the experience of seeing RW live in NYC a generation ago and I still have not forgotten his powerful,  acoustic majesty in a small packed club.

All said and done, you have a taste of 13 different cups of Musicke-al Tea that will be served up for your enjoyment.  Your own libations welcome, of course.  Cheers!

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The Electric Croude, Central VA's longest running eclectic show, airs late Saturdays at midnight EST only on WCVE Public Radio.

Follow the producer on Twitter: wcvegeorgemaida and Facebook at Geo Maida.

Co-hosted by Hermie the Wistful Cricket giving new meaning to the purchase of winter boots. Guess how many lefts and rights there are.