Guide to British Music of the 1960s
June 1998
Book Review
Gently Tender, The Incredible String Band by Ken Brookes
They undoubtedly had a strong influence on British and worldwide music but, despite this, the Incredible String Band has been poorly covered by literature. Ken Brooks' effort looks to partially rectify this. This is not the complete history of the Incredible String Band but it focuses on their recording career as well as the solo careers of Mike Heron and Robin Williamson, the two leading protagonists. Mike and Robin brought a different type of music to the wider consciousness and introduced world music to a wider stage. They were even one of only two British groups to play Woodstock, even if they didn't make the film of the event. Even today, the on-stage reunion of Mike and Robin in Glasgow and London meant that tickets sold out quickly. The London event was graced my many from the ISB's career as well as long-time admirers like Roy Harper and Robert Plant.
By focusing on the record, this book looks to demystify the songs, some of which have prompted much comment. They range from the childlike innocence of Painting Box through the mock-opera of The Minotaur's Song to later calypso and rock. What is Koeeoaddi There really about? Aficionados will probably know most of what is in the book but for the casual listener there will be much that can be learned. The book is up-to-date as of the end of 1997 and so includes Robin Williamson's phenomenal output during the year.
So this is not the definitive Incredible String Band work and there is still a need for a book which covers all aspects of the band's career. It does represent a start in building a reference work on the group. However, its ambition to cover every song means that it is an overview rather than a detailed appraisal and so may not please the die-hard enthusiast.
ISBN: 1-899882-65-0
First published 1998 by Agenda