Steeleye Span's Wyvern Theatre date

By Barrie Hudson - 22 April 2024

Arts and CultureAttractions

Folk rock pioneers Steeleye Span have announced a Wyvern Theatre gig for Monday 20 May.

The band, which five decades ago changed the face of the genre forever by taking it out of small clubs and into the world of gold discs and international tours, continues to celebrate its famous past alongside its recent history. 

Their latest release, The Green Man Collection, brings together tracks from recent albums with new versions of three Steeleye classics including a reworking of ‘Hard Times’ featuring Status Quo’s Francis Rossi and a cover of Elvis Costello’s ‘Shipbuilding’. 

The title track is of special interest to Steeleye fans, as it is a song by Bob Johnson who was a member of the band throughout the early years and responsible for many of their classic ballads from that era. 

Previously lost for 40 years, the song addressed the issue of climate change long before it became such a widespread topic.

The tour marks the band's first live dates of the year, where they will be joined by new member Athena Octavia – part of indie folk band Iris & Steel and an acclaimed classical violinist. 

A spokesperson said: "As ever – and with such a rich history to choose from – the night will offer a selection of songs from across the years and albums, coupled with firm fan favourites."

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 it would see them established as a major creative force. 

"The Green Man Collection is Steeleye Span’s latest album and was released on Friday 1 December 2023. It is available from parkrecords.com or all good music retailers."

Details of the Wyvern date can be found at http://tinyurl.com/3yjxn2s5 

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