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• The incredible String Band is one of the more esoteric groups that existed in the 1960's. The band combined Celtic folk melodies with the variety of Middle Eastern and Asian instruments. They formed in Scotland by Robin Williamson and Clive Palmer who began performing together as a traditional folk duo in Edinburgh. In 1966, the duo decided adding a third member and after an audition, Mike Heron joined the band as rhythm guitarist.

• Fast Facts

  1. Origin: Scotland
  2. Genre: Psychedelic, Folk
  3. Years Active: 1965-1974 and 1999-2006
  4. Record Labels: Elektra Records, Island Records
  5. Members: Robin Williamson, Clive Palmer, Mike Heron
  6. "October Song" was one of the favorite songs of Bob Daylan.

• The Trio

  In May, 1966 the group recorded their first album which was self-titled,The Incredible String Band. The album was released in Britain and United States. After releasing their debut album, Palmer left the group so that he could travel to Afghanistan.

• The Duo

  Williams and Heron went on to perform as a duo and released numerous albums. Their third album, The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter reached the Top Ten in the British album charts. In 1970, Robin Williamson decided to merge their music with London's Roundhouse (also called U) and made the transition to electric rock in 1972. The band disbanded in 1974.

• Solo Careers

  Both Heron and Williamson went on to have successful solo careers. Heron had a successful rock career while Williamson explored his Celtic roots.

• Reunion

  Heron and Williamson reunite and performed two concerts in 1997. Later they were joined by Palmer, and Williamson's wife, Bina and began touring. Along the way the band added [[Lawson Dando[[ and Claire "Fluff" Smith and continued touring. The group performed their final concert in September, 2006.

• Partial Discography

  • 1966: The Incredible String Band
  • 1967: The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of the Onion
  • 1968: The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter
  • 1969: Changing Horses
  • 1970: I Looked Up
  • 1971: Be Glad for the Song Has No Ending
  • 1972: Earthspan
  • 1973: No Ruinous Feud
  • 1992: BBC Radio 1 Live In Concert

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