The Incredible String Band – A Brief Overview
The Incredible String Band (ISB) was a unique British psychedelic folk group formed in Edinburgh in 1966 by Clive Palmer, Robin Williamson, and Mike Heron. They became known for their unusual instruments, mystical lyrics, and experimental sound that mixed folk, world music, and psychedelia.
Early Days
Robin Williamson and Clive Palmer started as a folk duo before recruiting Mike Heron and forming ISB. Their self-titled debut album in 1966 won praise, with Bob Dylan calling “October Song” one of his favourites. Palmer left shortly after its release, and Williamson and Heron continued as a duo.
Psychedelic Folk Pioneers
With albums like The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of the Onion and The Hangman’s Beautiful Daughter, ISB attracted a strong following in the late 1960s counterculture scene. Their music blended folk with Indian, Moroccan, and medieval influences. They were favourites of stars like Paul McCartney and Robert Plant.
Line-up and Lifestyle
Williamson and Heron were joined by performers like Licorice McKechnie, Rose Simpson, and Malcolm Le Maistre. They lived communally in Wales and experimented with multimedia shows, including the film Be Glad for the Song Has No Ending.
Woodstock and Beyond
The band was booked to play at Woodstock in 1969 but refused to perform in the rain and missed being featured in the film. Later albums, like Changing Horses, were less successful. Their theatrical live shows continued, but their popularity faded in the 1970s.
Final Years and Solo Careers
By 1974, ISB had split. Williamson and Heron pursued solo projects—Williamson in Celtic and avant-garde music, and Heron with various bands. Both released several solo albums.
Reunion and Legacy
They briefly reunited in 1999 and performed until 2006 with changing members. A tribute concert at London’s Barbican took place in 2009. Though never a mainstream act, ISB influenced many, including Led Zeppelin and The Beatles, and remain cult favourites for their spiritual and musical originality.