These are the first Bert Jansch albums I've heard, consisting almost entirely of the singer accompanied only by his own guitar. Although he's tagged as 'folk', this mainly self-penned material consists simply of personal experience (mostly love) and observation. Tinged here and there by blues and jazz influences, it's a short step from here to the 'singer-songwriter' tag. The first album contains six short instrumentals among its fifteen tracks, including a worthy version of Davy Graham's classic, 'Angie', and emphasises his excellence on guitar. His voice is soft, deep and melancholy almost throughout, whereas on the second album there are moments of insouciance and there are signs of a broadening vocal approach. Of the two duets with John Renbourn, 'Lucky Thirteen' provides a highlight, while of the songs, only 'Anti-Apartheid' sounds awkward. This is a collection of sometimes compelling, always honest performances by a then (1965) budding talent.
