Plainsong

Plainsong is a British country rock and folk rock band formed in the United Kingdom in 1972 by Iain Matthews, after his time in Fairport Convention. The original line-up includes Andy Roberts, Bob Ronga and Dave Richards.

Early albums and split

The band’s first album, In Search of Amelia Earhart, appears in 1972 and sells relatively poorly, although it receives a largely positive critical response. The follow-up, Plainsong III, moves further towards country music. During its recording, Bob Ronga leaves the group, and Matthews and Richards cannot agree on the band’s future direction. Plainsong breaks up before the album is completed.

Later activity

Interest in Plainsong returns in the early 1990s, leading to a series of later releases: Dark Side of the Room in 1993, Voices Electric in 1994, Sister Flute in 1996, and New Place Now in 1999. New Place Now features Clive Gregson, known from Any Trouble and Gregson & Collister. The group remains active until 2012.

Legacy

The band’s debut album continues to be regarded highly. Plainsong is also the former name of the band now known as Solstice.