The Druids were an excellent acoustic folk quintet who started a little too late to achieve the major popularity of outfits like Steeleye Span and Fairport Convention, although very well respected across the country.
Formed as a trio in 1969 by former pop musician John Adams (vocals, mandolin, bass), and folk singers Keith Hendrick (vocals, guitar, banjo) and Mick Hennessy (vocals, bass), the group played its first gig at the Manchester Sports Guild in November of that year.
A few months later, nomadic fiddler Dave Broughton joined them, and in 1970, while appearing in a documentary film about English folk musicians, they met fifth member Judi Longden, who added her voice to the band.
With a dependence on acoustic instruments, the Druids were far more traditional-based than either Fairport Convention or Steeleye Span. Their repertory consisted of traditional English, Scottish, Welsh, and Irish songs arranged for four voices, and their music had a pleasingly archaic feel, not resembling folk-rock at all.
Burnt Offering featured Keith Kendrick on vocals, guitar, banjo; John Adams on vocals, mandolin, bass; Mick Hennessy on vocals, bass; Dave Broughton on fiddle, accordion; Judi Longden on vocals; and guest John Tams on whistle, chorus.
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Author: World Music Central News Room
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