It’s was a wonder this album happened at all. Those on the inside assumed 1971’s “Reflection” – recorded amidst regular conflicts within the ensemble and a dispute with Transatlantic Records over royalties – would be PENTANGLE‘s final plater. So when, a year later, the quintet found strength to come up with “Solomon’s Seal” – a fresh set of originals and traditional tunes, with “Willy O’ Winsbury” reprised from John Renbourn’s “Faro Annie” longplay of 1971 on which Danny Thompson and Terry Cox also played – and even embarked on an English tour, their fans were surprised. Still, the sales didn’t satisfy the musicians, and despite Jacqui McShee’s confessed love for this offering, the others, first and foremost Bert Jansch, seemed eager to seek out alternative opportunities, and in early 1973 the band folded. When they got back in 1985 to stay on until the present day, the line-up changed, and old magic remained unrestored, with the group’s last classic album a testament to their talents.
