Fairport Convention Members, Gear & Sound
English folk rock band
Members
Select a Fairport Convention band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Fairport Convention is an iconic British folk-rock band that emerged in 1967, fundamentally shaping the genre by blending traditional British folk with rock music elements. Founded in London, the group initially consisted of Richard Thompson (guitar, vocals), Simon Nicol (guitar, vocals), Ashley Hutchings (bass), Judy Dyble (vocals), and Martin Lamble (drums). Over the years, the lineup has shifted frequently, but each iteration has maintained the band's commitment to marrying the rich heritage of British folk with the energy and innovation of rock. Their sound spans multiple genres, including folk rock, psychedelic folk, and progressive folk, making them pioneers within these realms. Renowned for their interpretations of traditional songs and original compositions, Fairport Convention is celebrated for their influential albums like Liege & Lief and Unhalfbricking.
How to Sound Like Fairport Convention
Capturing Fairport Convention's sound involves harnessing a blend of rich, melodic textures and earthy, acoustic tones. Their music often features intricate guitar work and layered vocal harmonies, creating a sound that is both robust and ethereal. The use of acoustic guitars, such as the Lowden L32C and Martin 000-18, is crucial in achieving the warm, resonant timbre that defines much of their work. Amplifiers like the Fender Deluxe Amp lend a vintage, tube-driven warmth, integral to the band's dynamic range. The incorporation of subtle overdrive effects, such as those from the Nobels ODR-1 Natural Overdrive, adds a touch of grit without overshadowing the acoustic clarity. This balance between traditional folk instrumentation and rock sensibilities is what gives Fairport Convention their enduring and influential sonic character.
Discography
Fairport Convention (Bonus Track Edition)
1968
What We Did On Our Holidays (Bonus Track Edition)
1969
Unhalfbricking (Bonus Track Edition)
1969
Liege And Lief
1969
Full House (Bonus Track Edition)
1970
"Babbacombe" Lee
1971
Rosie (Bonus Track Edition)
1973
Alive In America - 1974
1974
Rising For The Moon
1975
Live at Rockpalast
1976
The Bonny Bunch Of Roses
1977
Tipplers Tales
1978
Farewell Farewell (40th Anniversary Edition)
1979
Moat On The Ledge
1982
Gladys' Leap
1985
Expletive Delighted!
1986
House Full - Live At The LA Troubadour
1986
The Wood And The Wire
2000
From Cropredy To Portmeirion
2002
XXXV
2002
Festival
2003
Over the Next Hill
2004
Journeyman's Grace
2005
Acoustically Down Under
2005
Jewel In The Crown
2005
Who Knows?
2005
On The Ledge 35 Th Anniversary Concert
2007
Fame and Glory
2011
Festival Bell
2011
Live at Cropredy '08
2011
Off the Desk
2011
Sense of Occasion
2011
4 Play
2012
Babbacombe Lee Live Again
2012
By Popular Request
2012
In Real Time - Live '87
2013
Live in Finland 1971
2016
Myths and Heroes
2016
50:50@50
2017
Come All Ye - The First Ten Years (1968 To 1978)
2017
35th Anniversary Concert
2017
What We Did on Our Saturday (Live)
2018
Shuffle and Go
2020
Fame And Glory
2020
Live At Rock City, Nottingham 1987
2020
Full House for Sale (Live)
2023
Live Fillmore East 1970
2023
A Live Recording: UK Tour October 2023
2024
Get the Fairport Convention Sound
Want to sound like Fairport Convention? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.