Martin Carthy’s new album, Transform Me Then into a Fish, marks his first solo release in 21 years, as the folk icon continues to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional folk music with his timeless legacy.
The Evolution of Scarborough Fair: A Folk Icon’s Journey
A Song for the Ages
For 60 years, Martin Carthy has been fascinated by the traditional folk song ‘Scarborough Fair.’ The song, which originated in the 16th century, has undergone many transformations over the years, with each artist leaving their mark. For Carthy, Scarborough Fair is more than just a song – it’s a journey through time and memory.
Martin Carthy is a renowned British folk singer, guitarist, and composer.
Born in 1941, he rose to fame in the 1960s as part of the English folk revival movement.
Known for his unique guitar style and emotive vocals, Carthy has released numerous albums and collaborated with notable artists such as Dave Swarbrick and Richard Thompson.
He is also a skilled arranger and has recorded traditional songs from around the world.
A Tribute to the Past
Carthy’s new album, Transform Me Then into a Fish, marks his first solo release in 21 years. The project began as a 60th-anniversary tribute to his debut album in 1965, but evolved over time, incorporating eight original songs, including Scarborough Fair. Carthy’s version features sitar backing from Sheema Mukherjee, giving it a mysterious and spooky edge.
A Legend Born
Carthy first recorded Scarborough Fair on his self-titled debut album in 1965. The song was introduced to him by Jacqueline McDonald at the Troubadour folk club in Earl’s Court, where he had heard it being sung for the first time. Carthy was captivated by the melody and wrote an arrangement of his own. When Bob Dylan came to watch him play at the Troubadour, Carthy taught him how to sing Scarborough Fair.
A Legendary Encounter
Dylan’s visit to Carthy’s house in 1962-3 became a folk legend. During one of their encounters, Dylan was so enthusiastic about Scarborough Fair that he asked Carthy to ‘teach me that, teach me that.‘ The story goes that Carthy, who had been chopping up an old piano with a sword, handed the instrument to Dylan, who proceeded to destroy it.
Bob Dylan is a renowned American singer-songwriter and musician.
Born on May 24, 1941, in Duluth, Minnesota, he began his music career in the early 1960s.
Known for his poetic and often enigmatic lyrics, Dylan's music spans multiple genres, including folk, rock, and blues.
He has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including 'Highway 61 Revisited' and 'Blood on the Tracks'.
A six-time Grammy Award winner, Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016 for his contributions to literature.
A Legacy of Friendship
Despite the tumultuous encounter between Carthy and Dylan, their friendship endured. In 2000, they made amends by performing Scarborough Fair together on stage at Hammersmith Apollo. Carthy’s version has since been met with both praise and criticism from fans and fellow musicians alike.
The Power of Improvisation
Carthy’s collaboration with Sheema Mukherjee in Transform Me Then into a Fish highlights the power of improvisation in music. The sitar backing adds an exotic and otherworldly dimension to the song, showcasing Carthy’s willingness to take risks and explore new sonic landscapes.
A New Chapter
As Carthy celebrates his 84th birthday today, he is back on the scene with Transform Me Then into a Fish. With his daughter Eliza by his side, Carthy continues to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional folk music. His latest album is a testament to his enduring creativity and passion for the genre.
A Song That Transcends Time
Scarborough Fair remains a timeless classic, its melody and lyrics evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder. For Martin Carthy, the song represents more than just a musical artifact – it’s a connection to the past, a bridge between generations, and a testament to the power of music to transcend time and memory.
The Story Behind the Song
Carthy recalls how he first heard Scarborough Fair at the Troubadour folk club in 1960. He was immediately drawn to its haunting melody and wrote an arrangement that showcased his own unique style. When Paul Simon recorded Scarborough Fair/Canticle, Carthy felt a sense of disappointment, as the credits did not acknowledge his contribution.
A New Chapter for Eliza
The new album features Eliza Carthy on fiddle, providing a beautiful and evocative accompaniment to her father’s vocals. Their collaboration is a testament to their musical bond and creative partnership.
Eliza Carthy is a renowned English folk singer, songwriter, and musician.
Born on June 23, 1972, in Chatham, Kent, she comes from a musical family.
Her father, Martin Carthy, was a legendary folk musician who influenced her early life.
Eliza's music career spans over three decades, with numerous awards and nominations.
She is known for her powerful vocals, eclectic style, and energetic live performances.
The Future Ahead
With Transform Me Then into a Fish, Martin Carthy continues his legacy as a folk icon. His music remains a source of inspiration for new generations of musicians and fans alike. As he celebrates his 84th birthday today, we look forward to seeing what the future holds for this beloved musician.
