The obscure English folk trio Tudor Lodge was formed in Reading in 1968 and took its name from a local pub. Together with the US-born singer, guitarist, pianist and flautist Ann Steuart, the two singers and guitarists John Stannard and Lyndon Greene went on to become a popular attraction on the folk club scene throughout the UK. Their performance at the Cambridge Folk Festival in 1971 was particularly memorable, securing them a record deal with Vertigo, the progressive sub-label of Philips.

Backed by numerous top-class studio musicians – including Pentangle’s first-rate rhythm section with Danny Thompson on bass and Terry Cox on drums – they recorded their debut album at Lansdowne Studios in London, with Terry Brown as producer. They played a delicate form of progressive folk that was highly original for its time, characterized by complex arrangements, excellent use of flute and acoustic guitars, and brilliant vocals.

The eponymous LP, released in August 1971 on the sought-after progressive label Vertigo, went on to become one of the most revered progressive freak-folk albums of all time. This is undoubtedly helped by the magnificent six-panel gatefold cover designed by Phil Duffy, which unfolds into a splendid poster. After a number of gigs and tours, however, the group disbanded in 1972 as the members went their separate ways. Original copies of this album are of almost unimaginable rarity, making this work the third most valuable Vertigo release.