from Oannes *…

Ένα παραδοσιακό εγγλέζικο τραγούδι του 18ου αιώνα, σε απαράμιλλη εκτέλεση από την Sandy Denny και τους Fairport Convention. Από το κλασικό τους άλμπουμ Liege And Lief του 1969.

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A traditional 18th century English song, in an unparalleled performance by Sandy Denny & Fairport Convention. From their classic album Liege And Lief, 1969.

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❝ As I was a-walking along Radcliffe Highway
A recruiting party came a-beating my way
They enlisted me and treated me ’til I did not know
And to the Queen’s barracks they forced me to go
When first I deserted, I thought myself free
Until my cruel comrade informed against me
I was quickly followed after and brought back with speed
I was handcuffed and guarded, heavy irons put on me
Court martial, court martial, they held upon me
And the sentence passed upon me: three-hundred-and-three
May the Lord have mercy on them for their sad cruelty
For now the Queen’s duty lies heavy on me
When next I deserted, I thought myself free
Until my cruel sweetheart informed against me
I was quickly followed after and brought back with speed
I was handcuffed and guarded, heavy irons put on me
Court martial, court martial then quickly was got
And the sentence passed upon me: that I was to be shot
May the Lord have mercy on them for their sad cruelty
For now the Queen’s duty lies heavy on me
Then up rode Prince Albert in his carriage-and-six
Saying, “Where is that young man whose coffin it is fixed?
Set him free from his irons and let him go free
For he’ll make a good soldier for his Queen and country. ❞

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Enjoy!

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As always, I’m happy to hear your thoughts, however I’d highly recommend a direct dialogue with the …’source’ [why comments are closed here], so please visit Oannes’ page where you can also listen to the song !

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* For my friends who didn’t know, or first timers here, Oannes [aka Socratis Papahatzis] is my husband, partner in life and music and the one with my undying admiration. Together we have a band MK-O [the music of Marina Kanavaki & Oannes]. So, it’s my pleasure to share with you his [and sometimes mine] musical selections. • Do visit his site. He has my highest recommendation!