Banks of the Ohio single reviews - Unknown

Banks of the Ohio single reviews

Banks of the Ohio - Two single reviews 1971

1. Banks Of The Ohio (Pye 7N25568-stereo)

This is strong stuff for the gentle lady - “I held a knife against his breast” and such lines. All about threatening to kill this bloke for reasons which I confess I never bothered to ascertain.

A deceptively simple traditional song which I’m certain is going to be another hit. A straight oft-repeated building melody with deep throaty males on the chorus and something of which personally I shall very quickly tire. But no matter, this is the sound that has all-generation appeal, like ‘Tom Tom Turnaround’ and others of that ilk.

I hear the Weavers or Kingston Trio doing stuff like this, but Olivia manages well too, with a little help from her many friends.

Second review: Banks Of The Ohio; Would You Follow Me (Pye Int 25568)

A traditional air, re-jigged and updated by John Farrar and Bruce Welch - Olivia singing over a simple guitar backing. Voices add harmonic aid later on…there’s a cosy comfortable feel to all of it. Maybe not a smash, but it sticks instantly in the mind.