Out Brothers, Out!

Although he denies it’s the band’s farewell album, Strawbs’ mainman Dave Cousins has split fans and former bandmates with current release The Magic Of It All. Recorded in South Africa and bursting at the seams with local talent, it fondly looks back on the group’s colourful career but also brings in new musical flavours. Prog catches up with Cousins to find out what he thinks of those who’ve dismissed the record, and what the future really holds for the band.

James McNair

“The Strawbs’ farewell album?” says Dave Cousins. “Who told you that?” The esteemed prog folk act’s sole constant since they formed in London in 1964, Cousins is referring to The Magic Of It All, the new LP he made in Cape Town, South Africa. Flummoxed, Prog protests that the new record has been billed as the Strawbs’ swansong in online news stories. “Well, it bloody well shouldn’t have been!” he says. “Just because my body isn’t up to playing live any more, it doesn’t mean I won’t continue recording. I have every intention of doing so.” Chatting from his home in Sandgate, near Folkestone in Kent, Cousins is admirably upbeat despite recent health trials including a major cancer op, stent replacements and a full knee replacement. He has plenty to…

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Prog (Digital) - 1 Issue, Issue 143

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