Farewell, Farewell

Fairport Convention: Simon Nicol (vocals, guitar, viola, dulcimer); Dave Swarbick (vocals, mandolin, violin, viola); Dave Pegg (vocals, mandolin, viola, bass); Bruce Rowland (keyboards, bass, drums).
Includes liner notes by Simon Hart.
All tracks have been digitally remastered.
This is a live album from Fairport Convention's "final" tour in 1979. Fiddler Dave Swarbrick's hearing problems subsequently led him to a decision to leave the world of amplified music. Additionally, a gradual decline in sales over the course of the '70s made the prospect of disbanding seem inescapable. Without a record contract, Fairport self-released FAREWELL, FAREWELL. In the process, they unknowingly started a cottage industry that saw the band reconvening, for an annual summer festival at first, but permanently a few years later. In the wake of Fairport's revitalization, the album was reissued with the title ENCORE ENCORE.
Billed as their Farewell Tour in the spring of '79, the shows had a family feel, with longtime fans turning out to hear selections that highlighted the band's history. Originals blend perfectly with updated traditional numbers. When they'd first explored this blend a decade prior, it was groundbreaking. Even in '79, the music is still imbued with an ease and grace, which made Fairport's farewell bittersweet. Had their breakup taken, Fairport Convention definitely would've gone out on a high note.