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Henry Cow

Musical Group
Foradventurous listeners into avant-prog, experimental rock, rio, and politically charged art rock.
6 Reviews 5 Definitions 17 Charts

The Profile

Henry Cow were an English avant-prog and experimental rock group formed in Cambridge in 1968 by Fred Frith and Tim Hodgkinson. As founders of Rock in Opposition, they fused complex composition with improvisation and political intent before disbanding in 1978.

Formed in Cambridge (UK) in 1968 by Fred Frith and Tim Hodgkinson; core members included Chris Cutler, John Greaves, Lindsay Cooper, Geoff Leigh, and vocalist Dagmar Krause (via the Slapp Happy merger). Key albums: Legend (aka Leg End, 1973), Unrest (1974), In Praise of Learning (1975), Concerts (1976), Western Culture (1978). Founding force behind the Rock in Opposition movement; disbanded in 1978.

Reviews celebrate Henry Cow’s fearless blend of avant-prog, free improvisation, and political bite. Key albums—Legend, Unrest, In Praise of Learning, Western Culture—are praised for complex structures, daring studio work, and RIO ethos. Live cuts underline their improvisational prowess. Writers spotlight pivotal members and collaborations, especially the Slapp Happy merger and Dagmar Krause’s voice.

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