The Pentangle

The Profile

The Pentangle are a British folk–jazz group formed in London in 1967 by guitarists Bert Jansch and John Renbourn with vocalist Jacqui McShee, bassist Danny Thompson, and drummer Terry Cox. They fused traditional English, Scottish and American folk with jazz inflection and blues hues, releasing landmarks such as The Pentangle (1968), Sweet Child (1968) and Basket of Light (1969). The original lineup disbanded in 1973 and reunited in the early 1980s for further recordings and tours.

Light Flight became the theme for the BBC TV series Take Three Girls; Basket of Light reached the UK Albums Chart; the group received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards (2007).

Reviews praise The Pentangle’s rare blend of traditional folk and jazz, spotlighting intricate guitar work, Danny Thompson’s jazz-rooted bass, and Jacqui McShee’s luminous voice. Sweet Child is hailed for capturing their range live and in studio, while Cruel Sister marks a mature, exploratory peak with the epic Jack Orion. Solomon’s Seal keeps their signature textures and elevates traditionals like Willy O’Winsbury. Overall sentiment: reverent and admiring.