Speedy Return

There's a little bit of a second-generation British folk-rock feel to Ashley's second album, links to the first generation being the presence of Fairport Convention's rhythm section (bassist Dave Pegg and drummer Dave Mattacks) on several tracks as well as some orchestration by Robert Kirby (who did the same for Nick Drake). It's mild, varied mid-'70s British folk-rock sometimes verging on reflective singer/songwriter stuff, particularly on the tunes with strings, "Broken Wing" (one of the better numbers) coming almost close to pop. But there are also echoes of several forms of traditional British Isles folk music in the melodies and lilt of some of the rhythms, especially on "Old John England," which is based on the traditional tune "Pase el Agoa." Ashley's thin, gentle voice doesn't carry his intricate, sometimes abstract lyrics with memorable force or nuance, though, and his melodies are pleasant but not outstanding.