"Baroque and Roll" is the sixteenth studio album by Acoustic Strawbs, a configuration of the band that emerged somewhat unexpectedly. The Acoustic Strawbs came into being after an incident where Dave Cousins and Brian Willoughby were scheduled to perform as a duo in Twickenham in 2000. Due to Cousins injuring his wrist, Dave Lambert stepped in to cover on guitar while Cousins continued to sing. This new format proved successful, leading to further tours and performances.
Brian Willoughby eventually stepped down from Acoustic Strawbs in 2004 to focus on his collaboration with Cathryn Craig. He was replaced by Chas Cronk, who not only took on bass pedals and acoustic bass guitar but also contributed additional vocals and guitar work. This lineup change brought a fresh dynamic to the Acoustic Strawbs, enhancing their sound with new musical elements and vocal harmonies.
"Baroque and Roll," therefore, showcases the evolution of Acoustic Strawbs with Chas Cronk's contributions, blending the band's folk-rock roots with intricate acoustic arrangements and a renewed energy. The album continues to highlight the band's enduring musicality and adaptability, resonating with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
