What We Did on Our Holidays

"What We Did on Our Holidays" is the second studio album by British folk rock band Fairport Convention, released in January 1969. It marks a significant evolution from their debut album by incorporating more folk-oriented material, showcasing a blend of American folk rock influences with British traditional music.

The album was pivotal in establishing Fairport Convention as a key player in the British folk rock movement. It featured the debut of Sandy Denny as a member of the band, whose distinctive vocals and songwriting would become a defining aspect of Fairport's sound. Denny contributed to the album both as a lead vocalist and songwriter, with the song "Fotheringay" being a notable original piece that demonstrated her talents.

The album's tracks include a mix of original compositions and covers, with standout songs like "Meet on the Ledge," written by Richard Thompson, which became one of the band's signature tunes. The mixture of electric rock instrumentation with folk melodies and traditional influences was groundbreaking at the time, setting a trend that would influence numerous artists.

"What We Did on Our Holidays" helped Fairport Convention develop their unique sound, which they would continue to evolve in subsequent albums. Its innovative blend of genres and the introduction of Sandy Denny's remarkable voice remain highly influential in the folk rock genre.