Bert Jansch: The Enduring legacy of a British Folk Guitar Innovator
Bert jansch wasn’t just a guitarist; he was a foundational figure in the British folk revival, a restless innovator, and a subtle influence on some of rockS biggest names. his music, characterized by intricate fingerpicking and haunting melodies, continues to resonate with musicians and listeners alike. This article delves into Jansch’s career, exploring his unique approach, his impact, and the enduring mystery surrounding his creative process.
A Pioneer of Improvisation & Intimacy
Jansch’s early work with Pentangle, the influential folk-jazz band he co-founded, was anything but predictable. The band thrived on spontaneity. “Musically,it was never the same twice,” recalls Pentangle bandmate Bert.They contrasted sharply with bands like Led Zeppelin, who largely maintained a consistent sound.
Pentangle’s performances were known for their extended improvisations, sometimes lasting upwards of half an hour. They were, according to Jansch, “more outrageous than The Who.” This willingness to experiment, and perhaps a bit of mischief, allowed them to push boundaries. (Former bandmate Renbourn playfully hints at some “bad stuff” they got away with.)
The “Black Waterside” connection & Jimmy Page
Jansch’s influence extended beyond the folk scene.While touring America with Pentangle, he discovered that his arrangement of “Black Waterside” had deeply inspired Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page in the creation of “Black Mountainside.”
You might expect Jansch to feel possessive or resentful. Instead, he approaches the topic with remarkable grace. He initially had no knowledge of Page, but acknowledges the difference in their musical approaches. Jansch’s strength lay in intimate settings. “Where I’ll play well is to a small club, from that to a concert hall – anything beyond that I freaks me out…”
Seeking the Core: LA Turnaround and Beyond
Following Pentangle, Jansch explored various projects. Moonshine (1972), produced by Danny Thompson, featured lavish arrangements by Tony Visconti. However, 1974’s LA Turnaround, guided by former Monkee Mike nesmith, proved to be a turning point.
Johnny Marr, renowned guitarist of The Smiths, remembers discovering LA Turnaround in the late 70s. He describes Jansch’s playing as a captivating blend of “magic,and straightforward” skill.
LA Turnaround was recorded at the home of Charisma label boss Tony Stratton-Smith. It represented a return to the core values that defined Jansch’s early success: intimacy, strong songwriting, and exceptional musicianship. The album even included a re-recorded version of his signature song, “Needle of Death,” enhanced by the pedal-steel artistry of Red Rhodes, yet retaining its original chilling power.
The Art of Storytelling: A Natural Gift
Jansch’s songwriting ability was often remarked upon. He possessed a remarkable talent for conveying entire narratives within a single line.
he once discussed this with hymn writer Sydney Carter, who observed that Jansch could encapsulate a complete story in a line, while Carter required an entire verse.Jansch himself seemed unaware of this skill, stating, “You don’t realize that you’re doing it…”
This effortless storytelling is a hallmark of his work. Its a testament to his intuitive understanding of melody, rhythm, and lyrical economy.
The Mystery Remains: Decoding the Jansch Method
Even late in his career, Jansch maintained a certain mystique about his creative process. He described it as a mixture of “magic and clarity,” a sentiment echoed by Johnny Marr.
Interestingly, online advertisements have attempted to capitalize on this mystique, promising to reveal “the three secrets that made a legend!” Jansch himself was amused by the idea. “I wonder what they are?” he quipped.
Perhaps the “secret” isn’t a formula, but rather a unique combination of talent, intuition, and a lifelong dedication to exploring the possibilities of the acoustic guitar.
Key Takeaways:
* Innovation: Jansch was a pioneer of fingerstyle guitar and improvisation within the British folk scene.
* Influence: His music inspired