The Watersons

The Watersons were an English folk group from Hull in Yorkshire. They performed mainly traditional songs with little or no accompaniment, creating a distinctive sound through their closely-woven harmonies.

Originally formed by Norma, Mike, and Lal Waterson, along with their cousin John Harrison, the group started as a skiffle band in the early 1960s before transitioning to playing more traditional material. Initially known as "The Folksons," they released their debut album Frost and Fire in 1965, which was awarded the "Melody Maker" Album of the Year.

After briefly disbanding in 1968, The Watersons reformed in 1972 with Martin Carthy replacing Bernie Vickers. This lineup recorded several albums including For Pence and Spicy Ale (1975) and Green Fields (1981). Later lineups featured Rachel Waterson and collaborations with Swan Arcade under the name Blue Murder.