“Before there were many, there were few” - So starts the chapter about Stone Breath in Jeanette Leech’s book, “Seasons They Change: The Story of Acid and Psychedelic Folk” - and so it was back in 1995 when Stone Breath started. The 1960s had come and gone (the revival of the 60s and 70s folk bands was yet to come), the post-industrial scene’s flirtation with folk music had swayed to neo-classical or art-song, and the modern psychedelic scene was far more interested in Krautrock’s burning electricity than it was in acoustic instruments. Stone Breath, however, remained firmly rooted in folk music.
Wood, skin, bone, bronze, steel, gut. These are the materials of acoustic instruments. Materials of the earth. Stone Breath wanted to make earth music. Timeless music. Music that could be made without electricity. Music that could be played in field or forest (or even in lonely graveyards as was the case in the early days of the band). Stone Breath have held true to this vision over 9 albums, several eps, various compilation appearances, and almost 20 years.
Having remained a three-piece for most of the band’s life, recent years have seen the core band adding more members. The sound has moved gradually from sparse Syd Barrett meets Nick Drake ghost-songs to a much fuller sound - often incorporating layers of vocal harmonies and intricate instrumentation ranging from guitar and banjo to Middle Eastern instruments to homemade lyres, dulcitars, and more.
Members of Stone Breath backed Tom Rapp (of 60s/70s acid folk touchstone, Pearls Before Swine) for most of his comeback shows and recorded with Tom on his “Journal of the Plague Year” album. Stone Breath played most of the legendary Terrastock festivals sharing the bill with such acts as Tom Rapp, Country Joe, Sonic Youth, Acid Mothers Temple, The Bevis Frond, Kendra Smith, and many more. In 2001, Stone Breath conceived and helped organize The Poor Minstrels of Song and the Temple of the Moon tour - a traveling festival of acid/psychedelic/experimental acoustic music.
After initially splitting in 2006, the band reformed in 2009, releasing several new albums and performing live.
The Red Crossed Knight
Stone Breath Lyrics
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The dear remembrance of his dying Lord,
For whose sake that badge he bore,
And dead (as living) ever him adored
Upon his shield the like was scored
Sovereign hope in His help he had
Faithful true in deed and word,
But of his cheer seemed solemn sad
The Red Crossed Knight by Stone Breath is a song that portrays the life and actions of a knight who carries a bloody cross on his breast as a sign of his devotion to his Lord who died for him. The lyrics describe his unwavering faith and dedication towards his beliefs, despite the challenges and hardships he may face. It is said that the knight adored his Lord, both in life and in death, and carried the badge of the red cross as a symbol of his loyalty and faithfulness.
The knight's shield also bears a similar symbol, representing his faith and hope in His help. The knight is described as faithful and true in both his words and his deeds, but despite this, there is an underlying sense of solemn sadness that seems to surround him. This could possibly suggest the weight of responsibility and burden that the knight carries, knowing that he must always uphold his faith and remain steadfast in his beliefs.
The Red Crossed Knight is a deeply spiritual and symbolic song that presents the story of a knight's unwavering faith in the face of adversity. It portrays the importance of being true to one's beliefs, even when it might not be easy to do so. The song acts as an inspiration for those who may be struggling to stay true to their convictions, reminding them that there is always hope and that their faith will guide them through even the toughest of times.
Line by Line Meaning
And on his breast a bloody cross he bore,
He proudly wore a bloody cross on his chest, which served as a reminder of his slain Lord. He carried this emblem as a sign of his unwavering devotion and respect for the one who died for his sins.
The dear remembrance of his dying Lord,
The crimson mark on his chest stood as a cherished reminder of the Lord's ultimate sacrifice, a sacrifice he made to save humanity. The Red Crossed Knight revered his Lord and kept him in his thoughts always.
For whose sake that badge he bore,
The Red Crossed Knight wore the bloody cross in honor of his Lord, for whom he had pledged his life, service, and loyalty. His badge symbolized his devotion and commitment to his Lord's will.
And dead (as living) ever him adored
The Red Crossed Knight faithfully worshipped his Lord, both in life and even after death. He knew that his Lord was always with him, guiding him through every trial and tribulation of his journey.
Upon his shield the like was scored
The Red Crossed Knight painted a similar emblem onto his shield, signifying his unbroken faith in his Lord's protection and his determination to defend His honor with all his might. His shield was a symbol of his courage, faith, and his readiness to fight for righteousness.
Sovereign hope in His help he had
The Red Crossed Knight relied on his faith in his Lord when facing any challenge, as he knew that his Lord's divine power would guide him and lead him towards success no matter what. His faith was the source of his hope, which gave him the courage to conquer all his fears.
Faithful true in deed and word,
The Red Crossed Knight was a true follower of his Lord's teachings and principles, living his life according to what was written in His holy book. He was loyal to his beliefs, and his actions always matched his words.
But of his cheer seemed solemn sad
Despite his unwavering faith and devotion, the Red Crossed Knight was a serious and solemn character, who always carried the weight of his responsibilities on his shoulders. His journey was fraught with danger and obstacles, which kept him in a constant state of alertness and seriousness.
Contributed by Isaiah K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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