Milk and Honey Milk and Honey

Milk and Honey: The Enchanting Vocal Trio Behind "Hallelujah"

In the ethereal realm of folk music, the ethereal harmonies of Milk and Honey have left an indelible mark. This enigmatic trio, composed of Annie Haslam, Sally Oldfield, and Dorothy Carter, emerged in the late 1960s, captivating audiences with their celestial blend of voices.

Early Days and Challenges:

Milk and Honey's journey began as a backing vocal group for Fairport Convention, one of the pioneers of British folk rock. However, their distinct sound and exceptional talent soon propelled them into the spotlight as a standalone act. Despite their critical acclaim, they faced challenges in gaining commercial success, as their music defied easy categorization.

The Controversial "Hallelujah":

In 1970, Milk and Honey released their debut album, "Milk and Honey," which featured a haunting rendition of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah." The song, originally recorded by Cohen in 1984, became a staple of their repertoire. However, it also sparked controversy due to its religious undertones and the trio's choice to censor some of the lyrics.

Discography and Legacy:

Throughout their career, Milk and Honey released four studio albums:

- Milk and Honey (1970)
- Twogether (1970)
- Out of Our Bellies (1972)
- Farewell (1976)

Their music was characterized by intricate vocal arrangements, ethereal melodies, and a timeless quality. Their harmonies resonated with listeners, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Members and Personalities:

Annie Haslam: The lead vocalist and driving force behind Milk and Honey, Annie Haslam's powerful and soaring voice was the defining element of the trio. After the band's dissolution, she went on to a successful solo career.

Sally Oldfield: The middle voice of Milk and Honey, Sally Oldfield provided a haunting and ethereal presence to the group's sound. She later became a renowned solo artist in her own right.

Dorothy Carter: The bass vocalist of Milk and Honey, Dorothy Carter added depth and warmth to the trio's harmonies. She continued to perform with other groups after the band's breakup.

Legacy:

Milk and Honey's influence on folk music remains undeniable. Their celestial harmonies and haunting melodies continue to resonate with listeners today. Despite their brief existence, their music has left a lasting imprint on the genre.