In February 1977, “Harvest” label released “The Prospect Before Us”, the debut Albion Dance Band (as The Albion Dance Band) album. It was recorded in 1976, at “Sound Techniques” and “Olympic Studios” in London, and was produced by Ashley Hutchings and Simon Nicol.

Personnel:

• Ashley Hutchings– vocals, electric bass guitar
• Simon Nicol- electric and acoustic guitars, piano
• Michael Gregory – drums, nakers, percussion
• Philip Pickett- curtals, shawms, recorders, crumhorns, bagpipes, rackets, chalumeux, synthesizer
• John Sothcott, – vielle, citole, crumhorn
• Graeme Taylor- electric guitar, piano
• Shirley Collins- vocals.
• Eddie Upton – vocals, caller
• John Tams- vocals, melodeon
• John Rodd – vocals, concertina, tambourine
• Dave Mattacks- drums, piano, electric piano

Track listing:

1. Uncle Berhard’s / Jenny Lind
2. The Hunt Is Up
3. Varsoviana
4. Masque
5. Huntsman’s Chorus
6. Minuet
7. Wassail Song
8. Picking of Sticks / The Old Mole
9. Merry Sherwood Rangers (live version)
10. La Sextie Estampe Real
11. I Wish I was Single Again
12. The Whim
13. Hopping Down in Kent
14. Horse’s Brawl
15. On Christmas Night All Christians Sing (The Sussex Carol)
16. Merry Sherwood Rangers (studio version)