Steeleye Span is an English folk-rock band that was formed in 1969. The original lineup consisted of Maddy Prior (vocals), Tim Hart (vocals, guitar), Ashley Hutchings (bass), Terry Woods (guitar, mandolin, concertina), and Gay Woods (vocals, concertina). The band’s early sound was heavily influenced by traditional English folk music, but they added a rock edge to it, with electric guitars and drums. They released their debut album, “Hark! The Village Wait,” in 1970, which was well-received by critics and audiences alike. Steeleye Span’s second album, “Please to See the King,” was released in 1971 and featured a more polished sound. However, it was their third album, “Below the Salt,” that really cemented their reputation as one of the leading bands in the folk-rock genre. “Below the Salt” was released in 1972 and was produced by Sandy Roberton. The album features a mix of traditional English folk songs and original compositions, all arranged in Steeleye Span’s unique style. The album’s title is a reference to the fact that in medieval times, the salt was placed on the table below the saltcellar, which was reserved for the most important guests. “Below the Salt” was a commercial and critical success and helped to establish Steeleye Span as one of the leading bands in the folk-rock genre. It features some of the band’s most popular songs, including “Gaudete” and “All Around My Hat.” The album has since been reissued several times and is still highly regarded by fans of folk and rock music alike.