Gentle Soul

about this album

"Gentle Soul" is the eponymous debut, and only, album by American folk band Gentle Soul, released in 1968 on Epic Records. Produced by Terry Melcher (The Byrds, Paul Revere & The Raiders), the tracks on the album feature Ry Cooder, Van Dyke Parks, and Larry Knechtel, amongst others. In 2002, Sundazed Records re-mastered and released the entire Gentle Soul collection (the album, the singles and some previously-unreleased demos) on a CD. The band comprised songwriters and singers Pamela Polland and Rick Stanley supported by the following musicians on the album: Bass – Bill Plummer Cello – Ted Michel Flute – Paul Horn Guitar – Mike Deasy, Ry Cooder Harp – Gayle Levant Harpsichord – Van Dyke Parks Organ – Larry Knechtel Tabla – Tony Cohan User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.

why this is interesting

# Gentle Soul (1968) This overlooked 1968 debut captures a distinctive moment when folk music was quietly evolving beyond protest songs into something more introspective and sonically adventurous. Producer Terry Melcher assembled an impressive roster of session players—including Ry Cooder and Van Dyke Parks—who bring unexpected textural depth to Pamela Polland and Rick Stanley's intimate songwriting. The album refuses easy categorization, blending acoustic instrumentation with subtle orchestral arrangements that feel both delicate and architecturally ambitious. Rather than chasing commercial formulas, the record prioritizes emotional nuance and craft, making it a rewarding listen for those curious about how folk

tracks

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