Terry Cox obituary

Drummer with Pentangle, the folk-rock group who found fame in the 1960s with their fusion of jazz, blues and traditional songs

By Robin Denselow

Pentangle
Pentangle 1968


On 27 May 1967, a bravely original band called Pentangle made their first major appearance, at the Royal Festival Hall in London. They were not a typical folk group, although they included the folk scene’s acoustic guitar heroes Bert Jansch and John Renbourn, along with the singer Jacqui McShee.

But they were not a typical jazz band either, despite playing lengthy improvisations and including the jazz and blues exponents Danny Thompson on bass and Terry Cox on drums. Instead, they presented a subtle and often complex fusion of jazz, traditional styles, new songs and blues.

Cox, who has died aged 89, played a key role in creating Pentangle’s unique style, but also worked with a remarkable array of artists, including Charles Aznavour, the Bee GeesDavid Bowie and Elton John.

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Beth Orton returns with new single ‘The Ground Above’

Beth Orton has released her new single ‘The Ground Above’, marking her first new material since her 2022 album ‘Weather Alive’.

Signalling a fresh chapter, ‘The Ground Above’ continues her distinctive blend of folk, electronic textures and introspective songwriting. Known for her ability to balance fragility with quiet strength, the new release leans into themes of vulnerability and resilience, reflecting her evolving artistic perspective.

Accompanied by a visual release, the track offers a subtle yet powerful return, centred on atmosphere and emotional clarity rather than grand gestures.

With a career spanning decades and a reputation for continually redefining her sound, Beth Orton’s latest release reaffirms her position as one of the UK’s most distinctive voices.

Have a listen to ‘The Ground Above’ in the player below.

Source: Beth Orton returns with new single ‘The Ground Above’ | Mystic Sons