Formed in 1987 by folksters Phil Beer and Steve Knightley, Show Of Hands released three cassettes, the best of which was subsequently compiled on the BACKLOG 1987-1991 CD. Owing to other commitments the duo performed only occasionally, but by the 1991 the duo's off-kilter take on traditional folk started to garner a cult following and the pair made it their main concern. Following the release of their first studio album, BEAT ABOUT THE BUSH, the twosome teamed up with engineer/producer Gerard O’Farrell for 1995’s excellent LIE OF THE LAND. They took the gamble of hiring London’s Royal Albert Hall for an evening in March 1996 and the show, featuring various guest musicians, sold out in advance and was fodder for a best-selling live record.