What’s Bin Did and What’s Bin Hid

Released in May 1965, 'What’s Bin Did and What’s Bin Hid' serves as the debut studio album by Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan. Recorded over the course of a single week at Peer Music in London, the album captures Donovan at the height of his 'British Dylan' phase. While the comparison was inevitable due to his denim-clad aesthetic and harmonica-heavy arrangements, the album reveals a unique fingerpicking style influenced by Bert Jansch and a softer, more melodic vocal approach than his American contemporary. The record features a mix of original compositions and traditional folk/blues covers, showcasing his versatility. 'Catch the Wind' became his breakout hit, reaching number 4 on the UK charts and establishing him as a major force in the folk revival. Critically, the album is viewed as a foundational document of the 1960s folk scene, notable for its simplicity and the precocious talent of its creator before his pivot to psychedelic pop.