Record Reviews

JETHRO TULL ~ THIS WAS (COLLECTOR`S EDITION) CHARISMA 064972 (Barcode: 5099920649722) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1968 Released: 2008 1st album by the magnificent Jethro TullFind albums by this artist, the only band that survived 40 years of rapidly changing world and still sounds so much better that anything produced today. This debut album is dear to my heart and I remember vividly listening to it for the first time back in 1968 – this was different! Sure, it was based on the Blues tradition and followed the British Blues revival surge, which blessed us all with a plethora of great bands. But these kids (yes they were) had an edge and an attitude, which I liked. Ian AndersonFind albums by this artist had a vice like no one else and his flute playing, although far from being virtuosic, always hit the right note (even if it was the wrong note). Mick AbrahamsFind albums by this artist was a great Blues guitar player, as was evident already then, and would be proved time after time in following years. Glenn CornickFind albums by this artist played some nasty bass lines and Clive BunkerFind albums by this artist beat the hell out of the set. I loved the nonchalance, the obvious "let´s not take it too seriously" approach, and those glimpses of pure genius, which this album is full of. I loved it then and I love it now – absolutely nothing changed, except for the fact that a whole universe of dreadful music was made since, which luckily I was able to escape. This new edition is a true gem and a collector´s dream, with the original mono mixes, new stereo mix, singles and live BBC material, everything one might hope for. I don´t suppose any Tull fan will need to contemplate the decision as to buying this beauty. Grab it!

CD 2 Digipak Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

PETER HAMMILL ~ A BLACK BOX (EXPANDED EDITION) VIRGIN 370518 (Barcode: 094637051825) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1979 - 1980 Released: 2006 9th album by Peter HammillFind albums by this artist and the last to be released on the CharismaFind albums on this label label (well not really, as it was first released on Hammill’s independent label and only later licensed back to his old label). It is also the first “real” solo album, as by the time it was recorded Van Der Graaf GeneratorFind albums by this artist were no more. The only link to his band is saxophonist David JacksonFind albums by this artist present on one song only. All the rest of the music is played solely by Hammill, which of course makes this a truly personal statement. The work on this album took quite a while and he included here songs he has been working on for quite a while, which were postponed due to the VDGG usual havoc. Now free of any other obligations, Hammill was able to concentrate on his solo work. The music and the texts are as usual deeply expressive and personal, culminating in the multi-part 19+ minutes suite, which was side B of the original LP. In many respects this albums marks the end of en era, for Hammill and music in general, with the golden 1970s behind and the dreary 1980s ahead. From now on Hammill will be releasing his albums on his own label, affirming his independence as an artist. For Hammill and VDGG fans this is a must.

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

STEVE HACKETT ~ HIGHLY STRUNG (EXPANDED EDITION) VIRGIN 384418 (Barcode: 094638441823) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1982 Released: 2007 6th album by Steve HackettFind albums by this artist and the last one released on the CharismaFind albums on this label label (All the rest of Steve’s extensive catalogue is available on his privately owned label CaminoFind albums on this label Records, also available on this site). For this album Hackett expanded the duo format, which recorded Cured, into a trio with the addition of drummer Ian MosleyFind albums by this artist (future MarillionFind albums by this artist member) and a few guest musicians also participated. Together they created what is considered one of the best Steve Hackett albums, full of great melodies and excellent playing. Back to the Prog format and sound and including some of Hackett’s most memorable tunes like Camino Royale, this is a perfect summary of his early period. Future Hackett albums will slowly mark the transition into acoustic music and his dedication to the acoustic guitar, with only occasional ventures into the classic electric Prog. This is a beautiful album in every sense and a pleasure to revisit after all these years. Definitely a classic and highly recommended!

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend