Record Reviews

PETER HAMMILL ~ SKIN (EXPANDED EDITION) VIRGIN 503279 (Barcode: 5099950327928) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1985 Released: 2007 12th album by Peter HammillFind albums by this artist and by far one of his more interesting releases, although criticized severely due to the extensive use of MIDI and sequencers, which give the album a distinctive 1980s “New Wave” sound. On the album Hammill returns to a group format, using old Van Der Graaf GeneratorFind albums by this artist mates Guy EvansFind albums by this artist and David JacksonFind albums by this artist on all tracks along with several other musicians. In a sense this might be considered a VDGG album of sorts. The music is mostly up-tempo and rocky, but Hammill’s clever lyrics and his unique vocal approach set it apart from other contemporary albums. The overall impression is quite similar to the work David BowieFind albums by this artist was doing at the time, but of course it is still very much Hammill. I haven’t listened to this album for a very long time, but hearing it again now made me realize how alive and fresh it still sounds. This is classic Hammill, something none of his many fans should miss in their collection.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

SKIN ALLEY ~ SKIN ALLEY ECLECTIC 1041 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion 1st album (recorded 1969) by this little known, but nevertheless excellent early Prog / Jazz-Rock group. Both the music and the playing are heartwarming. Add to that the complex, yet well-crafted and melodic compositions and you get a gem of an album that has been forgotten for much too long. This newly remastered edition is far superior to the previously available 2 on 1 (with the follow up album To Pagham And Beyond) edition (See For Miles), which had rather poor sound quality and missed a track from the original album. Most warmly recommended.

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

DAVID ARTHUR SKINNER ~ SKINNER PLAYS SKINNER LOSEN 171 (Barcode: 7090025831713) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2016 Released: 2017 This is the second solo piano album on the Norwegian LosenFind albums on this label Records by the British, resident in Norway, pianist / composer David Arthur SkinnerFind albums by this artist. The album, as the title suggests, presents ten original compositions by Skinner, which he, according to the liner notes, treats as if they were standards not written by him. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and was engineered Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, with spectacular sonic result. The music presents a diverse stylistic kaleidoscope of Jazz related sub-genres, which Skinner skillfully applies to his compositions, creating a wonderful, witty and graceful piece of music, which is a true delight to listen to from start to finish. Although technically brilliant, Skinner´s playing is first and foremost about the feel and the soul of the music. His playful touch on the keyboard is simply magical. There is not much more one can say about this album, other than invite everybody to get hold of a copy and enjoy. There are no false pretenses here, no theatrics and no show-off – simply just music, a rare approach these days and therefore even more welcome. Connoisseurs of piano Jazz in general and solo piano recordings in particular should find this album irresistible, entertaining and educational all at once. For the second time in a row Skinner wins using simplicity and honesty, two skills rarely used in Art these days! Well done indeed!

Updated: 16/05/2017Posted: 16/05/2017

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend