Now, I have never had the opportunity to see Guy in concert with his band, but six or so years ago I went to his studio to interview him and while we were chatting away he picked up an acoustic guitar and sang a few lines so even back then I knew that if he ever decided to record a back to basics album that it would be quite special. Some years down the line and he has done just that, although he has done so with the full group instead of a pure solo piece. He of course provides guitar and vocals, and he has been joined by Chris Catling (guitar), Kev Currie (guitar and backing vocals), Steve Dundon (flute), Rick Henry (drums), Kris Hudson-Lee (bass), Julie King (vocals), David Million (guitar) and Martin Thiselton (keyboards).
Guy doesn’t hide the fact that he has been very influenced by Jethro Tull, just as well given that his singing voice is not too dissimilar to a certain Mr Anderson and one could imagine Ian going back over his back catalogue and producing acoustic versions of old numbers that previously had been treated very differently. This shows a very different side of Guy’s music, and one that I enjoyed a great deal. I have been known to visit the odd folk club in my time (just for the beer you understand), and am partial to acoustic music (still one of my favourite gigs would have to be Roy Harper), so for me this album ticks lots of boxes. When music is slowed down and played like this there is no place to hide, it has to stand on its’ own merits and this does that incredibly well. There is a warmth and depth to this music that makes it very special indeed. Even if you have never heard Guy before, but enjoy standout songwriting played with care and emotion then this is an essential purchase.
www.guymanning.com
