Customer Reviews

Road to Ruin

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Sometimes all you will need to say is "This is a John Martyn record" and people will comprehend. Though "Solid Air" may be one of his best and most popular excursions, too many of his albums have been virtually ignored.

Released in 1970, John was at the time concerned with the album's lack of spontaneity and it's obvious that he wasn't pleased with the whole idea of overdubs. Hence the best songs are those relying on John's guitar playing.

"Parcels" is a nice tune flavoured with some classic JM guitar work, "New day" features Danny Thompson's first appearance together with Martyn and "Give us a ring" was originally meant for Nick Drake.

Though John's music may seem complicated and experimental it is never hard to digest. He always ads a natural flow to it and his singing is great. If you are hesitant about buying it since it's more of a collaboration you should reconsider. In hindsight it's an important album in Martyn's catalogue and though it's neither "Solid Air" nor "Bless the Weather" it's still a very enjoyable album.

I have often thought about this "album" for many years since I gave away all my vinyl (perhaps a mistake!). I was thrilled to see it back on CD. It is slightly dated but some wonderful musicianship from John & Beverly Martyn. Most of the songs hold up. Makes me wonder what happened to them..........

This album ranges through all kinds of feeling, from upbeat to quite harrowing. It's up there with Martyn's best late sixties/early seventies work, and his then-wife Bev's voice is just wonderful - lilting and sensitive, tending to be more expressive than Martyn's more laid back singing. "Auntie Aviator" is right up there with Nick Drake's best - like "At the Chime of a City Clock," for instance - brooding, haunting, and intense. The album overall is more upbeat, however. If you like Nick Drake, the Pentangle, Fred Neil, early Fairport Convention, etc. you should definitely pick this up.

John's guitar alternates between a pleasant finger picked style and hints of a more "acidic" lead guitar. Beverley's gentle voice is an excellent alternative to John's. The change back and forth makes each track fresher.

There are certain songs that achieve a rare iconic status. Hotel California and Layla are two. Auntie Aviator is another. Close your eyes and fly!