Search - Jan Akkerman :: Tabernakel

Second solo release.

11/03/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"For Focus devotees this is perhaps Akkermans' finest solo effort as he makes use of many the same characteristics one would find on Focus recordings. There is a nice mix of classical, folk and rock pieces here including some work with small orchestral arrangements that all work splendidly. Akkerman's guitar work is tasteful and passionate throughout. This is a wonderful recording well worth owning...Simon"

A glory from the progressive era

Gavin Wilson | 07/05/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Back in 1973, rock guitarist Jan Akkerman temporarily put down his electric guitar, took up the lute, and raided the 400-year-old back-catalogue of lutenists such as John Dowlands and Anthonie Holborne.Such things just don't seem to happen any more. Jazz musicians such as Keith Jarrett extend their repertoire by delving into the Baroque era, but I don't know how many of today's rock musicians have the interest or capability to do likewise, even if their record companies were interested.I have to say that the styles in this album are so varied that, even at the height of the 70s progressive era, it probably sunk with very little trace. There are solo lute pieces, lute with orchestral backing (the low points of the album for me -- too Wakeman-esque), rock and jazz rock. For me, the solo lute pieces are the highlights and a total joy, and I will certainly buy several more lute / John Dowland CDs. It's sad that Akkerman didn't record an album entirely of lute songs, but I can imagine that his record company insisted on including some rock tunes to attract the Focus fans. I should add that if you like this, you will almost certainly enjoy the ECM CD, 'In Darkness Let me Dwell', dedicated to John Dowland tunes."

A little disappointed

Kirk Abernathy | Philadelphia, Pa United States | 08/01/2003

(3 out of 5 stars)

"although the playing was great(as usual) some of the material didn't quite do it for me. I think that this man is one of (if not the) greatest guitarists of all time. I was hoping for more of the type of playing he did on Profile which is amazing! For something more current I prefer The Noise of Art. If you like more classically oriented material this might be for you."