Ayers Rocks
D. Hartley | Seattle, WA USA | 09/10/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"A fine one-disc compilation culling some of the best solo work from a charter member of England's "Canterbury Scene" and one of the founders of the legendary Soft Machine. Ayers' rich, world-weary baritone (which completely belies his pretty-boy Peter Frampton looks) croons over some very interesting music ranging from prog and Chuck Berry style rockers to sweet pop and mellow jazz. Ayers' most memorable ballad, "May I?" is bonused here by the inclusion of the French language version "Puis Je?"...a nice nod to collectors. Fans of the brilliant, highly-underrated and difficult-to-collect guitarist, the late Ollie Hallsal (Patto, Boxer, Tempest, The Rutles, etc.) also might want to pick up this disc, as he is featured prominently on several selections. His soaring solo on "Blue" has to be heard to be believed. An excellent addition to any 70's Anglophile's music shelf."