Search - Michael Hedges :: Torched

The Broad Vision of Michael Hedges

mhfan | NY, USA | 05/18/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Anyone who has enjoyed any other recordings of Michael Hedges should own this CD. It is his final musical statement, and no one knows which of the unfinished tracks, if any, would have made his final cut. In that light, a different standard needs to be applied to this collection of recordings. Perhaps more than any other album, "Torched" illustrates the broad vision of Michael Hedges, which spanned from pop music fan, to serious composer, to spiritual mystic. The unfinished tracks are often very clearly unfinished; but the Michael Hedges fan will love this collection as a rare glimpse into the creative process in action; the Michael Hedges fan will love this collection because it gives a view of what was to come; and many other people will enjoy this recording because the music is of a very high compositional standard, and has an integrity that is truly rare. Of all the Hedges albums, this is the one that may be for fans only, if there is such a thing; however, this is not meant to dissuade the curious. If you are inclined to take a chance on this, you will most likely be pleased. I must say that I was very disappointed by the Amazon reviewer's lack of musical perspective, as well as by his use of sledgehammer "wit," considering the circumstances of Michael Hedges' death."

Hedges final work. Half-baked, but hauntingly beautifull.

Robert Lunte | Seattle, WA USA | 05/29/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Hedges last work before he was killed in an auto accident. What you hear here are the pre-production "demos" which were to become a final mastered product.The quality of the production is no big deal, only audio engineers could really care. The important point is, this album was released intentionally "as is"....they did not want to change any of the production values.....it was a great idea!The music is solid & beautifull as expected, but add the haunting realization that this was this genius man's last effort. What was once an unfinished production, these pre-production recordings add to the honor and beauty of Micheal Hedges legacy."

A last and great gift from Michael Hedges

Leif C. Ringstad Sr | Wausau, WI United States | 07/07/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a last great gift from a musician and artist that touched the souls of all he met.For those who are not familiar with Michael Hedges' work, please purchase as a minimum, Ariel Boundaries, and then perhaps "Live on the Double Planet." After those two albums this one will take on a greater meaning.This album in it's unfinished state only adds to the experience, because it yeilds a small insight in to the processes from which his art emerged whole. I would have much preferred to wait for the finished album than to loose such a national treasure as Michael Hedges.This man died far too soon, with far too much music left in his heart. I consider myself blessed indeed to have been present at a number of his concerts over the years, and to have shaken the hand of such a talented soul. Michael, you are with us always in your music and in your gentle manner and your raging performances and your wit."