Search - John Martyn, Beverley :: Road to Ruin (Mlps)

Positively not on the road to ruin - Still not amongst his

Martin Vallner | Norrköping, Sweden | 10/03/2006

(3 out of 5 stars)

"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.

"