Search - John Martyn, Beverley :: Stormbringer

Live the John Martyn Experience

British Boy Toy | atlanta, ga. | 06/28/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If John Martyn is so great, why haven't you heard of him? Good question. I hadn't heard of him for a long time either. The fact that he's still alive is a miracle. He still performs live, when well enough, suffering from poor health and in a wheel chair after having his leg amputated, due to his alcoholism. He never got the fame that he darn well deserved and still does, much of the limelight being hogged by Bob Dyalan and Van Morrison, two artists this genious could certainly stand up against any day of the week now, let alone in 1968.



Any of his albums from 1968 to 1980 are very much worth your time and money. But Stormbringer is definately one of his best and also the first one that really threw me. This is one of two albums that he recorded with his talented wife Beverly. The gorgeous picture of the two of them huddled together against a beautiful Woodstock sky defines the album's entire premise. Beauty, sadness and worrying that something more is on the way from the oncoming storm ahead.



Hearing this music is to be transported back to a time of simplicity, hope and dreams. But it also has much disappointment and disillusionment in the music. Martyn's voice was already developing his trademark growl and eclectic guitar work. I can't really do it justice to describe it. Beverly Martin's songs are equally as beautiful and have a quiet distinctiveness that makes one feel like they're swimming under water. But it turns out that Martyn steals the show.



The only other artist who comes close to John Martyn's style would be the late Jeff Buckley. The much hailed Nick Drake also does, not surprising, since the two of them were close friends. But I would urge anyone who is a fan of either artist to listen to this phenomenal musician.



And you really should start with this album.



"