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Steve Hackett - I had not kept up to the doings of Mr. Hackett after his departure from Genesis (just before they got bad) and his early solo work which I played at my college radio DJ gig in the 1970s. He is renown as a brilliant progressive guitarist with fiery playing and delicate touch. He has played here before, but it was either acoustic or solo. He has a full band with a rhythm section, keyboardist (who has worked with him for some time), a sax/flute/whistle player and a woman who joined in about 2/3 the time on rhythm guitar and vocals. The first song absolutely smoked with a ripping early King Crimson sound--not completely surprising as the instrumentation was a match. Nothing quite hit that high for me with what followed, but it all went well. There were a variety of styles all well within a classic progressive format. He did some acoustic numbers which showcased his finger style picking which he also used to great effect on some of the electric guitar songs as well. He really does have an outstanding touch so guitar wonks and prog-heads alike do fill out the clubs to see him. I liked the double leads with the other guitarist and all the musicians were first rate. The band seemed tight and whether they veered towards space rock, jazz, pastoral folk, or pop-rock, they hit it every time. I was surprised at how much singing he did, proving that Genesis was correct in handing the vocals to Phil Collins when Gabriel left. Alright, cheap shot--his singing was quite fine although his guitarist took a lead and his drummer had some, too with the drummer having a voice as all but the best lead vocalists. An enjoyable set for me as I delved into unknown territory with a known artist. The large crowd was also very happy tonight.
Quote of the Night - Annie Haslam - "I am wearing these sunglasses not to look like a rockstar, but to hide the migraine I am having. So the band is sympathizing with me (a few more in shades)". She did fine, which although I share her approach in warning people when I don't feel well, it does seem odd when all goes quite well.
3 comments:
very nice review! I could add some song titles: the Crimsonesque tune with a tip of the cap to Gentle Giant was "Mechanical Bride" and a couple notes about the power of the selected Hackett material - "The Steppes" and "Clocks (Angel of Mon)" - a little familiarity would have added to your obvious enjoyment but good job with the open mind!
OH! and add in the sensational versions of Genesis classics like Los Endos and Firth of Fifth and midway through Blood on the Rooftops!! Fantastic Steve!!! Great band with you!!
Thanks. I could not read my notes for "Mechanical Bride". Yeah, I would have loved to be more familiar, but I was stunned at how many albums he has had out since he left Genesis, although I do recall more of it now that I have caught up. That would take a bit too much time and money for now, but I will check some of it out (when I get through the 20 CDs I have to review). I appreciate getting help with song titles and set lists as I have trouble keeping up with even bands that I have all their albums... "Yeah, that was the 3rd of 4th song from their 3rd or 4th album wasn't it?" Again thanks, I think I will be getting some of his material soon. Oh, and here is a great setlist sight with tonight's set... http://www.setlist.fm/setlists/steve-hackett-43d6b3a3.html
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