(Simon) Second solo release - For Focus devotees this is perhaps Akkerman's finest solo effort as he makes use of many the same characteristics one would find on Focus recordings. There is a nice mix of classical, folk and rock pieces here including some work with small orchestral arrangements that all work splendidly. Akkerman's guitar work is tasteful and passionate throughout. This is a wonderful recording well worth owning
(Gavin Wilson) A glory from the progressive era - Back in 1973, rock guitarist Jan Akkerman temporarily put down his electric guitar, took up the lute, and raided the 400-year-old back-catalogue of lutenists such as John Dowland and Anthonie Holborne.
Such things just don't seem to happen any more. Jazz musicians such as Keith Jarrett extend their repertoire by delving into the Baroque era, but I don't know how many of today's rock musicians have the interest or capability to do likewise, even if their record companies were interested.
I have to say that the styles in this album are so varied that, even at the height of the 70s progressive era, it probably sunk with very little trace. There are solo lute pieces, lute with orchestral backing (the low points of the album for me - too Wakeman-esque), rock and jazz rock. For me, the solo lute pieces are the highlights and a total joy, and I will certainly buy several more lute / John Dowland CDs. It's sad that Akkerman didn't record an album entirely of lute songs, but I can imagine that his record company insisted on including some rock tunes to attract the Focus fans.
I should add that if you like this, you will almost certainly enjoy the ECM CD, 'In Darkness Let me Dwell', dedicated to John Dowland tunes.
(Trevor Nash) Creative beautiful music - A fabulous recording showing great versatility of the artist and variety for the listener. Something pleasant and interesting for quieter times, late nights etc, but quality music not muzak. I bought this on recommendation comments and was not sorry, well worthwhile.
(Chazz Hamilton) Jan Akkerman! - I have loved & appreciated Jan's work since I first heard him with Focus, over 40 years ago. This album, to me, is timeless. For any fans of seminal Progressive/classical/jazz/world guitar music, this is one of the recordings that defined the genre. Please, just buy it. And listen, and listen, and listen again ... Peace!
(A K Gee)
Focus on Jan - I believe this is the first solo album for this Focus band member. For those familiar with Focus, this cd is a must have. The sound quality is very good, better than the vinyl version I bought back in the seventies!