When people talk about blues guitar heroes they talk about Jimmy Page, Mark Knopfler, Paul Kossoff. But inexplicably they never seem to mention the hugely talented Martin Barre.
For many years he has provided, along with Ian Anderson, the musical backbone of Jethro Tull, showing off his ability in a range of styles to provide an essential part of the band's sound. But he has always been a little hidden behind Anderson's light. So it was with great pleasure I listened to this, his first (I think) solo album in which he gets to express himself.
A set of largely instrumental numbers, based around electric blues but with many twists and other influences thrown in, this is an album that shows him doing what he does best, making the guitar sing. Filled with awry humour, and some outstanding fret work, this feels a personal album at times but one that really entertains and gives a good insight into the man behind the guitar.
An excellent album, highly recommended.