Steve Howe is of course the legendary guitarist in Yes and also Asia and GTR. This solo album also features keyboard player Paul Sutin, who has worked with Howe previously in the mid-90’s. ‘Small Acts of Human Kindness’ starts off with the pomp of Yes or Asia, some great keyboards on this track. ‘Meridian Strings’ brings on a jazz feel, with some nimble guitar from Howe. The chilled ‘Avenue De Bel Air’, has subdued keyboards and subtle guitar - very relaxing. ‘Resonance’ would not appear out of place on a Mike Oldfield album, with the song structure very similar to an Oldfield song. ‘Moment in Time’ mixes some country-style guitar over hi-tech keyboards and Oriental style backing Vangelis in sound.

A very laid back and chilled release from a master guitarist. Not an album that will appeal to everyone, but an outstanding showcase for Howe’s varied guitar styles. It mixes many influences jazz, acoustic, Oriental into a very agreeable blend of music. Sutin’s keyboards add greatly to the overall feel of the album, greatly rounding out the sound but without detracting from Howe’s guitar.

****Review by Jason Ritchie

£13.99

Meridian Strings
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