One man and guitar, and no overdubs, this acoustic set sees the Yes and Asia guitarist take on a new angle.

The 20 tracks cover a range of styles too, using a range of guitars (acoustic, electric, folk, Spanish/Flamenco, 12-string, dobro slide etc). Many tracks are based on solos from group or live CDs, and Howe sees this as the way to concentrate on this part of his work. Some new songs too, all recorded between 2005 and 2007, and a cover of Chet Atkins’ “Trambone”.

Some tracks are very intricate, far from any simple strumming. Each song (average time 3 minutes) could be a solo in its own right, and highlight a range of Howe’s styles and abilities.

From moody to uptempo and uplifting, there are some good tracks here.

Not for the average rock (or even Yes) fan. But real aficionados and guitar fans will love this. An interesting listen all the same.

***

Review by Joe Geesin

www.joegeesin.com