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Multi-instrumentalist and composer Guy Manning has certainly
asserted himself in the Progressive Rock community and in
the process has become quite the prolific writer, musician
and contributor. Between his solo efforts that date back to
1999, his work with the band Tangent and other compilation
projects he has been one busy guy (no pun intended). I was
actually surprised to see his latest release Anser’s Tree
hit my mail box because the first question that came to me
was when did he have time to do another whole album? Perhaps
the amazing thing is Anser’s Tree is no throw-away recording.
This is a well thought out release from the exquisite CD graphics
to the immensely pleasurable 64-minutes of music. ***
I’ve said this before, but when I listen to Guy Manning
I can’t help but think of the many other British singer songwriters
such as Roy Harper or David Cousins because I think Manning
clearly builds on that history. His writing and vocal style
clearly retains echoes of that very established folk-influenced
style. Musically however Manning takes those influences and
really kicks-it-up-a-notch. Naturally there are songs which
revolve around a simple acoustic riff, but in almost every
composition that little riff is enhanced and built-upon to
become a much more powerful and dramatic piece. What is never
lost is that strong sense of melody or it might be better
described, multiple-melodies. There are seven compositions
here, the shortest being 6:34, four in the 7-minute range,
and then a 12-minute and 15-minute piece. The lengths alone
allows for some very crafty musical arranging, where the song
builds layer-upon-layer becoming more powerful with each passing
moment. It’s almost magical how Manning is able to direct
the emotional strength of these compositions with a very accomplished
arranging style. ***
As on previous outings Manning handles the bulk of the
instruments from guitars to drums to keyboards as well as
the vocals. He is assisted by David Million on (lead guitars)
Laura Fowles (sax, vocals), Stephen Dundon (flute), and Ian
Fairbairn (fiddles). The story thread running behind Anser’s
Tree is about an individual looking back at his family history
to uncover not only the secrets of his own past but to perhaps
discover some answers of a more universal nature. As such
it’s an intriguing story that is played out through the lives
of seven different individuals. ***
If you are already familiar with Manning’s work, Anser’s
Tree will be an easy purchase decision in that that it’s everything
he’s done and more. If you are new to the music of Guy Manning
or are only familiar with his work with Tangent, this would
be a good place to start. Anser’s Tree is a very satisfying
listen, displaying a wide range of musical styles all wrapped
up in an interesting story. Anser’s Tree get’s an A+ in my
book. ***
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