| The
Review |
Flute player and multi-instrumentalist
John Hackett is of course the brother of former Genesis guitarist
Steve Hackett and has been a regular featured artist on many
of Steve's albums. His nimble flute playing has always added
an exotic coloring to his brother's already ethereal music.
His own material lacks a bit of the adventure of Steve's,
but comparisons between the two Hacketts is a little unfair.
Steve has had Genesis and many solo outings under his belt,
but the younger Hackett has but a few.
John's first solo album, VELVET
AFTERNOON(2004) is a mellow recording of somewhat pastoral
music for flute and piano. CHECKING OUT OF LONDON, in contrast,
features a different Hackett altogether. This is a song-based
effort with no instrumentals, and no flute. The thought of
no flute on a John Hackett album may put off some listeners,
but you have to acknowledge John's talents which reach a bit
further than that. On CHECKING OUT, John sings and plays both
guitar(including the leads) and bass instead, making this
more of a singer-songwriter album, pleasant and accessable.
Nothing too mindblowing, yet melodic enough to hold the interest.
The tracks are relatively softer fare, short, and there is
a little sameness to some of it. Though maybe not his most
adventurous material, there is still the feeling of something
askew. The lyrics are surprisingly personal and even dark
in places. His guitar work is solid enough to do his brother
proud, and full of good texture and feel. The vocals are in
a more singer-songwriter mould, and not so different than
Steve's.
As for other players, Steve himself
appears on a few tracks, offering up his trademark guitar
and harmonica. Other Hackett pals include Nick Magnus(Hackett's
early keyboard player)and Tony Patterson(vocalist from a Genesis
tribute band, I think). Not a bad effort, and good to see
John step out from Steve's shadow. Hopefully next time John
will take it a step further and a little more punch and of
course some flute.
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