MAN & MYTH

Roy Harper is a folk rock musician from England, which has touched the prog genre several times, I wouldn't though call this album prog, even if he has a lot of prog specialities. "Man & Myth" is his eighteenth studio record and the first in twelve years. I like the cover which has a lot authority. Harper here has horns on his forehead and seems to be a mythological creature.

Roy Harpes's voice resembles Neil Young's voice but Harper is a much better singer, with power. On this record I here something unique and very real. Almost only acoustic tracks is present here and the musicians are competent. I like the stripped sound and the songs speach for themselves. If I knew better of Roy Harper I had perhaps appreciated this even more but I like it very much. The record is very uneven and there is just one track I don't like: "Time is temporary" which I think is boring. All the other tracks are quite similar in status of being good. My favourites are "The Stranger" and "The Enemy" but the closer "The Exile" or the progressive story "Heaven is here" are also marvelous. "January man", is an acoustic gem which is so honest and lovely that I must say that is one of the best.

I expected some form of rock but didn't get it, it doesn't bother me. The only rock track is "Cloud Cuckooland" which is great and contains electric guitar by Pete Townsend and great saxophone. I give the record four stars and enjoy it very much and will return and perhaps appreciate it even more. Recommended album!