SPECTRAL MORNINGS

If there is one Hackett album you should own, it's Spectral Mornings. And EVERYBODY should own at least one Hackett album. So that makes this a five star masterpiece, with a quality that goes far above and beyond the average.

It took me forever to listen to this whole album when I first got it, because I kept replaying two tracks! (Spectral Mornings and The Virgin and the Gypsy.) It's a shame because the whole album is just as good.

Anyhow track by track....

Everyday (4.5/5) -- Starting an album with the most likeable and accessible track is good business. The song is good, the long guitar solo that ends it is great! So 4.5 stars for the opener.

The Virgin and the Gypsy (5/5) -- A truly lovely song with gorgeous vocals, poetic lyrics, and a grand symphonic sound. Steve's acoustic guitar complements some nice work by John (the OTHER Hackett, and one of the best flute players in progdom.)

The Red Flower of Tachai Blooms Everywhere (4/5) -- An evocative instrumental piece with an Asian, but modern sound. A fine experiment.

Clocks (The Angel Of Mons) (5/5) -- Possibly the most progressive track on this album (although it has to compete with Tigermoth.) And we aren't talking Genesis style prog here, either. It has the darkness of King Crimson, a symphonic sound that would do Yes proud, and Steve's particular style of guitar. A great track.

The Ballad Of The Decomposing Man (Featuring - The Office Party) (2.5/5) -- Steve just can't stay away from these weird novelty tracks, can he? This one is in the vein of Carry On Up the Vicarage off of Please Don't Touch!, but it isn't as good.

Lost Time In Cordoba (4/5) -- Once again the Hackett brothers combine their talents to prove how talented they are.

Tigermoth (5/5) -- The track that competes with Clocks for the most progressive track. The description of Clocks is good for this one as well, but add in that it has quirky and amusing lyrics.

Spectral Mornings (5/5) -- Steve's best guitar solo!!! Imagine the Firth of Fifth guitar solo and then raise the quality of it by the power of two. An amazing piece of music.

Anyhow, this easily Steve's best work and if you have never heard it, it should jump to the top of your acquisition list.

5 stars. Heck, I wish I could give it 6!