LIVE AT THE PRIORY

I couldn't resist but to attend to - yet another album - that's been completely ignored by contributors at PA. This piece was released "only" 16 years ago and not a single soul bothered with commenting on it.? There is a huge void on PA when it comes to evaluation of credible pieces released more than very recently. Prog didn't start only a few years ago.

A former Special Collaborator - knocked off for my strong stance and robust expressions - I rarely write "reviews" anymore, but rather comments only. Primarily to raise awareness, but also to expose weaker works that are not quite worth spending your money on. Akkerman's output represents both of these extremes - and in-between. Now, off to the chase, again.

On a good day, Akkerman is a brilliant artist, also a credible composer Here, at the Priory - ah, is this the former place of gourmet cheeses, mead and fine liquor? - Akkerman performs solo on acoustic-electric guitar in a very pleasing manner. Lyrical pieces punctuated by heavy twanging at times provide a nice balance. There is no slacking off, but soulful delivery of well known tunes (to some) make it an interesting experience. In this context. one will be treated to nods towards Focus bits at times amongst more mediaeval approaches.

For my taste, it works well, representing a nice combination of old and new. Listening to the work, I could have a Sunday afternoon snooze with one ear open and feel very much at ease. Nice work deserving due recognition.