BAY OF KINGS

First fully acoustic album by Hackett should fulfill most expectations by Hackett fans. It is focused, contains good compositons, even some re-recorded (Horizons, Kim) and good tasteful playing. There are classical oriented pieces but also more exploratory ones.

The title track has the type of melody that only Hackett can craft: elegant but restrained. Tracks like "Second chance" offer a bit of variety with flute melody and guitar in the background.

My only major objection is the too much processed -> unnatural sound of acoustic guitar, it is somewhat drawned in the mix. It is a good album but not essential output by Mr. Hackett.