BEYOND THE SHROUDED HORIZON

So, my Genesis-fanatic younger brother told me that Steve Hackett is basically that "dude from Genesis that no one actually liked". So, I avoided his solo career for a while, but I'm glad I finally gave him a chance. "Beyond the Shrouded Horizon" is a great album that I feel falls just short of 5 star status.

The album opens with the stunning "Loch Lomond" that I feel sets up the style for the rest of the album. We get the expected awesome guitar work that isn't just 'technical" but is also amazingly well written and even "epic". However, this stellar guitar work is set against a backdrop of ethereal, atmospheric vocals and rhythms. I simply love this combination: It is so pleasing to hear the opening track with its great jams slowly transition into "Til These Eyes", a simply beautiful ballad.

As the album progresses, we get hints of Pink Floyd and obviously Genesis, but I really can't say this album sounds like anyone else in particular. From the different male and female vocals to the more abstract tracks, Hackett certainly outdid himself presenting us with an almost spiritual journey of earthy proportions. I'm certainly glad I gave this newer album a try, and I look forward to his future endeavors. My lesson? Never listen to my brother.