ONE WORLD

One World is one of John Martyn's more experimental works. All the albums of his that I've heard have laid-back moods, but possess their own characters. This is quite atmospheric, and the way that Martyn blended his signature rhythmic, echoey guitar sounds with jazzy drumming, funky bass and swirling keyboards over his slurred, bluesy vocals once again made him a true individual.

It's a very strong timeless album that makes superb late-night listening. "Smiling Stranger" and the dub influenced "Big Muff" which was collaborated with Lee Scratch Perry are delightful. Steve Winwood also contributes his keyboards to the album.

"Couldn't Love You More" and "Certain Surprise" are lovely, very melodic pieces and are two favourites along with the dreamy title track, plus "Dancing" which is a really uplifting summer breeze of a song, and last but not least the spacey, ambient "Small Hours".

A lot of the songs were recorded in the early hours and the mood is captured perfectly. I just discovered that it's three years to the day since this artist's passing, but his wonderful music will continue to influence many people. Three and a half stars.