PIECE BY PIECE

My introduction to John Martyn was when Angeline got airplay, when this album was released. Heard it a couple of times before it became an album or artist, that I wanted to become familiar with.So it grew on me yes,and I bought the album.

Ended up getting Piece by Piece and was not disappointed,as most songs of the album carry a similar sound.

Didn't know of Martyn's earlier discography ,so I could obviously not analyze and compare, with the likes of Solid Air and others.

As I became a CD buyer at the time and my turntable broke down,years and years went by without me hearing this.Now thankfully I-Tunes has made it available and I re-purchased it.

So,at the time,Martyn and/or the record company wanted more mass appeal and made a more accessible album,sorta like something Bryan Ferry would come up with.I think he is doing this very well.

The first song is an odd one.Nightline is like The song Manifesto from the album of the same name by Roxy Music.Strange song that makes you wonder what the hell is going on.Now the real good songs will start.Outstanding songs in the pop'ish vein with lots of synths for atmospherics.Yes, like Roxy and Ferry were masters of. 7 songs of that caliber follows and are very enjoyable.Only one of those songs will have noticeable guitar, that I now know he is capable of,and be superb at. Album ends with the song John Wayne ,that I find rather odd.It is supposedly a fan favourite.

So.....Song one and nine are 2 **.Most of the other 7 songs are to me 4*'s easy.Now there is obviously not much prog here,and I will rate this album 3*'s,but to me this is a 4* album,as I have no problem with prog artists making quality 'pop'.

As I always say.I rather have 'pop' music by prog musicians,than no music at all.