ONE WORLD

One World was a lucky discovery for me at an open air market in the city of Norwich in 1980. In one fell swoop I was introduced to the deeply moving, introspective work of this bluesy folk artist as both Solid Air and One World played over a cheap sound system while I perused the bins of albums and tapes. I bought both. Though One World's "Couldn't Love You More" (3:09) (9/10) was remade in 1981 for the Phil Collins-produced Glorious Fool under the production guidance and instrumental ensemble assistance of one Eric Clapton (featuring Max Middleton, Alan Thompson and drummer Phil Collins in support), the original version remains a favorite of mine. For me the stunning and haunting "Small Hours" (8:44) (10/10) remains the centerpiece and jewel of the album though it is the last song on Side Two. The Echoplex guitar sound--which Martyn hung on to as a signature sound for most of his career--is used to absolute perfection here, with the sound of boats and wooden docks creaking in the water, as if the song was recorded outside.

Other outstanding favorites include: "Dealer" (4:58) (9/10); "One World" (4:10) (9/10); "Big Muff" (6:30) (8/10); the lovely STEPHEN BISHOP-like "Certain Surprise" (3:52) (10/10), and; the delightfully playful "Dancing" (3:43) (9/10).

A minor masterpiece of progressive folk music.