Spectral Mornings Kissimmee FL

Spectral Mornings

Steve Hackett

Charisma Records, 1979

REVIEW BY: Loznik

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: 03/29/1999

I sometimes wonder, "Why is it that at least fifty percent ofall great guitarists in Rock are named Steve?". Steve Hackett fromGenesis, Steve Howe from Yes, Steve Anscombe from Protos (who?),Steve Vai, the list seems endless. I was just pondering thisamazing coincidence, which struck me anew during my travels on themurky waters of Usenet. Still … on to business.

Spectral Mornings counts as Hackett's third solo album,although some folks reckon his first, Voyage Of The Acolyte, is a Genesis album in all but name.It represents the output of a man who has, musically-speaking, comeout from under the shadow of the band that made his name (even ifhis reputation as "the former Genesis guitarist" never left him).The variety of styles represented, and the consummately sure touchdisplayed, together present a mature talent and, along with hissecond album, Please Don't Touch, the pinnacle of his solo work.

The lively, bounding "Every Day" kicks us off. The tune feelscatchy at first, but with introspective interludes giving thelistener to pause. The guitar work is exquisite, especially withthe later elaboration upon the initial theme. You clearly hear thatuniquely Hackett haunting quality, and it might be here that youdiscover exactly what it is you loved about pre-1978 Genesis. Acloser examination of the lyrics betrays a sombre side to the track- another Hackett trademark. I am given to understand that the songconcerns itself with the folly of drug abuse, but the message issubtle.

The gentle "The Virgin And The Gypsy" follows. A sweetly lyricalsong with that gorgeously smooth synth-like guitar that isunmistakably Hackett.