Hawaiian Sunset - Arthur Lyman

Advantages: great listening
Disadvantages: none

...Van Morrison was born in 1945 George Ivan Morrison. In the early 60s he began his singing career. In 1966 he was the lead singer in a band called Them, He left them after a couple of years and began his solo career as a singer songwriter. His music is a rock rhythm and blues some jazz, with Celtic influence. Avalon sunset was produced in 1989 and the words of the songs show his religious beliefs.This music is restful and peaceful with its spiritual overtones a little melancholy. I am an atheist, do not believe in god, however find this music good and listen to it occasionally. In the first track Whenever god shines his light Van Morrison sings and is backed by sir Cliff Richards. Van has a growley, gravely voice and it contrasts with cliffs sweeter voice. This is an upbeat song with a gospel feel to it. I sit here listening... Read review

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Advantages: A brand new sound to an increasing overcrouded genre
Disadvantages: Some tracks take a few listenings to get used to - and you may not like them at all!

...Dubbed as one of the best singer/songwriters in 2005, Joseph Arthur actually has been in the business of making tremendous music and giving astounding live performances since 1997 (at least). Peter Gabriel of Genesis fame (although that had nothing to do with me listening to Joseph Arthur) recommended him to Real World Records in 1997, which lead to the release of Joseph's first album, "Big City Secrets". However, this, his latest work of art, is by far considered as his best yet. (On tracks 3, 5 and 6, the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra feature) THE TRACKS 1 - In Ohio - Less of a track, more of an opening intro into the album. Simply a line of very dark guitar chords and Joseph's echoey voice. 2 - Can't Exist - This could easily be the best track on the album. It's memorable and has all the features of a "best... Read review

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Advantages: Maddy Prior on excellent form
Disadvantages: none

...Arthur the King is an intelligent and thought provoking album. If you were trying to categorise it, it would have to be filed under 'serious Folk'. What we have here is a collection of ten songs exploring the Arthur 'myth'. Nick Holland and Troy Donockley join Prior and between them theyweave a beautiful sound. The quality of the song cycle is remarkably high with Queen & Sovereignty and Once and Future King standing out. As a coda, there are five traditional songs unrelated to the central theme. This album doesn't fall too short of 'must have' status. Prior is in enchanting voice throughout and the subject matter is of almost universal interest. Buy it and rediscover your Celtic roots. It is an album that continues to reinvent Prior as one of the Godmothers of British Folk and makes All Around my Hat sound as if it came from different... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful