One World - John Martyn

Advantages: Most of the tracks very strong. Album stands test of time
Disadvantages: Not a commercial album and needs repeated listening.

...of the album with a quiet track.. John's back to acoustic guitar and Thompson is the other musician. A sensual song about making love (what else?), but an effective one. The ending of the song is unorthodox, but typical John Martyn. Dreams By The Sea. John had set up home in Hastings by this time, so I guess this had some bearing on the title. Quite a bluesy, pop-like, up-tempo number with a breathy sax being blown in the background. Again a distinctive song with another unorthodox ending. May You Never. Definitely John's most famous song, and the one covered by quite a few other artists.This is the best and original version, and many fans regard this as his theme song. Just John on his own, finger-picking his guitar, it's easy to listen to and very catchy, It's a superb song if nothing else, but he's written others that can hold... Read review

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Advantages: Highly original and relaxing acoustic guitar songs, superbly played
Disadvantages: Inferior bonus tracks might interfere with the mood of the album for some.

...John Martyn was a very talented British singer/songwiter/musician, who attracted a strong interest and following during the 1970s (less so in the '80s),.But he enjoyed little commercial recognition, despite his best albums selling steadily over the years. Although Martyn started out as a folk artist in the late 1960s, by the time of this release, jazz and blues influences had crept into his repertoire. By the '80s, Martyn's studio albums had changed noticeably in musical style, devoid of any folk influence, but not some might say, for the better. Bless The Weather, released in 1971 is John Martyn's fifth album, and arguably his best. It originally included ten tracks, nine songs plus one superb instrumental jam. What the original album managed to achieve is the near perfect blend of contemporary folk and jazz... Read review

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Advantages: Soulful, beautiful, so John.
Disadvantages: None at all

...Would easily be achieved if everyone listened to the legendary John Martyn. His chilled vocals, entrancing guitar and collection of accomplished musicians make for beautiful listening. Just imagine a warm summers evening, sitting/lying/lounging around with good friends, good wine and wonderful music. drifting off to the soporific beats of hand on guitar drumming and strumming a rhythm too sublime to relate on this page. I have my partner to thank for introducing me to this album, and all his others. The haunting, ethereal quality of One World, makes shivers down my spine, its evocative and emotionally charged. Couldn't Love You More brings tears to my eyes. In fact I don't think I have ever heard a bad track performed by this man. I could not tell anyone enough, to try John Martyn if they haven't already, if you... Read review

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