Reviews (page 3 of 7)
He has a very unique voice, which i didn't like at virst. But the more i listened to it the more i appreciated it, and how it blends in with the intrumentals. It left me feeling more calm and relaxed. The albums manages to balance folk and psychadelic rock very well. I enjoyed it
The name made me think I was going to be listening to 50s C&W, the album art made me think it was going to be prog rock. In reality I was treated with funky Mark Knopfler. Noice.
Very good!
Favorite Songs: Dealer Small Hours Very virtuous and classical John Martyn album. Jazzy, ununderstandable lyrics and amazing to lose yourself in. The final song is just amazing.
P good!
A little less moody than \"Solid Air,\" but no less emotionally provocative. \"Small Hours\" is a particular treat, guided by an ethereal atmosphere that is equal parts eerie and gorgeous.
Great album. Musically brilliant. Very eclectic
I found this to be less interesting than Solid Air but I was compelled to listen to it twice. Nice little Steve Winwood appearance too. 7/10
Out of the gate this feels like Don Henley meets Billy Gibbons. Kind of funky / warbly instrumental with some gravely vocals laden with effects. Smiling Stranger has a pretty cool vibe about it. Guitar echo effects reminiscent of Watermelon Man (Herbie Hancock) with some skittering drums and organ thrown about. I dig it. There really are not enough songs about muff these days. Skwanky guitar tone that gives it a loose / funky vibe. Small Hours is a spacious ambient jam. Kind of reminds me of Fennesz a bit. I feel like I've heard it before, but I can't imagine where. In any case, I really enjoy the song; super peaceful outro. I'm a soft 4 / 5 on this one. Definitely not an album I would go out of my way for, but there are some really high points (Small Hours, Smiling Stranger, Big Muff) and a lot of diversity to the sound for its relatively short playtime.
This album is an interesting one. A lot of variation between songs that all fit nicely together. I was a bit off put by John Martyn's voice, and overall think it detracts from the instrumentation in each song. The album really picked up with Big Muff, Couldn't Love You More, Dancing, and Small Hours. I enjoyed this album to the tune of 3.5 stars, but I think the uniqueness and flow of this entire album brings it squarely into the 4 category.
Jangly and dreamy
Rough start, and kinda dad rock-y, but very chill & upbeat. The sound of the last track surprised me given when this came out. 4.5. BT - One World - Big Muff - Couldn't Love You More - Sweet Certain Surprise - Dancing - Small Hours
Arty and intriguing, but perhaps a little aimless. Strange and groovy and trippy, almost entirely in a good way. Quite a few tunes I’d like in the right mix, with segues and contrasts that flatter, because they hold up well, but the playing excels the vocals by a considerable – and quite noticeable – distance.
zweet zertain zurprise! Favorite Tracks: Certain Surprise, Dancing, Small Hours 4/5
Hadn't heard it before, but definitely interesting!
The vibes won me over
John Martyn, yet another UK artist I've never heard of. But this time, it blew me away! What a great, beautiful album. Dense but peaceful all at once. I've heard some complaints regarding his voice, but I kind of like it. It's reminiscent of someone like Nick Drake. This would be a nice relaxing Sunday listen.
More John Martyn! Bonus! Effortlessly cool. Not as great as Solid Air though. How I miss those late nights with wine and friends.
I really enjoyed this album. I wished I'd heard of him before yesterday. This is the type of stuff I used to listen to regularly as a teen. I see he's worked with many of my favorites. My younger self would have liked the experimental vibes of this album. I'm old and cranky now so it's less interesting but still enjoyable. The main reason this isn't a 5 star is because there's no emotional connection and too dated to establish one. Great production for the time and quailty musicians. Glad to meet you John Martyn. I'll stick your card in my rolodex.
Don't care for the vocals at all but the instrumentation is excellent.
It ain't anything spectacular, but it's pleasant
4.0
Somehow I had never heard of Mr. Martyn before. I'll definitely listen to more of his music in the future.
Interesting album, enjoyed the listen, would probably listen to more from Martyn
Nice. Ahead of its time sonically speaking, with a few catchy hooks and a lot of interesting moodpieces. Besides, I can't help feeling *One World* fares slightly better than *Solid Air* today. Oddly enough, it's songs from that latter record that have the largest number of streams on Spotify--they are indeed very nice cuts, but as far as whole albums go, *Solid Air* still sounds like a patchy affair to my (limited?) ears. Conversely, *One World* offers something that's both adventurous and cohesive in terms of sound and songwriting. I did a quick search online to see if I could buy this album. It seems it is extremely hard to find today, and this in any format. Bummer. Chances are that I'll be less inclined to revisit it if I don't own a physical copy of it. Still, I'm including it in my list of essential records. This is where this app is pretty useful. It can help you single out albums that deserve to be a little more popular than they already are. Number of albums left to review or just listen to: less than 700, I've temporarily lost count here Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: approximately a half so far (including this one) Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: a quarter Albums from the list I will certainly *not* include in mine (many others are more important): the last quarter
John Martyn was ever one of the most questing of the folkies, and on this album there's nary a hint of music associated with the real ale brigade. True, the spinning, swirling Echoplex guitar and slurred vocals heard on Solid Air are still in place; but if this isn't quite as accomplished as his best album, it's more expansive. Alongside some slightly New Wave touches we have a kind or soul-folk on 'Certain Surprise' and, perhaps most gorgeous of all, whalesong guitar on the meditative 'Small Hours', underpinned by a subtle heartbeat percussion. Lovely stuff. I hope Solid Air is on this app.
Another album by a British musician I had never heard of. This was definitely an interesting discovery! I would characterize this as soft, mellow, experimental prog-jazz-folk-rock? Whatever it is, it's cool, and I like it. Very cool guitar playing. I would absolutely listen to this again. Love the album art too.
Had never heard of John before and really liked this one, will be revisiting!
"One World" is the seventh studio album by Scottish guitarist and singer Iain David McGeachy known professionally as John Martyn. The album was recorded outdoors at Island record owner Chris Blackwell's (also the producer) Berkshire Farm. Martyn had become disillusioned with the music industry but was revitalized after a prior trip to Jamaica and meeting and playing with various people including Lee "Scratch" Perry who co-wrote a song appearing on the album. Also appearing on the album are musicians Steve Winwood (various instruments), Danny Thompson (bass), Hansford Rowe (bass) and Rico Rodriguez (trombone). This music style is very unique incorporating various guitar effects including echoing, heavy bass, Moog synthesizer and influences from dub music and Lee Perry. It sounds like a mixture of pop, jazz, experimental and world music. This album is credited as originating trip-hop. "Dealer" begins things and right away there's a lot going on. Prominent bass. The Moog synth. Reverb guitars. Flutes. Martyn's scratchy voice. Kind of funky and World music sounding. I think obviously about a drug dealer. "Smiling Stranger" is another "big" sounding song. Guitar with the effects. Sax and strings are also added. Never trust a smiling stranger. "Big Muff" was co-wrote with Lee "Scratch" Perry and we have reverb heavy guitar. A great groove with the bass. The second side is love song focused. "Certain Suprise" is samba-esque and very smooth jazz. More strings and a trombone. "Dancing" was the only single and has a swinging rhythm. A plea to his wife and sounds like latter-day Peter Gabriel. The nearly nine-minute "Small Hours" concludes the album. Very ambient. You hear water. You hear geese sounds. More of his echo guitar. Very chill. This is my first venture into John Martyn. A lot going on musically and the future influence is apparent. A great sounding and orginal album. Recommended for anyone willing to venture into jazz, ambient, dub, world and other experimental musical styles.
a couple of the last songs were pretty groovy
bardzo przyjemne, zwłaszcza Certain Surprise
Pretty intriguing overall. Varied and complex
Pero
What a surprise. I love the mellow production and vocals, paired with all kinds of different sounds, and the ambience peace at the end. All in a perfect run time.
Some really lovely stuff on here, from early on in his time, an album I definitely wouldn't have heard if it wasn't for this.
Chill
Very interesting work. Rare to see someone’s 7th record on here. Also had heard of the song recorded across a lake before but hadn’t heard it
Percussion!
I had never heard of John and didn’t know what to expect. Clearly dated but a cool mix of guitar, funk, psychedelic. Enjoyed it.
Such a unique album, nothing immediately stood out but I didn't feel the need to skip a single song. I should definitely give it some more listens in the future.
Man, I loved hearing this album. I knew and loved the tracks Couldn't Love You More, and Small Hours already, but it was excellent to hear all the album cuts. Dude's voice was a jazz instrument, and his playing acoustic-like-it's-an-electric guitar playing is pioneering and totally cool too. Gonna deep dive his catalogue now. THIS is the reason I'm on this listening journey!
Kindoff unique slow rock
Zzzzzzzzvvvvrrrrrr ZzzzzzzzGgggguuuuuuudddd ZZZZaaaallllbbbmmmmmzzzz
folk hop, flute bop
Ordagrant cheelin
good!
I liked this not as much as the other John Martyn though
áhugaverð plata
Wild, interesting album from someone I knew nothing about.
Rock, pop. Extrañamente interesante.
good at work listen
I like everything going on except the vocals. They sound weak and winded. Like the guy just ran 6 flights of stairs to get to the studio. Big Muff is a good tune. I am really torn on this album, but I think there is enough here to merit me coming back to it.
So breezy, smooth, and creative. Loved it!
This was really cool to find. I've never heard of this guy. Seems super ahead of its time and influential.
For the first time in this project, I was very positively surprised by an artist I had never heard of before. This is very intriguing to listen to, with its wild mix of different styles and his very unique voice.
Dangerous, psychedelic yacht rock that morphs into early post-rock by the end? I'm a fan.
I hadn't listened to John Martyn before, a really great discovery. Textured sound, many layers and influences, takes you to unexpected places, ahead of his time. Will definitely explore more of his work
Very interesting, like early Sade and precursor to elevator music but in a good way.
Funky Af. Small hours. Wow. Excellent.
Unusual combo of funk, jazz, blues, and Dr. John. Dude can noodle, too. Dig it.
Soulful, and funky. Great voice. Nice diversity of songs.
Funky Joe Cocker
Love it. Completely new to me. Mixing blues, jazz, reggae, and world beat. And all the sweet guitar riffs and effects. My only criticism is I’m not in love with his voice. Maybe it would grow on me. 4.0
I rly fuck w this, hes showed up in music recommendation sites when i enter music i like but ive never rly given him the time, but today i did (funnily enough i was looking at this album specifically before i checked here lmao) yeah pretty poggers pogchamp imo, listened to it twice today and plan to listen more
Distinctly generic until Small Hours, which hits different from the rest of the album and drags this sucker out of the muck.
I wasn't sure I liked this album at first but it has some really delightful moments and I think that if I listened to it more I would get into it. I can see how this artist might have contributed to the musical styles of artists I listen to regularly today.
A chill, jazzy, moody album. I like the instrumentation more than the vocals, but the low growly vocals ain't bad either.
Really interesting, as ever for John. Worth the price of admission for the final track "Small Hours" alone.
Pretty good
false
i really loved it, he has a great voice
So good. Lovely to listen to
Este es el tipo de Jazz que si me gusta, no tan experimental, nadie quiere sobresalir y a buen tempo. Solo conocía Dealer que no sabía que se llamaba así.
Very chill, peaceful, and natural-sounding. Lovely background music.
Good album went a bit too 70s funk for my liking for this style. Some instrumentation felt a bit too forced especially earlier on in the album. Some great arrangements though.
A fun psychy funky album, need to give it a better listen.
Bra album kan tänka mig att lyssna igen.
Pleasant surprise!
reverby!
Not bad. Sort of like Nick Drake, or other more recent folk artists
I never listened to John Martyn. This is the fun of this project, listen to new discovered music which can be over 40 years old. I am really happy I get to know this music. Very interesting and creative guitar style. Esoteric and experimental. Not sure if I like all the songs but interesting is the key word here. I was afraid I could not stand his voice, especially the first few lines on the first track are typical but got used to it quite quickly. Later it did remind me a bit of Ben Harper. Also for a moment I had to think about Nick Drake and after that I read that they were friends. Album needs more listens than just one as it is also not an easy listen and you cannot discover everything with one listen. The last track "Small Hours" is too long in my opinion and bit boring (altough I have read the opposite in some reviews). It seems that part of the album was recorded outside to get also outside nature sounds mingled in between. I will need a separate listen to discover those. Also curious for some other albums to learn more from him
70s singer/songwriter, not bad, not great didn't like his voice at the start, but it got better
Sympa mais trop chill
An interesting and enjoyable album, but I'm more intrigued as to his other work that may or may not be more like the last track, which I found to be by far the best. I'm not a huge fan of some of the vocals, but they were pretty good on Can't Love You More. Can't help but feel like this is another bad starting point for an artist though.
Better than solid air for sure, still like half filler but the bass here is quite nice
Doesn't seem like the years were kind to John Martyn, sounding a lot gruffer and a lot darker subject matter than on Solid Air. Definitely more experimental and has mixed results for me, really liked some songs but others grew tiresome
After "Solid Air", which I had prior, I was really looking forward to this. But this one can not convince me in the same way, although it is almost a pleasant listen too. favourite: "Dealer", "Big Muff", "Certain Surprise" 3,5
I thought this was going to be a prog album, but it was british folk with the jazzier side of Yacht Rock. 3/5 for now, but can go higher
Some nice touches, especially in the longer tracks "Big Muff" and "Small Hours", the other tracks didn't get me and the forced vocals of John Martyn is hard to get used to.
I'm not sure that this album should be on this list, but I'm glad that it is. For reasons that I can't understand, I liked most of the tracks. "Dancing" sucked, and "Small Hours" had a haunting sound that I liked quite a bit. His voice is hit-or-miss, but grows on you....sort of. This was a nice inbetweener listen.
Really chill (and short) record. The pieces are very gentle and calming. I'm going to revisit this one again.
A bit of a mumbly singer, but there's something about the "cloudy" production on this album that I like. That guitar sound is amazing too. It was so nice hearing the legendary Rico Rodriguez, pre-Specials, soloing on trombone on Certain Surprise.
This was different enough that I could see the merit of including it.
I absolutely loved "Dealer". The rest is fine, but not all of it is really my taste. Great production all around though. It gets a high 3
🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑 Apologies to Emily bc I think I’m gonna hate this one, and the Phil Collins comparisons did little to comfort me. For once, I knew nothing about John Martyn going into this, though, like I said, some of his company seemed worrisomely cheesy to me. Thankfully, my takeaways, for the most part, range from neutral to favorable. Martyn’s got a super fun rasp, and his instrumentation is diverse and varied, even if it is a little dated. There’s some very of its time guitar that conjures Gabriel and Bush as well as Collins, but it’s balanced by the psychedelic atmosphere of this, which stays strong throughout. I always say diversity is our strength, but the diversity here is where I start to feel a little weakened. To Martyn’s credit, this album is nothing if not distinct—it’s got influences all across the board, and only some were bound to land with me (although one might argue I’d be on board for all of it if he was good enough…. just sayin’). Certainly, there was a bit much of the long, low crooning type of drama for me from the outset, though it wasn’t necessarily a barrier to entry for me when these songs get funkier. “Dealer” was kind of what I imagine “yoinky sploinky” means, bouncing around in a corny, proggy way (or maybe that’s just the white funk bass I’m discovering a distaste for). Speaking of which, God forbid a Scottish boy get a little Bossa Nova on “Certain Surprise.” To my immense surprise, Emily made a Cameron Winter comparison that had me thinking “pfff, no way” for the majority of the album, but lo and behold, “Certain Surprise” was actually a dead ringer (is Bossa Nova what Cameron was going for??). Unfortunately, I also feel like Jack Johnson and Ray Lamontagne have an odd lineage with songs like “Big Muff” (goofy ahh title), especially the latter’s more psychedelic ventures. Strangely, I think these African-inspired beats can just as much be traced back to Talking Heads. A timeline is beginning to assemble itself in my head: I wonder if this evolved out of the Peter Gabriel/Talking Heads Eno eras that explored a lot of that African percussion, then became diluted the further it got from Eno. Luckily for Martyn, this is a pretty early iteration, so it’s not thaaat much less successfully. “Dancing” sort of an interesting summary of the album: the rhythm is super corny but the background has a psychedelic cyclic quality that I really enjoy. These are exactly the qualities that have me so mixed on this album. I feel like I should hate it, but I honestly would listen to this again—I almost downloaded “Small Hours” because of the suddenly emotionally cutting soundscape, and if it had developed beyond its atmospheric scope, it would’ve been an easy keeper. Overall, 3 stars is a very self conscious and cautious rating—maybe we’ll see revisions to this in the future. 1: Bad | 2: Okay, No Desire to Revisit | 3: Good, Conditionally (OR Inconsistent Mix of Qualities) | 4: Great (OR Technically amazing but missing the sauce emotionally) | 5: Amazing
I'm detecting notes of Seal?? And Phil Collins, who was apparently his friend?? Actually, I zoned out for a minute and realized this sounds kind of Cameron Winter-y too... I weirdly enjoyed Big Muff and definitely enjoyed Couldn't Love You More. One World was too corny for me. Small Hours was trippy and I loved the geese honking. Overall, some really good moments and some meh, but I'm glad I came across this once.
[3/5] ambient funky experimental? saunter through a very short album full of ambiance but leaves me floating and feeling unresolved. only small hours caused me to feel something. 2.5. track notes: 1. an asthmatic the morning after a few too many bevvies 2. floating but so so 3. feel like i am from distant lands 4. this means something else in the current year, i can't take it seriously 5. lubby dubby 6. floating, easy listening 7. snake charming effect, one of the most interesting songs 8. this has been in my liked songs for a while. it breaks me down then starts building me up again, but leaves it unresolved at the end. nice ambiance at least
Middle of the road album
Short but painful
Another meh-music was interesting but vocals grated. At least it was under 40 minutes
fire but like lukewarm fire
I'd never heard of John Martyn before today, but this was pretty alright. His gruff voice was a little off-putting at first, but the melodic guitar arrangements and emotional vocal delivery won me over in the end. Somewhat forgettable album, but enjoyable listen -- I listened twice. Three stars.
Poeeeeh, dit voelt als de eindbaas van alle progrock? Het is opzich wel funky, maar het is niet perse goed genoeg voor de lengte van het album? Ik had er iets meer van verwacht, dat is in elk geval duidelijk. De cover is best wel vet, het begin ook wel tof, maar het voelt als een hele hoop gepriegel dat gewoon niet echt ergens heen gaat... Geen vervelend album trouwens, en je hoort wel echt dat er hier een stel fantastische muzikanten aan het werk is. Maar het pakt me net niet helemaal. Behalve Small Hours dan, het laatste nummer van het album wat bijna 9 minuten duurt en heel klein blijft. Dat pakt me dan net weer wel. Interessant album dit, maar het mist voor mij helaas net dat beetje extra om een heel goed album te zijn. FAVO:Small Hours
This one I might need another listen to really come to a conclusion about. I think overall I liked his voice and the tracks, but it didn't leave me with a strong impression overall.
not good not bad. overall very boring
De temps en temps c'était bien, et d'autres fois c'était nul.
I enjoyed a few songs on this album: "Big Muff" and "Couldn't Love You More", for example, the latter being nicely put together. But songs like "Certain Surprise" and "Small Hours" just didn't work for me. Overall, I don't know if I would have included this album on this 1001 list, but I'm still glad I heard it.
Pretty & cool & pretty cool!
all i needed was to read the title of the album to know that it was a white guy dabbling in dub music... and honestly it was pretty chill... 3 stars, good job chap
In my review of "Solid Air" by John Martyn, I described him as "an atonal Nick Drake" and while that album rated a 4 of 5 for me, this album stepped backwards. This album sounds more like one note which makes for a very bland vision of One World.
yo not bad. Last couple songs were especially interesting
Nice tunes but not my style, thx!
sympa
interesting, growly, textured voice & funky groove. i don't ... really wanna let him in .. or smile at a stranger? but half of these songs are tender. why is this album sometimes tender, sometimes creepy? strange. fave song: small hours. 3.5
Very, very pleasant. Martyn is clearly an exceptional musician, albeit a crap singer. Oh well, can't win 'em all. A couple stinkers and a couple all-timers, and Small Hours is a lovely and interesting finale (although...no way this can seriously be considered a precursor to trip-hop. Right?) Fave tracks: - Dealer - Smiling Stranger - Big Muff - Certain Surprise
Bit of a strange album, the musicianship is good but the album doesn’t really feel focused in any way, which leaves it feeling a bit flat
Second album proposé après 'Solid Air' que j'avais plutôt apprécié (noté 3/5 - très varié pour un classement folk). Même constat ici : grande variété des morceaux, quelques chorus intéressants et ... peu de folk dans cet album ! Je pourrais l'écouter de nouveau. Par contre j'apprécie un peu moins sa voix, et certains morceaux plus lents sont un peu ennuyeux, il ne rejoindra donc pas ma collection. =>3/5
2.5
I feel like I’d make this sitting alone in my room, except I’d never release it :/
Weird... but I kind of like it too...
Et litt kjedelig album helt til sistesporet Small Hours kommer og tar deg med på en reise.
There's clearly some good guitar riffs and instrumentals on here but his voice kills it for me. I'm really not a fan of his voice. 6/10
algo super chill de cojones. la primera rola sonaba a lo que pensé que iba a sonar el disco x la portada pero el resto ya no. chulísima la rola protoambientosa del final. ocupo otra escuchada pa aclarar qué tanto me gusta todo pero de momento su buen tres
3/5 I like the funky parts the slow parts can get vert boring
Okay. I expected some else. This was alright. Average for some nobody from Britain. Lots of those here.
His voice was unexpected. That said, the rest of the album just sort of faded into the background and even a few hours later I don't remember much of it.
Immediate first thought, “wow this mix is REALLY good”. But then the singer started… I guess his voice is really unique but it’s just so weird. It’s not my only gripe though, I found the music a bit dull in general. I enjoyed the last song more than I probably should. I really liked the ambience and I think it’s a great album closer.
I think in the last 1046 days, it's hard to think of an album that passed me by to a greater extent than this one did. That's not to say it wasn't nice, or pleasant (although occasionally I think his voice isn't), just that it was spectacularly unmemorable. Sorry!
Enjoyable and laid-back background music.
Not bad. Some interesting eccentric sounds but not my thing
Nice pop album.
The tracks have pleasant melodies, but they are rather forgetable.
Catchy. Got that funky pop style.
Never heard of this artist. But reading their wikipedia, sounds interesting. Some interesting tunes but a little slow for my ears.
Nice and quick, but not setting anyone's world on fire.
Siistiä vibeä paljon, etenkin viimesessä kappaleessa. Vokaalit oli taas vaan vähän luotaantyöntävät, paikoitellen menetteli ja toimi musiikkiin. Erikoista hönkimistä. One love ja jotain, en ehkä uusiks intoudu kuuntelemaan ainakaan tän perusteella.
Voice like a random drunkard, music is good
Not bad
Big muff isn’t my thing
The first track was pretty terrible but the rest was fine.
VERY hippy, feels like a summer night after an insane trip.
oklart?
Best Song: One World Yaaaawn. This just is kind of dull all around. I can barely make out what John Martyn is saying as well, which isn't great for a singer/songwriter. And, is there really a song called Big Muff. Wtf. 3/5.
Wow, two John Martyn albums in three days! The algorithm continues to act in mysterious ways. Went from never hearing of this guy before at the beginning of the week to having consumed two full albums by him by Friday! I’ll say this…I am glad I got the earlier album first. It is really good and I have listened to it a lot just over the past few days. This album is….not as good. It’s not bad, it’s not a catastrophe or anything. It’s just certainly a step down from Solid Air. Firstly, he sounds extremely different. I read about him after getting the first album, and it seems like he lived hard for many years there, and it shows in his voice. In Solid Air he often sounds like Nick Drake or Donovan, but here his voice is pretty ragged from abuse. Throaty, gruff. I missed the sweetness and lightness of his voice from before. Similarly, he’s moving away from the folky vibe of the last album and experimenting more with an RnB sound to…mixed success I’d say. I’m not sure it really fits him. There’s less great songs here, and the best ones are the folkier ones, and the cool final track, which actually delves into some surprising drone/ambient vibes. Honestly, had I gotten this album first, it probably would have been a 2-2.5. I’m being generous because I’m now more familiar with Martyn and his work and what he’s capable of and what he’s doing with this album.
Dude sounds hammered in some parts which, you know what? I dig it.
Fav song: Small Hours
wish it was an instrumental album
Just kind of passed by
Was ready to hate this but at least it doesn't sound like Austin Powers music, pleasant listen
Ok
Better than Coldplay
liked it!
2.5
Another weird and interesting album that is perhaps more weird than interesting.
This album is bookended by what I think are two great songs and is otherwise far too up its own ass to take seriously. The whole middle of it is, like another reviewer pointed out, like music out of a porno. Martyn’s voice and singing style makes it sound almost gross; his mumbling not helping the obscene overuse of the wah pedal and the synths. That last song though, Small Hours, is really excellent. The heartbeat “beat” throughout and the subtle guitar work of reverb filled chords is really great. Even when he sings it feels like his voice is another instrument. That song alone puts it a point above where I think the rest should be. “Dealer” is just good fun; not the masterclass that Small Hours is, but still enjoyable to listen to.
I expected this album to be a snooze-fest, but it's not bad. Big Muff is a tune, plus there are some really ahead-of-it's-time post rock segments that are a delight to listen to
This was fine. It definitely doesnt feel like an album from the 70s. Overall very mellow, but not what I needed to hear this afternoon. I should have listened to this in the morning.
Listened Before? N What a weird listen. I'm not sure what any of it means, but between the porn guitars and the boob on the cover, I think the whole thing may just be one big innuendo. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Big Muff (duh)
I don't know that I'd seek him out for a listen, but it was kind of pleasant (except the last song).
*1977. British singer/songwriter. *Pleasant, but not memorable. *Might give it another try, but probably not. RATING - 7/10
This is an experimental sound for the 1970s and I appreciate it, even if the songs themselves varied. The inclusion of Yatch Rock, electronica and Jazz, with a little singer-songwriter mixed in left me curious from song to song. One World could have been a Thundercat song. Key tracks for me were Big Muff and the DMB-influencing Dancing. Though I liked the cosmic naturalism of Small Hours too. I would have never looked for this album, but I might now
Random thoughts: * I'm honestly not sure what to make of this one. Listened to it several times. * It clearly does not sound like something from the 70s. I'm guessing this was way ahead of it's time. * I would say I liked it overall and would definitely listen to it again. I think I probably need more of a dedicated listening session. * I remember there was another album of John Martyn on here and I was also in to that one. Hmmmm...am I a John Martyn fan? * Thanks for the discovery 1001. I'll be coming back to John Martyn.
Lots of variety and it stays interesting for the most part, but not as good as Solid Air. 3.0/5.0: Good
this is another one of those where I think I enjoy it more in its historical context than to actually listen to but it was a fine time Small Hours punches above its weight class here though
Moody, good. I'll listen again -
Chill
Pleasant, but nothing amazing.
The last song was a vibe
This one is definitely a vibe. Smooth as silk!
The last song Small Hours was very chill. My favorite track.
Pop rock sans originalité
Sympa
This is enjoyable enough, but it isn’t something I’ll revisit
I liked the one world song a lot. Overall its a pretty good album. Nothing crazy though.
Nice singing and pretty instrumentals, but this was just OK to me. I probably wont remember anything about this album after today.
I had previously heard John Martyn's Solid Air as part of this exercise but I had not heard this album before. It's a bit of a departure from that album. In particular, the ambient nature of the recording process and songs are quite apparent. I don't mind having heard this once, but not sure I would come back to it.
Ok
I had never heard of this album until just now. I'm pretty surprised that I hadn't. I can't figure out for the life of me what made this fall through the cracks while Don Henley and Sting etc had big careers in the 80s. Maybe it was just because of low overall output? There's something nice about the way it was recorded, I guess because it was before the compression battles. It wasn't a life-changing find but the fact it came out in 77 and then kind of sounds like everything that came out the decade after. I'll have to read more about John Martyn.
It was alright
Clearly inspired by Nick Drake. Some nice tunes on here, very soothing and groovy. His voice is not always my cup of tea but overall this is a nice find!
Kind of reminds me of Bozz Scags singing with the guitarist from Funkadelic. It's pretty good stuff, with some nice variety. Not too energetic but not lethargic, great to listen to at work or when doing activities at home. I will be adding this to my favorites so I can put it on the HiFi at home for another more detailed listen. I'm sure it will be worth it.
I've never heard of this before. It was an interesting listen. Not necessarily my cup of tea, but I didn't mind it
Kann man schon mal hören
Pretty cool album and glad John Martyn's on my radar now. Got some Caamp singing vibes and liked the dreamy, airy parts. Lot of creative sounds with some experimental artsy songs.
This was one weird album, meandering, peculiar vocals, strange subject matter, and odd instrumentation. It meandered from being an awful album, to a half-decent one, then good, then back to awful again, often in the space of a single track. I'm so unsure how to rate this that I'm just going to award it an average three stars and move on with my day.
This was tolerable, but I'd never listen to it again. It felt like a collection on B sides really, 2.5/3
idk
Meh, bad voice generic riffs
Soft and mellow kind of rock record. Not bad. Especially liked the closing track. 3.4/5.0
Decent 70's funk that I can't say i disliked but was nothing special. 6/10
Chill as hell, but also sadly a bit forgettable. I would listen to some of the songs again some time though.
Honestly a very chill album. There's not much to say, it was just a nice listen. But there's nothing that stands out to me specifically, so.
Easy Listening
I think this one just came at the wrong day. Didnt make a big splash
Hmm
2.5 stars, I would say. Starts off strong. It's an interesting album with some cool vibes. Some of it is obviously sappy but some moments you can transcend that. Some moments you wallow right into it.
Decent enough album, probably won't ever listen to it again though
Always nice when I get a totally unfamiliar artist and album. There are layers here, lots of interesting soundscapes emerging on this record, anchored by a mournful, sometime haggard voice. Kind of reminded me of JJ Cale at times, but with more atmospheric tendencies. I liked the funkier tracks, but the slower ones lost me a bit. Kind of bordering on easy listening, but with enough panache to keep it engaging. I'm gonna go 3/5 here. Nothing groundbreaking for me, but a nice smooth listen.
Never heard of this artist, but liked the album. Very 70s groovy vibes. Big Muff reminded me of Seagulls, Stop It Now for some reason.
So yeah uhhhh Big Muff, sure, why not. 3/5
One album from 1977 that you should keep in your rotation.
Wasn't horrible but wasn't memorable either.
That was a weird album, very difficult to badge a specific genre. I actually quite enjoyed it. The vocals weren't always great, he had a tendency to start sounding a bit slurry/pissed - maybe he was, in which case, fair play to him!
No será nada que me haya volado la cabeza, pero me sorprendió para bien. ↑: Dealer, Couldn’t Love You More, Certain Surprise ↓: –
Interesting stuff
Anna really liked this one but I find it hard to get into. Nice and funky, but ultimately background noise.
It was ok but that description saying this helped to develop trip hop left me confused, as I didn’t hear that at all.
Reasonable. Interesting in places, but not massively memorable.
I find this album difficult to rate. My sons like this chap and have this album. I don't hate it, however, I don't like much either. I quite like "Dancer". I know it's got interesting recording techniques, but the music doesn't generally grab me. This is a 2.5 to 3 rating.
Not a patch on solid air
It didn’t blow me away, but it was enjoyable. It reminds me of Bonnie Prince Billy.
Not a bad listen.
Would be a 4 without the vocals
Если не обращать внимание на голос, то вполне неплохая музыка для лёгкого непринуждённого настроения.
Hadn't heard this one. Interesting, but the singing style... Not to big a fan of that.
i could not love you more
I don’t think this album should be on this list, but I think I’ve enjoyed it more than albums that probably do deserve to be on the list. Who knows what that means.
John Martyn un desconocido para la gran mayoría, aquí presente cojn nada menos que dos álbumes, más que el propio Macca... La pregunta es ¿Dan para tanto? Difícil responder. Dealer es Moog, sonidos electrónicos con guitarra y una voz que no es gran cosa. El resto del disco sigue estos parámetros. Sonidos y estilo afines a Kevin Ayers o Wyatt. One world, es un viaje. Lo citan como precursor del Trip-Hop... no sé, yo no lo veo para tanto. Smiling Stranger sí está bien, suena a Lee Perry con mucho soul y mucho estilo. Más aún en Big Muff. Certain surprise es un relajado tema con base casi bossa-nova. De Dancing me esperaba más. Small Hours es un vaije onírico de más de 8 minutos. El disco, bien, pero tampoco es imprescindible.
Ha. Big Muff.
I can't believe this album came out in the 70's. Aside from some production issues, this really feels a decade or two ahead of its time. That being said, I couldn't care less for John Martyn's vocals, and a lot of ambient sounds are a bit too snoozy for me. I've got a lot of respect for some of the less mainstream stuff here, even if I probably won't listen to them again. Highlight: Certain Surprise Lowlight: Smiling Stranger
It was okay. I thought I would enjoy a 70s singer songwriter style a bit more but the voice style was tough for me to get into
like a really laid back dire straights
when i first heard his mumbly old man voice i was really ready to hate this album. but it was actually really beautiful and a weird folksy jazz rock fusion. i still can only pick out one word every hundred. and i don't feel like i will actually be listening to this album anytime soon. but if it were to come on at jazz @ lincoln center i would be happy enough
I’ve always felt I should listen to John Martyn as he lived in the town I now call home. Well now I have, it’s pleasant. Meandering, but pleasant. His voice is at turns gruff and sweet with some nice jazzy acoustic guitar. Plenty to like but not life changing
+Couldn't Love You More +Small Hours
Meh. Nice for an easy listen.
Not sure what I was expecting, it reads as trip hop influences on wiki, but the art gives me prog rock vibes. I think what's really curious here is the Jamaican influence, and on more than just the track with Scratch. I appreciate taking it in and turning it into something unique, it stands that way still today. I don't think this influence was eagerly mass produced later on, just part of an attractive niche. His voice grew on me. I'm more used to this vocal playfulness from female singers. It was a bit of a shock initially, got past it quick, it's a little different but it's talented. I don't feel I've ever heard any of this before, not even the single. I can see why, it's a lot of well pulled off production that doesn't really stick to the back of the mind. I'd buy the record at a decent price, and I'd be happy to hear other projects. This one was fun for work-day-background-music. 3.3/5
Klinkt prima, net even anders dan ik gewend ben van deze 1001 albums
Some really pretty songs, but some of the experimental stuff was not very engaging for me
Favorite Track: Small Hours
Aight
I listened to this album in the background, and wasn't as focused on taking note of each individual song. For the first seven tracks, I thought this was a fine album. I liked a lot of the instrumentals and the vocals were good. But Small Hours really took me by surprise. It's a beautiful song, and it's mostly instrumental. I wouldn't listen to a whole album of it, but as a way to close a very stylistically different album, it works perfectly. Favourite song: Small Hours
Funky yet easy listening. Feels very anchored in time. I liked it more than I thought I would.
Good album but not paticulaily amazing. I didn't love it, didn't hate it
This was ok. Never heard it before. Not something I’d go back to likely.
Favourites: One World Couldn't Love You More
It was alright I guess. Of little note. Extra point for the big muff
His voice sounded like he had a big muff over his mouth. Not bad however, enjoyed the album.
I prematurely came for the Big Muff but was left disappointed. Inoffensive album but didn't do much for me.
I've always enjoyed John Martyn in moderation, though I've heard less of his 'experimental' stuff. This is nice but so laid back it kind of fades into the background.
Generally liked this one, my favourite by FAR is Small Hours - love all the weird little noises - electro prototype!
One of those rates finds that you are rare to come cross on this journey. I would not ca it "pop", more of a .... ... well, not sure. But is is nice and smooth.
Another average white boomer playing vaguely prog doodling. I do appreciate the brevity and recognize that the production was innovative at the time.
Enjoyed very much.
Never heard of this guy before. A smooth, jazzy, funky rock-pop sound. Not a particular fan of the singers voice.
Reminded me of the soundtrack of every 70s TV show or movie. I quite liked a few.
Definitely see the influence it had on a bunch of later genres. Only problem is I don’t care for any of those genres in the least. But this is still pretty decent.
Eh
He has an Intresting voice but good vibe
3,4*
está bien, tiene temas muy bueno tanto como unos que no van pero en general bacano
Pas mal ça s'écoute!
Its inoffensive and interesting but don't think id listen again
It's ok
Oh hey, I remember this - "Big Muff" and "Smiling Stranger" got a lot of airplay on certain stations at the time. On this record he has some dub influences that add interest, but it's overall pretty mellow. The final track "Small Hours" is a nice 8+-minute guitar bit with swoopy effects that approaches new-ageyness but doesn't quite get there. Good piece to use as bed music to back-announce a radio set or play in the waiting room of an acupuncture studio or something. 3/5 because it's too sleepy for my current preferences, but well done for what it is.
Very chill and cool.
Never heard of John Martyn before. There's some interesting and unique sounds on this album, and a bunch of weirdness, too. What the heck is Big Muff!? Honestly though this is a pretty good chillout album. My picks: Couldn't love you more, Certain Surprise
Preferred solid air
I didnt finish it, but its not really something Ill listen to often. Its solid though.
Really drags in the middle
Yacht rock funk. A voice that sounds ragged, but in an enticingly wonderful kind of way. The closer SMALL HOURS is enchanting. May change score higher, because I feel like this will receive another listen.
Listenable and saveable even but not really turning my head
I kind of liked the ambient folk jazz and dub sound. Big Muff was kinda fun and Small Hours was a chill listen.
Сочетание поздних 70-х, специфического голоса и эстетики воды – откровенно на любителя. Не смотря на то, что альбому явно не хватает динамики, слушается он вполне приятно. Особенно хороша последняя композиция, в которой практически нет вокала, а только эмбиент в самом раннем его виде. Лучшая песня: Small Hours
The music on here is pretty good for most of the album. The lyrics and vocal delivery leave something to be desired. It could be better. 2.5/5 Probably won't listen again
Not too bad. Kind of interesting. If I was 40 when this was released and owned a nice turntable/hi-fi setup, then I’d probably be really into this album.
This was very interesting. I know just a little John Martyn, and this felt like the usual 70s English folk with like dub elements. Not sure I love it, but I could see it getting a higher rating after more listens.
I liked it. From what I’ve read, I’d be interested in listening to another album or two of his.
Decent but didn't leave a strong impression, other than one shouldn't go straight from the dentist's office to the recording studio. 3.1
That is some grade-A mumbling! I liked this less than Solid Air, but the stories about how it was recorded are interesting and overall it was pleasant
Enjoyed it. Liked some of the prog-y stuff.
The guy sings in a funny way, as if he's in a bathroom. The music is okay in places, in places it really does sound like a porn soundtrack. Anyway, at least it was fun to listen to.
Not too bad imo
An artist I never heard of, clearly a guitarist as his voice is not great. Couple interesting tracks but won't revisit.
Really liked some of this. Never heard of him and haven’t liked any trip hop too much, but need to listen again.
Compared to the previous John martyn album it was pretty mid
not as good as the other album of his
If you described this album to me, I would have bet it wouldn't be my thing, but I actually enjoyed it. John Martyn is an "experimental" guitarist in that he ran his guitar through the early iteration of an effects pedal. I don't know what his earlier stuff sounded like (I'll investigate at some point) but he had the equivalent of musical midlife crisis and took a year off, going to Jamaica for an indeterminate amount of time and meeting Lee "Scratch" Perry (famous producer who pioneered the development of dub music), and his enthusiasm was rekindled. Martyn gathered together at his producer's farm with an army of other musicians (including, prominently, Steve Winwood) and recorded songs featuring his trippy, spatial, ethereal guitar. And I don't hate it! This album is frequently cited as a progenitor to trip-hop, and I hear that, and Martyn was reportedly blissed out on opium the whole time, and I hear that as well. Honestly, I would rather someone else sang on these songs, but the vocals are just dressing for the music underneath. The songs are at the very least interesting to listen to, and there's some nice melodies scattered here and there. This isn't something I think I would return to often, but I certainly don't mind it at all, and will probably investigate Martyn further.
The John Martyn I know is the Stormbringer! folky-bluesy John Martyn. One World is something else entirely. This is jazz-dub Martyn: echo, delay, and space doing most of the talking. Where folk, jazz and dub meet is in atmosphere rather than structure. Songs hover instead of progressing. "Big Muff" is a nutty oddball. I don't think anyone expected that putting Lee Scratch Perry and John Martyn in a room together would result in lyrics inspired by teacups shaped like animals, but here we are. The real centrepiece, though, is the absolutely gorgeous "Small Hours". The guitar barely sounds like a guitar at all, instead turning almost synth-like, endlessly delayed. Minimalist, refined, and perfect. One World is ambitious and fascinating, but for every moment that works, there are also moments that drift without really justifying themselves. Interesting, brave, and uneven. 3.5 stars.
6/10 - too experimental
Pretty good stuff. Not quite Solid Air but good stuff.
What an unfortunate singing voice Nice calm atmosphere
Almost a four, to be desu ne with you
I like John Martyn. He's got a brilliant voice and beautiful guitar playing. I did quite like this album, his oddly breathless singing on Dealer was great. The album did have some parts that were a bit more "pretty" that I found boring but a very solid album.
An enjoyable listen overall, but it doesn’t leave a lasting impression. A few tracks lean too far into soft jazz territory for my taste, which dulled the experience a bit. While the album has its moments, it lacks the depth and warmth that made Solid Air so compelling. For me, Solid Air remains the stronger and more memorable record.
Sounds ahead of its time: I initially assumed this was a mid-80s album, not mid-70s, so I presume the effects and production on it were fairly pioneering and influential. The result is a very mixed bag, however: while there are a couple of standout tracks, particularly the dreamy closer Small Hours, far too much of it is inflated with that puffy self-importance that boring jazz assumes when it thinks it's being all cool and experimental.
7.6/10 good but the vocals are throwing me off
Positiv overraskelse
This was ok. Not sure about his voice. Worth the listen.
3.5
Pretty interesting album cover, though it kind of becomes increasingly horrifying the longer I stare at it. I'm locking in progressive rock for my genre prediction. There aren't many non-rock albums with this kind of illustrative style on the cover. Man, those vocals really are something else. You mean to tell me that this guy was 29 when the album released? Anyways, this is pretty interesting. A lot of differing styles and influences contained within its short runime. It captures the feel of a summer vacation pretty well while also having an unusual and lingering atmosphere which makes it unique. I can't help but view this album through a sci-fi lens because of how different it is (plus the alien-looking album cover, of course). Desert planets are my favourite worldbuilding trope in science fiction, so I can't help but imagine that I'm vacationing in another world while listening to this. While the instrumentals are pretty great across the board, I must admit that I'm not sold on the aforementioned vocals. They're too gruff and detached from the music for my liking. Hopefully I'll come around to them on future relistens as I do want to bump this album to a 4. "Certain Surprise" is pretty good. I dig the bossa nova sound in the instrumental, as well the backing instruments that carry it. Very appropriately summery for this time of year, too. It makes me want to float around in a lagoon. "Dancing" is a good follow-up. The warm sound on the guitars works pretty well, and I'm a fan of the songwriting. It's pretty dynamic and energetic. "Small Hours" has a fantastic atmosphere. Those reverberating, distant guitars are pretty great. The mundane, lethargic performance creates the mental image of an endless desert, whereas the actual sound has a tropical, lively feel to it. Everything in-between is pretty good, too. I'm normally pedantic when it comes to tracklist, though I was able to set aside my eccentricities on this occasion and just relax. Book time. Came from a period of hardship. Nothing much in there beyond that. Wikipedia says that this album is experimental, charted okay, is widely considered one of Martyn's best albums and has a decent critical reception. I liked this album, so I can accept its presence here. I cosign this inclusion.
Vibey, for a quiet night or a sleep sesh.
Some real moments of beauty. Very effects-heavy/atmosheric. Guy's got a weird voice (not in a bad way). Love the ambient background in Small Hours.
Never heard this album before and it was a little light for my preference but actually didn't suck.
It's a pretty okay album, nothing incredible. The song 'Small Hours' has some interesting ideas, just a shame that wasn't extended to the rest of the songs.
Liked this a lot more than I thought I would. Really chilled
Couldn't Love You More - 3/5 Certain Surprise - 2/5 Dancing - 4/5 Small Hours - 2/5 Dealer - 4/5 One World - 3/5 Smiling Stranger - 4/5 Big Muff - 3/5 Average score: 3.1/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ it's quite the step down from Solid Air
I was surprised to see that I had scrobbled 3 other John Martyn tunes in my music library, so I searched through it, and couldn't find anything. So I'm guessing I had one of his tunes pop up on Apple Music shuffle or something. In any case, I have not formally listened to anything by this artist. For me, this album is a mixed bag. I absolutely hated the first song "Dealer" where he's just repeating let me in over and over. The next few songs were interesting. It ended with a couple of decent songs, but at the end of the day, I was glad I listened to it, but doubt I would ever listen to it again formally. Maybe in a shuffle somewhere. 2.5 / 5 stars
Not a terrible album for a lazy, fall Sunday.
El álbum de John Martin lo tiene todo para haberme emocionado. He tenido ocasión de escucharlo tres veces seguidas (dura escasos 38 minutos), tiene un sonido poco convencional, intimista, atmosférico, una voz llena de matices que recuerda a la de Anhoni, un sinfín de aspectos positivos. ¿Necesito una cuarta vez para que me penetre las entrañas? Posiblemente.