Reviews (page 5 of 8)
This album was so relaxing!! I completely chilled out with that last song, beautiful stuff 4 ⭐️
Glad I went back to this. Very underwhelmed first listen (while out, on earbuds). Tried again in the evening, on decent headphones, and it was like a different album. Ended up listening to it twice, and appreciating it more each time.
Surprisingly funky at times. What a pleasant discovery. Some can be missed after a listen. "Certain Surprise" is a weird one on here. Oh wait, trombone solo for the win on that one. "Small Hours" -- trancy vibe, soothing. Not a fan of his voice which will keep this one from going into regular rotation.
I had never heard of John Martyn before. I don't know what to think of this! It's quite poppy generally, with a few OK songs (Big Muff has a nice groove, Dancing is fun) but it's quite experimental too and John's voice is interesting. The opening song (Dealer) has an African vibe. Too incoherent and just not moving enough for me, but there is creativity in this album and it's "interesting". It has the potential to grow on me, but I don't think I'm going to do the effort.
It wasn't bad (really enjoyed the ending track) but I'm not sure it was good? It had a style to it, for sure, and may come back, but felt more like soundtrack than anything else. May need to find a different album of his, or be more relaxed when listening a second time.
The vocals are a bit strange at times but the productions is very interesting for being from mid-70’s and John creates some really beautiful songs here. 6/10
What a treat this album is. I seem to have by-passed John Martyn back in the day, but am delighted to be catching up at last.
I think this is a supremely cool record. Nice and diverse. Martyn's guitar work is excellent, and I don't have any problems with him vocally; he gives me Mark Knopfler and JJ Cale vibes at times, albeit a bit more expressive. "Dealer", the title track, "Big Muff", and "Small Hours" are my favorites at the moment, but I dig everything well enough. This could rise for me in the future. 4/5
i'm ngl this #pist me off. weird and and unpleasant at times. very mellow and chill at others. i didn't like his voice, was baffled by the instrumentation, and over all had a very confusing time. somehow 3 stars. idk w/e
i keep listening to this album, trying to crack this nut, but it's just not happening. this is like, weird yacht rock progressive easy listening ambient dub music which sounds WILD on paper but is kinda just all over the place in practice. his voice also isn't doing him any favors here. i don't think jamaica has to worry about the brits taking over... well, not a second time at least. favorites: one world, small hours
Bad for my ears
From the cover I was expecting some prog stuff. I was definitely not ready for what it actually is. What a thing of beauty.
Really weird album for the late 70s. Had never heard of this dude before, but it almost sounded like it could be contemporary to today. It didn't amaze me though, but was solid. 3/5
This one surprised me. I really enjoyed it. He reminds me of a funkier version of Nick Drake. Looking forward to listening to more of his stuff.
Really interesting reading this fellows story. I thought the album was okay. The story was better.
Very good album, defiently surprised me. And especially last track was good
FUcking 5/5. It was absolutely amazing. It felt at times like Ray lamontagne, nicotine dolls and some soundscapes. Excellent!
Ah, the other John Martyn album. I gave four stars to Solid Air, but I hate to admit that I don't remember a lot about listening to it. Regardless, I think this should be a pretty interesting album, and I'm excited to listen to this today. As excited as I was to listen to this album, I thought it was quite a bit more style than substance. It was fine to listen to, but it didn't feel particularly cohesive to me. The first side of the album felt like it had more jazz and funk inspired sounds to it, while the second side of the album felt like it was more influenced by ambient sounds and soft rock. It was interesting to see what John Martyn could do to achieve his unique sounds, but I felt like a lot of these songs were just a showcase for his technical prowess. This album was still interesting to listen to, but it didn't really leave me feeling anything. I enjoyed the first side of the album more on a second listen, but I really liked "Dancing" and "Small Hours" on the second side of the album the most. I thought they were both really beautifully arranged, and they were a joy to listen to. Even though I didn't care for the first side of the album as much, I thought "Big Muff" was the best song on that side. While I thought this album was interesting, I can't see myself returning to it. I appreciate John Martyn as an artist, but this album was just fine in my opinion.
Kinda fun and freaky, but in a polite British way. I enjoyed the guitar work. “Couldn’t Love You More” is very sweet. It didn’t bowl me over, but I had a fine time with this one.
Spacious, with great vocals and some wonderful grooves
Wow, toujours down pour un ptit trip d’héroïne auditif
A brilliant artist whose best work stands the test of time. A phenomenal and experimental guitarist, gifted songwriter, and excellent vocalist he moved between a huge range of styles effortlessly - jazz, blues, folk, reggae, he played them all and did it well. Sadly his demons destroyed him as he fought with drug and alcohol abuse. Although not his very best work, this album is still in the first rank of his oeuvre.
Not necessary
I guess I'm one of those who just "don't get it", pure garbage.
Very meh
Sleepy Jazz-Funk.
Waaaaaay better than it has any right to be. Really enjoyable. Funky at times. Good voice. Dancing is one of the best songs I've heard from the list so far
Nothing could’ve prepared me for what his voice sounds like. I’d argue that life is too short to listen to this album.
Good background music - I'm not sure if I really really like it or not. But I've saved it for future re-listening....
Some songs I just couldn’t bear the singer’s voice, and the other songs I just didn’t care for. Some of it was pretty groovy, but there was probably only one song that I thought was okay in full which was ‘Dancing’. Maybe with the right vocals, this could be a better album as the production itself was solid. Otherwise, I wasn’t a huge fan.
What a great album! Another artist I missed completely. I don't know how to describe his music other than singular. Coming from the British folk tradition of the sixties, he then drew from Jamaican music, jazz, funk, blues and developed a new style of music all his own. Now I'm going to have to explore his entire catalog. What a happy surprise!
Better than expected
Good, ethereal-sounding music for the background or if you're stoned.
I liked the fast-paced opening and the energy, though the vocals were a bit soft for my taste. Lyrics - 3 Vocals - 3 Production - 5 Originality - 5 Cohesion - 5 Replay - 4 Emotion / Vibe - 5 Replay Value - 5
what a treat, never heard before and l loved it 4.5
This had its moments. I listened twice in the background at work. I was at a 2 after the first pass. Enjoyed some of the grooves more on the second time through, but not enough to boost it to a 3. 2.5/5
An example of an album where I was continually hoping for something, but it just never arrived. Some interesting production here and there made for an ok listen, but in the end while hoping for folksy, I got cheesy new agey.
I will say, this grew on me. What I initially thought would be a sorta one note non stop groove, turned into a pretty interesting and eclectic back half. Really enjoyed Couldn’t Love You More and definitely Small Hours.
What in the Dirk Diggler!?! This is 70s banging music! I put this on and my wife is like “I don’t think so…” Anyways, this gets two mehs
Expected a chill folk album, got a soundtrack to a 70’s porn flick. Some songs were enjoyable but overall a bit too scatterbrained for my liking. 2.5/5
Up front, not a fan of the porny jazz-funk. It just sounds cheesy and embarrassing to me. Maybe when it came out it didn't have that connotation, but it does now for me. But honestly what's really doing this album in for me is the god awful singing. Can't stand his voice. Even on the one decent song, Dancing, it absolutely ruins the track. Close to a 1, but there's enough talent here (and the instrumental of Dancing) to save it from scraping the bottom of the barrel.
This is #day241 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and... this has to be one of the weirdest style combos I've encountered—not just on this list, but in general. I tried pushing through the vocals, but by the second song, I just couldn't. The music's like space blues, veering into jazz, folk, ambient, and whatnot... Sometimes it was fun, but for the most part, it was big a fucking yawn. I'll check out his other album, but I'm not holding my breath. This is a 2 out of 5. Looking forward to #day242.
6/10 Hadn't heard of this John Martyn album despite being very familiar with some of his work on Over the Hill. Fairly underwhelming easy listening although there are probably some songs on here that would grow on me over repeat listens. Listens: 1
That was different. I probably should rate it higher, but I'm unsure of what I think about it.
Good, not as interesting as Solid Air IMO, but some good tracks. Last song made me feel like I am the only being on earth and floating on a calm ocean away from everything. Album cover reminds me of on an island by David Gilmour!
Just a decent John Martyn album.
This album is kinda bad Will I listen to again: 0%
Not much to say about this, fairly relaxing nothing too stand out but a pleasant listen
Wasn't bad. Enjoyed this album
The entire album sounds like the theme from Love Boat.
First hearing of this artist or album. Is it funk? Synth-Pop? Progressive Jazz? Blues-Rock? I believe the answer is “Yes”. It seems impossible to nail down a genre. And I actually enjoyed it. I can’t think of another album or style to compare it to from that era. Seems really innovative for the time (1977). Cool calypso beats, horns, funky synth, solid guitar work and effects. I may add this one to my rotation for “work-focus” albums. Or perhaps my “sipping Mojitos” rotation. Decent stuff.
Utterly forgettable mellow songs. No idea what anyone sees in this 2*
What do you get if you team up a burnt out old hippy with the legendary dub music producer Lee “Scratch” Perry? The answer is the opening track on this album that sounds startlingly like modern trip hop, even though this came out in 1976. The rest of the tracks incorporate more of Martyn’s folk and jazz roots, also veering into ambient territory on the final track which apparently was recorded by a lake and includes ducks quacking!
I'm all in for experimental stuff, but this is clearly preprod jam rushes. I hope the album will be good 🤞
Great work one legged John
Has a really nice voice
I'm all over on this one. I did not like the first half. 80's in a bad way, lots of black influences being slapped onto white music didnt work and i didnt enjoy his voice. But that floating, spiraling almost ambient work at the end had me transfixed.
2.5/5 stars
brodi non lo so mangia una caramella per la gola
Despite loving Solid Air by John Martyn for years. I have rarely delved into his catalog. While there is little in this album to bewitch me to the same degree, One World is a solid record. Steve Winwood is featured fairly heavily on organ and Moog which does date it slightly, and Martyn’s guitar is processed more frequently than on Solid Air, where it made more impact. As a whole, the album is chilled and soothing, and the closing Sammy Hours is excellent.
Sounded like Macho Man Randy Savage serenading me. Forgetful, plain, and somehow sounded very unique. Such a rare combo. EDIT: Certain surprise was certainly surprising, the only decent song in the album because we're not hearing someone straining to sing.
This was pretty boring.
4.5/5
By turns moody and groovy, the singing gets a bit moany and mumbly. Pretty engaging and serious overall, quite the balancing act between heavy and dreamy. Sounds like a sedated Joe Cocker at times. JM’s not a skillful enough singer to pull off the range-shifting and lighter tone of “Certain Surprise” and the title cut features excessively obscure, noncommittal vocals, such that it could barely be called singing. In contrast, the playing is continually excellent (see “Dancing” especially), with mellow-muddy grooves that occasionally (e.g., “Big Muff”) achieve a quiet sort of funkiness that is JJ Cale-esque. “Small Hours” is beautiful close to the record.
I enjoyed this album a lot! Funky easy listening, good for background music or if you want to deep dive and read along to the lyrics.
A bit too clever for me
Ehh. Great musicianship, but it had a lameness to it that reminded me of Dave Matthew’s Band.
Here's an interesting little album. John Martyn is a name that I've only heard of because I've looked at the 1001 albums list. The impression I'm getting from wikipedia is that he's somewhat influential and fairly critically acclaimed. However, I also didn't have any specific expectations going into his 1977 album One World. How do I feel about it? I like it! I'll start with the one thing that I'm not big on. The singing. It's not my favorite. I was definitely put off a bit with the first song, but it wasn't as bad for the rest of the album. It's still not my favorite. The rest of the album though? Pretty good stuff, I tell you what. The writing is nice. It's not super complex or anything, but it does its job quite well. Apparently John Martyn was pretty close friends with Nick Drake, a favorite of mine as far as discoveries from the album project go. I didn't get the influence on this album that much, but it definitely wasn't "not there" either. Apparently it's a bit more present on the other album he has on the list. I don't know why he has two, but it's more warranted than something like the Beta Band or the Divine Comedy, so I'm not too upset. The thing that really appeals to me with this album is the instrumentation. It's kind of yacht-rock-esque in a way, which I'm not complaining about. I vibe with the instrumentals hard. They're great. Overall, One World is a solid album. I don't have much else to say. High 3/5.
i was enamored on my first listen and completely forgot why on second listen
Like Tom waits gone yacht rock at points.
Fun listen, probably won't return. Interesting back story too. One World and Small Hours were highlights.
Another new one for me. He was great. Super solid folk rock.
Did I need to hear this album before I died? No. Did I like it anyway? Yes. This feels like perfect background music
This just sounds like white people jazz for white stay at home mums to put on during the day. BOOOOORING
One of the positives you could argue for digital/streaming services is that they offer a form of digital preservation for albums like this, which would otherwise only have a life inexplicably on the shelves of hokey tourist shops, somewhere between the sunglasses carousel with eyewear which hasn't been in vogue since the early 2000's and roughly 2-5 animated kids movies like 'Space Chimps' and 'Mars Needs Moms'. The only entertainment I got from this was the admittedly really nice instrumentals and listening to the lead singer keep slipping in and out of his black soul musician voice in the first few tracks. It momentarily felt like Steven Seagal was back in the studio following his greatest gift to humanity 'Want the Punani'
This is a suburban mothers favourite artist and no one else’s. It’s certainly not bad. It’s easy to listen to. That’s about it. I don’t think any one track jumped out at me like YEP THATS IT THATS THE INFLUENTIAL HIT. Moreso it was just there and then it was over. In one word it would be inoffensive?
A thoroughly pleasant experience. 8/10
Literally the second I heard the vocals on this album my first thought was 'This guy 100% died from substance abuse'. Rushing to the 'Death' subheading on his Wikipedia page immediately confirmed my suspicion. On the song Smiling Stranger, Martyn's vocals remind me of Steven Seagal. Not Seagal's REALLY GOOD reggae/blues album he did, just his speaking voice in general. Like in the later part of his career when he pretends to be black. According to 'By the 1970s he had begun incorporating jazz and rock into his sound' yeah and Zappa had been doing that as well as mixing his own live performances together for his albums. Unfortunately for the only guy to ever pull off a soul patch, he wasn't born in the UK. No album in Martyn's discography has charted anywhere outside the UK, even then fewer than half of his albums even charted there. It's a good album, and parts of side A are funky but overall it's a forgettable pastiche of reggae-jazz-blues-rock? Some artists on this list deserve to have their names dragged out of obscurity like Nick Drake, I'm not sure that John Martyn does. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2717AbGPoMw Highlights: Dealer, Big Muff (just for the song name though), Small Hours
Never heard of this artist and don't feel like I have missed out much as a result. Whilst there was quite good guitar based music throughout it didn't inspire me. Would have been better as an instrumental album because the vocals were nothing short of weird. One track wa similar to Issac Hayes Shaft but lacked the coolness and sharpness. Overall didn't enjoy much
Found this dull and uninteresting. A lot of it sounded like it could be good as backing music for a TV show or something but not interesting enough as the main focus. "Small Hours" in particular reminded me of an 80s crime drama panning the camera on a lead detective as they ponder the case. 4/10
Overall not super interesting, but it definitely had its moments. I liked how on Dealer he sounded like he lost his voice. I also like how he kept saying "Let me in" cause I just pictured it being Eric Andre shaking that fence. Certain Surprise was a fun spin on elevator music. It was kinda boring, but there was a surprise trombone and sometimes sounded drunk. Small hours had some fun absence. Album cover: (B+) I would paint that on my van.
John has an interesting voice. Very raspy. The album is jazzy and has a lot of interesting little noises on it. "Dancing" is a fun song. This album mostly passed by me in the background, it wasn't super captivating. I liked the sound, lots of cool instruments and interesting experimental electronic noises. I lean positive, but not quite enough to give it a seven. 6/10
gemütlicher sound mit anleihen aus jazz und folk , welches am schluss schon richtig experimentell wird. dazwischen muss man sich an die stimme gewöhnen: rauh, unmelodiös.
Erster Ton und schon Gefühl genügend gehört zu haben. Und änderte sich nicht bis zum Schluss.
OK so heres the thing - I started this intending to get to hear some music that I hadnt heard before and hopefully get exposed to some new stuff. But the problem is that way too much of the stuff that I was unaware of on this list is just british shit that I never needed to know about because its shit. 1/5
No idea who this artist is, nor what to expect. The Wikipedia blurb makes it sound extremely interesting, especially the part about the recording process. Going to listen especially hard for the field recordings and the background ambience. Going into it a bit tipsy after a long night with friends, so my current mental state might have an effect on the initial reaction. Subject to rereview. Dealer Lush, grand, slightly tropical instrumental. Funky bass. Keys are a highlight, alongside some tight spacial drumming. Not too sure about the vocal style, the breathiness and the smoky grit sounds unusual over such a bright and colourful instrumental. The chorus sort of flew by without leaving an impression. Did not pay much attention to the lyrics. Decent opener. 3.5/5 One World Pans nicely into a cute guitar track. Challenging incoherrent vocals. Mixing is really impressive. I think the instruments and the vocals sit exactly where they should. The delay heavy, distant electric guitar adds an element of depth to the track. After warming up to the vocals I do think they have some moments of brilliance where the stumbling meandering style really works. I don't like the choice to fade the track out when it did, makes it feel unfinished. Good song. 4/5 Smiling stranger Really funky instrumental. I find how they set up the rhythm of the track to be a real highlight. The addition of the strings in the background, alongside the sax add scale to the track, and a jazzy tinge much needed to break up the emerging monotony of the track, perfectly avoiding it. Still not in love with the vocals, though they don't bother me much. Will revisit. 4.5/5 Big Muff Jazzy drumming over a tight guitar experience. Love the effects. Clean and a bit understated. Written for a loungy, sort of sleazy vibe. The band does a lot if lifting to make a not more than decent chrous ahead of where it should be. The instrumental section at the end is decently psychedellic. Decent. 3.5/5 Couldn't Love You More A slightly strained sounding acustic guitar was unexpected. His voice works well for this time of track. Actually delivers a fairly powerful performance, though the voice stretches itself a bit too far for some parts. Decent. 3.5/5 Certain surprise Am I wrong for calling the instrumental bossa-nova-like outside the guitar? I do like the verse structure. Decently catchy. Saxophone is good though a bit lacking in flair or surprise. Gives me hotel vibes. Fade out made sense. Good. 4/5 Dancing Airy but fairly technical guitar. The bass is utilized well. The slightly chaotic guitar juxtaposes against the very structured vocal melody. Great Pre-Chorus. Well performed, tight and sticking to the plan outside a few vocal flourishes. Really fun. 4.5/5 Small Hours Spacious, echoy, great ambience. The natural atmospheric sound add an unpredictable element to the track. Uplifting guitar playing, great delay. Echoes nicely, though the varying loudness makes it sound sharp at times. Reminds me a bit of a late "Talk Talk" track. I think the vocals work well here, they have a serenity to them and a bit of intimacy in their brief cameo. The change of guitars really gives you something additional to latch yourself onto over the ambience. Paints an introspective soundscape with a sense of melancholy though also acceptance. Refreshing and powerful. Stellar track. 5/5 Really did not expect to like that as much as I did. Decently varied, loungy and a bit jazzy with era appropriate production that still sounds oddly good, when many of the choices could sound dated to modern ears. Spaces itself out, and while the vocals take some time getting used to, they do actually add an interesting element to the tracks, though I do think some of the strange inflections also detract from them. There's just a laid back soothing energy about the entire project that really kept me interested. The pseudo-ambient/early post-rock adjacent final track really sealed the deal for me painting a beautiful picture with sound. A great album worthy of revisiting. Fave track. Small Hours Least fave track. Couldn't Love You More
So unique and interesting, but it didn’t click with me and I found myself drifting off in thought and not paying attention.
Another great album
Solid Air, but with a touch of 70’s funk
The voice was a jumpscare not gonna lie but I fuck with it. Favorite tracks: - Couldn't Love You More
Went into it thinking I would like it and I was wrong. Just one boring song after another and by the middle I was just wanting it to be over.
The music is great. I don't like his voice very much on this record. Not as good as Solid Air, which is also on the list. Favorite song: small hours.
Magnificent
Vandaag krijgen we weer eens iets uit het Britse archief voorgeschoteld. 'Hier heeft nog nooit iemand van gehoord' denk je dan, maar tijdens het zoeken tussen de ratings van m'n favoriete medegebruiker kom ik er achter dat Jan Martijn blijkbaar twee keer in deze lijst staat. Ongelofelijk. Op de eerste track klinkt de beste man alsof hij net een liter Chlorix heeft zitten nippen, maar gelukkig wordt dat op de rest van het album iets minder. Een enkele track daarna uitgezonderd. Wat krijgen we verder precies te horen? Een soort combinatie van prog, jazz, folk en zangert liedjesschrijvert. Een soort wereldmuziek, maar dan uit Hilvarenbeek ofzo. Veel effecten, experimenteel. Het is wat dromerig, iets hypnotiserend. Het wordt alleen zelden echt heel tof, dus dat valt wat tegen. Misschien wat Nick Drake van het Aldi huismerk. Het voordeel is dat ik me hier amper aan kan storen, ik kan dit goed heel luisteren. Het blijft keurig netjes net onder de 40 minuten. Drie sterren dus. Als je een goede bui of een slechte streak hebt kun je er zelfs een vier voor geven.
In a lot of ways it was a pile of shit but I didn’t hate it
Some of the vocals were rough and the album got a bit boring, but there were some cool instrumental parts.
Maso
3/5
Never heard of this guy, let alone realized how influential he was. This album felt a bit yacht rock to me, but it sounds like he explored many genres so maybe this one just isn’t for me.
Sista låten är otrolig, annars lite meh.
Not a bad album, but it was just a bit meh, so although it was fine having it in the background, it would be a bit too much if you properly concentrated on it.
Thumbs up!
Moją ulubioną rzeczą w tej liście jest odkrywanie perełek wśród albumów, po których niczego się nie spodziewałem, stworzonych przez muzyków, o których nigdy wcześniej nie słyszałem. "One World" jest jedną z takich płyt. Dostałem kompaktowy album bez żadnych wypychaczy i zapełniaczy, każda piosenka jest bardzo dopracowana, o oryginalnym brzmieniu. Bez ostatniego utworu, który jest bardziej muzycznym pejzażem o bardzo post-modernistycznym brzmieniu, wszystko zamknęłoby się w trzydziestu minutach. W tym krótkim czasie dostajemy siedem naprawdę solidnych, zróżnicowanych utworów. Funkowo-psychodeliczne brzmienie oraz ochrypły i jakby wycofany wokal Martyna bardzo przypadły mi do gustu. "Przyduszony" - to jest chyba słowo, którego szukałem. "Dealer" i "Dancing" to moi faworyci, ale w zasadzie każdy utwór na tej płycie mi się bardzo podobał.
Did i become one with the world after listetning to this album? But i got around 70% there so with simple art of Math i think the score is 3/5.
Great example of classic Chicago blues. Who doesn’t love Muddy Waters?
Not really to my taste, though I enjoyed listening to this. The album as a whole had an interesting vibe, and I can see how Martyn attracted an audience for his music.
It is always funny when I arrive at the list, see a name that I don't recognize, and click on the Wikipedia link just to discover how many fans this "unknown" has. There is one long and complete Wiki for the album and for the artist. He was probably very important to a lot of people (at least to the Wikipedia volunteers). The album is nice too.
I have never heard this; or even heard of John Martin. It was fine. Did I NEED to hear this? Probably not
One World seemed to lack direction very often throughout the album, but it was loaded with enough creativity that I wasn’t terribly bored by it. The last song, however, was just unnecessary. Didn’t fit the vibe of the previous 7 tracks, and felt more like filler to complete a full length album. It was a real turn off. It’s a 2.5, not quite a 3.
This was interesting - I didn't know much about John Martyn before listening to this. Tom Waits does ELO.
The most tolerable songs were Cant Love you More and Dancing, but I’d be happy to never hear this album again. It’s the soundtrack to either an outer ring of hell or a deeper ring of purgatory. Couldn’t make it through most of the songs.
Not bad.
Sounds of Jamaica Gives relaxing island vibes To oft garbled act
A few nice sounds and guitar effects aside, I wasn't really feeling this; the vibes are stronger than the songs. I went and re-listened to a few tracks from Solid Air afterwards just to check that I prefer that album (can confirm: I do).
Couple good jams definitely saved a couple, not my cup of tea overall... good viv album for sure
Interesting jazz album. I’d give it a listen again but it’s not an album I’m going to favourite. Listened to it 1.5 times. Starts off pretty strong but doesn’t really sustain on such a short album.
It went. Haven’t heard of him before, poppy and upbeat. Not for me though.
Can’t imagine a scenario where I would want to put this on again.
Enjoyed this
Would be massively improved with a different vocalist
Unsurprisingly I liked the super long ambient track at the end better than anything else, kind of loved that. Everything else meh.
It’s not un-enjoyable but does also feel a little ephemeral Couldn’t love you more is fantastic and lovely though
Background music for me. Can't understand the lyrics, but the music sounds nice.
Drømmende singer/songwriter, god guitar, lidt glembart
Alright
Cool cover. I cracked up the first time he starts singing but got used to it. Reminded me a bit of Nick Drake. Some songs were too slow, others were a bit odd. Not bad though.
Is this a 5 I don’t know but I enjoyed it a 5 this morning(afternoon)
4/10 - Lucas said it was boring and he had a weird voice. Those are both true statements
Couldn’t stand his voice
Didn't enjoy the songs on offer here as much as those on Solid Air, but the overall vibe and sound was lovely with some great guitar work and production. He has created some really warm and interesting tones and atmospheres and this was easy to listen to multiple times, although I was waiting for it to grab me a little more convincingly and it never quite did. His voice has grown on me too, although you can almost feel the cigarette smoke doing its work on his lungs throughout.
I really was torn on the first John Martyn entry, Solid Air, liking half of it and hating half of it, appreciating it and also wishing he made some very different choices. I wasn’t a fan, but I had hope that someday he might win me over. I thought none of this while listening to One World. All I could think about was how much longer I had until I could turn it off. From the horrendous vocal choices to the noodling jazz guitar for annoying Boomers with a CPA, I hated everything about this record. Like Clapton, I can’t deny his talent; unlike Clapton, who makes music that is like water off a duck’s back, this album got under my skin. Every note, every choice, even second was a chore. I don’t know why Martyn got a second entry, and I don’t respect a single moment on One World, not one bit.
I didn't love this album, but overall this album was good vibes.
I was very positively surprised by this. I Think I could see myself putting this on again in the future. Favourite tracks: 1,2,5,6,8
Relaxing and inoffensive, if a little dull
Quite pleasant to work along to
Forgettable
Unimpressed.
Didn't have high hopes for this, happy to be wrong. Sounds pretty fresh even though it's a 70's album. Distinctive style, will listen to this again, guitar work is impeccable. Bonus for only 38 minute
Do we love this album? No. But it is pretty interesting...
I wish I liked this more than I did, a lot of great ideas being brought here.
really don't like it
folk not too moving
I have one other John Martyn album, which I do like, but don't like this one as much.
Ok album. The execution was a bit lacking from my perspective, but it had some good parts and ideas.
This was alright, the final track in particular was good. But didn’t absolutely move me.
I enjoyed the second half of it. Rating: 3.1
Like some and don't like some. Voice reminds me a little bit of Joe Cocker.
I can see that in 77 when this came out it would have blown some minds away, but it's just a bit too chilled out for my tastes. That along with the experimental nature of some of the songs just makes it a bit dull to me. Not a bad album by any means, but I was never taken by any of the tracks.
Interesting and ahead of its time
I live John Martyn, but there’s not a lot of great songs on this record, unlike Thin Air. Couldn’t Love You More is beautiful and some of the other songs are alright
Kinda chill. Kinda sleepy. I liked small hours.
Along with Solid Air & Bless The Weather, this is one of JM's best albums. Never be anyone like him again. ( He also used to drink in local pub)
Some nice atmospheric parts. Other than that, I wasn't very interested in it.
Interesting time capsule. Happy to have listened to it a few times
Really good
Wyte
This had me Dancing with a Smiling Stranger.
first song was a banger, rest was whatev
I loved ‘Solid Air’, but I think I love this more. Dubby, hazy, stoned, sad, understated…this one is for the late nights and it’s lovely.
A strange one
nice non-worldchanging vibes
I have to confess I'd never heard of John Martyn before, but that album was an unexpected treat to listen to. Every track brought a new musical idea, even the instrumental outro track was great. My ears were left feeling like they'd just eaten an excellent meal.
Κατα τη διαρκεια ολου του album δεν ακουσα vocals τα οποια να μου αρεσαν ιδιαιτερα. Ομως, η παραγωγη ειναι στα περισσοτερα κομματια απιστευτη και μονη της θετει το αλμπουμ ως ενα ενδιαφερον project. Rating: B-
Intressant gitarr-musik med många influenser. Får mig att tänka på The Police. Fyra
Interesting in places but ultimately didn't do all that much for me.
A little downbeat for my tastes
Kickin' back
I could've just been in the mood for something ambient, but the tracks where there are no vocals are lovely. The vocals are not for me.
Bored stupid.
Pretty nice background music. The guitar work was pleasant and it all had a kind of island-getaway feel to it. Nothing stand out, but not too shabby.
Sometimes feels like something nice and chill, but I could really do without the singing, which is straight up bad and really brings the whole thing down. Also, a lot of this sounds dated and almost like a 70’s porno.
***An ok album
a total surprise but a solid 4! It was definitely a bit weird. I loved the ambiance and hearing the geese/etc in the background. This had the feeling of a very lovingly crafted collection of music, and to boot there was some great playing. I would happily put this on again.
bleh
Dull, dull, dull
Not my fav vocal tambour but small hours was nice
++: Dealer, One World, Smiling Stranger, Small Hours +: Big Muff, Certain Surprise, Dancing +-: Couldn't Love You More 7,6/10
I listened to this last week and forgot to review it at the time, it was that watery of an album that I had forgot what it's all about a week later. Offensively boring, give me lmfao anyway over this any day. Mid 1.
John Martyn - One World S’alright. Kind of inoffensive MOR rock, with some unique vocals and production. Really don’t have anything interesting or exciting to say about this. There’s some decent melodys and instrumentation in there, but nothing to blow my socks off. Just a bit dull I guess. Now I’m gonna go and listen to Battlesnake instead.
A new one for me having only heard Solid Air by John Martyn before. Really enjoyed that when I was going through a British folk music stage in my 20s. Yer Nick Drakes, yer Bert Janschs, yer Pentangles. Very surprised by this. Starts off much more funky and synthy than I expected. Not sure this is the sound I’m looking for. I like his voice and I like some of the strings in the background but it’s just a bit odd and sounds at times it’s been recorded underwater. Really miss his guitar skills being front and centre like his earlier work. Highlights: Didn’t really enjoy any of this unfortunately. Just too poppy and odd. Really bad production throughout. Lowlights: Big Muff - suffers most with the underwater sound. Quite middling and too long. Certain Surprise Not for me.
When I first started listening to this album I got the feeling that John was purposefully trying not to sing properly, like going out of his way not to enunciate. I was surprised to find out he’s Scottish….then twigged this guy is probably in some way responsible for influencing his fellow countryman’s style Paolo Nutini singing style, something that’s always irked me. Then I can see in Apple Music that this album is Feautied on a Paolo Nutini influences album and it validates my thinking. The music is alright. For helping solve a mystery that’s bugged me in the past it gets 2 stars.
one world? more like one butt
'Small Hours' is an amazing, trance-like experience to listen to - but the rest of the album was mostly a hit and miss. I do love the experimental vibes, but it is still only a unique experience to listen to once. Kind of underwhelming.
The loungy sounds evoke the atmosphere of an 80's cop drama intro or soundtrack. This voice can only be an acquired taste. Only the last song redeems it by the singer finally letting them music take center stage instead of the floaty generic sentiments.
Kinda weird but quite funky, not sure about the vocals but not bad overall.
Not my cup of tea…
Very mature, extremely listenable, especially for its time. This was a pleasant surprise! 4/5
Liked the production far more than I liked his vocals, but he sure was able to make an interesting, atmospheric album that was a total vibe. Fav Songs: Big Muff, Small Hours
I've never heard of this or John Martyn and my first impression upon seeing the cover art was "Wow, ok, I guess we're in for textbook yacht rock. Is that... a mermaid?" Well, listened to it 3-4 times. It'd be really great without lyrics.
Some smooth-sounding jazzy riffs here.
Ach, I love Solid Air but this one just doesn’t do it for me. Nothing grabs me. It’s pleasant but nothing more
This album came from nowhere to me. I knew nothing about John Martyn. This album feels like a mixed bag. On one hand you got interesting funky and Sting-like tracks such as “Dealer”, “Smiling stranger”, and “Dancing” and soothing ambiental songs like “Small hours”. The rest of the album feels expendable and even trite at times. It doesn’t help the fact that Martyn’s sandy and whispering voice is not particularly enticing. Quite the opposite, like someone regretting having to sing. I could imagine the best tracks shining with a brighter and soulful voice. In sum, I don’t think it’s as bad as some people mention here and not as risky as other believe. It’s ok but ultimately dated.
It’s fine, but I don’t know why he has two albums on this list. I had never heard of him before this project.
..
genuinely no point to this, nothing outstanding
Great variety of groovy blues with good choice of instrumentation. Favorite track: small hours other picks: smiling stranger, big muff, couldn’t love you more, certain surprise
“What the fuck it this?” I noted with a frisson within a few seconds of putting this on last night. Yacht rock-jazz fusion left me baffled and unanchored: promising sensations! A day in, I am still perplexed, but I do like this dolphin make-out music!
Never could get into John Martyn, his vocal style suiting his best songs well ("Big Muff", the highlight here), but sounding like a drunk busker on the remainder. A gateway drug for schoolmates on the dirty path to crustydom, later serving as key inspiration for the Dave Matthews Band (who I actually like) and others like Blues Traveler (who I really do not). Congruent with a below-average Van Morrison album.
I didn't dislike it but I didn't especially like it either. His sludgy enunciation is distracting. I would be more interested in something more acoustic and less pop-leaning. 2.5/5
Well that was definitely an album of music.
Why is this album on here. I don't like his voice and also the album isn't anything special. It's not like offensively bad but it's just whatever, which may be even worse
There's a definite shift from other work by this artist. This will be a grower with familiarity. On a first play the second side much stronger than the side one. The mix is odd at times but given there is experimentation going on it works. The guitar work is great.
Nope. Nothing. Nada.
Not really in the headspace for this one right now, but it seemed okay. Might listen to it again later.
Another solid album from John Martyn. I really enjoyed the guitar playing on this. I feel like it's coming from a different place than what I normally hear. I'll keep listening to this.
I liked one song...but couldn't get past his voice.
Dang. I feel like this dude can do anything. This album gets funky, dancy, jazzy but also soulful, folky, and ethereal. Maybe the sounds he's making aren't revolutionary, but I can't imagine John Martyn, as a single package, was a dime a dozen in his time. Always appreciate the experimental stuff. Well maybe not always, haha, but I dig this one.
very weird and watery. Interesting vocal choices. Great guitar work with interesting delay/reverbed effects. kind of jazz fusion/city pop mixed with an 80's rock and roll singer songwriter? I'm not sure if I loved it as a whole record but some great tracks are scattered on here worth listening to.
Bit whiny for my taste.
Ce n'est pas un coup de coeur, j'ai quelques réserves par rapport à certains aspects de composition, mais globalement je respecte beaucoup comment ça sonne unique et en avance sur son temps. Ça vaudrait la peine de lui redonner une chance. 7.5/10
'Solid Air' was a really nice surprise for me, so I was optimistic about this one. Thankfully I think this one also works really well for the most part. More than anything I think the music in this is just seriously on-point. There's so much variety and scope across the whole album. I love the ambient moments, the interesting soundscapes, but also just the variety of instruments and styles as well. It's good overall, but there's some standout tracks here that will definitely make it worth a revisit.
people don't like spit in the face
I would love to hear more international bands and music. But we get this. It’s harmless I guess but boring and the song Dancing seems like a precursor to Dave Matthews which is unfortunate. Sounds competent but uninteresting to me.
8/10. Had some Nick Drake vibes in there. Really enjoyed this one.
Not to my liking at all
More British dog shit
This would have been a decent album if John didn't sing.
meh
This may have been the most stereotypical 70s rock/pop record I’ve heard. It’s like he took pieces of whatever sound was popular and mashed it together in the most boring way possible.
Work
It’s ok.
Seems like Nick Drake in band form.
R ‘n’ B funkiness with 70’s psychedelia made this an interesting listen
Surprise, I found I liked this recording. Martyn's vocals and style are a bit difficult to get used to but otherwise a strong album. Song "Big Muff" stands out but all songs are a cut above.
Weird but enjoyable.
Reminds me a bit of Eric Clapton, but the voice didn't click and often too mellow.
1. dealer - 0 2. uuorld - 1 3. ztranger - 1 4. muff - 0 5. love - 1 6. zurprize - 1 7. dancing - 1 8. hourz- 1.5
It was weird and I really enjoyed it. The closing track, Small Hours was a really chill ambient tune to tie this weird album together. 4 stars
eh. Progressive guitar sounds with an unusual vocal delivery. Not too bad but nothing special to me.
Hard pass.
Carves out a place for itself in my brain. Gorgeous.
I do not like this guys voice
I enjoyed it a lot
I've already forgotten it, but I know it wasn't horrible.
Ok, but in my opinion nothing special.
Smooth and easy listening. Enjoyed his voice.
Man sings like he smoked a pack a day for his whole life and now has a hole in his throat. At least it’s unique. It’s not the worst album I’ve ever heard, but I enjoyed very few parts. Inoffensive, mostly. 3/5
I'd call this easy listening. Doesn't mean it's bad—I particularly liked the last song. Overall though, it's just a tad boring.
Idk what this is, but whatever it is, I’m not a fan. I made a face listening to the first song, and it didn’t get much better from there. Not a fan.
Like the album.
One song in and I was thinking this must be one of those albums that self-proclaimed audiophiles hold on a high pedestal. The kind where they look down on you for "not getting it". But...going into the second and third songs, I sorta dig it. The drums are catchy enough to convince you that these are "normal"-enough songs but then there's a lot of experimental, fun stuff to keep you engaged. Favorite song: Big Muff Least favorite: Dealer Knew before? No
Mostly boring but a couple good songs.
Some good bass and drums in here, gives pink moon vibes too.
Sometimes this exercise leads you to albums you never would have otherwise heard, and this is just one example. Thirty seconds into this album, I was certain that it would be a strong pass for me. Experimental jazz-funk-soul fusion is not among my favorite genres, and Martyn seemed fully committed to making this funky album as strange as can be. But in truth, this album won me over in a big way. It's a huge mood, full of danceable grooves, busy percussion, funky guitars, muted (but steamy) vocals, and weird guitar licks. Even more impressively, this album - which sounds more like an early 90s release than anything else - way ahead of its time, having been released in 1978! I truly can't believe that I am four starring this album, but its undeniably committed to being funky, weird, and pretty. It would certainly be safer to make this statement ironically or self consciously, but Martyn comes off earnest and dedicated. This album is worth pushing your limits for.
Primeira música e última sao ótimas, as outras não encantam tanto Fave: dealer, small hours
Really not my thing
This reminded me a lot of sublime. I’m not sure which came out first but I think sublime did so. I can’t say this is an amazing album as it is a little bit of a copycat. But I did enjoy this 3.25/5
fitting for the time but he’s mumbling a lot
This album definitely has a very specific time and place. Is that time and place in a traffic jam on a few hours of sleep? I can't say it is. It was a very relaxing listen that remained peacefully ambient throughout the entire listen.
Fine enough. I prefer his slightly less synthy, slightly downbeat stuff to this, but he's clearly got songwriting skills to spare.
I thought I was going to like this more than I did. The only impression it left was someone playing musical chairs with styles and influences.
Big muff?
I legitimately started laughing when this dude starting singing on the first track. The instrumentals of this album are decent. But his voice....it's not BAD but holy hell, this man has smoked one too many cigarettes.
Nice jazzy sound, nice melodies. The vocals were generally off-putting.
not really my vibe... kind of boring?
Very mellow. Nice background music but not a lot more.
What a strange and beautiful album, I really enjoyed most of this. Actually listened to a few songs twice.
listening to this record made me wonder if i should keep doing this
I really just don’t see or understand the significance of this album. I dont see how it’s influential because I was actually pretty bored listening to it almost immediately. I genuinely tried to analyze the importance but couldn’t find it. It bored me however I can’t give it a 1 because I didn’t hate it but it just was unnecessary. No emotion with this.
His 1973 album "Solid Air" is fantastic but I'd never heard this one - right away this one hits different and I'm not sure how much I like it. I keep reading about how this is was an early influence on or by dub which...ok, but I don't know if it just doesn't work / is awkward / or simply I don't connect much with it. Having said that, I'm left wishing that more of the album was like the final track "Small Hours" - that ethereal guitar with delays, all kinds of reverbs, some nature sounds in the background.... I *love* this one. (holyshite: I was thinking that Steve Winwood took his keys sound from this but it is actually Steve Winwood playing on it - ha!) TL;DR: inconsistent and unsure about it - ALTHOUGH a second listen made it much more palatable; "Small Hours" made it all worthwhile anyways. 7/10 3 stars
cool and creative album sonically, crazy that this from the 70s. dudes got really weird vocals but I don't mind them. sick ass album art too. what a hidden gem
I think I still like Solid Air a little more, but John Martyn really was a next level singer-songwriter. Some of the sounds on this album are insane for the 70s. Also, just noticed that he kinda sounds like Anohni. 3.5/5
This was ok. It was a little all over the place.
This album by John Martyn is a little bit better, in my opinion, than Solid Air, that appeared on the list before. Style is rather similar, maybe it doesn't feel as 'folky', but that's a good thing, in general. Just a pretty good album, but nothin I will remmeber in few days.
7t uuyu
This is a pleasant enough album, but had nothing that really struck a chord with me.
Never heard of this chap before, but this album was an excellent surprise.
Felt like an understated album that I'm going to forget over time. Had lots of variety across the songs which is always a perk. Small Hours stuck with me longest on the listen through.
Nice. Hadn’t heard of him. The two most popular tracks were by far the most interesting.
Find it a bit boring..
a contender for one of the most forgettable things on this list, i would never listen to any of these songs again, and since i think i need to be more forgiving with 5s and harsher with 1s, congrats to this album for getting a 1.
This was a new artist to me, and after hundreds of albums, I appreciate that this one sounded distinctive. I have enjoyed it more as I return to it, but I haven't quite figured it out completely. It's one of those that I wish I had time to savor a bit more.
Some hits and some misses, but the hits hit hard and the misses didn't hurt. So, that's pretty good to me!!
Started out great. I can't understand a word. It got a little noodly and moogly at the end but I could listen to it again.
Soothing and enjoyable. Really nice.
Very chill, bit of psychedelic album. Quite enjoyed it, and listened to it at work. If listening to at home, would probably like it even more. Probably worth a re-listen to later.
Meh
3/5
I had never heard of this fella so I went in with no expectations apart from a recommendation from Phil Collins which can never be a good thing. I thought dealer was a terrible song. Boring with terrible lyrics and vocals. It was a tough start. I really didn’t enjoy this album at all. The only saving grace was big muff. That was an ok song. Favourite song: Big muff was ok Least favourite song: the rest of the album Album artwork: Cool cover
It’s a bit patchy and new agey for my taste especially compared to his earlier albums. Some decent tracks on it though
Strange but interesting
4 out of 5. I enjoyed the soft guitar as it lead into more funk near the end though this album is more of a background music thing for me.
This is tough to rate. I get the quality. I get the structure. Not my favorite nor mass appeal. Have to give 2 to even the system otherwise it’s just a void into another set of 3s. Likely 2.75/3 but the last tracks are solid.
Weird album, kind of disco-y, didn't really love it, but Couldn't Love You More is the outlier stand out track. 2.5 stars.
Breathtakingly brilliant.
Really enjoyed this - much more than expected. Lots of variation in sound and mood, and some interesting musical textures. Not a massive fan of the voice, but some great tunes here. The involvement of Lee Perry (and Rico) no doubt helped.
This sounds like it was recorded in a cardboard box. The album is all the more better for this. Production values aren't at a premium; the songs are allowed to develop and steal the show. The message of the One World title track remains powerful. Couldn't Love You More always leads to a few tears. Big Muff makes me smile. Plus Rico!
Eh, does nothing for me.
This album surprised me in a lot of ways. When I first put it on I thought I was in for a Steve Miller Band-adjacent experience. Which would have been ok. At times I heard the inspiration for Dave Matthews vocals, other times the inspiration for instrumental dreamscape.
Sounded like the music they play when they put you on hold
Not my thing either
Nice
This was good for the most part. Very cool instrumentals (especially Small Hours), and good vocals for the most part. There were bits where the vocals put me off a little bit. This album has its issues but it has stuff to offer.
This was a quite coolt album that I've never heard before. I had a pretty hard time deciding and figuring out what genre this is. His singing suggests it could be some sort of blues, but the music points towards it being some form of psychadelic or progressive rock. Also, what an interesting voice he has! Definitely plus points for interesting album with some good songs like 'Certain Surprise' and 'Smiling Stranger'. Think I could grow to like this if I listened to it more, but for now it's a strong 3.
"Wait isn't this the guy who did "Over the hill"? Shouldn't this be folk?" Was my first reaction when I heard the intro to the album. Indeed it was but his style had changed. Wasn't really a fan of the new style. Didn't really enjoy the funk, jazz or ballads. Felt a bit all over the place.
This is like if I went to a restaurant. And someone was like, man you gotta try their chicken. And I show up, and it’s this beautifully plate, all kinds of sauces and garnishes, really beautiful, and there’s fucking dinosaur chicken nuggets, still slightly too cold, sat in the middle. What am I supposed to do with this? It might be fucking delicious. But I don’t care. I don’t want this. I don’t know what this is. I take a bite. It’s fine. It’s a guy playing guitar who can’t sing. This would have been a way better instrumental album. I think the American equivalent is that Joe Satriani album with the Silver Surfer on it. I just can’t be made to care about whatever THIS genre is.
Wish I was more invested while I was listening
This guy sounded like he was either really wasted or really old. Either way, I had no idea what he was saying. Wouldn't listen again, but also didn't completely hate it.
His voice was really annoying.
I definitely did not need to hear this before I die.