What does it sound like?:
A two cd retrospective of his solo material.
In contrast to his Homebrew series, this concentrates solely on finished pieces rather than demos.
The best material comes from his early albums Beginnings and The Steve Howe Album, both of which feature sundry members of Yes. Indeed, fans of Yes and Asia will notice a few familiar themes scattered among these outings.
What does it all *mean*?
Although you can’t deny Howe’s undoubted technical ability, two cds worth can be a bit much of a muchness if listened to in one sitting – far better to dip in and out of this collection.
Goes well with…
There’s a nice orchestral take on Mood For A Day (taken from Symphonic Music of Yes), but could live without the two Dylan covers – I know he’s a huge fan, but his voice just isn’t up to it.
Release Date:
Might suit people who like…
Obviously fans of Yes and it’s various offshoots, or fans of instrumental guitar music in general, performed by a real virtuoso.
Neither of his first 2 solo albums were very well received. Second hand shops were full of them. I can’t think who this collection is aimed at…
I enjoy elements of The Steve Howe Album but feel his best work is in a group setting. He is absolutely one of my all-time favourite guitarists but I don’t consider him a songwriter, as unlike other great instrumentalists he cannot keep one’s interest for a whole album.
Still think his work with Yes between 1970 – 1976 is some of the most interesting, melodic and innovative of any modern guitarist. Sadly his electric playing has deteriorated (and slowed) considerably in the last 10 years. Oddly, his acoustic playing seems unaffected.
I still own Beginnings on vinyl, don’t play the tracks he tries to sing on. Never investigated further except the first Asia album which is pap of the highest order.