by Arpeggio » 08 Jun 2017, 08:22
This CD is outstanding in every way. The playing is superb and the arrangements are truly brilliant. Of course Martin Verrill is outstanding throughout and Terry Carter plays lead, 2nd lead, rhythm and other guitars courtesy of nunerous overdubs. The late Chris Jarvis is on wonderful form. The guys had been working on this for several years on and off. Sadly, it became imperative to complete it early last year when it became tragically apparent that Chris's illness was terminal.
My, what a fitting testament to his memory. Never has his John Rostill - style playing been heard to better or greater effect. Indeed, you genuinely could be forgiven for thinking that Rostill himself WAS playing...so eerily close is the sound and style. A wonderful collection of great melodies very skilfully and tastefully arranged. Again, you could be forgiven for thinking that the Shadows had recorded too much material for their 1964 -1967 albums and that several of these tracks were left unissued in the vaults. Yes..they are that good. I had the privilege of hearing the completed tracks shortly before Chris passed away. I was moved to tears at the time, as one of his last requests was a review from me with no 'flannel'.
I told him truthfully (as I tell you all now)...it is utterly brilliant. I have just reviewed it for Pipeline and, quite frankly, it ismy Pipeline Album of the Year. To paraphrase my old chum Dave Burke.'Essential. Please purchase immediately.'