Reviewed by Martin Emerson

The tightly controlled guitar playing of Keaggy, characteristic of many early albums, is put aside here, showing what Keaggy can really do on a studio album (though there is still nothing to compare with seeing Keaggy play live). The first track, "Animal", is a great opener, distinctly Keaggy, the outstanding guitar playing is solidly backed by Phil Madeira on the Hammond B3. "Animal" is followed up by the equally excellent "Arrow" which has a simple and somewhat moody beginning that opens up to reveal some spectacular guitar playing. "The Great Escape" uses a quiet but fast acoustic guitar rhythm which repeats right through the track - this device provides a bed for some more great guitar playing. Youngest of Keaggy's children, Ian, plays drums on "Ian's Groove", the simple but effective rhythm makes a good vehicle for father Phil to play over, but it is the blues harp of Pat Bergeson that makes this track work. "Watt Ever (220 Jam)" is a far too short taster of what Keaggy can really do when he really starts jamming. This, the latest of Keaggy's instrumental albums, though lacking the creativity of 'The Master And The Musician", is still an excellent and inventive album, but is primarily a vehicle for Keaggy to show his skill.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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