James Blackshaw – The Glass Bead Game
Freshly signed to Michael Gira’s Young God Records, James Blackshaw returns with another step forwards in his creative evolution, marking a further inclination towards broader composition than ever before. No longer does it really seem fitting to describe Blackshaw as a mere ‘guitarist’;
given the advanced instrumental range on show here, you’d have to think about categorizing this man alongisde the Peter Brodericks and Max Richters of this world, With pieces like ‘Fix’ and ‘Arc’ Blackshaw reveals a whole new side to his talent, laying on strings and piano, setting aside his principal instrument of choice. Twelve-string fans needn’t concern themselves however, this is an album that features an abundance of Blackshaw’s signature playing style, and a recording like ‘Cross’ brilliantly combines the virtuosic ragas on which he made his name with unexpected elements such as a string arrangement and perhaps most unpredictably, a choral component. Imperiously good stuff from a great talent. – Boomkat Review
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Blimey you’re on a roll….check out Robbie Basho as well….
Great album indeed