[rating=8.00]
Although his solo output is considerably lesser known than his landmark work with the Moody Blues, Justin Hayward’s own efforts have continued to make a prominent impression on fans over the past 40 years, allowing him, at least temporarily, to thrive beyond the bounds of his day job. It’s significant then that All The Way ties together the various strands of his personal trajectory, resulting in an album that’s reliably rich in content and a necessary addition to any Moodies memorabilia.
While there are several songs that are understandably lesser known, a great number of them are. Redos of “Nights in White Satin” and “The Story in Your Eyes” are as inevitable as they are obvious, but likewise, the listener will find some all-but-forgotten gems as well, among them, the lovely “Blue Guitar,” culled from his partnership with bassist John Lodge in the Bluejays, and his epic “Forever Autumn,” his first real individual entry, initially included on the War of the Worlds soundtrack. Likewise, there are numerous other entries that are equally enticing — a cover of Don McLean’s “Vincent,” the pretty, pastoral “Western Sky” and a new track, exquisite as always, entitled “The Wind of Heaven.” Devotees can be assured that the new song is every bit as alluring as his efforts with Moodies, showing that he hasn’t lost his knack for creating mesmerizing melodies seemingly on a whim. And thankfully so too we might add.
In addition, the liner notes accompanying this 15 song set gives the novice a fine overview, and the photos of a remarkably young Justin provide a fair reminder of the lengthy history his career’s entailed. A recent DVD, Live in Concert at the Capitol Theatre might also be considered a must-have, especially for those whose appetite for Hayward’s harmonious sound is understandably insatiable.
One Response
Nice write-up. Thank you.