Steve Hackett’s stature as a prog pioneer goes well beyond his seminal stint with Genesis. Although he’s maintained the band’s early signature sound in his own recordings, he’s also added inventive elements of his own to further illuminate a distinctive progressive posture.
On his exceptional new album, dramatically dubbed At The Edge of Light, Hackett employs his usual sweeping sound and sensibilities, along with the lush arrangements that always accompany them. It a celestial spectacle in its entirety, from the full frenzy of “Under the Eye of the Sun” and “Fallen Walls and Pedestals” to the lush repose of “Those Golden Wings” and “Beasts In Our Time,” two songs that recall the spectral splendor of classic King Crimson in their dramatic delivery. Already known as one of the most inventive guitarists, arrangers and composers working today, he’s become a commanding vocalist as well, adding another emphatic element that serves these songs well.
That said, Hackett employs a sizeable cast of support musicians to bring this rich musical tapestry to the fore. A simulated combination of orchestra and chorus alter the tone and treatments, creating a majestic treatment throughout — engaging, engrossing, commanding and captivating from beginning to end. The Queen-like “Peace” and “Those Golden Wings” offer further examples of the album’s anthemic ambition, spectral set-ups of orchestral proportions. Hackett’s searing guitar runs soar and swell throughout, adding emphasis to the swirling instrumentation while still providing a lucid focus to the frenzy and fury. Likewise, the exotic intrigue of “Shadow and Flame,” a track with a decided Indian influence, and the martial rhythm of “Descent,” which brings to mind the ‘60s standby Beck’s Bolero,” further heighten the full flush of invention and intrigue.
In his live performances, Hackett still relies on his ties to Genesis as an essential additive. That’s fine of course; it never hurts to have a recognizable brand on the marquee. Nevertheless, as this exceptional effort and an accompanying behind the scenes documentary make clear, he’s got more than enough reason to stand solidly on his own.
Photo by Cathy Poulton
