Search - Al Stewart :: Year of the Cat

Al's Best

SonzTwin | Orlando, FL | 02/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I own all of Al Stewart's albums up till this one (yes - I even have The News From Spain). I'd have to say that while each album had brilliant moments, Al progressed with every album, making this his most consistent, best produced, best written, and best performed. Even though I used to think less of "Broadway Hotel" or even "On Stage Before", I've now come to believe that there is not a single weak track on it. Phil Kenzie's tormented solo on the bitter-sweet, almost over-played Year of the Cat makes it a magical climax, but my favorite is arguably "Flying sorcery": the guitar solo soaring through crashing cymbals in the middle musical interlude is still a magical moment for me, and I often like to close my eyes when I sail through those 25 seconds. "Call me if you ever need repair!" Ah, those crazy youthful years gone by. That leaves me thinking: should I buy Time Passages? I really don't know the album at all, other than the title track, which is fine, but no Year of the Cat. Thoughts, any one?"

Year of the Cat

J. Lindner | Gem Lake, MN United States | 04/18/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the album that put Al Stewart on the charts. In a way it's an odd result, but the title song took the radio world by storm and Al reaped the benefit.



As I listen to this album, and I must have heard it several hundred times now, I try putting myself into the place of those who hadn't heard of Al before those listeners heard the title song on the radio. Many must have thought the album was worth a look (or an ear) and then they discovered something far from mainstream music in the other songs. Historical references, philosophies, and poetic license existed where love songs and sapiness did not. What a novel concept. Whatever the result, Al soared in popularity and America had something other than traditional pop/rock music to listen to.



Al's songwriting is crisp and his melodies flow well. His backing band never misses a beat. But the main focus is the lyrics. With the advent of ipods and other personal stereos, the listener has the perfect opportunity to take full advantage of Al's songwriting skills. This album is a can't miss. After hearing the title song, Flying Sorcery, Broadway Hotel, and others, the listener will realize there is so much more than stupid love songs."

Near perfection...

David A. Mccay | LA (Lower Arkansas) | 04/27/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There are literally no bad songs on this album.From the opening notes of "Lord Grenville" to the last strains of "Year of the Cat" this is pure listening pleasure.I loved this album as an 18 year old back in '76 and I find that I still feel the same about it at 50. Strong enough praise, I think."