Search - Peter Haycock :: Guitar & Son

Strong, solid instrumental rock

D. Gorman "Crystalline Structure M | 05/21/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"When the I.R.S. label decided in the '80s to commission a few '70s rock icons to do instrumental rock albums to celebrate and bring back the days when musicians were as important as vocals, their choice of Climax Blues Band guitarist Pete Haycock was one of the most intriguing. Sure the CBB received some recognition in the '70s, although probably less than they deserved. Their "FM Live" album was the most noted and played album, and it was a very fine live recording of a good show... although they didn't get any real remembered big hits on the radio. But, Pete did a great job on this commissioned album! Not nearly as blues-oriented as I would have expected from him. I would have thought he'd place at least one 12-bar blues tune on this work, but there's not even one! Still, I don't hold it against him because this album is an impressive collection of just straight instrumental rock! In fact, of all the I.R.S. label commissions from this instrumental series that I've heard, this is the best! Pete's guitar playing is strong, top-notch, impressive rock playing. And the compositions are memorable and note-worthy. As you may expect from a CBB member, he slips a bit of sax in one or two songs...but it works well, and it's not over-used or over-powering. It's mostly good, solid powerful rock guitar by one of the '70s underground icons. Songs range from upbeat and powerful to the more mellow, melodic ballad instrumentals, but all songs are very good. I only gave it 4 stars, because I would have preferred a couple of real long "let loose and fly" solos as you would have expected back in the '70s. The solos are impressive, but nothing runs very long. Still, this is a good, solid instrumental rock album that, if you remember how musicians were respected in the '70s (much more so than today), you will be very glad Pete made this album...and you will be glad to have it!"

Good news for Pete Haycock fans!

J. Byler | Morgan Hill, CA USA | 05/31/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Yes, "Guitar and Son" is a great album. Pete Haycock is my all-time favorite guitarist and there's good news for his fans -- and for new fans: Pete has recently followed-up "Guitar and Son" with another great CD: "Bikers' Dozen" (more info at [...]). Do yourself a favor; get "Bikers' Dozen" and also watch his website for an amazing soon-to-be-released LIVE album from Pete's new band, Pete Haycock's True Blues (featuring another great guitarist, Glenn Turner) -- you'll be glad you did! If you love your blues served hot, amazing slide guitar, great soloing, and very tasty licks by a veteran master guitarist at the top of his game, these new releases are just what you've been waiting for! Trust me on this one..."