STEVE TILSTON
The Last Call

Calling time on a 50-year recording (but not performing) history, we are reminded immediately of the quality of his songwriting, singing and instrumental prowess. He may well be half a century in, but his appeal is undiminished and, in some aspects, enhanced by his experience.

Indeed, those decades are reflected throughout the album in the writing, visiting memories of childhood and reflecting on the experiences, sights and sites of travel – many of which could not have been envisaged at the start of his journey.

There is, as ever both warmth and depth to his voice, seemingly effortless and all set off against a background that encompasses folk, blues and more than a hint of jazz. He is accompanied in his efforts by some of the musical pals he has made along the way, but his guitar is never far from the action – there is room for an instrumental and demonstrations of his fretboard wizardry throughout, and whilst there may be some ambiguity about his personal relationship with John Martyn, there are certainly musical echoes of love in his ringing tones.

Whilst recognised as a fine writer, both for himself and others, he also has previous as an interpreter of songs, and has chosen to sign off with his version of ‘Sweet Primroses’ – familiar to so many from countless versions - but stamped here with his own voice, aided by a string quartet.

For long term followers a fitting finale, confirming everything they hold dear about him, and for anyone coming new to his work, a springboard for an odyssey of discovery.

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