John Martyn - Grace and Danger

The European summer has been exceptionally sunny - so much so that large swaths of forested land have been devoured by hungry fires. While I usually opt for more cheerful and careless music when the sun is out, the current state of affairs leaves room for a more introspective record. Today, I’m bringing you John Martyn’s 1980 Grace & Danger, an album with a sound that fares well in barely lit rooms with a glass of whisky nearby.

Some songs on the album evoke the early Arthur Russell, while some other songs sound as if a restless Mark Hollis took the mic in his Spirit of Eden era. Overall, you can also hear the spirit of Phil Collins in his least joyous moments - which should be no surprise, as Phil has in fact played drums on most of this album.

In case the gloominess I’ve described may hold you back from giving the album a chance, I’d like to conclude this recommendation by saying the album is, above all, very beautiful. Hauntingly so, maybe especially with the sunny days to contrast it with. Happy summer!

~ Camiel

Check out the album on Spotify or elsewhere