JOHN WETTON – New York Minute (CD version)

Legendary JOHN WETTON, best known for his work with Asia, UK and King Crimson, passed away last January. But the talented Englishman left a great musical legacy, and one of his latest albums, “New York Minute” (recorded with The Les Paul Trio as back up band) almost silently released, was requested by one of you.

As a singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame as the lead singer of King Crimson and thereafter Wetton formed UK with Eddie Jobson, later he was the lead vocalist of the supergroup Asia, his biggest commercial success.
Although with a progressive musical background, Wetton has transited many musical styles throughout his career, including some AOR / Rock&pop moments on his solo albums.

But Wetton’s love for Classic Rock is not new, as the musician formed the Jack-Knife project that saw a post-UK John doing blues and rock ‘n’ roll numbers, and he always has performed classic tunes at his shows.

This is what it’s all about “New York Minute”, John Wetton covering well known songs in his own style. You have Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows” – a personal favorite – “All Along The Watchtower”, Marvin Gaye’s hit “What’s Going On?” and of course the song that provides the title for this release, the Don Henley penned Eagles’ staple “New York Minute”.

The good thing is that Wetton has, for the most part, completely re-worked these numbers in a very particular way. You almost can’t recognize the songs, re-shaped in Wetton’s hands.
Yes, there’s Asia mega-hit “Heat Of The Moment” done just with piano in a quite beautiful take, and Wetton’s solo hit “Battle Lines” in stripped arrangements.

Do not take “New York Minute” as a live album. It was recorded at an intimate show, and apart from some Wetton spoken, it’s just music as recorded into the studio.
John vocals are in great form, and the guys from The Les Paul Trio provide a subtle background to enhance even more his pipes.
A very, very pleasant listen.

1 – Do It Again
2 – What’s Going On?
3 – God Only Knows
4 – Can’t Find My Way Home
5 – New York Minute
6 – All Along The Watchtower
7 – Lady Madonna
8 – Heat Of The Moment
9 – Battle Lines

John Wetton – vocals, guitar
Lou Pallo – guitar
Rodney Holmes – keyboards
Nicki Parrott – bass

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