Album Mini-review: Steve Hackett — The Night Siren
File next to: IQ, Genesis, Marillion
Back in his days as Genesis’ guitarist, Steve Hackett was somewhat reined in as far as expressing himself on guitar. The progressive rock group’s arty arrangements rarely allowed the opportunity for extended, expressive solos. When Hackett went solo in 1977, he was freed to explore his potential. But even then he wasn’t the most assured vocalist. Some forty years and two dozen albums later, the man is working at the peak of his abilities. His already solid skills have grown in leaps and bounds, most notably as a composer and arranger. The Night Siren is an exemplar of “symphonic prog,” the most accessible and tuneful end of the genre. Hackett’s guitar soars on emotionally resonant epics like “Behind the Smoke.” Showcasing his dexterity on all manner of stringed instruments, with The Night Siren, Hackett may have just made the best album of his career.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day since 2018). The 4500-plus interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he taught a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- more than 30 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: Great Concept Albums will be published in 2024. Read even more about him here.