It’s been a pleasure following Joe Hodgson’s artistic journey. The Northern Irish guitarist and musician has appeared a fair bit on our pages, including lately for ‘You I Think Of’, an elegant piece we described as “leaving temporarily behind his rock’n’roll identity and jumping with both feet into a lovingly meaningful fusion-pop piece”. Well, it turns out that such eclecticism is one of Hodgson’s overarching qualities, as showcased by his new album ‘’Fields of Redemption’.
Marking Joe’s latest long-length release, ‘Fields of Redemption’ takes a wider look at Hodgon’s longstanding influences, blending rock, funk and jazz harmonies with masterful flair. The arrangements can be dry, with earthy power trio and metal allure, or more expansive, with orchestral sections helping the tracks reach a heightened cinematic character. Joe’s guitar phrasing is varied, ranging from virtuoso, fast-paced solos to playful, easy-going riffs. Whichever way you look at it, the album presents an impressive look at Hodgson’s musical vision.
Co-produced by Hodgson himself and Chris James Ryan (Keith Urban, Go West, The Church), ‘Fields of Redemption’ also benefits from a talented lineup of collaborators, including the Austrian rhythm section of Philipp Groyssboeck on drums and Vinzenz Benjamin on bass, Otger Garcia on Hammond organ, Kelly O’Donohue on horns, João Paulo Drumond on percussion, and All-Ireland Champion bodhrán player, Paul McClure.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the album, Hodgson explains: “The album is about the quest to right wrongs, the search for inner peace, and the reconnection with the land of my birth.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Fields of Redemption’ on Spotify:
