Steve Hackett The Circus and the Nightwhale

In 2024, acclaimed rock guitarist Steve Hackett unveils his highly anticipated 30th solo release, "The Circus And The Nightwhale," a concept album centered around a young character named Travla. With 13 tracks, Hackett infuses the album with an autobiographical angle, expressing sentiments he's longed to convey. Recorded between tours in 2022 and 2023 at Siren Studio in the UK, the album features a diverse lineup of musicians, with guest contributions spanning the globe—from Sweden, Austria, the US, Azerbaijan, and Denmark.

Hackett's masterful guitar work, both electric and acoustic, is complemented by a range of instruments including the 12-string, mandolin, harmonica, and percussion. Collaborators on "The Circus And The Nightwhale" include familiar faces such as Roger King on keyboards and orchestral arrangements, Rob Townsend on saxophone, Jonas Reingold on bass, and vocalists Nad Sylvan and Amanda Lehmann. Notable guests return, including Nick D'Virgilio and Hugo Degenhardt on drums, engineer Benedict Fenner on keyboards, and Malik Mansurov on the tar. Additionally, Hackett's brother, John Hackett, graces the album with his flute.

Describing the album as a "lovely journey," Hackett reflects on its evolution from "dirty, scratchy, and smoky" beginnings to a "heavenly and divine" crescendo. "The Circus And The Nightwhale" promises to captivate listeners with its rich storytelling and masterful instrumentation—a testament to Hackett's enduring creativity and musical prowess.