Neil Campbell’s latest album, The Turnaround, is certainly something I’d looked forward to and with keen anticipation, especially as this latest release carries special significance, marking two decades since I first discovered his music. My introduction came via 3 O’Clock Sky from The Neil Campbell Collective — a compelling album that led me to explore his solo work, including the enchanting Through The Looking Glass from 2003. Even after twenty years, both albums remain staples in my listening rotation, alongside the impressive collection of nigh on thirty albums Neil has produced since.
Fast forward twenty years to The Turnaround, and it’s fascinating to hear how Neil Campbell continues to evolve musically. The album’s thirteen tracks traverse a variety of styles, not only acting as musical sequels to his earlier works but also paying homage to some of his influences — legends such as Ennio Morricone, Nick Drake, Antonio Carlos Jobim, and Philip Glass. Their presence in Neil’s soundscape adds layers of depth, reinforcing the rich tapestry of his artistry.
The album opener, The Wild Frontier, wastes no time in revealing its influences, effortlessly doffing its sombrero to the unmistakable sound of late ’60s and early ’70s Spaghetti Westerns — most notably the legendary Ennio Morricone. Meanwhile, On The Other Hand (track 2, not a quip) is a lively, irresistible piece, where intertwining guitar and bass work their magic. It’s the kind of track that could make sultans swing 😉 if guitar George stumbled upon a new chord. More likely ‘hell will freeze over’ first.
I’ll get my coat…
The press release reveals that The Turnaround serves as a sequel to Neil Campbell’s 2021 ‘lockdown album,’ The Great Escape — a musical journey celebrating the power of sound to transport us to imagined landscapes. This theme shines through in Tarantella, a brilliantly infectious track driven by its distinctive 6/8 rhythm. It whisks listeners away to the sun-drenched regions of Southern Italy, or perhaps even to the early setting of Neil’s concept album, The Outsider ~ News From Nowhere, inspired by William Morris’ 19th-century utopian socialist novel. The sense of musical escapism remains as strong as ever.
We stay by the shore for the second track featuring Martin Smith on flugelhorn, Beach Scene. The swaying percussion and the rhythmic ebb of waves set the stage for its smooth, film-score-inspired jazz tones. It’s easy to picture palm trees gently swaying, the salty breeze brushing against your skin as you sip a refreshing cool drink. As the sun dips below the horizon, the melancholic strains of classical guitar drift through the evening air — the evocative backdrop for the exquisite One Evening In Palermo.
Throughout the album, Neil delves into its recurring themes of change, travel, destination, and escape. Beltane, marking the shift from spring to summer at the end of May, is beautifully expressed through Neil’s lively and intricate guitar work. In contrast, as summer fades, No Leaves Left emerges as a heartfelt piece on classical guitar, later adorned with delicate string arrangements —reminiscent of some of Gordon Giltrap’s recent collaborations with Paul Ward.
The album’s title track features regular contributor Roger Gardiner, whose dynamic bass lines provide a foundation for Martin Smith’s flugelhorn, evoking the atmosphere of a late-night jazz club — whether in Liverpool, Palermo, or perhaps even Poland, the setting for the captivating Polonaise.
To round off this twenty-year anniversary, one truth stands out — great guitarists all possess their own unmistakable signature sound. Neil Campbell is no exception; his music carries a distinctive sonic identity that is undeniably his own. Yet, what truly sets him apart is the remarkable breadth of his stylistic range. His ability to weave together an array of influences while forging an ever-evolving musical path speaks to both his versatility and his mastery of composition. Through each release, Neil continues to push boundaries, solidifying his place as a truly singular artist.
TRACK LISTING
01. The Wild Frontier (3:56)
02. On The Other Hand (2:29)
03. The Turnaround (2:37)
04. Tarantella (3:00)
05. Pollen (2:12)
06. Beach Scene (2:45)
07. One Evening In Palermo (1:41)
08. Beltane (4:12)
09. Roger Over And Out (2:19)
10. Polonaise (2:27)
11. Tributaries (3:11)
12. No Leaves Left (2:43)
13. Second Hand (3:08)
Total Time – 36:40
MUSICIANS
Neil Campbell – Guitars, Basses, Keyboards, Programming, other sundry Instrumentation
Martin Smith – Flugelhorn (3 & 6)
Marty Snape – Additional Guitars, Electronics, Percussion Programming (2 & 3)
Roger Gardiner – 8 String Bass (3 & 9)
Jon Lawton – Additional Electronics, Percussion Programming
ADDITIONAL INFO
Record Label: Independent
Country of Origin: UK
Date of Release: 30th May 2025
