What makes Not Necessarily Acoustic by Steve Howe notable?

This album is significant for its rich showcase of acoustic guitar work, which influenced many subsequent artists in the progressive rock genre. It received positive critical reception, highlighting Howe's virtuosity and creativity, contributing to his reputation as a pioneering guitarist. Released in 1975, Not Necessarily Acoustic marked Steve Howe's first solo venture after achieving fame with Yes. This album reflects Howe's desire to explore his acoustic roots while still engaging with the complexities of progressive rock, following the band's commercial success with albums like Fragile and Close to the Edge.

Who is Not Necessarily Acoustic for?

Not Necessarily Acoustic works well if you're into playful genre explorations throughout, intricate acoustic guitar flourishes and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on Not Necessarily Acoustic?

Not Necessarily Acoustic has 22 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

Not Necessarily Acoustic

Steve Howe

60 min · 22 tracks · progressive rock

An intricate tapestry of acoustic explorations and progressive rock motifs, showcasing a masterful guitar craftsmanship.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Mood for a Day — This track stands out as a brilliant display of Howe's fingerstyle acoustic technique, blending classical influences with progressive sensibilities. Its melodic intricacy and emotive depth embody the album's essence.
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Roundabout — While originally a Yes classic, this reimagined acoustic rendition highlights the song’s core melodies in a fresh format, showcasing Howe's unique interpretation and skill. The transformation from electric to acoustic emphasizes the song's timeless quality.
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Excerpts From Tales From Topographic Oceans — This medley offers a condensed experience of one of Yes's most ambitious works, illustrating Howe’s ability to distill complex compositions into engaging acoustic arrangements. It serves as both homage and reinterpretation of the band's progressive roots.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful genre explorations throughout
intricate acoustic guitar flourishes
short tracks for quick enjoyment
varied pacing keeps engagement high
delight in unexpected musical twists

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek longer immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1975, Not Necessarily Acoustic marked Steve Howe's first solo venture after achieving fame with Yes. This album reflects Howe's desire to explore his acoustic roots while still engaging with the complexities of progressive rock, following the band's commercial success with albums like Fragile and Close to the Edge.
Stylistic neighbors: Yes· Genesis· Camel

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Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 The Valley of Rocks 3:03
2 Heritage 2:32
3 Arada 1:08
4 Country Mix: a. White Silver Sands - b. Green Bay Polka - c. Steel Guitar Rag - d. Darling, je vous aime beacoup - e. Blue Steel Blues 2:57
5 Excerpts From Tales From Topographic Oceans 9:18
6 Bareback 2:42
7 Sketches in the Sun 2:58
8 Cactus Boogie 2:09
9 Second Initial 2:47
10 Corkscrew 3:45
11 The Glory of Love 1:14
12 Dorothy 2:09
13 Meadow Rag 2:26
14 Concerto in D 2nd Movement 2:34
15 Surface Tension 3:22
16 Masquerade 2:03
17 Mood for a Day 3:00
18 Swedish Rhapsody 0:53
19 Whispering 1:00
20 Roundabout 2:32
21 Ram 1:53
22 Clap 3:43

What to play next

Listen next

Beginnings

1975

Go back to

Tales from Yesterday

Full Steve Howe discography Where to start with Steve Howe Artists like Steve Howe

progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata