Pulling Strings
Steve Howe · 1999
58 min · 17 tracks · progressive rock
A vibrant tapestry of acoustic and electric textures intertwining with intricate melodies and improvisations.
Top tracks — play these first
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Sweet Thunder — This opening track sets the tone with its dynamic interplay between acoustic and electric guitars, showcasing Howe's signature style and technical prowess.
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(Excerpts From) Close to the Edge — By revisiting one of Yes's most iconic pieces, this track highlights Howe's ability to reinterpret classic material while adding new improvisational layers.
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Running the Human Race — This song features a compelling melody that encapsulates Howe's lyrical guitar work, blending emotional depth with complex musical structures.
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Classical Gas — A cover of Mason Williams’s classic, this track exemplifies Howe's mastery of the guitar and his ability to bring fresh interpretations to well-known compositions.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- intricate guitar explorations throughout
- melodic improvisation for deep focus
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- playful interludes with varied moods
- reflective moments for solitude
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party vibes
- prefer straightforward, single tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When 'Pulling Strings' was released in 1999, Steve Howe was well-established as a guitar virtuoso, known for his work with the progressive rock band Yes. This album marked a continuation of his solo career, following his previous release, 'The Grand Scheme of Things' in 1993, showcasing his evolution as a composer and performer in the genre.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Running the Human Race
The narrative shifts from introspection to a broader commentary on existence and connection.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Sweet Thunder 3:21
- 2 Diary of a Man Who Vanished 2:27
- 3 (Excerpts From) Close to the Edge 4:23
- 4 (Excerpts From) Beginnings 3:18
- 5 Pleasure Stole the Night 2:45
- 6 Sketches in the Sun 3:11
- 7 Rare Birds 3:11
- 8 Windy and Warm 1:39
- 9 Classical Gas 4:28
- 10 (Excerpts From) Turn of the Century 4:47
- 11 Misty 1:26
- 12 (Excerpts From) All’s ‘A’ Chords 1:37
- 13 Running the Human Race 4:02
- 14 Everytime You Look Over Your Shoulder 3:39
- 15 (Theme From) The Gates of Delirium (Soon) 6:42
- 16 Blinded by Science 3:46
- 17 My White Bicycle 3:18
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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