Under a Mediterranean Sky
Steve Hackett · 2021
51 min · 11 tracks · progressive rock
A lush instrumental journey through Mediterranean landscapes, weaving classical elements with Hackett's signature guitar work.
Top tracks — play these first
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Mdina (The Walled City) Start here — This opening track sets the stage with sweeping melodies and dynamic shifts, embodying the album’s thematic essence of travel and exploration.
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Adriatic Blue — With its tranquil soundscapes and delicate guitar work, this piece captures the serene beauty associated with the Adriatic Sea.
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The Dervish and the Djin — This track stands out for its rhythmic complexity and mystical undertones, reflecting Hackett's fusion of cultural influences.
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Andalusian Heart — Blending flamenco influences with progressive rock elements, this track showcases Hackett’s versatility as a guitarist and composer.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases intricate compositions and blends classical elements with progressive rock, creating a serene listening experience.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of classical guitar techniques throughout, with intricate fingerpicking patterns and melodic lines.
- Each track varies in tempo and mood, creating a dynamic flow that reflects different Mediterranean landscapes.
- Several tracks incorporate orchestral elements, adding depth and texture to the instrumental arrangements.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- serene landscapes of relaxation
- dynamic journey through themes
- immersive acoustic storytelling experience
- wave-like pacing for contemplation
Maybe skip if you
- seeking fast-paced excitement
- prefer standalone tracks only
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Deep Cut — A solid entry that showcases Hackett's style but not a standout in terms of recognition.
- Themes
- Mediterranean landscapes· flamenco influences· mythical folklore
- Career context
- Released on January 1, 2021, 'Under a Mediterranean Sky' is Steve Hackett's first album of original material in nearly four years, following the live album 'Selling England By The Pound: Live.' This release marks a continuation of Hackett's exploration of world music influences, showcasing his evolution as both a musician and composer in the progressive rock genre.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Camel· Mike Oldfield· Genesis
Tracklist
- 1 Mdina (The Walled City) Start here 8:45
- 2 Adriatic Blue 4:51
- 3 Sirocco 5:14
- 4 Joie de vivre 3:41
- 5 The Memory of Myth 3:29
- 6 Scarlatti Sonata 3:40
- 7 Casa del fauno 3:52
- 8 The Dervish and the Djin 4:57
- 9 Lorato 2:30
- 10 Andalusian Heart 5:34
- 11 The Call of the Sea 4:45
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Law and Order
Lindsey Buckingham
Features intricate acoustic guitar work and a serene, introspective ambiance similar to Hackett's style.
Nouveau Flamenco
Ottmar Liebert
Blends flamenco guitar with lush instrumentation, echoing the Mediterranean influence in Hackett's music.
Legs to Make Us Longer
Kaki King
Merges complex guitar melodies with atmospheric soundscapes, resonating with Hackett's instrumental storytelling.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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