Vanguard Visionaries cover

Released 19 years ago this June

Vanguard Visionaries

John Fahey · 2007

51 min · 10 tracks · blues

A contemplative blend of acoustic guitar mastery and introspective melodies that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • nostalgic reflections on past
  • long-form pieces for deep listening
  • introspective moments of solitude
  • circular motifs that invite revisiting

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking upbeat, fast-paced tunes
  • prefer standalone, short tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2007, 'Vanguard Visionaries' marked John Fahey's return to recording after a decade-long hiatus from releasing albums. At this point in his career, Fahey was already an established figure in American folk and blues music, known for his intricate fingerpicking style and innovative approach to the acoustic guitar, which had influenced countless musicians across genres.
Stylistic neighbors
Leo Kottke· Bert Jansch· Nick Drake

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Lion 5:10
  • 2 March! For Martin Luther King 3:43
  • 3 Requiem for John Hurt 5:09
  • 4 Dance of the Inhabitants of the Invisible City… 4:10
  • 5 The Yellow Princess 4:51
  • 6 Irish Setter 7:16
  • 7 Requiem for Molly (Pt. 1) 7:40
  • 8 Requiem for Molly (Pt. 2) 7:46
  • 9 Requiem for Molly (Pt. 3) 2:33
  • 10 Requiem for Molly (Pt. 4) 2:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata