What makes Velvet Darkness by Allan Holdsworth notable?

'Velvet Darkness' is significant for its pioneering blend of jazz and progressive rock, influencing subsequent generations of guitarists and musicians. Though it did not achieve mainstream commercial success, it received positive reviews in underground circles and laid the groundwork for Holdsworth's distinctive sound that would later be celebrated in the 1980s and beyond. Released in 1976, 'Velvet Darkness' was Allan Holdsworth's first solo album following his tenure with the band Nucleus. This period marked his transition from sideman to solo artist, showcasing his virtuosic guitar style and innovative approach to jazz fusion. The album set the stage for his future influence in the genre.