I’m really looking forward to sharing my thoughts on this performance. This piece caught my attention right away, not just because of the music, but because of the talent involved.
I’m a classical guitarist and music educator with more than 25 years of experience, so I listen for technique, tone, rhythm, phrasing, and how the arrangement supports the performance.
Featured Musicians and Instruments
Steve’s brother, John Hackett, joined him on soprano saxophone, which I absolutely loved. The saxophone’s tone blended beautifully with the rest of the group.
Watch the related video on YouTube
| Musician | Instrument(s) |
|---|---|
| Steve Hackett | Classical Guitar |
| John Hackett | Soprano Saxophone |
| Additional Player(s) | Flute(s) |
| Additional Player(s) | Guitar |
| Additional Player(s) | Piano/Keyboard |
The combination of two flutes, two guitars, piano, and saxophone created a rich texture. The keyboard added atmosphere, while the saxophone often carried the emotional high points.
Steve’s guitar work leaned toward melodic and expressive parts, with touches of flamenco-like phrasing.
Initial Thoughts on the Suggestion
When James suggested Walking Away from Rainbow by Steve Hackett, I knew it would be something special. He mentioned it was from a recent live album, recorded just a month ago, and that caught my attention right away.
I noticed the setup included two flutes, two guitars, and a piano. That mix alone made me curious about the sound.
The fact that Steve’s brother John was part of the performance added a personal touch I really appreciated.
As a Classical guitarist with over 25 years of playing and teaching, I felt excited to hear how Steve would bring classical guitar into this setting.
Seeing a Progressive rock guitarist embrace classical technique is always inspiring.
Anticipation for the Live Performance
I imagined how amazing it would be to see Steve Hackett perform live in person. If he ever comes to Milwaukee, I’d love to be there.
Meeting him, even just to share a coffee or tea and talk about music, would be a real pleasure.
The idea of hearing this piece live, with the soprano saxophone, keyboards, and classical guitar blending together, made me look forward to the performance even more.
I expected a mix of Beautiful harmonies, Interesting progressions, and moments that might even lean toward jazz.
That combination of instruments, the recent recording, and Steve’s approach to guitar had me ready for something both refined and heartfelt.
Emotional Impact of the Performance
The moment the soprano saxophone entered, I felt completely drawn in. Its tone was smooth and warm, and it blended beautifully with the guitar and keyboard.
I loved how the music shifted from minor to major, then climbed higher with a sense of openness. The harmonic progressions and little embellishments gave me a mix of calm and excitement.
- Soft, slow opening that set a peaceful mood
- Saxophone melodies that felt almost like a conversation
- Classical-style harmonics that added depth
Comparisons to Other Artists
Some parts reminded me of King Crimson, especially in the way the harmonies opened up and created tension.
The saxophone lines also gave me a slight jazz vibe, moving between modes and stepping outside the usual major and minor feel.
It felt like a blend of classical guitar precision, progressive rock creativity, and light jazz touches.
| Element | Similar Artist/Style |
|---|---|
| Open harmonies | King Crimson |
| Modal saxophone | Jazz influences |
| Classical progressions | Baroque/classical guitar |
Desire to Attend a Live Concert
Seeing Steve Hackett play live is now high on my list. I imagine the energy and detail would be even more powerful in person.
If he comes to Milwaukee, I’d love to be there, meet him, and talk about music over coffee or tea. It would be inspiring to hear how he brought classical guitar into a progressive rock setting.
- Travel to his city for a concert
- Bring questions about his approach to classical guitar
- Enjoy every moment of hearing this music in person
What to Listen For
- Soft, slow opening that set a peaceful mood
- Saxophone melodies that felt almost like a conversation
- Classical-style harmonics that added depth
- Travel to his city for a concert
- Bring questions about his approach to classical guitar
Continue Exploring
- Steve Hackett Took Me Somewhere Else… | Classical Guitarist Reacts
- Steve Hackett’s Classical Side STUNNED Me | Guitarist Reacts to “Momentum”
- Steve Hackett is a GENIUS | Classical Guitarist Reacts to Those Golden Wings
- Steve Hackett’s Pure Emotion – Classical Guitarist Reacts to “An Open Window”
- Explore the music-reaction library
My Final Reaction
My strongest takeaway from Steve Hackett Live is that the performance works through the relationship between technique and musical direction. The details are impressive, but they matter most when they shape the pacing, character, and emotional result.