Steve Hackett, the virtuoso guitarist and former Genesis member, has announced his latest live album, Live Magic at Trading Boundaries. The album celebrates Hackett’s renowned acoustic performances held annually at the Trading Boundaries venue in Sussex, UK. Scheduled for release on January 17, 2025, the collection captures the intimate atmosphere of these special concerts, combining Genesis classics, his solo work, and unique classical-inspired arrangements.
The Trading Boundaries performances have become a beloved tradition for Hackett and his fans. Known for their stripped-down, acoustic style, the concerts showcase Hackett’s versatility and his ability to reimagine his expansive repertoire. Tracks like “Blood on the Rooftops” and “Horizons” represent his Genesis-era work, while “Ace of Wands” and “Hands of the Priestess” highlight his early solo career. Additionally, the album features renditions of classical pieces such as “Gnossienne No. 1” and “The Red Flower of Tai Chi Blooms Everywhere,” demonstrating Hackett’s love for blending rock and classical music【7†source】【8†source】.
This live album is a collaborative effort, featuring contributions from Hackett’s regular ensemble. John Hackett, his brother, performs on flute, while Roger King adds depth with keyboards, and Rob Townsend complements the arrangements with saxophone and additional flute. Amanda Lehmann contributes her guitar work and vocals, and the album includes two tracks from her solo release, Innocence and Illusion. Hackett described the interplay between the musicians as magical, noting moments of power and beauty, such as when King’s keyboards emulate a full pipe organ【8†source】【9†source】.
The 17-track album offers a journey through Hackett’s musical history. Highlights include “Supper’s Ready” (excerpt), “Walking Away from Rainbows,” and “Hairless Heart,” alongside original improvisations and lesser-known gems. Hackett has emphasized the unique dreamlike quality of these performances, contrasting them with his more dramatic live rock shows【9†source】.
To coincide with the album’s release, Hackett will perform two live shows at Trading Boundaries on January 18 and 19, 2025. Fans can look forward to a continuation of his acoustic storytelling tradition, paired with the venue’s intimate and visually stunning setting, featuring atmospheric lighting and exotic décor.
The album will be available in multiple formats: a limited-edition CD digipak, gatefold 180-gram vinyl, and digital download. Longtime collaborator Ben Fenner has mixed the recordings, ensuring a high-quality listening experience. Pre-orders are now open through Hackett’s official website and distribution channels【8†source】【9†source】.
Hackett’s work at Trading Boundaries offers fans a unique perspective on his artistry. While his progressive rock legacy looms large, Live Magic at Trading Boundaries highlights a softer, more introspective side of his musicianship, reaffirming his position as a genre-defying artist who continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
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