2014 marks the 50th anniversary of English folk songwriter Roy Harper’s entrance into the music business. Think about that for a second… He’s been writing, recording, promoting, and touring since before the invention of the handheld calculator.
Even more amazing than the sheer length of time that he’s been in the business, Harper’s music has consistently gotten better, as evidenced by 2013’s triumphant Man and Myth. Harper had all but retired from music after 2000’s The Green Man, but inspiration from a new generation discovering and appreciating his old work spurred him to write and record what became easily the best folk album of 2013.
“January Man” is a gorgeous reconciliation of past loves and old regrets, but make sure you’re mentally prepared, ’cause this one’s pretty heavy..