Joe Hodgson - Fields Of Redemption (2025)

”Fields Of Redemption” is a big-sounding record, but not an over-produced one. It covers a wide range of emotions, moods, and styles, and it takes the listener on an epic journey. It is ambitious and brave, and the frequent twists and turns will keep listeners constantly on their toes. Despite the blending and blurring of musical genres, “Fields Of Redemption” has a truly cohesive feel to it, and it is an album that is meant to be listened to from start to finish.”

Guitarist Joe Hodgson released his debut solo album ‘Apparitions’ in 2020 to wide critical acclaim and now he’s back with album number two, co-produced with Chris James Ryan (Keith Urban, Go West). Joining Joe are Philipp Groysboeck (drums), Vinzenz Benjamin (bass), Otger Garcia (Hammond organ), Paul McClure (bodhran), Joao Paulo Drumond (percussion) and Kelly O’Donohue (horns).

One minute Joe Hodgson is providing a “what if” musical moment on ‘Stick or Twist’ which sounds like AC/DC’s ‘Back In Black’ given a Robert Palmer makeover! Whereas on ‘You I Think Of’ treads that folk rock path beloved of Led Zeppelin. For a bit of jazz with a big band swing ‘Give Her What She Wants’ does the job, recalling Colin James and his Little Big Band. Hugely enjoyable and leaves a smile on the listener’s face.

‘Shapeshifting’ is great fun too, which has some wonderfully frantic guitar parts, followed by slower, soothing guitar playing. Similar to the sort of music Paul Gilbert often comes up with.

Although a mainly instrumental album, vocalist Glen Harkin is perfect for the bluesy ‘Since You Had a Hold on Me’, a definite album highlight.

Joe Hodgson is a fantastically talented guitarist, and unlike some guitar led albums this is no widdly snooze fest or nice background music, rather an album full of musical treats with no musical stone seemingly unturned.