John Martyn (born Iain David McGeachy) was a Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist (1948–2009) known for blending folk, jazz and blues, his distinctive vocal delivery and innovative use of the Echoplex; he recorded for Island Records and released landmark albums such as Solid Air and Inside Out.

Worked frequently with double bassist Danny Thompson; friend of Nick Drake; recorded for Island Records; One World features Caribbean/dub influences and involved Lee "Scratch" Perry in production aspects as noted in reviews; renowned for use of the Echoplex and for live trio performances (e.g. Live at Leeds).

DeBaser's reviews praise John Martyn's fusion of folk, jazz and blues, his distinctive voice and inventive guitar work using the Echoplex. Key albums discussed include Solid Air, Inside Out, One World and several live releases. The reviews highlight collaborations (Danny Thompson, Lee "Scratch" Perry) and Martyn's island-influenced phases.

For:Fans of folk, jazz and blues; listeners who appreciate inventive guitar techniques and emotional, experimental singer-songwriting.

 the most characteristic tracks are those with frenetic fingerpicking: the instrumental A Day at the Sea, The Gardeners, Seven Black Roses.

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 John Martyn acquired a sound that is uniquely his own: made of a very distinctive voice, of a gadget – the Echoplex – of which he could calmly claim the right of ius primae noctis, and even of a monstrous technique, combined moreover with taste and knowledge of tradition.

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 The album opens with the title track, "Solid Air", dedicated to his friend Nick Drake, who would tragically pass away the following year.

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