Martin Howard isn’t just a guitarist; he’s a six-string virtuoso whose fingers were first forged in the demanding discipline of the classical tradition. That rigorous training now serves as the bedrock for a sonic landscape that spans the earthy soul of folk, the raw fire of blues, and the electrifying roar of rock. Operating comfortably across both acoustic and electric spheres, Howard’s versatility is his signature. On October 1st, Howard pulled back the curtain on his latest evolution with the release of his track, “Unanswered.” It’s a piece that promises to showcase the breadth of his extraordinary talent. Let’s dive into the core of this compelling new work.
Howard wastes no time establishing his mastery. The opening bars of “Unanswered” feature a luxurious, cascading guitar melody that feels both timeless and deeply personal. It’s an instant-classic introduction—so exquisitely crafted and beautiful that it feels less like a song intro and more like an idyllic, self-contained world the listener could happily take up permanent residence in.
Yet, as we delve deeper, “Unanswered” reveals itself to be a piece of stunning restraint. Stripping away the electric theatrics, Howard presents an original work for solo classical guitar. True to its title, the composition is an intensely slow and contemplative study. Its strength lies in the melodic and harmonic construction: the intricate chord structure and yearning melody are woven together to create a palpable sense of questions hanging eternally in the air. Musically, the piece possesses a clear, crystalline tone—a precision that doesn’t feel cold, but instead reinforces that essential, unresolved, and deeply emotional questioning feel. Howard uses silence and sustain as expertly as he uses notes.
In terms of production, the recording is masterful, utilizing the inherent quality of the instrument to perfection. The piece capitalizes on the crystalline tone of the nylon strings, a clarity that feels both intimate and spacious. This careful sonic architecture perfectly evokes the intended laid-back, yet intensely questioning mood. While the slow, contemplative pacing makes it perfect for relaxed listening, Howard has ensured that the strong, haunting melody and the subtle changes of pace and tone inject just enough complexity to firmly hold a discerning listener’s interest from the first note to the last. “Unanswered” is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most resonant music is found in the quietest moments.
Howard’s career is defined by his specialization in original instrumental music, traversing the divide between solo and ensemble work across both electric and acoustic guitars. His dedication to collaboration is also notable, having worked with various artists, including Mark Johnson, the leader of the Kent-based band The Midnight River Crew. However, “Unanswered” marks a specific, conscious effort. This original instrumental piece, written for and performed on his cherished 50-year-old classical guitar, is part of a larger project designed to address a clear gap in the contemporary music scene: the need for new, classically based, and accessible solo guitar playing. Howard is actively charting a course to deliver music that is both technically profound and emotionally accessible.
“Unanswered” is, truly, something special. The opening melody is a moment of pure, breathtaking beauty, executed with a masterful touch where each strum holds a unique blend of power and intensity. Martin Howard has expertly leveraged his deep knowledge of music theory and technique, not for display, but to forge a sound that is genuinely profound and soul-touching. With “Unanswered,” Howard has not just released a track; he has defined a direction. I eagerly anticipate what comes next and look forward to hearing more music from an artist who is clearly dedicated to filling the world with such powerful, thoughtful beauty
Stream “Unanswered” on Spotify or SoundCloud
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