Sweden’s JJ Marsh first came to prominence with 80s rockers Spellbound, but is probably best known for being a long-serving member of Glenn Hughes’ band. 

Music From Planet Marsh is the guitarist’s first solo album and you can hear the influence playing with Glenn Hughes has had on him, both in style and vocal delivery. There’s a laid back, bluesy vibe all over this record, occasionally wandering into an almost psychedelic arena, like on second track “Play The Game”.

In fact, the whole sound is almost a throwback to the 70s, which I guess is unsurprising when you see instruments such as a mellotron and Moog synthesiser listed in the artists’ credits. 

Marsh is joined for this outing by Thomas Broman (Drums), Kjell Haraldsson (Organ) and Thomas Bodin (Organ, Fender rhoads, mellotron, Moog synth, strings and cowbell). Both Broman and Haraldsson were also part of Glenn Hughes’ band. 

The songs are well over average in terms of length (three are over 7 mins long), allowing plenty of room for manoeuvre for Marsh to show off his undoubted guitar skills. 

Personally this isn’t my cup of tea, being too laid back and retro sounding, but Marsh is an undeniable talent and I am sure that the album will appeal to many people out there who like something really mellow at times.

Let us know your views on 'Music From Planet Marsh'

Track List

Electric Women
Play The Game
Is It Real
Into The Light
Something Song
Move On
It's Not Too Late
Need A Friend
The Change
 

Line Up

JJ Marsh - Vocals/Guitars/Bass
Thomas Broman - Drums
Kjell Haraldsson - Organ
Tomas Bodin - Organ/Mellotron