Peter Speed

The material on this date falls comfortably within the realm of what the ECM label is famous for; meticulously recorded, lyrical chamber music (and the requisite lush reverb is ever present). In addition to leader Erskine, the playing and writing of English pianist, John Taylor, is featured. Taylor is an excellent technician with considerable harmonic agility; his approach is heavily influenced by Bill Evans via Keith Jarrett. Bassist Palle Danielsson completes a very sympathetic, highly interactive rhythm section. "Evans Above" and "Pure & Simple" are by Taylor, whose writing tends to conjour an English pastoral aesthetic and often has elements of so-called new age piano music, a left hand ostinato for example. To Taylor's credit, however, his compositions never get as predictable as most music in that genre. The same is true of writer Vince Mendoza, whose tunes are also featured on this recording.

Us is one of Peter’s most personal and confessional records as he explored and dissected many of the relationship problems he was facing at that time. But Us is far from being bleakly introspective featuring several songs that have gone on to be amongst the most cherished in the Gabriel songbook.
The album have been Half-Speed Remastered and cut to lacquers at 45RPM to deliver maximum dynamic range in the sound.

Peter Huttlinger's amazing guitar technique was developed over the years through good practice and exercise regimens. As a guitar teacher with more than sixteen years experience, he knows that the most important thing players need is guidance in their practicing routine.