At this writing Justin has several solo albums in his extensive songwriting career but this first one I believe to be the best of the best. I bought the promo LP from a collector and was impressed with his vulnerability and style of writing. He really opens his heart and soul and makes this perhaps his most personal work of all. He plays practically every instrument himself. A hauntingly beautiful and thought provoking example is on "Nostradamus". A collage of beautiful instruments. Check out his Tom Tom playing talent on that one! The sound quality is superior to the first "Songwriter" CD previously released. Hearing is believing.

Songwriter is a story of love and the life of a guy doing what he does best. Writing and singing songs about love and life. Songs that make you think, and smile, and sometimes cry. Four bonus songs were added to the original version. "Wrong Time, Right Place", "Marie", "Heart of steel", written by him and the last one "Learning the game", written by his mentor Buddy Holly.....Thanks Buddy..if you helped spark this flame...what more can I say?


Respectable Effort   May 17, 2004
Jason F. Johnson (Duluth, MN USA)
19 out of 21 found this review helpful

If you're like me, you first had this album on vinyl and then bought the CD issued in 1987 with 2 of the 4 bonus tracks appearing here. Now you're faced with the decision of buying the CD again (as a $22 import) for the 2 extra tracks--or even 1 extra track, if you have the single to "Heart of Steel." Is it worth it? Oh...I guess, if you're a hardcore fan. Both songs are in the "good not great" category.

If you haven't heard the album at all, then it makes things easier; by all means, get it. But I think this ranks in the middle of Justin's solo releases (nowhere near the quality of Moving Mountains or View from the Hill). A lot of these songs go on way too long, given that many don't have bridges--or even 2nd verses! Consequently, they can be quite repetitive. But "Songwriter Part 1," "Raised on Love," and "One Lonely Room" are nice enough ballads, "Lay It on Me" and "Country Girl" good enough rockers, and "Nostradamus" has a lot of fun with its great string arrangements.


Wow   March 3, 2006
A. Harris (New York, USA)
4 out of 5 found this review helpful

One would think something perfect could not be produced any better. Well, think again. Besides the inclusion of an amazing version of Heart of Steel, previously unreleased for some ungodly reason, the original tracks come out like they have never before. I was truly amazed at the sound quality of the old tracks.

I have loved this CD since it came out in the 70's, and love it even more now remastered. Well worth the money.


Wonderfully showcasing Hayward's diverse talents!   February 28, 2006
Lee Roschen (USA)
4 out of 5 found this review helpful

Moody Blues frontman Justin Hayward's first solo album after the temporary breakup of the band in the mid 1970's is a great example of what a solo artist can do apart from the rest of his group. Produced by longtime Moodies producer Tony Clarke, this album wonderfully showcases Hayward's diverse instrumental, songwriting, and singing talents. From rock-n-roll numbers like "Tightrope", and "Doin' Time", to more MOR tracks like "Country Girl" and "Lay It On Me", to more mellow selections like "Raised on Love" and the orchestral "Stage Door", Hayward once again shows why is one of the world's most respected singers, songwriters, and guitarists. He is indeed the consumate musician!

Although this album is not as lush, moving, and orchestral as his collaboration with fellow Moody Bluesman John Lodge in 1975's "Blue Jays", this album is a "can't miss" for the Justin Hayward/Moody Blues fan. Highly recommended!

P.S. If you can locate this CD with the 4 bonus tracks, do so! "Wrong Time, Right Place" and "Heart Of Steel" are vintage Hayward, and are excellent additions to this album!