In 1977 did I hear an excellent instrumental piece of music on the radio. It had the title “Heartsong” and was performed by Gordon Giltrap. As soon as I did find out that it came from the album “Perilous Journey” I started my search to look out for this album. Several years did I follow the career of this brilliant guitarist and bought a lot of his releases. Unfortunately did I loose contact and had missed a lot of his albums which he had released the last decades. But his concert which he had done at the Birmingham Symphony Hall brought him back into the spotlights. This special concert, which he had done in March 2005, can now be enjoyed on a special dual disc release. One sides is a DVD of the mentioned concert. The other side is a CD with the title “The Eye Of The Wind” and has 5 tracks on it. The first two are solo pieces performed on the acoustic guitar. They have the titles “Maddie goes west” and “A Christmas carol”. The last three features the Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra and the music which they perform can be discribed as real classical music. It’s a rhapsody which Gordon wrote in 1978/80. As a not trained musician did he deliver an outstanding piece of music. Bravo! Bravo can we also say to the very entertaining video section. A wish came true for him to perform at one of the best music halls around. Together with the already mentioned orchestra and a lot of musical friends did he create a evening of music which will not be forgotten by who were present. Also those who watch it on their DVD equipment must agree that they watched something special. The list of guests is very long and also the list of songs performed is almost endless. The 16 tracks performed alone or together with his selected friends are of a very high level. To mention all tracks and artists is not possible. But I will try to include several of them in this review. His versions of “Here comes the sun” (The Beatles) and “God save the Queen” show that he is an awesome musician. Also his duo performance with Rick Wakeman behind the grand piano is very entertaining and funny. Funny are also his introductions and anecdotes told before every song performed. Gilly Darby has always been one of his favourite female singers. She came all the way from New Zealand to perform some music which he wrote for the musical “Blood Brothers”. This was also a way to get back together with his old friend and keyboard player Rod Edwards. The booklet that comes along with this great dual disc gives this release the final touch of a great package which you get when you buy this fine document. The whole story can be read in every detail and is accompanied with some great pictures on and off stage. Finally I also have to mention the interviews which were done very professionally before and after the performances of several musicians involved in this outstanding live concert. Hopefully is this release a new start to keep my eye on one of the best guitar players on the planet. **** (Henri Strik)