“I’m doing that thing that many may find tasteless but hopefully at least some may find thrilling… it’s not about control – it’s pure animal!” Why Steve Hackett ramped up the guitar attack on The Circus And The Nightwhale

Steve Hackett.

With his first proper concept album in almost 50 years, guitarist Steve Hackett transports the listener back to bombsite-littered post-war London, as the record’s fictional character, Travla, tells a symbolic tale of a journey towards self-actualisation.

“It’s been extraordinary making this record,” he tells Prog. “I grew up in a time when music changed the world, and I’ve always felt the album can be a really powerful force. I really hope people enjoy listening to this one.”