FOUR years on since Glasgow Walker, John Martyn releases studio album number 22.

Life hasn't been easy lately for the innovative singer and guitarist. A seemingly minor accident to his leg resulted in an infection which required the brutal cure of amputation below the knee. You would never guess at such misfortune from this lovely album, which sees Martyn returning to the acoustic guitar that got him started more than 30 years ago (and which he then spent years playing around with, using eccentric tunings and weird amplifications, often to mesmerising effect). First up is the Frankie Miller song Baby Come Home, on which Martyn growls and whoops like an old bluesman. New compositions by Martyn include the gentle wash of Under My Wing, with guests vocals by Paul Weller, the emotional Cobbles and My Creator, an extended, jazzy song with saxophone by Andy Sheppard. One For The Road, another new Martyn song, resonates across the years with other happy, slurred outings. The album ends with a warm, uplifting version of the Leadbelly classic Goodnight Irene, with guest vocals from Mavis Staples.

Updated: 10:02 Thursday, May 13, 2004