Steve Howe – Portraits of Bob Dylan (1999) & Natural Timbre (2001) Reissues Review
In this review, I’m looking at two recently reissued solo albums by Steve Howe – Portraits of Bob Dylan (1999) and Natural Timbre (2001).
I’ve been lucky enough to interview Steve three times now, and most recently we spoke specifically about these reissues. Back when they first came out, like many people of my generation juggling mortgages and family commitments, I missed them. So, having them back in circulation is a wonderful opportunity to catch up – much like the recent resurgence of Steve Hackett’s acoustic and classical projects.
Portraits of Bob Dylan (1999)
This one is available again on CD and double blood-red vinyl. Inside, there’s a small booklet with notes and photos of the guest singers who feature alongside Steve.
The line-up is quite something: Jon Anderson, PP Arnold, Annie Haslam, Keith West, Phoebe Snow, Alan Clarke, Dean Dyson, and Max Bacon – with Steve taking the mic himself on a few tracks too.
Now, I’ll be honest. I’ve always admired Dylan as a writer but sometimes struggled with his voice. What Steve achieves here is to shine a light on Dylan’s melodies and stories through sensitive arrangements and stunning guest performances.
Jon Anderson’s angelic voice opens the album on the 12-minute epic “Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands,” and it’s just gorgeous. PP Arnold brings fiery energy to “Well, Well, Well.” Annie Haslam pierces the heart with “It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue.” Keith West steps in beautifully on “Lay Lady Lay,” reconnecting with his old Tomorrow bandmate Steve. And the late Phoebe Snow lends warmth to “One Too Many Mornings.”
Steve doesn’t dominate with flashy guitar – instead, his playing enhances the songs, showing his skill as an arranger. Even if you’re not a Dylan devotee, this album works as a wonderful showcase of Howe’s musicality and taste.
Natural Timbre (2001)
Moving on, Natural Timbre is entirely instrumental. Originally a CD, it’s now reissued as a double translucent green vinyl album.
Across 18 tracks, Steve explores acoustic textures, nylon strings, steel strings, and all manner of guitars, with his son Dylan on drums and guest contributions from violinist Anna Palm. The little booklet even lists every instrument used, which is heaven for guitar nerds.
The music flows beautifully. Pieces like “The Little Galliard” or “Up Above Somewhere” create a meditative mood, while others feel like two guitars conversing with each other. It’s cinematic, emotional, and uplifting – music for the theatre of the mind.
There are also reimaginings of Yes classics: “Your Move” and “To Be Over,” arranged in ways that make them feel completely new.
What strikes me most is the honesty of acoustic playing – no effects to hide behind, every note crystal clear. And Steve, of course, is flawless, playful, and deeply expressive.
Final Thoughts
Both albums are over an hour long, sequenced with great care, and highlight Steve Howe as not only a world-class guitarist but a thoughtful arranger and composer. Portraits of Bob Dylan lets you rediscover Dylan’s songs through fresh voices and arrangements, while Natural Timbre offers a journey into pure instrumental beauty.
You don’t have to be a Yes fan, or even a Dylan fan, to enjoy these. If you love music that’s heartfelt, meticulously arranged, and beautifully played, these reissues are worth your time.
ORDER PORTRAITS OF BOB DYLAN ON CD
ORDER PORTRAITS OF BOB DYLAN ON VINYL
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
