Reviewed by Chris Birch

'Beyond Nature' is Phil Keaggy's third instrumental album (previous ones were 'Master And Musician' ('78) and 'The Wind And The Wheat' ('87). Recorded in his hometown of Nashville in only five days the "master musician" by his own admission believed this to be his most mature recording to date. It is no surprise that as a recording artist for the past 20 years it has at times left him defenceless and unable to enjoy life. If previous recordings reflect his state of mind, 'Beyond Nature' sees Keaggy at his most content. Here he has returned to his grandfather's Irish roots and presents us with a collection of instrumental pieces baring a traditional Celtic feel. In the songs "Fare Thee Well" and "In The Light Of Common Day" the arrangements are classical in style with the inclusion of wind instruments and strings but not so overwhelming as to detract the listener from the sheer genius of Keaggy's playing. An album of the highest calibre.

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